Key takeaways:
- A whole-home generator is a reliable source of electricity during power outages, which are getting more common in the Nashville area.
- Whole-home generator installation is simpler than you might think, and the right electrician can guide you through this process.
- Airstream offers trusted generator installation services in the Nashville area. Contact us if you’re looking for a generator installer.
Power outages aren’t unusual during the Nashville tornado season.
It doesn’t mean you have to sit in the dark. With a home generator, you can keep your fridge going, cook a simple meal, and even get some work done on your laptop (or power crucial medical equipment).
Home generator installation is a lot more accessible than you might think, and we’re here to answer common questions about this upgrade.
How do whole-home generators work?
Whole home generators are similar to traditional, smaller generators. They turn fuel into electricity, but whole-home models have a much higher capacity and come with advanced features. For instance, they can detect when the power is out and kick in by themselves.
Why get a whole home generator?
Three words: peace of mind. The next time the power goes out in the Nashville area, you can keep using your appliances, heat or cool your home, and not worry about being in the dark. For those with young children, older relatives, or even pets, powering the AC during a rolling blackout in the summer is life-changing.
How frequent are power outages in Tennessee?
It varies from one year to the next, but outages are getting longer and more frequent. Experts blame the state’s aging power infrastructure, hot summers and the storm season.
What size backup generator do I need for my home?
You can use as little as 10,000 watts to power a single emergency circuit, but most Nashville homeowners opt for generators between 15,000 and 20,000 watts in capacity. If you need to power more appliances, you can opt for a 30,000-watt model.
What kind of fuel is best for my backup generator?
Natural gas and propane are the two most common options. If your property has natural gas lines, connecting your generator to this existing infrastructure is the most cost-effective option. The alternative is to store propane in tanks somewhere on your property.
How long can a whole-home generator run continuously?
Most manufacturers offer generators rated for 500 hours of continuous use, but the truth is that your backup generator will run as long as you have fuel for it. For instance, a generator with a 500-gallon propane tank might run up to six days on a 50% load.
Do I need a new panel or other electrical upgrades before a home generator installation?
A whole-home generator interacts with your existing electrical infrastructure. When the power goes out, your panel automatically switches from drawing power from the grid to the generator. Your electrician needs to install an automatic transfer switch to make this happen, and possibly replace your outdated panel with a new one. Some houses also need a sub-panel to power separate emergency circuits during an outage.
How much does a whole-home generator cost?
Plan on spending $8,000 to $12,000 for this upgrade, but keep in mind that the total cost can be higher if you need some electrical upgrades. You’ll get a more precise estimate after talking to an electrician.
Will a whole-home generator increase my home’s value?
Upgrading your home with a backup generator will boost the property’s value. With power outages becoming more frequent, this feature will attract more buyers and make your home stand out if you decide to put it on the market.
Can I install a generator by myself, or do I need a licensed electrician?
Installing a whole-home generator involves working with fuel lines and complex electrical systems. The finished installation must also be up to code, and you’ll typically need a concrete pad under the generator. Let a professional do it is safer, and you won’t have to worry about compliance issues.
Do I need permits for generator installation in Nashville?
In Nashville, you need a permit for any work that affects your electrical systems, including installing a whole-home backup generator. The electrician who installs the generator can obtain the right permits for you.
What are Nashville’s electrical code requirements for generators?
The National Electrical Code has some rules regarding clearance around generators, exhaust location, safety measures, and more. You’ll also have to follow local building codes regarding the generator’s location.
How often should I service my whole-home generator?
Your whole-home generator needs maintenance once a year or after 200 hours of use, depending on which one comes first. Nashville’s high humidity and temperature fluctuations make corrosion and condensation more likely, which is why it’s important to keep up with generator maintenance.
What maintenance can I do myself vs. what requires a professional?
You can take care of simple maintenance tasks like changing the oil and filters yourself. However, you should have a professional service your backup generator once a year and have them check the spark plugs, fuel lines, and electrical connections.
Where should I install my whole-home generator on my property?
You should install your generator in a spot that has sufficient clearance. You’ll also need to angle the exhaust away from your property, while keeping your generator close to your electrical panel and existing fuel lines if possible. A professional installer can help you figure out the best location for your whole-home generator.
Airstream Installs Whole-Home Generators in Nashville
Don’t let the next power outage catch you off guard. Airstream has been serving the Nashville area since 2012 and is here to provide reliable whole-home generator installation services.
Our experts will help you pick the best generator for your unique needs and install it according to the NEC and local building codes.
If you have any questions about this process or want to schedule an electrical assessment to install a generator, use our convenient online form.
