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Generator Installation: Benefits, Costs, and Procedure

Vance Electric • July 17, 2020

Explore the benefits, costs, and what's needed for a generator installation at your home. We walk you through the steps for getting generator services.

Whether the cause is a thunderstorm, accident, or natural disaster when the electricity goes out it can be frightening and costly. Your family is thrust into darkness as Mother Nature slams your home with rain and hail.

Food in the refrigerator can spoil and it could be hours or days before the electricity comes back on. A generator can provide your family with peace of mind and electricity to power your home. We’ll examine the many benefits of generators, average costs, and the importance of professional installation.

It can make sure your home never goes dark again.

The Benefits of Owning a Home Generator

People tend to take the electricity in their homes for granted. It’s something you never think about because it’s always there, but when something happens to disrupt that power it can throw your life into turmoil.

One of the biggest benefits of owning a home generator is it can power your home during a natural disaster or massive storm. If you have a family with small children, then the roar of the thunder mixed with no electricity can be very frightening.

It lets you keep the lights on, Internet, and gaming systems, so their life can be as normal as possible while the rest of the neighborhood is dark.

Sometimes the power goes out during the day because of an accident or planned maintenance. If you work from home, then you still need to get your work done. A generator lets you run your computer and other office equipment without worrying about losing anything because of the power outage.

There is nothing nicer than a full refrigerator and freezer. When the power goes out, all the food could go to waste. Let it protect your food and run your appliances such as ovens and microwaves so you can eat.

How Do Standby Home Generators Work?

It is connected directly into the main power system of your house and sits idle when the power grid is on. During a power outage, it senses the grid is off and automatically switches to power the home.

The generator is connected into the propane or natural gas line, so there is no need to refill it with fuel. It stays on and powers the home until it senses the power grid come back online.

It then switches back over to the main power grid and stands idle again until needed.

What’s the Cost of a Home Generator?

While there is an upfront cost of a standby home generator, peace of mind and the ability to have a normal life when the power goes off is enough to encourage the investment. The cost of the unit depends on the size of your home and your power needs.

It’s best to get a free in-home assessment from Vance Electric in Springfield, VA to find the Generac generator that is right for your home. You want something that won’t leave you short on electricity, but also isn’t so large that you’re not using the unit to its fullest potential.

Generac standby generators start at about $2,000 for a 7-kilowatt and can go up to $5800 for a 22-kilowatt unit plus home generator installation costs. Keep in mind the 22-kilowatt unit can power a 5,000 square foot home.

What’s Involved with Generator Installation?

The first step is determining the proper place for the unit. It must be in an area that is stable and won’t flood. There must be enough room all around it for technicians to work on it when needed. If you live in a neighborhood with a homeowner’s association, then you’ll want to check on their rules as well.

All generators must be at least 1½ feet from the house and 50 inches from any doors, air intakes, and windows. There must also be at least 3 feet in front of the unit. Ideally, it’s as close to the natural gas or propane line for easy installation and cost savings.

Once the site is chosen, the area has pea gravel installed or a concrete slab, and the unit is placed on top. The technicians connect the fuel line, transfer switch, and the generator to the main house electrical.

Finally, they check the wiring to make sure it is correct and then does an outage simulation to make sure it works when needed. They also set up self-tests to be performed weekly.

It takes only a day to install a unit.

Costs Associated with Home Generator Installation

The total cost of the installation depends on several factors from the type of unit installed to if it’s connected to all circuits or just essential ones. Factors such as how close the electrical meter and gas meter are to each other also play a part in costs.

A general rule of thumb for generator installation costs is it is near the cost of the unit. For example, if you purchased a $4,000 one then the installation will be $4,000 as well. It’s best to talk with Vance Electric in Springfield, VA certified professional installers for a more defined cost estimate.

Have Your Unit Installed by Professionals

It’s natural to want to save money, it’s important that your Generac generator is only installed by certified professionals such as the Vance Electric in Springfield, VA. If it isn't installed improperly, then it could fail when needed or become damaged when turned on.

We adhere to all local, state, and federal codes when installing your unit. Each of our technicians is factory-trained and certified. If you want your unit working and ready for action, then don’t trust the home generator installation to anyone else.

Never Let the Lights Go Out Again

A standby home generator can give your peace of mind that when the power goes out, your home and family will be safe and warm inside their well-lit home. The cost of the unit and generator installation pales in comparison to the feeling you’ll have when you’re the only house on the block with the lights on.

Vance Electric in Springfield, VA can help you find and install the perfect unit for your home. If you want to learn more about Generac generators or would like an in-home assessment, then please contact Vance Electric in Springfield, VA today.

