What is a whole-home standby generator?
It is a permanent generator installed outside your house that runs on natural gas or propane. It connects through an automatic transfer switch and starts on its own when the power fails, then shuts off when power returns.
How much does a standby generator cost?
HomeGuide puts a standard whole-house generator at about $6,000 to $11,000 installed, and larger units or long runs at about $9,500 to $24,000. Westchester jobs often land toward the higher end. Get a written quote after a site visit.
Does Briarcliff Generators do the work?
No. We pass your request to an independent local contractor who does the work.
Is sending a request free?
Yes. There is no cost to you and no obligation to hire.
What size generator do I need?
It depends on what you want to run during an outage. A contractor should do a load calculation based on your panel and appliances. Ask for it in writing.
Natural gas or propane?
Natural gas is usually simplest if you have a gas main and enough meter capacity. Propane is common where there is no gas main. Your contractor recommends a fuel after checking your supply.
Do I need a permit?
In most Westchester villages and towns, yes, because the work involves electrical and often gas connections. Your contractor should pull the permit and arrange the inspection.
What is a transfer switch?
It is the device that safely moves your house from utility power to generator power and back. It also keeps generator power from flowing onto utility lines, which protects line workers.
Can I hook my portable generator to my house?
Yes, safely, if an electrician installs an inlet box with a panel interlock or a manual transfer switch. Never plug a generator into a wall or dryer outlet, which is dangerous backfeeding.
Where should a portable generator be placed?
Outdoors, well away from windows, doors and vents, never in a garage or basement. Portable generators produce carbon monoxide, so keep CO alarms working inside.
How often does a standby generator need maintenance?
Most manufacturers call for service at least once a year, plus oil changes based on run hours. Angi puts yearly maintenance at roughly $150 to $300.
Are you a Generac dealer?
No. We are not affiliated with Generac or any other brand. The contractor you are connected with can tell you which brands they are authorized to install.
What should I do if I smell gas?
Leave the house right away and call 911 or your gas utility from outside. Do not use light switches or anything that could spark. Have the generator and gas line checked before using them again.
How do I check a contractor's license in Westchester?
Westchester County requires home improvement contractors to be licensed by the Westchester County Department of Consumer Protection. You can check a license with the department before you hire anyone.