When the power goes out, is your home prepared to stay on? A backup generator keeps you in control of your power - no matter what.
What is a backup generator
A whole-home backup generator is a permanently installed unit that powers your entire home during an outage. Running on natural gas or propane, it connects directly to your electrical system and starts automatically within seconds, keeping essential systems like heating, cooling, and lighting running without interruption.
Who needs a backup generator?
Backup generators are beneficial for those who simply want peace of mind, knowing they’ll have reliable power during unexpected outages. They are especially ideal for homeowners with essential systems that need uninterrupted power, like medical equipment, heating, cooling, or refrigeration for medications.
High winds and fire risks across Ventura County and Northern Los Angeles County make these areas especially prone to outages as the utility companies often shut power off during dangerous conditions as a preventative safety measure.
What size generator do I need?
The right generator size depends on your home’s specific power needs. During a consultation, our electrician will assess the electrical load your generator should support to meet your requirements. Some homeowners choose a generator that covers their entire power load, ensuring life continues uninterrupted during outages. Others opt for a smaller generator, designed to power only essential systems, providing a more cost-effective solution.
What to expect when installing a backup generator
CPN Electric will guide you in selecting the ideal generator based on factors like your power needs and available fuel sources. Once the generator is selected, it will take 2-4 weeks for us to gather materials, coordinate with a licensed fuel contractor, and secure necessary permits. If you prefer to arrange your own fuel contractor and handle the permits, you may need additional time to gather quotes and coordinate scheduling.
The installation process itself usually takes about one week. We begin by preparing the site with a concrete slab, then mounting the generator. The fuel contractor will install the fuel lines, followed by an initial inspection. CPN Electric will then install an automatic transfer switch and complete the electrical connections between your panel, the transfer switch, and the generator. During this stage, power to your home will need to be turned off for part or most of the day.
Once the electrical work is done, the fuel contractor will connect the generator to the fuel lines, and we’ll schedule a final inspection. Finally, CPN Electric will test your generator and provide a tutorial on operation and maintenance to ensure it runs smoothly for years to come.
CPN Electric is a certified installer of Generac Generators
