Your Power Stays On When
the Grid Goes Down
When severe weather knocks out power across the Upstate, a standby generator kicks in automatically — within seconds. RO installs whole-house generators from Generac, Kohler, and Briggs & Stratton, complete with automatic transfer switches, concrete pads, and full electrical integration. No extension cords, no manual startup, no worry.
Generator Installation
Guide
What It Is
A standby generator is a permanently installed, fuel-powered unit (natural gas or propane) that sits outside your home and connects directly to your electrical panel through an automatic transfer switch (ATS). When utility power drops, the ATS detects the outage, signals the generator to start, and transfers your home's electrical load to generator power — typically within 10–30 seconds. When utility power returns, the process reverses automatically.
Sizing Your Generator
Generators are sized by kilowatts (kW). A 7–10 kW unit covers essential circuits: refrigerator, sump pump, some lights, and a few outlets. A 14–20 kW unit powers most of your home, including central AC. A 22–26 kW+ unit handles the entire home, including electric range and multiple HVAC zones. We perform a full load calculation to recommend the right size — oversizing wastes fuel and money, undersizing leaves you exposed.
Cost & Timeline
A Generac Guardian 16–22 kW unit installed with ATS, concrete pad, gas line, and electrical hookup runs $10,000–$14,000. Kohler units are typically $500–$2,000 more for comparable specs, with quieter operation and a premium build. Installation takes 1–2 days once the unit and pad are ready. Gas line work (if needed) adds a day. Full permitting and inspection are included.
Why It Matters Here
The Upstate sees severe thunderstorms, ice storms, and hurricane remnants that regularly cause multi-day outages. A standby generator isn't a luxury — it protects your sump pump from flooding, keeps your fridge and freezer running, maintains HVAC for vulnerable family members, and lets you work from home when the grid is down. For homes with medical equipment, it's essential.
Generator Installation Gallery
Warning
Signs
You've experienced multiple power outages lasting more than 4 hours
If outages are recurring in your area, the question isn't whether you need a generator — it's how much another outage will cost you in spoiled food, hotel stays, and lost productivity.
You have a sump pump protecting a finished basement
A power outage during heavy rain means your sump pump stops. Basement flooding damage typically costs $5,000–$25,000. A generator protects that investment continuously.
Someone in your home depends on medical equipment
CPAP machines, oxygen concentrators, powered wheelchairs, and medication refrigeration all require uninterrupted power. A standby generator provides it automatically.
You work from home and can't afford downtime
Lost work hours during outages add up quickly. A generator keeps your internet, computer, and lights running without interruption.
Your existing portable generator is a hassle
Dragging a portable generator outside, running extension cords, and manually managing which devices get power is inconvenient and limited. A standby unit handles everything automatically.
Your food costs are high and you can't afford to lose a freezer full
A full freezer can represent $500–$1,000 in food. A 24-hour outage without generator backup means it all goes to waste.
Maintenance
Tips
Our
Process
Load Calculation & Sizing
We calculate your home's electrical load and determine the right generator size based on what you need powered during an outage. You get a clear recommendation — not an upsell.
Site Planning & Permits
We select the optimal location (setback requirements, noise considerations, fuel access), pour a concrete pad, and pull electrical and gas permits.
Gas Line & Pad Work
A gas line is run from your meter or propane tank to the generator location. The concrete pad is poured and cured. For propane setups, we coordinate tank placement and filling.
Electrical Integration
The generator is placed, the automatic transfer switch is installed at your panel, and all wiring connections are made. We program the ATS and set the weekly exercise schedule.
Testing & Walkthrough
We simulate a power outage to verify automatic startup, load transfer, and automatic return when power is restored. You get a full walkthrough of operation, maintenance schedules, and warranty documentation.
Cost & Lifespan
Prices are estimates for Upstate SC — get a real quote for your project.
FAQ
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Get Your
Quote
Call us directly or request a quote online. No pressure, no upselling — just honest answers about your generator installation needs.
(864) 304-0139