A New Level Of Standby Power For Your Home
Whole-home or standby generators can be a lifesaver in North Carolina, where we experience many thunderstorms, hurricanes, and ice storms that can damage power lines. Combined with the right automatic transfer switch that senses a loss of power and switches immediately over, you'll experience a brief moment of power loss before everything is powered right back up. Dawson's Electric & Air can also set you up on a maintenance plan to keep your generator in top shape so it's always ready when you need it.
Want to have enough power to run everything, standing by and ready to go? Then we're here to help! Send us a message online or call 919-887-8284 today!
How Does A Whole-Home Generator Work?
One of the best parts about a whole home generator is its "set-it-and-forget-it" utility. Here's how the process works:
1. Power Outage Detection: The automatic transfer switch continuously monitors your home's incoming electrical supply. The moment it detects a power loss from the utility grid, it signals the generator to start up—usually within seconds of the outage.
2. Generator Activation: The generator's engine starts automatically, running on natural gas or propane from your existing fuel line. There's no need to go outside in the storm or manually start anything. The system handles everything on its own.
3. Power Transfer: Once the generator reaches proper operating speed and voltage, the transfer switch safely disconnects your home from the utility grid and connects it to the generator. This happens seamlessly, restoring power throughout your home.
4. Continuous Operation: The generator runs as long as the outage lasts, automatically managing its own performance and fuel consumption. It keeps your essential systems—and your whole home—running smoothly until utility power returns.
5. Automatic Shutdown: When the transfer switch detects that utility power has been restored, it safely switches your home back to grid power. The generator runs briefly to cool down, then shuts off automatically and resets for the next outage.
Sound good to you? Give us a call at 919-887-8284 to schedule your installation!
Whole-Home Generator FAQs
Most homes need a generator between 20-24 kilowatts, though larger homes with multiple HVAC systems or electric heating may require more capacity. The right size depends on your home's square footage, appliances, and electrical load. We'll assess your specific needs and recommend the properly sized generator for your situation.
Installation costs vary based on generator size, fuel type, electrical panel compatibility, and site-specific factors like gas line distance or concrete pad requirements. We provide upfront, flat-rate pricing after evaluating your property, so you'll know exactly what to expect before we begin any work.
For most homeowners, absolutely. The peace of mind alone is invaluable, especially if you've experienced extended outages, rely on medical equipment, work from home, or have young children or elderly family members. When you consider preventing food loss, avoiding hotel stays, and protection from potential damage, generators often pay for themselves.
What Are The Advantages Of A Whole-Home Generator?
- Uninterrupted Comfort & Convenience: Your HVAC system, refrigerator, lights, and everyday appliances keep running exactly as they normally would. No camping out in the dark or worrying about spoiled food—your daily routine continues without interruption, no matter what's happening outside.
- Protection for Essential Medical Equipment: For families who rely on medical devices like CPAP machines, oxygen concentrators, or refrigerated medications, a whole-home generator isn't just convenient—it's potentially life-saving. You'll have reliable power when health and safety depend on it.
- Home Security Systems Stay Active: Your security cameras, alarm systems, and outdoor lighting remain operational during outages. While neighbors deal with darkened homes that attract unwanted attention, your property stays protected and monitored around the clock.
- Prevents Costly Damage: Power outages can cause sump pumps to fail, leading to basement flooding, or allow pipes to freeze in winter. A whole-home generator keeps these critical systems running, protecting your home from thousands of dollars in potential water or freeze damage.
- Increased Home Value: Whole-home generators are a premium feature that appeals to buyers. They signal that your home is well-maintained and prepared for emergencies, making your property stand out in the market and potentially commanding a higher sale price.
Stay Powered On With Dawson's Electric & Air
Allow the experts at Dawson's Electric & Air to guide you with your whole-home generator questions or purchase. We are a Briggs and Stratton dealer, which we have chosen to deal with because of their excellent products, unmatched warranties, and great customer service. To schedule your installation, call 919-887-8284 or message us online. We will gladly help you live life uninterrupted!
