Electrician & Generator FAQs
Answers to common electrical and generator questions: estimates, financing, installation, maintenance and Generac service.
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All our questions, in one place
Short answers to what homeowners and businesses ask us most, grouped by topic. Most answers link to the page that covers the topic in full. If yours is not here, call (713) 467-1125. Phones are answered 24/7.
Generators
Buying, sizing, installing and keeping a standby generator ready. There are more generator questions on our generator FAQ page, and every install step is laid out in the generator installation process.
Buying and sizing
How much does a whole-home generator cost?
It depends on the size of the unit, your fuel, the transfer switch and the electrical work at your panel, so a real number comes from a site visit, not a chart. We give a free estimate and can walk you through financing.
What size generator do I need for my house?
It depends on what runs at the same time, mostly your air conditioning, not just square footage. We count your circuits and check your gas meter on a free visit, then recommend the smallest unit that does the job.
More: Generator sizing
Can a generator run my whole house and the AC?
Often yes, if it is sized for it. A larger home, or one with more than one AC unit, may need a bigger unit or a plan for which circuits run together. That is why we measure the load first.
More: Generator sizing
Will it power my entire house or just essentials?
That depends on the size of the generator and how the system is designed. Some generators power the whole home, while others are set up to power selected circuits only.
More: Transfer switches
Natural gas or propane?
Either works. Natural gas is common where the street has a line and you never refill it. Propane is used where there is no gas service, and it needs a tank on your property. We set the unit up for your fuel.
More: Natural gas vs propane
Is a whole-home generator worth it in Houston?
For homes that lose power in storms and freezes, most owners say yes. It keeps the AC, refrigerator, lights and medical equipment running by itself, and Houston has had multi-day outages after hurricanes and the 2021 freeze.
What is the difference between a standby generator and a portable one?
A standby generator is permanently installed, runs on your gas line and starts by itself within seconds of an outage. A portable one has to be wheeled out, fueled and plugged in, and it runs far less of the house.
More: Portable generators
Should I get a whole house generator or a battery backup system?
They solve different problems. A standby generator can run for as long as it has fuel and can carry a large load, such as central air, through a multi-day outage. Battery systems are quiet and instant but can be limited in how long they run a big load without recharging. We install generators, so we are happy to talk through what fits how you use your home.
Is Generac a good brand?
Generac is the most widely installed home standby brand, with strong parts and service support in the Houston area. Wired is a Generac Prestige Dealer, the highest dealer tier, and we install and service them.
More: Generac generators
Can I see a standby generator before I buy?
Yes. Visit our showroom at 13910 Alice Road in Tomball to see units in person. Call (713) 467-1125 first if you want someone to walk you through them.
More: Generators in stock
Are Generac whole house generators quiet?
A standby generator is louder than an idle house but designed for residential use, and models differ in how loud they run. Each one also runs a short self-test on a schedule, which you will hear. Where we place it on your lot makes a real difference to the noise you notice.
More: Generator installation
Why do generator installation quotes vary so much?
Because homes differ. The size of the unit, the distance to your gas line or propane tank, the transfer switch type, the pad, the panel work and the permit all change the scope. Two quotes are only comparable if they cover the same equipment and work, so we write ours out clearly after a free visit.
Does a standby generator use a lot of fuel?
It uses more fuel the more load it carries, and a unit running a large house with central air will use much more than one running a few circuits. On natural gas you never refill, and on propane you plan your tank size around how long you want to run. We talk through run time with you when we size the system.
Installation
How long does generator installation take?
The install itself is usually one day. Larger jobs can take two, depending on the scope and site conditions. Permit timing depends on your city or county, and if you have an HOA, its approval comes first.
Do I need a permit to install a standby generator in Houston?
Almost always. A permanently installed generator involves electrical work and a gas line, which are normally permitted and inspected, and rules differ between the City of Houston, Harris County and Montgomery County. We pull the permits and schedule the inspections for you.
Will my HOA allow a Generac generator?
In our experience, yes, as long as it is placed and screened the way the community's guidelines ask. Master-planned communities want an application with a site plan before the install. We prepare and submit that package for you.
More: Generator installation
What is an automatic transfer switch?
