Backup Power Sources
Backup Power Sources | Generators | Electrical | Old Fort
Whether you’re running a riverside café in downtown Old Fort or safeguarding sensitive equipment in a secluded mountain cabin, losing power isn’t an option. HEP’s backup power sources keep the lights on, the refrigerators humming, and the security systems alert with a fleet of high-efficiency generators that leap into action the instant an outage strikes. Each unit is rigorously tested for Carolina weather extremes, and our local technicians handle everything from load assessments to turnkey installation, so you can focus on what matters rather than scrambling for candles.
Beyond reliability, we’ve engineered smart features—quiet operation, remote monitoring, and fuel-saving technology—that make our generators a seamless part of everyday life rather than just an emergency solution. Add 24/7 maintenance coverage and the peace of mind of a hometown team on call, and it’s easy to see why businesses and homeowners across Old Fort trust HEP to keep their world powered, come rain, wind, or sudden grid failure.
FAQs
Why is a backup generator important for homes and businesses in Old Fort?
Old Fort experiences severe thunderstorms, heavy snowfall along the Blue Ridge, and occasional hurricane-related outages. A properly sized backup generator automatically restores power within seconds, keeping HVAC systems, medical devices, refrigeration, and critical electronics running. This protects your property from frozen pipes, prevents food spoilage, and allows your business to stay open and connected even when the utility grid is down.
What size generator do I need for my property?
Generator capacity is measured in kilowatts (kW). A small home that needs to run only essentials (refrigerator, lights, well pump, furnace fan) may work with an 8–12 kW unit. A medium-size residence with central AC, multiple appliances, and electronics usually requires 14–22 kW. Large homes or commercial sites with motors, three-phase equipment, or high surge loads often need 25 kW or more. We perform a free load calculation that totals the starting and running wattage of each circuit you want backed up, then add a safety margin to recommend the right generator so you never overload the system.
What is the difference between portable, standby, and whole-house generators?
• Portable generators are small, gasoline-powered units you wheel outside and connect with extension cords or a manual transfer inlet. They’re inexpensive but require manual setup, refueling every few hours, and produce limited power. • Standby generators are permanently installed outside, connected to natural gas or propane, and start automatically when utility power fails. They power pre-selected circuits via an automatic transfer switch. • Whole-house generators are larger standby units paired with a service-rated transfer switch that can run your entire electrical panel, including high-demand loads like HVAC and well pumps. They offer seamless, hands-free protection but cost more upfront.
Do I need permits or inspections to install a standby generator in Old Fort, North Carolina?
Yes. McDowell County requires an electrical permit for the generator connection and a mechanical permit when interfacing with natural gas or propane piping. The town of Old Fort follows the NC State Electrical Code, which mandates proper clearances, grounding, and automatic transfer switch installation. Our licensed electricians handle the permit process, coordinate any trenching or gas work, and schedule the final inspection so your system is code-compliant and approved by the local inspector.
How often should my generator be serviced?
Most manufacturers recommend preventive maintenance every 6–12 months or after 100–150 runtime hours, whichever comes first. A standard service visit includes oil and filter change, spark-plug inspection, valve clearance check, battery test, air filter replacement, and a full system exercise under load. Because the mountain climate can be hard on equipment, we also clean the enclosure, inspect fuel lines for leaks, and update firmware on digital controllers. Enrolling in our annual maintenance plan keeps your warranty valid and ensures the generator is ready for the next outage.
What is the typical cost of installing a whole-house generator in Old Fort?
Pricing depends on capacity, fuel type, and site conditions. As a rough guide: a 14 kW air-cooled natural-gas generator with automatic transfer switch and basic wiring runs $6,500–$8,500 installed. A 22 kW unit capable of handling most homes ranges from $9,000 to $11,500. Larger liquid-cooled commercial generators (30–60 kW) start around $15,000. Costs include equipment, concrete pad, permits, wiring, fuel piping, and startup testing. Financing and 5- to 10-year extended warranties are available to spread the investment over manageable monthly payments.