Ask the plumber: Standby generators offer protection

Q. I remember reading an article you wrote last year about standby generators. Well, this winter I lost power during one of the larger storms, and now I’m very interested in having one installed. What is the best time of year to do the job? I’m thinking in the fall. What other tips can you give me?

A. First, let’s get everyone “powered up” on this topic. A standby generator is not the same as a portable generator. Standby generators are permanently mounted generator systems, connected directly to your home. Kind of like a central air-conditioning system would be. Also, most standby generators are powered by “self-feeding” natural or propane gas. Finally, the system is controlled by an “intelligent transfer switch” that automatically turns on the generator when a power outage occurs.

So, basically, when you lose electrical power, your standby generator will “automatically” keep the electricity on in your home. If it’s properly sized, that means you can keep running your heat, hot water, air conditioning and even your refrigerator/freezer. How cool is that!

It does take about one or two weeks to have a standby-generator system installed, so plan accordingly.

As far as the best time of year to install a standby generator, consider this: Spring is on the way, and many homeowners worry about basement flooding from heavy spring rainstorms and snowmelt.

Basement sump pumps protect many homes, and if the electrical power goes out, the sump pump will lose its A/C power.

After spring, of course, we have summer and fall, and that’s where the “big guns” can kick in. Severe thunderstorms, tornadoes and hurricanes can all cause long-term power outages.

You and your professional standby-generator contractor need to discuss — and agree upon — the job’s size, scheduling and pricing. Make sure your contractor has all the proper licenses and insurance, and that he or she gets the appropriate permits from local authorities.

Also, I recommend getting a standby generator with a composite shell that is especially built to stand up to the elements. This could be particularly important if you live by the ocean, because the salt air can be very corrosive to standard materials.

ŸMaster Contractor/Plumber Ed Del Grande is the author of “Ed Del Grande’s House Call” and hosts TV shows on Scripps Networks and HGTVPro.com. Visit eddelgrande.com or write eddelgrande@hgtvpro.com.

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