It is the switch that detects the power loss, starts the generator, and moves your house from the grid to the generator. When the grid comes back, it moves your house back and the generator shuts down. It also keeps power from flowing back out to the lines.
More: Transfer switches
Where does the generator go?
On a pad outside, with set distances from the house, windows, doors and property lines. We confirm the spot, check any HOA rules, and plan the gas and electrical runs before we start.
Will my gas line support a generator?
Sometimes the existing line is too small and has to be upsized. We check the line and the meter during the free visit so there is no surprise on install day.
More: Generator sizing
Will I need a panel upgrade to install a generator?
Not always. If your panel is old, full, damaged or a brand with known problems, it may need work before a generator can be connected safely. We check it on the sizing visit, and if it needs work, it appears on its own line in the estimate with the reason.
Will I lose power during installation?
Usually yes, but typically only for a short period of time while electrical connections are being completed. The crew tells you before it goes off.
Do I need to be home during installation?
For most jobs, someone should be available at least at the end of the installation day so we can go over the system and collect any remaining balance.
Can I install a generator myself?
We do not recommend it. It involves electrical work, a gas connection, a transfer switch, permits and inspections, and mistakes are a fire, carbon monoxide and back-feed hazard. Our licensed crews do the whole job.
More: Generator installation
Does the generator start when I am not home?
Yes. The whole sequence is automatic, which is the point of a standby unit. Generac Mobile Link also lets you check its status from your phone.
Service, repair and warranty
How often should a standby generator be serviced?
About once a year, or on the manufacturer schedule for your model. A service visit covers oil, filters, the battery, a full inspection and a test under load.
More: Generator maintenance
Can maintenance be done before storm season?
Yes. We strongly recommend scheduling maintenance before storm season to help make sure the unit is ready when you need it. Call or email our office and we will help schedule a maintenance appointment.
More: Generator maintenance
How long does a maintenance appointment take?
Most maintenance appointments take about 1 to 2 hours, depending on the generator and what service is needed.
More: Generator maintenance
How much is generator maintenance?
Maintenance pricing can vary depending on the brand, model, size, and condition of the generator. Contact our office and we can provide pricing based on your unit.
More: Generator maintenance
What happens if I skip generator maintenance?
The battery or an old filter can keep it from starting in the one outage you needed it. Some warranties also expect a record of service.
More: Generator maintenance
Do you service generators installed by other companies?
Yes, we can service generators that were installed by another company. Call or email our office and we will help schedule an appointment for service.
More: Generator repair
What brands of generators do you work on?
We install Generac. We work on Generac and Kohler generators, including ones another company installed. Tell us the make and model when you call.
More: Generator maintenance
What does the maintenance light on my Generac mean?
It usually means service is due by time or run hours. The generator still works, but it is asking for its scheduled maintenance. We service it and reset the reminder. If the light is red or shows a fault code instead, write the code down and call us.
More: Generator maintenance
What does it mean if I see a warning light?
A warning light usually means the generator has detected a fault, maintenance reminder, or other issue. If you see a red or yellow indicator, contact us for guidance.
More: Generator repair
What should I do if my generator will not start?
Check for obvious issues such as an error code, low battery, fuel supply issue, or shutdown message. If it still will not start, contact our office for service.
More: Generator repair
Should I test my generator before a storm?
Yes. It is a good idea to check for warning lights and make sure the unit appears ready before storm season or severe weather.
What should I do if I smell gas?
Leave the area immediately and contact your gas company or emergency services if needed. Do not try to troubleshoot it yourself. Safety comes first.
What is the free 10-year warranty?
Wired includes a free 10-year warranty on new air-cooled Generac installs. Generac’s own standard warranty is a 5-year limited warranty. Call for the current terms and what each one covers.
More: Generator warranty
When does my warranty expire?
Warranty length depends on the manufacturer, model, and installation date. If you send us your serial number and installation information, we can help you determine your warranty status.
More: Generator warranty
Monitoring and Mobile Link
What is Mobile Link monitoring?
Mobile Link is Generac’s monitoring platform that allows homeowners to view generator status, alerts, and activity from a phone or online account.
More: Mobile Link
Do you offer generator monitoring services?
Yes. We offer cellular monitoring service so your generator can communicate with you and our office if it has any issues.
