Backup Power
Backup Power | Generators | Electrical | Heiskell
When the grid goes dark in Heiskell, HEP keeps the lights—and everything else—on. Our rugged, high-efficiency generators stand ready to deliver seamless backup power for homes, farms, and critical business operations. From load assessment and professional installation to routine maintenance and real-time monitoring, we handle every detail so you can keep living and working without interruption.
As a locally rooted team, we know the specific electrical demands of East Tennessee weather and terrain. That’s why we offer flexible financing, 24/7 emergency response, and a satisfaction guarantee that backs every watt we install. Trust HEP to provide the dependable energy security your family or business deserves—power when you need it, peace of mind all the time.
FAQs
Why should I consider installing a standby generator for my home or business in Heiskell?
Heiskell is served by a mix of urban and rural power infrastructure, and storms, ice, or equipment failures can leave parts of Knox and Anderson counties without electricity for hours or even days. A permanently installed standby generator automatically senses an outage and restores power to critical circuits (or your entire building) within seconds, protecting refrigerated food, medical devices, computer data, security systems, and HVAC equipment. In businesses, generators keep point-of-sale, lighting, and production lines running so revenue isn’t lost during grid interruptions.
What size generator do I need, and how is it determined?
Generator sizing is based on the total running wattage and starting (surge) wattage of the appliances and systems you want to back up. During a free site visit our technicians measure the load of items such as air-conditioning compressors, well pumps, refrigerators, routers, and lighting. We then apply National Electrical Code (NEC) demand factors and add a 20–25 % safety margin. Most Heiskell homes use 14–22 kW units for whole-house coverage, while critical-load panels often need only 7–11 kW. Commercial properties might require 25 kW to 200 kW or more, depending on square footage and equipment.
What fuel options are available for standby generators in Heiskell, and which is best for me?
The three most common fuels are natural gas, propane (LP), and diesel. • Natural gas: If your property has municipal gas service, this is the most convenient—no onsite fuel storage and long runtimes. • Propane: Ideal for areas without natural-gas mains (common in rural Heiskell). Tanks from 250–1,000 gal can be buried or placed above ground, giving 3–7 days of continuous operation before refill. • Diesel: Preferred for larger commercial sets, offering high energy density and easy onsite storage. However, diesel requires regular fuel-quality checks and may need larger exhaust clearances. Our sales team helps you weigh availability, runtime expectations, environmental rules, and upfront costs before choosing a fuel.
How does the installation process work, and do I need permits or inspections in Heiskell?
After sizing and proposal approval, we handle everything turnkey. 1) Site prep: We pour a concrete pad or set a composite base. 2) Electrical: A licensed electrician installs an automatic transfer switch (ATS) near your main panel and pulls a dedicated feeder to the generator. 3) Fuel: Our plumber or a certified gas contractor runs and pressure-tests the gas or LP line (or we coordinate diesel tank placement). 4) Start-up: We program the controller, perform full-load testing, and train you on weekly exercise modes. Knox County or Anderson County Codes enforce electrical and gas permits, which we obtain on your behalf. A final inspection is scheduled to ensure compliance with NEC, NFPA 110, and local setback rules.
What maintenance does a standby generator require, and can you service it locally?
Like any engine, a generator needs periodic attention to remain reliable. Manufacturers specify an oil and filter change every 100–150 operating hours or annually, whichever comes first, plus air filter, spark plug (for gas/LP units), and coolant checks. We offer maintenance plans that include a semi-annual visit with load-bank testing, firmware updates, battery inspection, valve clearance checks, and remote monitoring. Because our headquarters is only 15 minutes from central Heiskell, we dispatch certified technicians 24/7 for warranty or emergency repairs, and we stock common parts for Generac, Cummins, Kohler, and Briggs & Stratton models.
How quickly will the generator restore power during an outage, and do I need to do anything manually?
Your automatic standby generator continuously senses utility voltage. When it detects a loss of power for more than 3–5 seconds, the engine cranks, reaches rated speed, and the ATS transfers your load—usually within 10–15 seconds total. When utility power is stable for a preset interval (commonly 60 seconds), the ATS switches you back and the generator enters a cool-down cycle. No manual start-up, refueling, or extension cords are required; the entire process is hands-free, letting you stay comfortable and productive even if you are away from the property.