Power outages are more than an inconvenience in Southeast Idaho. When temperatures drop below zero and winter storms knock out the grid, being without power can quickly become a genuine safety concern. A home generator provides peace of mind and continuity of comfort, keeping your heating system, refrigerator, medical equipment, and lighting running when the grid goes down.
Whether you are considering a portable generator or a whole-home standby system, understanding your options is the first step toward making the right investment for your home and family. Advanced Home Services is a licensed electrical, plumbing, and HVAC contractor serving Rigby, Idaho Falls, Blackfoot, Ammon, Rexburg, Shelley, Pocatello, and surrounding communities in Southeast Idaho. Our electricians install and service generators so you are always prepared when the power goes out.
Generator installation is a significant home investment, and there are real differences between the available options. From portable units to permanently installed standby systems, understanding each type will help you choose what is right for your situation.
Portable Generators vs. Standby Generators: What Is the Difference?
The two main categories of home generators are portable generators and standby (whole-home) generators. Each has distinct advantages and limitations.
Portable generators are relatively affordable and can be stored until needed. They run on gasoline, propane, or dual-fuel configurations and can power selected appliances through extension cords or a transfer switch. However, portable generators must be refueled manually, require outdoor operation (to avoid carbon monoxide exposure), and cannot be left unattended. They are a good option for short outages when you only need to power a few critical items.
Standby generators are permanently installed outside the home, similar to an HVAC unit. They connect directly to your home’s electrical system through an automatic transfer switch, which detects a power outage and activates the generator within seconds, automatically. Standby generators run on natural gas or propane, eliminating the need to store or transport fuel. They can power your entire home or selected circuits depending on the unit size.
For Southeast Idaho homeowners who experience significant winter weather and want reliable protection, a standby generator is generally the more practical long-term solution.
How Does a Standby Generator Work?
A standby generator system consists of three main components: the generator unit itself, an automatic transfer switch (ATS), and a fuel supply connection (natural gas line or propane tank).
When grid power fails, the automatic transfer switch detects the outage within seconds and signals the generator to start. The ATS then switches your home’s electrical load from utility power to generator power. The entire process typically takes 10 to 30 seconds. When utility power is restored, the ATS switches back automatically and the generator shuts down.
Modern standby generators also perform self-diagnostic tests, typically running briefly once a week to ensure they are ready to operate when needed. This means you will know your generator is working before an actual outage occurs.
What Size Generator Do You Need?
Choosing the right generator size is one of the most important steps in the installation process. A generator that is too small will not power your critical loads; one that is oversized means unnecessary expense.
Generator capacity is measured in kilowatts (kW). Sizing requirements depend on which loads you want to power during an outage.
Essential circuit coverage typically includes heating system, refrigerator, select lighting, water pump (if applicable), and a few outlets. A generator in the 10 to 16 kW range is often sufficient for this level of coverage.
Whole-home coverage, powering your entire electrical load simultaneously, including HVAC, water heater, appliances, and all lighting, generally requires a generator in the 20 kW and above range, depending on the size of your home and your peak demand.
A licensed electrician can perform a load calculation to determine the appropriate size for your home. This is an important step we handle as part of every generator installation.
What to Expect During Generator Installation
Generator installation is not a DIY project. It involves electrical work, gas line connections, and permitting requirements that require licensed professionals. Here is what the process typically involves:
- Site assessment and load calculation: Our electrician evaluates your home’s electrical system and calculates the load requirements to recommend the right generator size.
- Permit application: Most jurisdictions require permits for generator installation. We handle this on your behalf.
- Site preparation: The generator is placed on a concrete pad or equivalent surface, positioned per local code requirements for clearance from the home and openings.
- Electrical connection: The generator is connected to your home’s electrical panel through the automatic transfer switch.
- Gas line connection: A licensed professional connects the generator to your natural gas supply or coordinates propane tank installation.
