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Generator Options
Generator Options | Generators | Electrical | Andersonville
In Andersonville, a sudden summer storm or winter freeze can knock the lights out in seconds. HEP’s certified electricians make sure your family never feels that flicker by pairing rugged standby power units with expert installation, maintenance, and remote monitoring. From compact residential models that quietly power the essentials to whole-home solutions that keep every circuit humming, we tailor a system that fits your lifestyle and budget.
We’re local, so when the forecast turns, our team is already nearby with 24/7 support, transparent pricing, and a workmanship guarantee that’s as solid as the Tennessee hills. Request a free in-home assessment today and discover why your Andersonville neighbors trust HEP to handle everything electrical — including the reliable generators that keep life moving when the grid stops.
FAQs
What types of generators do you offer for homes and businesses in Andersonville?
We supply and install a full range of generators to match virtually any power-backup requirement. Residential clients typically choose air-cooled standby units ranging from 7 kW to 26 kW, while small-to-medium businesses often select liquid-cooled models from 30 kW up to 150 kW. For larger commercial or industrial sites, we can design multi-megawatt paralleling systems or mobile diesel trailer units. We partner with leading brands such as Generac, Kohler, Briggs & Stratton, and Cummins to ensure reliable performance and ready access to parts in the Chicago/Andersonville area.
How do I determine the right size generator for my property?
Correct sizing starts with a load assessment. One of our licensed electricians will review your electrical panel, list the critical appliances and HVAC equipment you want powered, and measure starting and running amperage. We then apply National Electrical Code (NEC) demand and diversity factors to calculate the total kilowatt requirement plus a 20 % reserve for transient surges. For homes, this may be as simple as a 12 kW unit to cover lights, refrigeration, sump pumps, Wi-Fi, and a furnace. For businesses, we can perform a data-logged load study over 24–72 hours to capture peak draws before recommending a generator size. The result is a unit that operates at 60–80 % load for optimal fuel efficiency and longevity.
Does Andersonville require permits or inspections for generator installation?
Yes. Andersonville falls under the jurisdiction of the City of Chicago Department of Buildings, which requires an electrical permit for all permanently installed standby generators. The permit ensures compliance with the Chicago Electrical Code, zoning setbacks, and noise ordinances. In most cases, a separate plumbing permit is needed for the natural-gas connection. After installation, the city schedules an inspection to verify proper wiring, automatic-transfer-switch operation, and exhaust clearances. Our team handles the complete permitting process, submits sealed drawings, and is present on-site during the final inspection so you don’t have to worry about the paperwork.
What is involved in a professional generator installation and how long does it take?
A typical residential installation takes one to two days, while commercial projects may require a week or more. The process includes: 1. Site preparation – pouring a concrete or composite pad and setting the generator. 2. Electrical work – running conduit, upsizing service if necessary, and installing the automatic transfer switch (ATS). 3. Fuel connection – tying into an existing natural-gas line or setting an above-ground propane/diesel tank with shut-off valves. 4. System commissioning – programming the controller, load-bank testing, and training you on weekly exercise cycles. We coordinate with ComEd for any utility disconnects and conduct a full walk-through to ensure code compliance, proper ventilation, and minimal noise impact on neighboring Andersonville properties.
How often should my standby generator be serviced and what does maintenance include?
Manufacturers recommend servicing every 6–12 months or after 200 run hours, whichever comes first. Our preventive-maintenance package includes an oil and filter change, valve clearance check, spark-plug replacement, air-filter inspection, battery test, firmware updates, and a simulated load test to verify performance under real wattage. For commercial diesel units, we also sample fuel for contamination, polish the tank if needed, and exercise the generator under a building-load shed protocol. A well-maintained generator in Andersonville’s climate can deliver 20–25 years of reliable service.
What is the average cost of a standby generator system and are financing options available?
Installed residential systems in Andersonville generally range from $7,500 to $14,000, depending on capacity, fuel type, and distance from the gas meter or main panel. Commercial installations start around $18,000 and can exceed $100,000 for large three-phase or paralleling setups. All quotes we provide are turnkey and include the generator, ATS, permits, pad, gas piping, and first year of maintenance. We partner with GreenSky and Synchrony to offer 0 % interest plans for 12 to 18 months or extended terms up to 120 months with low monthly payments. We also assist with applying for any ComEd incentive or federal tax credit that may be available for critical-load or renewable-ready generator systems.