10 Questions to Ask Your Generator Installer

A good residential generator system generates electrical power to fulfill essential requirements. Due to hurricanes, transformer explosions, or even human mistakes, power outages are common in Florida. Statistics show that, on average, Floridians lose power for 1.4 hours every year. 

Because of the frequent power outbreaks in Sanford, residents should know where they can get services of Generator Maintenance near Sanford, FL, in case they have any queries. Doing so will prevent hundreds of Sanford residents from going without lights, like the recent incident during the first week of September 2023 at a construction site, which left many people without power. 

A lot goes into wiring a whole-house generator, so it's not something you should do without first doing your research. So, what are some of the questions you might ask your generator installer? Let us find out. 

1. What Is Your Licensing and Insurance Status?

This is among the first questions you should ask your generator installer. To ensure the safety of your property, it's crucial to hire a generator installer with a current, valid license to do business in your state. 

Licensing serves as a mechanism to verify a company's compliance with: 

• Specific requirements

• Financial stability

• Adherence to industry norms

• Provision of a contingency fund to address potential liabilities

If the Generac generator installer lacks a valid professional license or has allowed their license to expire, it is prudent to consider this a significant indicator of concern. Furthermore, you can verify the contractor's licensing status through internet platforms.

2. How Long Has Your Company Been in Operation?

This is also a vital question to ask, as it will tell you the reputation of the generator installer company. Most contracting firms don't make it past their first few years. As a result, there is no incentive for customer assistance, making it challenging if problems arise after installation. 

It is crucial to deal with a company that has been around for a while and has a solid reputation for excellent craftsmanship and caring service.

3. Can You Show Me Some of Your Customer Reviews?

Customer reviews and references are essential, as they give you first-hand information about the experiences of other users. From the reviews, you can decide if you will deal with that specific generator installer. 

Most installation companies with nothing to hide will publish reviews on their website for the public to see. A generac generator installation company will readily provide their references upon your request.

4. Will You Handle the Necessary Permits?

Before laying new gas lines and installing the generator in Florida, one must acquire permits and the cooperation of local authorities. You should know before committing yourself to the installer if they will be the ones to handle the permit applications. 

The implementation of this precautionary measure is unavoidable. In most cases, acquiring the needed permit(s) falls within the responsibility of a duly registered electrical contractor. Most reputable generator installers have qualified electrical contractors who perform the task. 

5. How Much Will the Entire Installation Process Cost?

Many factors influence installation fees for backup generators for homes and businesses. A good installer should be capable of furnishing an extensive labor estimate for:

• Installation tasks

• Plumbing

• Electrical

• Materials such as piping and cement

Additionally, the scope of work must cover more intricate undertakings, such as installing a subpanel. It is highly recommended that you engage the services of a company that comprehensively understands the cumulative nature of these expenses. They should also recognize that knowing the costs in advance can facilitate adherence to financial plans. 

6. Can I Get Yearly Service on My Generator From You?

Annual inspections of generators are necessary to ensure they are in good operating condition. However, it is not assured that the same company will perform the installation and generator maintenance.

Before anything, determine how much a typical service call will cost and what maintenance plan might work best for your freshly installed generator. Ensure you have budgeted for the installation and maintenance in advance.

7. Will Your Company Be in Charge of Electrical Work, Plumbing, and Gas?

All gas-powered generators require the services of an electrician and a plumber. Ask if the installation company will provide these services or if you must source them elsewhere. 

Enquire about this before agreeing with them so you may plan. This also helps establish if you will incur an additional cost or get a discount package from the installer. 

8. Does the Generator Come With a Warrant, and How Long Will It Last?

An additional question that should be posed before installing a generator is, ‘Does the generator come with a warranty?’

The majority of generators are typically equipped with a basic warranty. The duration of these warranties might vary between one and five years. At no point should you accept an offer to buy a generator with no warranty. Instead, you should explore alternative options. Multiple companies offer the option to purchase an extended warranty at an increased price. Consider acquiring an extended warranty if you plan to invest substantially in a cutting-edge generator. 

9. How Long Does It Take for You to Respond to an Issue?

The response time is crucial. Thus, you should choose an installer who will respond to you quickly and efficiently. 

For example, there is an issue with the generator after installation, and you don't have any power. You will want the services of an installer who will come and immediately resolve the issue. 

Choose an installation company that is dedicated to your safety and comfort. A company with professionals who are available 24 hours a day. After all, the whole purpose of getting a generator is to ensure you have power in case of a blackout.

10. Which Type of Fuel Will I Be Using on My Generator?

Thinking about the fuel you will be using and its availability before making any installations is essential. So, which are the most widely known types of fuel?

Propane

The majority of backup generators use propane as their fuel source. Keeping a large quantity of fuel on hand is always a good idea, and having a propane supply on-site makes it easy. 

Propane has a higher heating efficiency and produces no greenhouse gases when burned compared to other fuels. 

Diesel

Diesel is less combustible than other fuels. Hence, it's commonly considered to be the safest choice. This fuel has the advantage of being safer, but it also has many drawbacks, such as:

• You have to maintain a gasoline stock.

• Be prepared to refill it frequently due to its short shelf life. 

• You'll also have to deal with the ups and downs that diesel fuel prices tend to go through.

Residents of Florida, especially those who reside in the Villages, Kissimmee, Orlando, Winter Park, and Clermont, should have well-maintained generators from professionals who will ensure that they will still have lights even after the power outages.

Before installation, ensure you ask the questions highlighted above. If you are satisfied with the answer, proceed and get their services. But if you are not satisfied, look for other installers.

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