- Testing and commissioning: The system is tested under load conditions to verify proper operation of the generator, transfer switch, and all connected circuits.
Generator Safety: Critical Rules for Homeowners
Generator safety cannot be overstated. Improper generator use is responsible for numerous fatalities each year from carbon monoxide poisoning.
Key safety rules to follow:
- Never run a generator indoors, in a garage, or near any opening to the home: Carbon monoxide from generator exhaust is odorless and deadly. Even a partially open window or door is not sufficient ventilation.
- Never back-feed power into the grid: Running a generator without a proper transfer switch can create backfeed that endangers utility workers and damages your equipment.
- Install carbon monoxide detectors: All homes with generators should have CO detectors on each floor, particularly near sleeping areas.
- Keep the generator dry: Do not operate a portable generator in rain or wet conditions without proper protection.
- Follow fuel storage guidelines: Store gasoline in approved containers, away from living areas and ignition sources.
A professionally installed standby generator with an automatic transfer switch eliminates most of these risks since it operates outside the home and is hardwired properly.
Frequently Asked Questions About Generator Installation
How much does a standby generator cost to install?
Generator installation costs depend on the size of the unit, site preparation requirements, fuel supply infrastructure (gas line extension or propane tank), electrical work, and permitting. We do not quote specific prices here because every project is different. Call Advanced Home Services at (208) 539-3003 to discuss your needs and get an accurate estimate. We also offer financing options to help manage the upfront investment.
Do I need a permit for a generator installation in Idaho?
Yes, in most cases. Generator installation involves electrical work and gas connections that are subject to local building and electrical codes. Permits are typically required. Our team handles the permitting process as part of every installation project.
How long do standby generators last?
With proper maintenance, a residential standby generator can last 15 to 30 years or more. Regular service, including oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug checks, and battery maintenance, is key to maximizing the generator’s lifespan and ensuring it is ready when needed.
How often should a standby generator be serviced?
Most manufacturers recommend annual service for standby generators, though units that see heavy use may benefit from more frequent maintenance. Regular service should include oil and filter changes, inspection of the spark plugs and battery, air filter replacement, and a full operational test. Ask about our maintenance plans to keep your generator in top shape.
Can a generator power my entire house?
Yes, a properly sized standby generator can power your entire home. The key is matching the generator’s output capacity to your home’s electrical load. Our electricians perform a load calculation during the site assessment to ensure the recommended unit can handle your needs. Whole-home coverage typically requires a generator in the 20 kW range or larger depending on your home size and systems.
What fuel options are available for standby generators?
Residential standby generators most commonly run on natural gas (connected to your home’s existing gas service) or propane (supplied by an on-site storage tank). Natural gas is convenient because it is piped directly and requires no refueling. Propane is a good alternative if natural gas is not available at your property. Some portable generator models offer gasoline, propane, or dual-fuel options.
Contact Advanced Home Services for Generator Installation in Southeast Idaho
Do not wait for the next power outage to think about backup power. Advanced Home Services installs and services home generators for homeowners throughout Rigby, Idaho Falls, Blackfoot, Ammon, Rexburg, Shelley, Pocatello, and surrounding Southeast Idaho communities.
Call us at (208) 539-3003 to schedule a consultation and load assessment. We will recommend the right system for your home, handle all permitting and installation, and make sure your generator is tested and ready before you need it. You can also view our electrical services, learn about our service area, and explore our current specials for available offers on generator installation.
About Advanced Home Services
Advanced Home Services is Southeast Idaho’s trusted electrical, plumbing, and HVAC contractor, serving homeowners in Rigby, Idaho Falls, Ammon, Rexburg, Blackfoot, Shelley, Iona, Menan, Lewisville, Roberts, Ririe, Firth, Sugar City, St. Anthony, and the surrounding communities. Our licensed electricians specialize in generator installation and service, helping Southeast Idaho families stay safe and comfortable when the power goes out.