Frequently Asked Questions about Whole Home Backup Generators

When making the decision to invest whether or not to invest in a home generator, consumers often have numerous questions and considerations – from selecting the right size for their needs to understanding installation processes, costs and ongoing maintenance requirements.

The detailed FAQ page below addresses the most common questions we receive and provides clear, concise answers to help you make the best choice for your home or business's needs. Whether you're have questions surrounding the benefits of a whole house generator or seeking advice on how they work and their maintenance needs, our FAQs below can help guide you every step of the way.

Generator FAQ List

What size generator do I need for my home?

This depends on the size of your home (square footage) as well as what appliances you want or need to run during a power outage. That's why we offer a free quote from our generator pros to help determine the right size generator to install based on your specific needs.
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How much does a whole house generator cost?

Costs can vary widely based on the size of the generator, installation needs, and additional features. Prices can range from a few thousand dollars (for a small portable generator to power a few appliances) to between $10,000-$15,000 for larger, fully-featured models that can power an entire home or business.
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Is it worth investing in a whole house generator in Texas?

Considering Texas' vulnerability to power outages from hurricanes, storms and other natural disasters, a whole house generator can be a worthwhile investment to maintain essential functions or to live daily life without interruption during outages. In recent years, the greater Houston area has suffered numerous power outages – some of which have left homes and businesses without power for days or even weeks.
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A few generator brands stand out for their reliability and popularity among homeowners and businesses. Generac, Kohler, and Briggs & Stratton are widely recognized for their quality, durability, reliability and range of available options to suit various needs.

Generac is particularly noted for its extensive selection of both portable and standby generators – making it a top choice for residential and commercial buildings. Kohler is renowned for its hardy build and reliability. Briggs & Stratton, another leading name, provides a wide variety of portable and standby generators known for their performance and value.

Each brand has unique features and benefits and can help ensure that consumers can find a generator that matches their specific requirements for power, size, and budget during an outage.
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What is the difference between a portable generator and a whole house generator?

Portable generators are smaller, less expensive and can power a few of your most needed appliances and require manual implementation in an outage. Whole house generators are permanently installed and can power an entire home – and automatically turn on when a loss of power is detected.
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How often will I need to maintain my whole house generator?

Regular maintenance is important for ensuring reliability and a longer lifespan for the unit. This typically includes annual servicing by a generator professional and periodic checks of oil and coolant levels by the homeowner or business.
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Can I install a whole house generator myself?

While it is technically possible, it is not recommended. Especially when there is a need to run gas lines to power the unit. Due to the complexity and the need for adherence to local safety and building codes, professional installation is strongly recommended.
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How long can a whole house generator run continuously?

This depends on the generator's fuel supply. Natural gas models (common for whole home generators) can run as long as the gas supply is uninterrupted, while propane models (common for portable units) are limited by the size of the propane tank.
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What are the fuel options for whole house generators?

Common fuel options include natural gas, propane, and diesel. The best choice for your needs depends on availability, budget and personal preference. At Texas Generator Pros, we offer gas and propane options.
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Will a whole house generator increase my property value?

In areas like the greater Houston area that prone to power outages, a whole house generator can be a desirable feature that may increase home value, marketability and appeal to potential buyers.
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What should I consider when choosing a location for my whole house generator?

Generator placement considerations can include local building codes, proximity to windows and doors (due to unit's exhaust), noise levels for living areas and neighbors, and flood risk areas. An additional consideration for units powered by natural gas is the cost of running the gas line to the chosen location.
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Do I need a special permit to install a whole house generator?

Yes, in most cases, installing a whole house generator requires a permit from your local municipality – especially if it involves installing or moving natural gas lines. This ensures that the installation complies with local state, county or city building codes and safety regulations. Your generator installer or contractor will typically handle the permit application and inspection process, but it's important to discuss this with your provider upfront.
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What should I consider regarding the placement of a whole house generator?

The placement of your generator is important for safety and efficiency considerations, as well as compliance with local codes. Some of those considerations can include keeping it away from windows and doors to prevent exhaust fumes from entering the home, ensuring it's placed on a stable, level surface for proper operation, and adhering to local noise ordinances and setback requirements from property lines. For natural gas units, you may also need to consider your budget – the further the unit is from the natural gas source, the more expensive the installation may be due to needing to run gas lines to the unit.
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How does a whole house generator connect to my home's electrical system?

A whole house generator is connected to your electrical system through an automatic transfer switch (ATS). The ATS disconnects your home or business from the utility grid when it detects an outage and switches your home's electrical load to the whole house generator. Then it automatically switches the power load back when your regular utility power resumes. This process is automatic and seamless, ensuring continuous power during outages without any additional effort needed from the homeowner or business.
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Is there anything special my home needs to be able to install a whole house generator?

Beyond space for the generator itself, your home needs a gas line (for natural gas whole home generators) and an electrical system that can integrate with an automatic transfer switch. Some homes may require upgrades to their gas meter to accommodate the additional gas flow required by the generator or additional gas lines run to the unit for location needs or preferences. It's also important to have a clear area around the generator for maintenance and proper ventilation. In areas prone to flood risks, you may need to place the generator on a raised pad.
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Can a whole house generator power everything in my home during an outage?

Whether a generator can power everything in your home depends on the size of the generator you install, its capacity and your specific power needs. Some homeowners choose to power essential systems and appliances only, such as heating and cooling systems, refrigerators, freezers and lights – to reduce the size and cost of the generator. Others choose larger generators to maintain their usual lifestyle – with use of all their power dependent needs – without interruption. Our generator pros can help you determine your needs and priorities during the free quote process.
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Get your free estimate today

If you're within 50 miles of the Greater Houston or Katy area and considering a whole house generator, Texas Generator Pros can help you prepare for the next potential power outage. We offer a free estimate to help determine your needs and recommend the best generator solution for your home. Fill out our free estimate form today and make sure your home is ready for whatever comes its way.