More: Mobile Link
Portable generators
Do you work on portable generators?
We sell DuroMax portables at the showroom and install inlets and transfer switches for them. Our repair work focuses on standby generators.
More: Portable generators
Can you install a plug for a portable generator?
Yes. We can install a proper inlet and related electrical equipment for a portable generator setup where applicable.
More: Transfer switches
Can I plug a portable generator into my dryer outlet?
No. Backfeeding through an outlet can send power into the utility lines and injure a lineworker, and it can damage your home. Use a transfer switch or inlet installed by a licensed electrician.
More: Transfer switches
Will a portable generator run my central AC?
Most portable generators cannot start and run a central AC system. They are better for the refrigerator, lights, fans and a few outlets. If you want AC during outages, a properly sized standby generator is usually the answer.
More: Portable generators
Electrical
Repairs, emergencies, outlets, surge protection and inspections, for homes and businesses.
Emergencies and repairs
Do you offer emergency services?
Yes. Phones are answered 24/7. Call and we will let you know the soonest available option.
More: Emergency electrician
What counts as an electrical emergency?
Burning smells, smoke, sparks, a hot or melted outlet or panel, exposed or downed wires, water in the panel and shocks are all emergencies. A total power loss in just your house, while neighbors have power, is urgent too. If there is fire, smoke or an injury, call 911 first, then call us.
What should I do while waiting for the electrician to arrive?
Stay away from anything that looks damaged, keep people and pets out of the area and do not touch wet equipment or exposed wires. Unplug or turn off what you safely can and leave the panel cover on. If you smell burning or see smoke or flames, leave the home and call 911.
More: Emergency electrician
Why is half my house without power?
It is often a problem with one leg of your electrical service, at the main breaker, the meter, or the utility line. Ask a neighbor if they have the same issue. If they do, call CenterPoint. If it is only your house, call us at (713) 467-1125.
More: Emergency electrician
Do you fix the power line outside my house?
Lines owned by the utility are handled by the utility, so call CenterPoint for a line down or an outage on their side. We handle the electrical system on your side of the meter, including the mast, meter base, and panel.
More: Emergency electrician
Why does my breaker keep tripping?
A breaker trips to protect the wiring, usually because the circuit is overloaded, a device has a fault, or there is a short or ground fault. An old or worn breaker can also trip too easily. A safe check is to unplug what is on that circuit and notice what was running when it tripped, but do not keep resetting it and do not open the panel. Call us to find the cause.
Why is one outlet not working?
Common causes are a tripped GFCI outlet elsewhere on the same circuit, a tripped breaker, or a loose or worn connection. A safe check is to press the reset button on any nearby GFCI outlet, such as in a kitchen, bathroom, garage or outdoors, and check the breaker panel for a tripped one. If it still does not work, call us rather than opening the outlet.
More: Outlets and switches
Why is my outlet or switch hot or warm?
Warm to the touch is a warning sign, often from a loose connection, overload or worn device, and it can lead to a fire. Stop using that outlet, unplug what is in it and call us the same day. If you smell burning or see smoke, scorch marks or sparks, call 911.
Upgrades, wiring and inspections
Is surge protection worth it?
Storm season in Houston makes it a smart protection for electronics and appliances. A whole-home surge protector at the panel catches what a plug-in strip cannot.
Can you rewire a house in stages?
Often yes. Many homeowners start with the circuits that are the biggest safety concern, such as the panel, the kitchen or old wiring, and move on room by room as budget and schedule allow. A plan up front keeps the stages from conflicting with each other. We look at the whole house first and lay out a sensible order.
Can you rewire a house without removing the drywall?
Sometimes. Electricians can often fish new wire through walls and attics with small access holes, which are then patched. How much patching you need depends on the framing, insulation and how the house was built. We can tell you what to expect on a free visit.
More: Residential electrician
Can I do my own electrical work in my house?
Small things like swapping a light bulb are fine, but wiring, panels, circuits and outlets are permitted work with safety and inspection requirements, and mistakes can cause fires and shocks. Unpermitted or incorrect work can also cause problems with insurance and when you sell. We recommend letting a licensed electrician handle it.
