Power outages are unpredictable. One moment everything’s running normally, and the next you’re sitting in the dark, wondering how long it will last. For Fort Wayne property owners, severe weather, from summer storms to winter ice, can knock out power for hours or even days. A standby generator eliminates that uncertainty by providing automatic backup power when you need it most.
Unlike portable generators, which require manual setup and can power only a few appliances, standby generators are permanently installed, automatically detect power outages, and restore power within seconds. It’s like having your own private power company ready to step in whenever the grid fails.
How standby generators work
The system is surprisingly straightforward. A standby generator sits outside your property, connected to your natural gas or propane supply. It’s also connected to your electrical panel through an automatic transfer switch.
Here’s what happens during a power outage:
- The transfer switch detects that grid power has been lost
- It signals the generator to start (takes about 10-20 seconds)
- The generator starts and reaches operating speed
- The transfer switch disconnects from grid power and connects to generator power
- Your selected circuits receive power from the generator
- When grid power returns, the system automatically transfers back and the generator shuts down
You don’t have to do anything. The entire process is automatic, which is crucial if you’re away from the property when power goes out.
Sizing your generator correctly
One of the most important aspects of generator installation is proper sizing. Too small, and your generator won’t be able to power everything you need. Too large, and you’ve spent money on unnecessary capacity.
Generator size is measured in kilowatts (kW). Residential generators typically range from 7kW to 22kW, while commercial generators can be much larger depending on requirements.
To determine the right size, we calculate:
- Essential loads: What must stay powered? (refrigerator, furnace or AC, sump pump, medical equipment)
- Comfort loads: What makes life easier but isn’t critical? (lighting, entertainment, some outlets)
- Total wattage: The sum of what you want to power simultaneously
- Starting surge: Some appliances draw extra power when starting up
Most homeowners choose to power their entire home minus a few high-draw appliances like electric water heaters or pool pumps. This provides normal living conditions during outages without oversizing the generator.
For commercial properties, we assess your business operations to determine what equipment and systems need backup power. This might be everything or just critical systems like refrigeration, security, and computers.
What does a generator installation involve?
Generator installation is a multi-step process that requires electrical, gas, and sometimes concrete work:
Site preparation: We identify the best location for your generator, usually near your electrical panel and gas meter. The generator needs a level concrete pad and clearance from windows, doors, and property lines per building codes.
Permits and approvals: Generator installations require building permits and utility coordination. We handle all permitting and ensure everything meets local codes.
Gas line installation: If you’re using natural gas, we run a gas line from your meter to the generator. For propane, we coordinate tank installation and connections.
Electrical connections: We install the automatic transfer switch in your electrical panel and run wiring to the generator. This requires careful calculation to ensure proper load distribution.
Testing: Before we leave, we test the entire system under load to ensure it switches on and off correctly and provides stable power.
Training: We walk you through basic operation and maintenance, though most of the time your generator requires no intervention.
The entire installation typically takes one to two days, depending on the complexity of your property and any necessary gas line work.
Maintenance keeps your generator ready
A standby generator that sits unused most of the time still needs regular maintenance. Most generators automatically self-test weekly, running for a few minutes to ensure they’re ready. But they also need:
- Oil changes (typically annually)
- Air filter replacement
- Spark plug replacement
- Battery checks
- Coolant level checks
- General system inspection
We offer maintenance agreements that take care of all this for you. Regular maintenance ensures your generator starts reliably when you need it and extends its service life.
Is a generator right for you?
Standby generators are a significant investment, typically ranging from $3,000 to $10,000 or more, depending on size and installation complexity. They’re worth considering if:
- You experience frequent or long-duration power outages
- You have medical equipment that requires power
- You run a home-based business that can’t afford downtime
- You have a sump pump that prevents basement flooding
- You simply want the peace of mind of never worrying about power outages
For businesses, the calculation is different. One day of downtime might cost more than the generator itself. Spoiled inventory, lost sales, and productivity losses add up quickly. For many commercial properties, a generator is essential.
Generator installation timeline
If you’re considering a generator, here’s what to expect for the timeline:
- Initial consultation: 1-2 hours to assess your needs and discuss options
- Proposal and approval: A few days to prepare a detailed proposal
- Permitting: 1-2 weeks for permit approval (varies by jurisdiction)
- Installation: 1-2 days for most residential installations
- Final inspection: Coordinated after installation is complete
The entire process from decision to operation typically takes 3-4 weeks, though it can be faster or slower depending on permit processing times and generator availability.
Spring is an excellent time to install a generator. The weather is pleasant for outdoor work, and you’ll have your system ready before storm season. Plus, scheduling is often easier in spring than during the peak of summer or winter, when HVAC demand is highest.
Ready for reliable backup power?
If you’re tired of worrying about power outages or you’ve experienced one outage too many, it’s time to consider a standby generator. At J.O. Mory, we make the process simple and straightforward, handling everything from sizing and permitting to installation and ongoing maintenance.
Our team has installed generators for homes, businesses, and industrial facilities throughout the area, and we’re ready to help you achieve true energy independence. Inquire or book today to discuss your backup power options and get started on your generator installation project.
