Installation And Maintenance
Installation And Maintenance | Generators | Electrical | Benton
When Benton storms knock the lights out, HEP keeps your world humming with reliable generators that power everything from cozy homes to bustling businesses. Our local technicians bring decades of electrical know-how, arriving on time with fully stocked trucks and a passion for precision. From sizing and installing a brand-new unit to upgrading an aging system, we tailor every solution to your property’s unique demands—so you never miss a beat when the grid goes down.
The service doesn’t stop once the switch is flipped. HEP’s proactive maintenance plans include routine inspections, load-bank testing, oil changes, and smart monitoring that alerts our team before small issues become costly surprises. Enjoy transparent pricing, 24/7 emergency support, and the peace of mind that comes from partnering with Benton’s most trusted electrical specialists. When you’re ready for uninterrupted comfort, call HEP and stay confidently connected.
FAQs
Do I need a permit to install a standby generator at my home or business in Benton?
Yes. The City of Benton and Saline County require an electrical permit for any permanent generator installation that is tied into your building’s electrical system. As a licensed electrical contractor, we obtain the permit and schedule all required inspections with the city or county inspector so you remain fully code-compliant.
What size generator do I need to power my property during an outage?
Generator size depends on the total running wattage and starting (surge) wattage of the appliances you want to back up. For most Benton homes, an 18–24 kW air-cooled unit will run essential circuits (HVAC, refrigerator, lights, sump pump, and a few outlets). Commercial sites or large residences often need 30–150 kW liquid-cooled models. We perform a complimentary on-site load calculation to recommend the correct capacity so you only pay for what you truly need.
How long does a residential generator installation typically take?
After the permit is issued and the generator has arrived, most residential jobs are completed in one day. A commercial installation can take two to five days depending on fuel source (natural gas, propane, or diesel), trenching requirements, and transfer-switch complexity. Utility coordination and inspection scheduling are factored into our timeline so your power is fully operational before we leave.
What maintenance is required to keep my generator warranty valid?
Manufacturers such as Generac, Kohler, and Cummins require annual or semi-annual service by a certified technician. Key tasks include oil and filter change, spark-plug replacement, battery load test, valve adjustment (for liquid-cooled units), firmware updates, and a full system load test. We offer maintenance agreements that log all service dates and parts used—documentation that protects your warranty and helps your generator pass any future insurance inspections.
Will a generator automatically start when the power goes out?
If your system includes an automatic transfer switch (ATS), it will detect grid loss within seconds, start the generator, and transfer your electrical load automatically—all without manual intervention. When utility power returns, the ATS safely switches back, cools the generator down, and places it in standby mode. Manual transfer switches are an option, but most Benton homeowners choose an ATS for convenience and safety.
Can I connect a portable generator to my home without a transfer switch?
No. Back-feeding a home through a dryer plug or other improvised connection is illegal, dangerous to utility workers, and can destroy electronics. Benton utilities and the National Electrical Code (NEC 702) mandate a listed transfer device. We can install a dedicated generator inlet box and interlock kit or a manual transfer switch so you can safely plug in a portable unit and meet code requirements.