An automatic backup generator is an electrical system that automatically restores power in your home during an outage. Moments after a power outage, it automatically supplies power to your home’s circuit breaker box to keep your essential appliances running.
No, automatic backup generators are also designed to shut themselves off when utility power returns to your home. Once it turns off, it won’t turn back on until the next outage.
During a utility power outage, an automatic backup generator provides numerous advantages over a portable generator:
The first thing you should do is think about your home and what you would do in the event of a power outage. Would you want your entire home to have power or are you only concerned with keeping the essentials up and running? Keep in mind some outages can last longer than a day. With some basic information, you can determine an estimated size by using our Generator Sizing Calculator.
Essential Circuit Coverage – Generac takes the guesswork out of sizing by offering prepackaged Guardian Series generator systems. The generator is paired with a transfer switch containing a predetermined number of circuits based on the generator’s kW power rating. Each circuit is directly connected to a matched circuit on the home’s main circuit breaker panel, providing electricity to that specific appliance or area of the home.
Managed Whole House Coverage – You can get more coverage with less generator, up to whole-house coverage, by pairing a smaller generator with one of Generac’s load shedding options. This creates a managed power solution where non-essential circuits are shed when the generator approaches maximum capacity. They are cycled back on when essential circuits no longer require power, so all circuits receive power at different times.
Complete Whole House Coverage – Easily cover every circuit in your home by pairing one of Generac’s larger kW units and the proper transfer switch to provide full coverage. No circuit is ever left uncovered, so every appliance is available every minute.
No, your generator cannot run on both types of fuel sources. Generac home backup generators are designed to run on one fuel source and they are factory set to run on natural gas. However, if you would rather have your generator run on liquid propane, a Sila technician can reconfigure your generator during installation.
If you would like to maximize performance and longevity of your generator, it is critical that your generator undergo periodic maintenance. Sila offers ongoing support after installation and performs an annual maintenance check for all of our generators to make sure that everything is running properly for our customers. Refer to the owner’s manual for routine maintenance procedures and schedules.
Its primary function is to prevent your home from being powered by utility and generator power at the same time. If utility power is lost, the generator control panel senses the loss and tells the transfer switch to close off the connection with utility and complete the connection with the generator so it can begin providing power to the home.
This can vary by the type of transfer switch and depends on the number of circuits you would like covered. In a partial home application, the transfer switch is installed similarly to a subpanel, and the circuits that are covered by the generator are moved either into a circuited transfer switch, or are installed in a subpanel that is protected by a non-circuited transfer switch.
In a whole home application, the transfer switch is installed between the incoming utility power source and the home’s distribution panel.
If you order the generator directly from the manufacturer, Generac offers the Guardian Series systems prepackaged and pre-wired with comprehensive installation instructions. However, for safety reasons and to ensure adherence to all local, state and national electrical codes, particularly for non pre-wired or larger systems, it is highly recommended to have an authorized dealer and service provider like Sila to install your home generator.
Every home is different, and so is every installation. The placement of the generator, the amount of materials required, and the installation of the natural gas or LP fuel source all make estimating installation costs unique. The best way to get an accurate estimate for your installation costs is to schedule a virtual assessment with a Sila expert. You can unlock additional savings by placing a deposit, as well.
Yes. No matter what generator you decide to power your home, our team is prepared to walk you through a number of payment and financing options. Your Sila comfort advisor can provide you with all your options and help you choose the best one for your situation during your virtual consultation.
Submit your information below and we’ll contact you with your
free quote and installation details.
