Frequently Asked Questions About Standby Generators
When the power goes out, you want answers fast. A generator FAQ for Westchester NY residents should cover everything from how standby generators work to what size you actually need and how much installation costs. All County Generators has served the Mt. Kisco area and surrounding communities for 25 years with Generac and Kohler systems. Whether you're considering your first standby generator or upgrading an existing system, these answers address the questions we hear most often from homeowners and business owners.
General Questions
What is a standby generator?
A standby generator is an automatic backup power system that kicks in when your home loses electricity. Unlike portable generators you manually operate, standby units sit permanently outside your home and switch on automatically within seconds of detecting a power outage. They connect directly to your electrical panel and can power your entire home or specific circuits you choose. Most residential systems run on natural gas or propane, providing weeks of backup power without manual intervention.
How does a standby generator actually work?
Your standby generator continuously monitors your home's electrical supply through an automatic transfer switch (ATS). The moment power drops, the ATS detects the outage and signals the generator to start within seconds. The engine powers an alternator that produces electricity, which flows into your electrical panel and distributes to your home. When utility power returns, the generator automatically powers down and returns to standby mode. The whole process happens without you doing anything.
What's the difference between standby and portable generators?
Standby generators are permanently installed outside your home, automatically activate during outages, and can run for weeks on natural gas or propane. Portable generators require manual setup, produce less power, run on gasoline or propane that you must store and replace, and typically last only 8–12 hours. Standby systems offer convenience, broader coverage, and reliable protection; portable units suit temporary job sites or occasional backup. For reliable home protection in Westchester County, standby generators provide far better long-term value.
How long do standby generators last?
A properly maintained standby generator typically lasts 20–40 years, depending on the brand and how often you use it. Kohler and Generac units, both brands we install and service, are engineered for decades of reliable operation. Annual maintenance extends lifespan by keeping the engine, fuel system, and alternator in peak condition. Most generators see actual runtime only during outages, so they're not constantly working—this is one reason they last so long.
Do standby generators add home value?
A standby generator can increase your home's appeal to buyers, particularly in areas prone to outages. While appraisers may not add the full installation cost to your home's assessed value, prospective buyers often view backup power as a significant feature. Homes with standby generators typically sell faster and sometimes at higher prices in competitive markets. Beyond resale, the protection and comfort during outages offer immediate value every day.
Will a generator run during an extended power outage?
Yes. Natural gas and propane-powered standby generators can run indefinitely if fuel is available. Natural gas systems draw from your home's utility supply, so they function as long as the gas utility is operational—which typically continues even during electrical outages. Propane systems depend on the propane tank you maintain, which can store fuel for months or years. During extended outages, many customers choose propane for the control and certainty of having fuel on hand.
Sizing & Selection
What size generator do I need for my home?
Generator sizing depends on which appliances you want to power. A small system might cover essential circuits—furnace, refrigerator, and lights—using 10–15 kW. Larger systems covering most major appliances and HVAC run 15–25 kW or more. We perform a free estimate at your home to assess your electrical panel, your priorities, and your budget. Our technicians will review your most critical loads and recommend a system that fits your actual needs.
Which generator brand is best?
We're an authorized Titanium Kohler dealer and Generac dealer, and we also install Briggs & Stratton, GE, Westinghouse, Guardian, Honda, Eaton, Honeywell, and Winco units. All of these brands offer solid reliability; the "best" choice depends on your budget, local fuel availability, and long-term service support. Generac leads the market in residential units and offers excellent warranty support. Kohler units are known for durability and quieter operation. We'll help you weigh the pros and cons based on your specific situation.
Generac vs. Kohler—which should I choose?
Both are premium brands with distinct strengths. Generac systems are typically more affordable, offer faster switching times, and have a larger dealer network across the country. Kohler generators run quieter, feature more advanced cooling, and excel in extreme climates. For most Westchester County homeowners, either brand delivers decades of dependable backup power. Talk with our team about which features matter most to you, and we'll guide you toward the right fit.
