Please be advised that all Manufacturer’s instructions, User manuals and Installation Guides take precedence over all and any of the tips listed below.

The information provided is merely intended to serve as a tip to the generator purchasing cycle. CableOrganizer.com cannot be held liable for any experience that deviates from what is listed below.

Question #1
What is the process I will have to go through to get a generator installed and ready for back-up?

The generator process typically involves:

1. Site Survey by a licensed electrician
2. Selection of Generator
3. Architectural drawing/ permit
4. Natural Gas Installation
5. Delivery of unit and placement of panel (this may be done before the gas source has been installed.)
6. Electrical Installation

Question #2
What should I consider when choosing a generator?

Get a generator that is rated for the amount of power that you can determine you will need.Look at the labels on lighting, appliances, and equipment you plan to connect to the generator to determine the amount of power that will be needed to operate the equipment. Choose a generator that produces more power than will be drawn by the combination of lighting, appliances and equipment you plan to connect to the generator including the initial surge when it is turned on.

Q: How much outdoor space do I need for the generator?

A: Make sure you have adequate safe space outdoors to run the generator. In order to provide proper ventilation, some generators require 3-5’ distance on all sides of the generator – check your generator manual for specifics.

Q: Is there someone that can help me decide what generator I need?

A: If you cannot determine any of the above call 1-877-547-4580 and ask for a site survey – an electrician will be able to help you make these determinations. You may also use our Generator Selector which contains wattage estimates for many common household appliances; including AC units, tools, refrigerators and even pressure washers.

Q: What is included with the generator?

A: It is important to find out what does and does not come with the generator you are purchasing e.g. Transfer switch, composite pad (if not, cement slab may need to be poured, which may require a building permit being pulled), battery etc.

Q: Will there be any other costs that I might incur?

A: Other than the cost of the generator, additional costs that you may incur include:

• Installation cost
• Gas or liquid propane cost
• Lift gate cost
• Generator Shipping cost
• Battery cost
• Permit fees
• Architectural drawings (if necessary)

Generators come with an installation or owners manual. Be sure to always make reference to the manual if you have any doubts.

Q: How long does a generator take to install?

A: It takes approximately eight to ten hours to install a standby generator. ** This would be subject to a site survey. Installation includes engine break-in and initial oil and filter change.

Q: Does a generator need maintenance?

A: Depending on how often power goes out the engine oil and filter will need to be changed once per year or more.

Technical:

Q: What is the difference between running watts and starting watts?

A: Running watts are the continuous watts needed to keep items running. Starting watts, are extra watts needed for two or three seconds to start motor-driven products like a refrigerator or AC unit.

Q: How can I determine the running or the starting watt requirement for a tool or appliance?

A: First check the data plate on the tool appliance, if the running watts are not listed. You may use this equation:

Watts = Volts X Amps