More: Residential electrician
What happens during an electrical inspection?
An inspector looks at the completed work to make sure it is safe and meets code, such as the wiring, the panel, grounding and protection devices. Wired is a licensed contractor that pulls its own permits, so we schedule the inspection and handle it. You only need to give access to the work.
More: Electrical inspections
Do you do residential and commercial electrical work?
Yes. We work in homes and in businesses such as offices, retail, restaurants, medical offices and warehouses. Commercial work can be scheduled around your hours.
More: Commercial electrical
Do you work on gas water heaters?
No. We install and repair electric water heaters only. For gas water heaters or gas lines, call a licensed plumber.
More: Water heater replacement
Pricing
How does an electrician price a job?
By the scope of the work: what needs to be done, the materials, the access, the permit and the time it takes. We do not guess over the phone. We give a free estimate after we see the job, and a specialist confirms the details at the visit.
More: Electrical services
What are your hourly rates?
We tell you what a service call or evaluation costs on the phone, before the truck rolls. The evaluation fee is waived if you approve the estimate and we do the work right after the evaluation.
More: Electrical services
EV chargers and panels
Panel upgrades, breakers and home EV charging. A charger or a generator often starts with a look at the panel.
Electrical panels
How do I know if I need an electrical panel upgrade?
Common signs are breakers that trip often, a panel that is full, a 100-amp service in a house that has added AC, a pool or a charger, or an older panel brand with a known problem. A licensed electrician does a load check to tell you for sure.
Can you inspect my electrical panel?
Yes. We can inspect your panel and review its condition, capacity, and suitability for the work being requested.
How long does a panel upgrade take?
The work in your house is often one day, with the power off for part of it. The full project takes longer because of the permit, the utility disconnect and reconnect, and the inspection.
Do I need a permit to upgrade my electrical panel?
In the Houston area, yes in nearly every case. Panel work is normally permitted and inspected, and the utility has to disconnect and reconnect power around the work. Rules differ by city and county, so we pull the permit and schedule the inspection for you.
Can I upgrade my electrical panel myself?
We strongly advise against it. The service wires coming into the panel stay live even with the main breaker off, and mistakes can mean shock, fire or a failed inspection. A licensed electrician works with the utility and the inspector, and that is the safe way to do it.
How do I know if my panel is 200 amp?
A safe place to look is the label on the main breaker, which is usually the large breaker at the top of the panel, or the rating printed on the panel door or label. Do not remove the panel cover to check. If you cannot find it or the label is unclear, we can confirm it on a free visit.
Can you add more breakers to a breaker box?
Only if the panel has open spaces and enough capacity for the added load. A full panel, an older panel, or one already close to its limit may need a subpanel or a full upgrade first. We check the load before adding anything so the new circuit is safe.
Do you replace Federal Pacific and Zinsco panels?
Yes. We inspect first, explain what we find and recommend replacement when the condition of the panel or the concerns around that brand call for it. We do not push a replacement without telling you why.
More: Old electrical panels
Can you add the generator transfer switch at the same time?
Yes, and it's the right time to do it.
More: Transfer switches
Does an electrical panel upgrade qualify for a tax credit or rebate?
Programs like that change from year to year and depend on your situation, so we do not make promises about them. Ask your electric utility and a tax professional what applies to you now. We can give you a clear written scope of the work to take to them.
EV chargers
Can you install a Tesla charger?
Yes. We install the Tesla Wall Connector and Level 2 home chargers for other makes, with a dedicated circuit and a permit.
More: EV charger installation
Do I need a panel upgrade to install an EV charger?
Not always. Many homes can carry a Level 2 charger on a dedicated circuit. A 100-amp service, a full panel or a second charger often needs an upgrade first, so we check your load before we quote.
What is a Level 2 EV charger?
A 240-volt charger that charges a car much faster than a regular wall outlet. It needs its own dedicated circuit, installed by a licensed electrician with a permit where required.
More: EV charger installation
What is a Level 1 EV charger?
It is the charging cord that comes with many electric cars and plugs into a regular 120-volt household outlet. It is the slowest way to charge, which is fine for light daily driving but too slow for many drivers. Most owners who drive regularly choose a 240-volt Level 2 charger at home.