Natural gas vs. propane—which fuel should I use?
Natural gas is convenient because it ties into your existing utility supply—you never buy, store, or monitor fuel. However, your system only works if the gas company's infrastructure isn't damaged during a disaster. Propane requires a tank you maintain and refill, giving you complete control over fuel availability and the ability to run your generator indefinitely during prolonged outages. Many customers in Westchester choose propane for the security of fuel independence.
Can I add solar panels with a standby generator?
Yes. Solar panels and standby generators complement each other. During sunny days, solar reduces your grid dependency and saves on electricity costs. During outages or cloudy periods, your generator provides backup power. A hybrid system requires special wiring and controls, but our team can design and install solar integration alongside your standby unit. This combination offers maximum energy resilience for forward-thinking homeowners.
Installation
How long does standby generator installation take?
A typical residential installation takes one to three days, depending on the system size, your home's electrical setup, and site conditions. Simpler projects may finish in one day; complex installations with extensive trenching or major electrical work may take longer. We'll provide a realistic timeline during your free estimate and keep you informed throughout the process. Our goal is to minimize disruption to your home while ensuring a safe, code-compliant installation.
Do I need a permit for a standby generator in Westchester County?
Yes. All standby generator installations in Westchester County require permits from your local building department. Permits ensure the system meets electrical codes, safety standards, and local requirements. We handle all permit paperwork and coordinate inspections as part of our installation service. Skipping permits creates liability risks and can affect home sales and insurance coverage, so we always follow proper procedures.
What's the installation process from start to finish?
After your free estimate, we order the equipment and schedule installation. Our team positions the unit outside your home—typically near the electrical panel—and runs fuel and electrical lines. We connect the generator to your electrical panel with an automatic transfer switch, test all systems, and verify code compliance. A building inspector then signs off on the work. Finally, we train you on operation, maintenance, and emergency procedures.
Where should the generator be placed on my property?
Standby generators should sit on level ground, away from windows and doors, with proper clearance for ventilation and fuel connections. We typically place units along the side or back of the home. The location must allow exhaust to disperse safely and provide easy access for maintenance. During your estimate, we'll evaluate your property and recommend the best placement that meets code, serves your home efficiently, and minimizes visual impact.
Do I need to be home during installation?
No, but it's helpful. You don't need to stay present the entire time—our team works independently. However, being home when we arrive and when we finish allows you to ask questions, discuss any changes, and review the final system. If you can't be there, we can work with your schedule, though we'll need someone to unlock the home and provide access to the electrical panel.
Cost
What factors affect the cost of a standby generator system?
System size is the primary cost driver—larger units that power more circuits cost more. Brand selection matters; Kohler units typically cost more than comparable Generac systems. Site conditions affect installation costs; homes far from the electrical panel or requiring trenching for fuel lines will be more expensive. Permit fees, inspections, and local labor rates also influence the final price. We provide detailed, transparent estimates with no hidden charges.
Is financing available for generator installation?
Yes. We work with several financing partners to make standby systems affordable. Options include standard installment plans and extended financing to fit various budgets. Ask us about available programs during your consultation. We believe backup power shouldn't be financially out of reach, and we're committed to finding flexible payment options that work for you.
What's the return on investment for a standby generator?
ROI is best measured in peace of mind and avoided losses. When the power fails, a generator protects your food, prevents sump pump backups, maintains HVAC comfort, and keeps your home secure. It also protects your home during outages that might otherwise cause spoilage, mold, or frozen pipes. While generators rarely "pay for themselves" through energy savings alone, the protection and convenience they provide far exceeds the cost for most families.
Do standby generators affect your home insurance?
Many insurers offer discounts on homeowners policies for installed standby generators. The backup power reduces water damage risk from sump pump failure and protects your home from temperature extremes during outages. Contact your agent after installation; you may qualify for a premium reduction that helps offset the system's cost over time. Always inform your insurer about home upgrades for proper coverage.
