Generator FAQ for Homeowners

What Is an Automatic Standby Generator?

An automatic standby generator is an extra electrical power system for your home in the case of a power outage or emergency. They can operate whether you are at home or not, keeping your house up and running at all times. Within moments of a power outage, the generator automatically switches on and supplies power to your home and shuts off once utility power returns to your house.

What Are Some Benefits of a Standby Generator?

Comfort and safety during a blackout or power outage
Keeps food and medicine cold when the power goes out
Power to your home is never interrupted

What Can a Generator Power?

When your home generator turns on during a power outage, it assumes responsibility for all power needs in your home. This means it has the ability to power everything from your TV to your refrigerator and air conditioner.

What Do Generators Run On?

You can purchase a generator that either runs on natural gas or a generator that runs on liquid propane gas, whichever one is better suited for your needs. Unlike portable generators, stationary models have no need for gasoline, which also eliminates the possibility of carbon monoxide poisoning in your home.

Can I Install it Myself?

We recommend that as a homeowner, you should seek professional help to install your generator. Leave it to the pros not only for safety reasons but also to adhere to local codes and guidelines, which your service provider would be very familiar with.

What About Maintenance?

All home generators, both stationary and portable, require periodic maintenance to maintain proper functionality. You should have your generator serviced every 6 months by an authorized service dealer. The most common problems that generator maintenance addresses are fuel problems associated with algae buildup, clogged fuel injectors, and dead batteries.

What are Portable Generators?

Portable generators are smaller than standby generators and are not able to turn on automatically or power your whole house. They are useful for powering one or two appliances, as well as tools and other small devices. They run on gasoline and must be turned on and run outside to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. These options are also very affordable upfront and give that you extra peace of mind in the event of an outage or emergency.

What Hutton Can Do for You

The experts at Hutton and Light provide comprehensive generator services in the Chesapeake and Virginia Beach area. We can take care of all your installation and maintenance needs with a 100% customer satisfaction guarantee, as well as our standardized flat-rate pricing for your convenience.

If you are considering installing a generator in your Chesapeake home but have more questions, feel free to call Hutton or contact us online!