More: EV charger installation
Do all electric cars use the same home charger?
Most home Level 2 chargers work with most electric vehicles, though plug types differ between car brands and some need an adapter. We install the charger on a dedicated circuit, and you choose a unit that matches your car's connector. If you are not sure, tell us your make and model and we will help you pick.
More: J1772 vs NACS plugs
Can you charge a non-Tesla at a Tesla charger?
Sometimes. Tesla has opened a growing number of its charging sites to other brands, but access depends on the specific site, your vehicle and whether you need an adapter. Check your car maker's app and the Tesla app for what works with your car, and that is separate from what you plug into at home.
More: J1772 vs NACS plugs
Do I need a permit to install an EV charger at home?
Usually yes, because a Level 2 charger needs a new 240-volt circuit and that is permitted electrical work in most Houston area cities. Requirements vary by city and county. We pull the permit and handle the inspection as part of the job.
More: EV charger installation
What affects the cost of installing an EV charger?
The main factors are the distance from your panel to the charger location, how much capacity your panel has left, the charger you choose, and whether the wiring has to go through walls, trenches or a detached garage. Some homes also need a panel upgrade first. Incentives change, so ask your utility and a tax professional about those. We quote after a free visit.
Can my standby generator charge my electric car?
It can if the generator is sized for the charger plus the rest of the house. We look at both loads together and can set the charger output so the generator is not overloaded during an outage.
More: EV charger installation
Lighting
Landscape, outdoor, recessed and indoor lighting, and ceiling fans.
Landscape and outdoor lighting
Is low voltage landscape lighting safe?
Yes, when it is installed correctly. A transformer steps the power down to a low voltage for the fixtures, which greatly lowers shock risk compared with standard household wiring. The part that still carries full house voltage, the outlet or circuit feeding the transformer, should be on a protected outdoor circuit, and that is where a licensed electrician matters.
More: Landscape lighting
Does low voltage landscape lighting use a lot of electricity?
Usually not. Modern LED fixtures draw very little power, so a typical yard system adds only a small amount to your bill. Total use depends on how many fixtures you have and how many hours they run, and a timer or photocell keeps that in check.
More: Landscape lighting
What decides the cost of landscape lighting?
The number of fixtures, the type of fixtures, how far the cable has to run, how much trenching or obstacles are in the way, and whether you need a new outdoor circuit or transformer location. Controls such as timers and smart dimming also change the scope. We give a free estimate after we walk your yard and see where the power will come from.
Why do my outdoor lights keep tripping the breaker?
Moisture is the most common cause: water getting into a fixture, a connection or an outdoor outlet can trip a GFCI or breaker, especially after rain or sprinklers run. Overloaded circuits and damaged cable are other causes. Do not keep resetting it over and over; turn the lights off and call us to find the fault.
Can I install landscape lighting myself or do I need an electrician?
Low voltage kits are sold for homeowners, but the power source is the part that needs a professional. A new outdoor outlet, a dedicated circuit or a spot to mount a transformer should be done by a licensed electrician with proper GFCI protection. We can handle that part, or design and install the whole system so it lasts.
More: Landscape lighting
What brand of landscape lighting do you install?
We install AMP Lighting, a professional contractor brand with solid cast brass fixtures, low voltage LED transformers and optional AMP iQ color and app control. AMP backs its fixtures with a lifetime warranty.
More: Landscape lighting
Do you install motion sensor flood lights?
Yes. We install and aim them, with the wiring and the weatherproofing done to code.
What is permanent outdoor lighting?
A line of small LED lights mounted along your roofline or soffit that stays up all year. Instead of hanging holiday lights every season, you turn the lights on, change the color or set a schedule when you want them.
Indoor lighting and fans
Can you convert my old lights to LED?
Yes. LED retrofit kits and new LED fixtures replace old bulbs and cans, and we can add dimmers at the same time.
More: Indoor lighting
Can you add recessed lights to an existing ceiling?
Usually yes. Remodel lights go in from below with small holes. We tell you on the visit if your ceiling is the exception.
More: Recessed lighting
Can you put a fan where there's just a light?
Yes. The existing box usually isn't rated for a fan, so we swap it for one that is and add support.