Maintenance
How often does a standby generator need maintenance?
Annual maintenance is the industry standard and what we recommend. An annual service includes engine oil and filter changes, spark plug inspection, fuel system cleaning, and a full system test. Systems that run frequently during extended outages may benefit from more frequent service. Our maintenance schedules keep your generator operating reliably and extend its lifespan significantly.
What does annual generator maintenance include?
Our annual service includes an oil and filter change, fuel system inspection and cleaning, coolant level check, battery inspection, spark plug examination, and a full load test to confirm the unit starts and generates power correctly. We also check connections, seals, and the automatic transfer switch. A maintenance visit typically takes 1–2 hours. Regular maintenance catches small issues before they become expensive problems.
Should I get a service contract or pay per visit?
Both options are available. Service contracts provide predictability—a set annual fee for one visit, often with a small discount per additional visits. Pay-per-visit arrangements work if you prefer flexibility and don't mind scheduling individually. For most homeowners, an annual contract ensures the generator gets attention every year and builds a service history. We'll recommend what makes sense based on your generator's age and condition.
How do I know if something's wrong with my generator?
Your generator may show warning signs like failure to start during testing, unusual engine sounds, smoke, leaks, rust around the unit, or difficulty starting in cold weather. The automatic transfer switch may fail to activate during a test outage. If you notice anything unusual during routine operation or self-testing, contact us promptly. Don't wait for an actual outage to discover a problem—that's what annual maintenance and testing prevent.
Emergency Service & Service Area
What happens if my generator fails during an outage?
Call us immediately at (914) 241-8600. We offer 24/7 emergency repair service across Westchester County. Our team responds quickly to get your system back online and restore power to your home. While rare with properly maintained units, generator failures do happen—and we're here when you need us. This is why annual maintenance is so valuable; it prevents most emergency situations before they occur.
How fast can you respond to an emergency generator repair?
We provide same-day response for emergency calls. Our 24/7 service team prioritizes generator failures because your home depends on it. Response time varies based on our current schedule and your location within our service area, but we work hard to reach you as quickly as possible. For non-emergency repairs during business hours, we typically schedule within 1–3 days.
Which cities and towns do you serve?
We serve all of Westchester County, including Mt. Kisco, Bedford Hills, Katonah, Bedford, Armonk, Pleasantville, Chappaqua, and Millwood. Our service area covers the entire region, and we're available 7 days a week from 7 AM to 9 PM, plus 24/7 emergency service. If you're unsure whether we service your area, call us at (914) 241-8600—we likely do.
Do you service generators installed by other contractors?
Yes. We service and maintain standby generators regardless of who installed them. Our technicians are trained on all major brands—Generac, Kohler, Briggs & Stratton, GE, Westinghouse, Guardian, Honda, Eaton, Honeywell, and Winco. If your existing generator needs repair or maintenance, contact us for an evaluation. We keep equipment running reliably no matter who originally sold or installed it.
Can you help with a generator that won't start or pass a load test?
Generators that won't start or fail load tests need prompt diagnosis. Common causes include fuel system issues, dead batteries, transfer switch problems, or mechanical wear. We'll troubleshoot the problem, discuss repair options, and get you back to full backup power. Emergency service is available 24/7 if you discover the problem during an outage.
We're Here When You Need Us
All County Generators has been family-owned and operated since 2012, backed by 25 years of generator expertise and 40 years of electrical service. We're a licensed and insured Titanium Kohler dealer and authorized Generac dealer, committed to providing free estimates, professional installation, and responsive emergency service. Available 7 days a week, 7 AM to 9 PM—plus 24/7 emergency repair—we're here to keep the power on in Mt. Kisco, Bedford Hills, Katonah, Armonk, Pleasantville, Chappaqua, Millwood, and throughout Westchester County.
Call us at (914) 241-8600 for a free estimate or to discuss your backup power needs.