GENERATOR INSTALLATION
Whole Home Generator Installation
Never lose power again with a standby generator system
Automatic Backup Power for Your Home
Power outages are more than just inconvenient—they can be dangerous and costly. Lost food, burst pipes from frozen heating systems, sump pump failures leading to flooding, medical device interruptions, and home security system failures can all occur during extended outages.
A whole-home standby generator provides automatic backup power within seconds of an outage, keeping your home running normally until utility power returns. Buri Electric installs Generac, Kohler, and other top-brand generator systems throughout Northern Virginia.
⚡ Why Northern Virginia Homes Need Backup Power
- Severe summer storms and winter ice storms cause frequent outages
- Aging grid infrastructure leads to unexpected failures
- Work-from-home requires reliable power for internet/computers
- Medical equipment (CPAP, oxygen, refrigerated medications) needs continuous power
- Sump pumps prevent basement flooding during storms
- Heating/cooling systems prevent pipe freezing and heat-related issues
- Security systems and cameras need power to protect your home
- Food preservation in refrigerators and freezers
🔧 How Standby Generators Work
1. Automatic Monitoring
Generator constantly monitors utility power via automatic transfer switch (ATS).
2. Power Outage Detected
Within seconds of outage detection, transfer switch signals generator to start.
3. Generator Starts Automatically
Generator engine starts and reaches proper voltage (takes 10-30 seconds).
4. Power Transfers
Transfer switch safely disconnects utility and connects generator power to your home.
5. Continuous Operation
Generator runs as long as needed—days or even weeks with natural gas or propane fuel.
6. Automatic Return
When utility power returns, transfer switch reconnects utility and shuts down generator.
Choosing the Right Generator Size
9-12 kW (Partial Home)
Best for: Essential circuits only—refrigerator, some lights, sump pump, furnace, garage door.
Investment: $5,000-$7,500 installed
13-16 kW (Medium Home)
Best for: Most appliances and rooms—excludes central AC or multiple large appliances running simultaneously.
Investment: $7,500-$10,500 installed
20-24 kW (Whole Home)
Best for: Complete home coverage including central AC (up to 5-ton), all appliances, entire house running normally.
Investment: $10,500-$15,000 installed
26-60 kW (Large Home)
Best for: Large homes (4,000+ sq ft), multiple AC units, luxury features, or homes with high electrical demands.
Investment: $15,000-$25,000+ installed
✅ Complete Installation Includes
- Generator unit (Generac, Kohler, or other top brand)
- Concrete pad with proper leveling and drainage
- Automatic transfer switch (indoor or outdoor)
- Electrical connections from generator to transfer switch
- Gas line or propane connection (by licensed plumber if needed)
- Permits and inspections (electrical and gas)
- Battery and oil (first fill)
- System testing and load verification
- Owner training on operation and maintenance
- Manufacturer warranty registration
Natural Gas vs. Propane
🔥 Natural Gas
Pros:
- Unlimited fuel supply (connected to gas line)
- No refueling needed
- Lower fuel cost
- Cleaner burning
Cons:
- Requires natural gas service to home
- Gas line installation cost
⛽ Propane (LP)
Pros:
- Available anywhere (no gas line needed)
- Higher energy density than natural gas
- Long shelf life
Cons:
- Requires propane tank (250-500 gallon)
- Tank refills needed
- Higher fuel cost
- Tank rental/purchase cost
📅 Installation Timeline
- Consultation & quote: 1-2 hours (site visit)
- Permit applications: 1-2 weeks
- Generator delivery: 2-6 weeks (depending on model)
- Installation day: 1-2 days (electrical, gas, concrete pad)
- Inspection & approval: 1 week
- Total timeline: 4-8 weeks from order to operation
Common Questions
How loud are standby generators?
Modern generators are relatively quiet—about 60-70 decibels (similar to normal conversation or dishwasher). We position generators away from bedrooms and neighbor property lines when possible. Many models have quiet-run modes.
What maintenance do generators require?
Generators need annual maintenance: oil change, filter replacement, spark plug check, battery test, and general inspection. We offer maintenance plans, or you can hire any authorized service provider. Generator self-tests weekly automatically.
Do generators increase home value?
Yes. Real estate agents report that whole-home generators are strong selling points, especially in areas with frequent outages. Many buyers specifically search for homes with generators, and it can recover 50-75% of installation cost at resale.
Never Lose Power Again
Get a free generator consultation and quote today