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Storm Preparedness: Why Backup Power Is a Must-Have for Your Family

By Vanceelectric • March 18, 2025

According to the National Centers for Environmental Information, each of the twenty-seven weather disasters that occurred in 2024 cost more than one billion dollars . Part of the reason these storms are so expensive is that they can knock out power infrastructure, causing outages. That is why it is so essential to have home backup power . But where do you get this type of reliable power backup power? And what safety considerations should you take into account? This emergency power options guide will answer these questions to prepare you for the next storm. The Risks of Power Outages During Storms Power outages during storms create various challenges, many of which can severely impact families. Losing electricity disrupts everyday routines, affecting lighting, heating or cooling systems, and access to communication. This makes staying connected with emergency services, loved ones, and weather updates difficult, leaving families vulnerable during a crisis. Beyond daily inconveniences, power outages also pose significant health and safety risks. Without refrigeration, perishable food can spoil, increasing the risk of foodborne illness. A prolonged outage can become a medical emergency for individuals who rely on medical devices such as oxygen concentrators or CPAP machines. Additionally, extreme temperatures can make homes uninhabitable, leading to dangerous conditions, particularly for children, older people, and those with health concerns. The financial burden of power outages can also be substantial. A sudden power surge can damage expensive electronics and appliances, leading to costly repairs or replacements. Types of Backup Power Solutions Several types of home backup power solutions are available, each with unique benefits and considerations. Portable generators offer a cost-effective and flexible option capable of powering select appliances. However, they require manual setup, fuel storage, and proper ventilation to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. These generators are ideal for short-term power outages but require careful handling to ensure safety and efficiency. Learn more about in-stock generators . Standby residential power generators provide automatic power restoration during an outage for a more seamless solution. These units are permanently installed and typically run on natural gas or propane, eliminating the need for refueling. Standby generators can power an entire home and offer a reliable, long-term solution. However, they require professional installation and regular maintenance to maintain optimal working conditions. Read about professional generator installations and their benefits. Battery backup power systems provide another alternative, storing electricity during outages. While they are well-suited for short-term power needs, their effectiveness depends on battery capacity. For families looking for a sustainable and long-term solution, combining solar power with battery storage ensures electricity is available even during extended outages. Just make sure you are choosing the right generator . Choosing the Right Backup Power for Your Family Selecting the best backup power solution depends on various factors, including household power needs, budget, fuel availability, and ease of maintenance. Assessing power requirements is the first step in determining which appliances and systems must be operational during an outage. Understanding essential devices' wattage and energy consumption helps identify the appropriate generator size. Find the size generator you need to ensure your home is adequately powered. Budget is another critical consideration. Portable generators have a lower upfront cost but may require frequent refueling and maintenance. Standby generators involve a higher initial investment but provide automatic power restoration and long-term reliability. Battery backup systems and solar power solutions also have varying price points, with potential long-term savings on energy costs. Explore the complete guide to generator installation to make an informed decision. Fuel availability plays a crucial role in backup power planning. Portable generators often run on gasoline, which can be scarce during severe weather events. Standby natural gas or propane generators provide a more consistent fuel source. Battery-powered solutions eliminate the need for fuel but depend on stored energy capacity. Learn about the benefits of a Generac standby generator for a dependable energy source. Some generators require frequent servicing, while others offer automated operation with minimal intervention. Proper installation and routine maintenance ensure the system functions correctly when needed. Get essential maintenance tips to extend the lifespan of your generator. Safety Considerations When Using Backup Power Backup power solutions provide security during power outages, but proper usage is essential to prevent safety hazards. Portable generators can produce carbon monoxide poisoning , which is a significant risk. Therefore, it is crucial to operate them outdoors, away from windows and doors. Homeowners should install carbon monoxide detectors to monitor indoor air quality and prevent exposure to this deadly gas. Electrical hazards are another concern when using backup power. Qualified professionals should always install generators to avoid the risk of electrical shocks, short circuits, or fire hazards. Proper grounding and adherence to local electrical codes ensure safe operation. Find out more about preparing your home for generator installation. Safe fuel storage and handling are also vital when using generators. Gasoline and propane should be stored in approved containers and kept away from living spaces. Spills should be cleaned immediately to reduce fire risks. Routine maintenance, including oil changes and component inspections, helps keep generators in peak condition and ready for emergency use. Learn more about generator repair and warranty services . Additional Storm Preparedness Tips Beyond the benefits of professional generator installation for backup power, families should take additional steps to prepare for storms. Create an emergency kit stocked with the following: Non-perishable food Water First-aid supplies Flashlights Extra batteries A battery-powered radio or alternative communication method helps families stay informed about storm developments and emergency updates. Developing a family emergency plan is also critical. Establishing communication protocols, designating meeting points, and outlining evacuation routes help ensure everyone knows their role during an emergency. Staying informed through weather forecasts and local emergency alerts provides valuable time to implement preparedness measures. Need Home Backup Power? Contact Vance Electric Investing in a reliable home backup power system is a crucial component of storm preparedness. It ensures your family's safety, comfort, and financial well-being during unforeseen power outages. Here at Vance Electric, we know how important it is to get an experienced installer for your backup needs. That is why we offer nearly three decades of experience. So, if you are ready for the electric help you need, contact us today.