Electrical Generators
Electrical Generators | Generators | Electrical | Decatur
When storms roll across Decatur or a surprise outage threatens your busy day, HEP keeps the lights on with reliable, high-efficiency generators backed by local expertise. Our certified electricians size each unit to your home or business, handle seamless installations, and offer preventative maintenance so you never have to worry about spoiled food, lost data, or safety risks when the grid goes dark.
Because we’re based right here in Decatur, you get rapid 24/7 emergency support, transparent upfront pricing, and the friendly service your neighbors already trust. From choosing the ideal fuel source to syncing your panel with automatic transfer technology, HEP makes owning generators simple, affordable, and — most importantly — dependable.
FAQs
Why should homeowners and businesses in Decatur consider installing a standby generator?
Decatur and the Tennessee Valley region experience severe thunderstorms, tornado threats, and occasional ice events that can knock out power for hours or even days. A professionally installed standby generator automatically restores electricity within seconds, keeping critical systems—such as HVAC, refrigerators, medical equipment, security devices, and computer networks—running without interruption. This protects property, prevents costly downtime, and provides peace of mind during every outage.
What size generator do I need for my Decatur property?
Proper sizing depends on the square footage of your home or facility, the number and type of appliances you want to power, and your starting (surge) versus running wattage requirements. Residential homes typically need 14–24 kW units to cover essentials, while small businesses may require 30–60 kW or higher. Our technicians perform a load calculation on-site, factoring in local HVAC demands for the hot, humid summers, to recommend the most efficient and cost-effective generator.
Do I need a permit to install a generator in Decatur, and who handles the inspections?
Yes. The City of Decatur requires electrical and sometimes gas permits for standby generator installations. The local utility company may also need to verify the transfer switch connection. As a licensed electrical contractor, we obtain all necessary permits, coordinate inspections with the City’s Building Department, and provide documentation for your records, ensuring your system meets the National Electrical Code (NEC) and local amendments.
Which fuel type—natural gas, propane, or diesel—is best for generators in Decatur?
Natural gas is the most popular choice because Decatur has a reliable municipal gas supply, eliminating the need for on-site fuel storage. Propane is an excellent alternative for properties without gas service; tanks can be buried or placed above ground and offer long shelf life. Diesel is typically used for larger commercial or industrial applications due to its energy density, but it requires diligent fuel maintenance to prevent algae growth. We evaluate availability, runtime requirements, and environmental factors to help you choose the ideal fuel source.
How often should my generator be serviced in North Alabama’s climate?
Manufacturers recommend preventive maintenance every 6–12 months or after 200 hours of runtime, whichever comes first. In Decatur’s humid climate, routine checks are vital: oil and filter changes, battery inspection, coolant level verification, and a full system test under load. Remote monitoring can alert you to issues between visits. Enrolling in our annual maintenance plan keeps your warranty valid and ensures the generator performs flawlessly when storms roll in.
What is the typical installation timeline and cost range for a standby generator in Decatur?
A standard residential installation usually takes 1–2 days once permits and utility approvals are in place, while larger commercial projects can take a week or more. Total cost varies by capacity, fuel type, and site conditions but generally ranges from $7,500 to $15,000 for a fully installed 18 kW natural-gas system. Commercial systems start around $20,000. We provide a detailed, no-obligation quote that includes equipment, labor, electrical upgrades, permits, concrete pad, and first-year maintenance.