More: Ceiling fans
Shield Protection and service plans
Shield Protection is our generator membership plan. Prices and plan details are on the Shield Protection page.
What is Shield Protection?
Shield Protection is Wired's membership plan: remote monitoring, scheduled maintenance, load tests and storm priority, by generator size. Call for the plans that fit your unit.
More: Shield Protection plans
What do the Shield Protection plan levels include?
There are four levels: Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum. Every level includes 24/7 remote monitoring. Maintenance is pay as you go on Bronze, once a year on Silver, every 6 months on Gold and unlimited, as needed, on Platinum. Gold and Platinum add a yearly generator load test, and Platinum adds storm crisis priority (first-call status).
More: Shield Protection plans
Do the plans include an electrical inspection?
Silver, Gold and Platinum plans include a free home electrical and generator safety inspection. After it, our electrician goes over the results with you, covering what looks good and what we would fix first. Bronze plans are pay-as-you-go maintenance without that inspection.
More: Shield Protection plans
How do I choose a plan?
Pick your generator size, then the level of cover you want. Plans have monthly prices on a twelve-month agreement. You can sign up online, or call and we will set the plan up on the phone.
More: Shield Protection plans
Is a maintenance plan better than paying for one visit at a time?
Both keep the generator serviced. A Shield Protection plan schedules the service for you and adds remote monitoring, so it suits people who would rather not keep track. Paying per visit suits owners who are good about booking service every year before storm season.
More: Generator maintenance
Where can I read the plan terms?
Every plan runs on the Shield Protection membership terms: what is and is not covered, the twelve-month agreement, billing, storm priority and cancellation. Read them before you sign up.
More: Shield Protection terms
Do you offer maintenance contracts for businesses?
Yes. Scheduled service, transfer switch inspection, battery replacement, the yearly full-load test and 24/7 remote monitoring, with storm-priority response for contract customers.
More: Commercial generators
Financing
How paying over time works. Plans and fine print are on the financing page. Every plan is subject to credit approval.
Do you offer financing?
Yes. We offer financing on generators and electrical work, subject to credit approval. See the financing page for the options.
More: Financing
Is financing available for a home generator?
Yes. We work with several lenders, including Synchrony and Leighton Lending, with promotional plans subject to credit approval. Your specialist brings the options with the estimate.
More: Financing
Can I finance electrical work, not just a generator?
Yes. Panel upgrades, rewiring, a big lighting job, whatever it is. Same lenders, same process.
More: Financing
Does financing change the price?
No. The quote is the quote. Financing just changes how you pay it.
More: Financing
When do I apply?
Before we come out, at the visit, or after you've got the quote. Approval is usually fast, and we bring the options with us so you're not deciding alone.
More: Financing
Can I get generator financing with bad credit?
Every plan is subject to credit approval, and we cannot promise approval. No electrician can. If Synchrony is not the fit, other lenders are available, and we will tell you what exists. Ask at the visit or apply first, and you will know before you commit.
More: Financing
Is financing available for commercial generators?
Yes, financing is available. We go over the options with you when we deliver the written proposal so you can compare them with paying up front.
More: Commercial generators
Does a whole house generator qualify for an energy tax credit?
Credits and incentives change over time and depend on your situation, so we do not quote them. Ask a tax professional and your utility what applies. We provide a written estimate and invoice you can show them.
More: Generator FAQs
Service area and scheduling
Where we work, how to reach us, and how appointments and installs get scheduled.
Where we work and getting started
What areas does Wired serve?
Greater Houston and about 100 miles around our shop on Alice Road in Tomball, including Cypress, Spring, The Woodlands, Conroe, Katy, Magnolia and Houston.
More: Areas we serve
Is Wired licensed and insured?
Yes. Wired is a licensed and insured electrical contractor, family owned since 2005.
More: About Wired
Are estimates free?
Yes. Estimates are free, and a specialist confirms everything at the visit.
More: Contact us
How do I get started?
Call (713) 467-1125, use the free estimate form, or try the instant generator estimate. We will confirm the details and set a visit.
Can you come today?
Often, yes. Same-day when the schedule allows, and 24/7 for emergencies. Call (713) 467-1125 and we will tell you straight.
More: Electrical services
What should I have ready when I call?
