What Is a Whole House Generator?
A standby generator is a permanently installed unit that sits outside your home and connects to your electrical system through a transfer switch. When utility power drops, the generator starts on its own and the transfer switch moves your selected circuits from the grid to the generator. When power returns, the system switches back.
The right size depends on what you want to power. Some homeowners want the whole house running. Others only need essentials. Both approaches can work, and the right choice depends on your needs and budget.
What Backup Power Can Keep Running
Depending on generator capacity and setup, backup power can support:
Refrigeration and freezers
Heating and cooling controls
Essential lighting
Phones, internet, and communications equipment
Sump pumps
Electrically powered medical equipment
That sump pump line matters. Storms that cause outages often bring heavy rain too, and a pump with no power cannot protect your basement. If you rely on a sump pump, tell us when you plan your generator.
Standby vs. Portable Generators
Standby generators start automatically and connect through transfer equipment. They are the most convenient option and the most hands-off during an outage.
Portable generators cost less but need more effort. You have to set them up yourself, and they come with safety rules you cannot skip:
Run them outdoors only, with plenty of ventilation. Never run one inside a home, garage, basement, crawlspace, or shed. Carbon monoxide from generators is odorless and can be deadly, and opening a window or door is not enough. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reports that about 85 people die each year from carbon monoxide poisoning from portable generators.
Store and handle fuel safely.
Use a properly rated manual transfer switch or approved connection equipment.
Keep the load within the generator's capacity.
Never backfeed. Plugging a generator into a wall outlet can send power back onto the utility lines, putting utility workers and neighbors at risk. A properly installed transfer system keeps generator power separate from utility power.
How Our Generator Installation Works
Installing a generator is a big investment, so we walk you through every step. Our generator installation and repair process includes:
Load assessment and sizing. We look at your power demands, your priorities during an outage, and your budget. We also discuss whether a portable generator with manual connection equipment or a standby generator with an automatic transfer switch fits your plans. Proper sizing matters because some motor-driven equipment needs more power to start than to run.
Installation and integration. Our licensed electricians connect the generator to your existing electrical system. Depending on the system, the work may include transfer equipment, wiring, grounding and bonding, fuel coordination, permits, inspections, and commissioning.
Training. We show you how to operate the generator safely, explain routine maintenance, and review warning indicators, exercise cycles, and what to do if it does not start.
If your electrical panel needs an upgrade to support a generator, we can handle that too.
Generator Repair and Service
A generator that does not start during an outage is not much help. We diagnose and repair common problems, including:
Failure to start or difficulty starting
Low or inconsistent power output
Fuel system problems, like carburetor and fuel line issues
Battery failure or charging problems
Transfer switches that do not activate during an outage
Oil leaks, overheating, or unusual sounds
Worn or outdated components
Scheduled maintenance can include oil and filter service, battery inspection, fuel-system checks, transfer-switch testing, and an operating test. Follow your manufacturer's schedule, and call us if you spot a warning light, a missed exercise cycle, a fuel odor, or an oil leak.
A Quick Readiness Check Before the Storm
Exercise cycle: Did your standby unit complete its last test run without new warnings?
Visible condition: Look for leaks, corrosion, or blocked vents around the unit, without opening it.
Transfer operation: If the transfer switch does not change power sources correctly, schedule service.
Fuel and maintenance: Check your last service date against the manufacturer's schedule.
If the unit will not start or puts out unstable power during an outage, do not improvise a connection. Call a trained electrician.
Need Help in the Middle of an Outage?
We offer 24/7 emergency electrical repair with same-day appointments, even on weekends. We also offer free estimates, financing, and payment plans, so a generator does not have to wait on a big upfront payment.
Why Neighbors Choose Big Brothers
We are a veteran-owned, family-oriented company with 65+ years of combined experience, and our licensed, insured technicians have earned a 4.9-star rating across 800 reviews. We give honest recommendations and upfront pricing. We also provide bilingual service in English and Spanish. Hablamos español.
Get Backup Power Before the Next Outage
Call (385) 469-4940 or book online to talk through generator size, transfer equipment, and installation for your home. Big Brothers Home Services, 28 East Fireclay Avenue, Murray, UT 84107. Let's Fix It Right.