Backup Power
Backup Power | Generators | Electrical | La Follette
When the lights go out in La Follette, you need a partner who can bring them back on without missing a beat. HEP’s skilled electricians design, install, and maintain reliable generators that keep homes cozy and businesses productive through every thunderstorm, surprise outage, or grid hiccup. From smart load-management panels to routine fuel-system checks, we handle every detail so you can focus on what matters most.
Backed by decades of local experience, our team offers free on-site assessments, clear up-front pricing, and 24/7 emergency support. Whether you want a whole-home unit or a compact solution for critical circuits, we’ll match you with the right equipment, secure permits, and leave your property cleaner than we found it—powered, protected, and ready for whatever Tennessee weather delivers.
FAQs
Why is having a standby generator important for homes and businesses in La Follette?
La Follette experiences severe thunderstorms, winter ice, and occasional utility grid failures that can leave customers without power for hours or days. A standby generator automatically restores electricity within seconds, preventing food spoilage, medical-equipment downtime, frozen pipes, lost business revenue, and security-system failures. It provides peace of mind and keeps critical systems running until utility service is restored.
How do I determine the right generator size for my property?
Proper sizing is based on the total running wattage and starting (surge) wattage of the appliances and systems you want to power—HVAC, well pump, lights, refrigerators, computers, etc. Start by listing each load, add their wattages, and account for a 20–25 % safety margin. Because oversizing wastes money and undersizing can damage equipment, we recommend scheduling a free load-analysis visit from our licensed La Follette electricians. We’ll calculate your requirements, discuss fuel options (natural gas, propane, diesel), and propose a generator model that meets local codes.
What maintenance does a backup generator require and how often?
Standby generators should be professionally serviced at least once a year or after every 100–150 running hours, whichever comes first. Routine maintenance includes changing oil and filters, inspecting spark plugs, checking coolant levels, exercising the unit, testing the battery and charger, verifying fuel-line integrity, and running a full operational test under load. We offer affordable maintenance plans in La Follette that keep your warranty valid and ensure the generator starts when you need it.
What is the difference between a portable generator and a whole-house (standby) generator?
Portable generators are smaller, manually started, and typically power only a few selected circuits through extension cords or a transfer switch. They run on gasoline and require refueling every few hours. Whole-house generators are permanently installed outside, connected to your home’s fuel supply (natural gas or propane), and start automatically during an outage. They can handle your entire electrical panel or a pre-selected load center, operate for days without refueling, and add more resale value to your property.
Will my generator come on automatically when the power goes out?
Yes—when paired with an automatic transfer switch (ATS). The ATS constantly monitors utility voltage. If it detects a loss of power, it signals the generator to start, transfers your home or business load to generator power, and then switches back to the utility grid once stable power returns. The whole process typically occurs in less than 10–15 seconds with no manual intervention required.
Do I need permits or inspections to install a generator in La Follette?
Most stationary generator installations require an electrical permit and, in some cases, a plumbing/gas permit for fuel connections. Campbell County and the City of La Follette follow the 2020 National Electrical Code and local zoning rules regarding set-backs and noise levels. Our team handles the entire permitting process, schedules the final inspection with the county inspector, and provides you with a compliance certificate once the generator passes. This ensures your installation is safe, legal, and fully insured.