Tell us what you are seeing, where it is happening, and when it started. A photo of the panel with the door open and a photo of the problem help a lot. If anything smells hot or looks burned, say so first.
More: Electrical services
What are your office hours?
Phones are answered 24/7. Office hours are 7:00am – 5:00pm Monday – Friday. Holiday hours may differ.
More: Contact us
Scheduling, deposits and appointments
How far out are you scheduling installs?
Scheduling depends on current workload, permitting, and utility coordination. Contact our office for the most current timeline.
Can I choose my installation date?
We do our best to work with your schedule and offer available dates, but final scheduling depends on permitting, job readiness, and crew availability.
Do you require a deposit for installation?
Yes. Most installations require a deposit before scheduling.
What payment methods do you accept?
Payment method availability can vary, but we typically accept standard forms of payment such as cash, check, credit card, and financing. Contact our office for specifics.
More: Financing
How do I schedule maintenance?
Call or email our office and we will help schedule a maintenance appointment.
More: Generator maintenance
What time will the technician arrive?
Arrival windows vary by job type and route, but our office can provide the most accurate scheduling information for your appointment.
Can I reschedule my appointment?
Yes. We will do our best to move your appointment to the next available date that works.
Can I cancel my appointment?
Yes. Please contact us as soon as possible if you need to cancel.
More answers, one topic at a time.
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Generac and Kohler Generator Error Codes and Parts
When the generator shows a code, here is what to do.
Generac generator error codes
Generac generator error codes appear on the controller display or as a flashing light, and each one points to a fault such as low battery, a fuel problem or an overspeed shutdown. A code tells us where to look, but the cause still needs checking. Write down the code, do not keep resetting it, and call us. We service Generac generators, including ones installed by other companies.
Kohler generator error codes
Kohler generator error codes show on the controller and indicate a fault or maintenance warning. Do not clear the code and carry on, because the fault may return when you need the generator most. Note what the display says, check for obvious causes such as a closed fuel valve, and call (713) 467-1125. We work on Kohler generators as well as Generac.
Kohler generator parts by serial number
Kohler generator parts by serial number is how a technician makes sure a part fits your exact unit. The model and serial number on the data plate tell us the generator's age, size and warranty status. Send us those along with the installation date, and we can look at what your generator needs when we service it. Call or email our office.
Generac Generator Models, Sizes, Prices and Fuel
The common questions when comparing home standby generators.
Generac generator models and sizes
Generac generator models come in air-cooled and liquid-cooled families, in different sizes. Smaller air-cooled units suit many homes, and larger liquid-cooled units suit bigger homes and businesses. The right size depends on the loads you want to run, which we work out in a load analysis during your free estimate. Ask us which models are available now.
Generac generator sizes and prices
We do not publish Generac generator sizes and prices on this page, because the price depends on the size, the electrical scope, gas work, permitting and site conditions. After a free estimate visit and load analysis, we give you the exact price for your house in writing. Financing is available, subject to credit approval.
What fuel does a Generac generator use?
Generac generator uses what fuel is a question we hear often. Home standby generators run on natural gas or propane. Natural gas comes from the line to your house, and propane comes from a tank. We look at your gas supply, the meter capacity and the location, then tell you which works best for your home.
Transfer Switch Types, Manufacturers and Generator Terms
Choosing the pieces that connect a generator to your house.
Transfer switch types
Transfer switch types include automatic transfer switches, manual switches and interlock kits. An automatic transfer switch senses an outage, starts the generator and moves the house load on its own. A manual switch or interlock needs you to do it. We install transfer switches as part of generator systems and can discuss options for certain setups.
Transfer switch manufacturers
Transfer switch manufacturers include the generator makers themselves, and the switch should match the generator and the panel. We install switches for Generac and Kohler systems. Rather than choose by brand name, we choose by the size of the service, the loads and the generator you have. Ask us what suits your panel.
Standby generator vs backup generator, and standby vs emergency generator
Standby generator vs backup generator and standby generator vs emergency generator are mostly different words for similar equipment. A standby generator is permanently installed, connected to your fuel supply and starts by itself when the power fails. A portable backup generator is moved and connected by hand. We focus on standby generators. Call us to talk through what suits your home.
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