What to Expect During a Standby Generator Installation

Investing in a standby generator is one of the best ways to protect your home and family from unexpected power outages. But once you’ve chosen the right system, many homeowners ask: “What actually happens during the installation process?”

To help you feel prepared, here’s a step-by-step walk-through of what to expect when installing a Generac standby generator.

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📋 Step 1: In-Home Consultation & Site Assessment

The process begins with a professional consultation. A licensed installer or dealer will:

• Review your home’s electrical needs

• Determine which appliances and circuits you want powered during an outage

• Recommend the right generator size (kW rating)

• Inspect your property for the best installation site (flat, well-drained area near your electrical panel and fuel line)

This assessment ensures your generator is tailored to your home and lifestyle.

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🏗️ Step 2: Permits and Approvals

Before work begins, your installer will handle the necessary permits and code requirements. Most municipalities require approval for electrical and gas work. A professional installer will ensure everything is compliant with:

• Local building codes

• Utility company regulations

• Safety standards (UL, NFPA, NEC)

This protects you legally and ensures your generator is properly certified.

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🔌 Step 3: Preparing the Installation Site

A concrete or composite generator pad is placed where the unit will sit. This provides a stable, level base to support the generator and protect it from ground moisture. Installers will also prepare wiring and trenching for electrical connections if needed.

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⚡ Step 4: Electrical & Gas Connections

This is the most important stage. Certified electricians and plumbers will:

• Wire the generator into your home’s electrical panel through an automatic transfer switch (ATS).

• Connect the fuel line — either natural gas or liquid propane — for continuous power.

• Ensure all connections are safe, secure, and compliant with code.

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🖥️ Step 5: Testing and Startup

Once installed, the team will:

• Fill fluids and prime the generator

• Test automatic startup and shutoff functions

• Simulate a power outage to confirm seamless operation

• Configure Wi-Fi monitoring (Mobile Link™) so you can track performance from your phone

This guarantees that your system is 100% ready for real-world use.

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🧾 Step 6: Final Walkthrough & Homeowner Training

Before leaving, the installer will walk you through:

• Basic operation and safety features

• Maintenance schedule (oil changes, annual inspections)

• How to monitor your system via app or control panel

You’ll leave with the confidence that your generator is fully functional and that you know how to use it.