System Upgrades
System Upgrades | Generators | Electrical | Hillsboro
When the lights go out in Hillsboro, HEP’s system-upgrades team makes sure your critical circuits stay bright. Our licensed electricians design and install modern standby generators that synchronize seamlessly with your existing panel, deliver whisper-quiet performance, and keep everything from servers to sump pumps running without a hiccup. We handle the entire process—load calculations, permits, fuel hookups, and remote monitoring—so you can focus on living or working comfortably while the power grid catches up.
Backed by 24/7 emergency support, preventive maintenance plans, and a track record of flawless inspections, HEP is Hillsboro’s first call for reliable, future-ready generators solutions. Let us upgrade your electrical system today and turn every outage into just another normal day.
FAQs
Why should I consider upgrading my home’s electrical service when adding a standby generator?
A modern standby generator can place significant demand on your electrical system. Upgrading the service panel and wiring ensures the generator can start and run without overloading circuits, prevents nuisance breaker trips, and aligns your home with current electrical codes. In Hillsboro, most older homes have 100-amp service, while a new generator typically requires at least 200 amps for safe operation.
Do I need a permit in Hillsboro to install or upgrade a generator system?
Yes. The City of Hillsboro Building Department requires electrical permits for both new generator installations and any associated service upgrades. A licensed electrical contractor will submit the permit application, schedule inspections, and verify that the new equipment meets Oregon Electrical Specialty Code (OESC) and local ordinances—including setback, noise, and emissions rules.
What size generator is right for my home or business?
Sizing depends on the loads you want covered during an outage—critical circuits (fridge, furnace, internet) or whole-house/whole-building power. We perform a load calculation that factors in starting currents of motors (HVAC, well pumps), total running watts, and desired future expansion. In Hillsboro, common residential standby sizes range from 14 kW to 26 kW, while small businesses often choose between 30 kW and 60 kW units.
How long does a typical generator upgrade project take from start to finish?
For most residential jobs, expect 2–4 weeks from contract signing to final inspection. This includes: 1–3 days for utility coordination and permit approvals; 1 day for concrete pad or mounting prep; 1–2 days for electrical panel/service upgrade; 1 day for generator set placement and fuel hookup; and a final inspection plus start-up testing. Commercial projects may extend to 4–8 weeks depending on capacity and site complexity.
What ongoing maintenance will my upgraded generator require?
Standby generators need annual or semi-annual service: oil and filter changes, battery testing, inspection of transfer switch contacts, and software/firmware updates. Hillsboro’s wet winters can accelerate corrosion, so we recommend cleaning the enclosure and checking weather seals each fall. Many owners opt for a maintenance contract so a licensed technician automatically handles these tasks and documents service for warranty compliance.
Will the new generator be noisy, and are there local noise limits?
Modern residential generators feature quiet running enclosures (as low as 60–70 dB at 23 feet), roughly comparable to an HVAC condenser. Hillsboro’s municipal code limits continuous noise in residential zones to 55 dB at the property line at night. We meet this requirement by selecting low-noise models, positioning the unit away from bedrooms or neighboring homes, and offering optional sound-attenuation kits. Commercial sites must also comply with Washington County noise regulations, which our team verifies during design.