Uninterrupted Energy
Uninterrupted Energy | Generators | Electrical | Old Fort
When the lights go out in Old Fort, HEP keeps life moving with dependable generators that start in seconds and run as long as you need them. From compact residential units that power essential appliances to industrial-grade systems capable of driving entire facilities, our expert team sizes, installs, and maintains every solution for seamless, uninterrupted energy. We partner with trusted manufacturers, handle all permits and wiring, and test each unit under load so you know it will perform when the grid doesn’t.
Backed by 24/7 monitoring and rapid-response technicians stationed right here in McDowell County, HEP is more than an equipment provider—we’re your neighbors dedicated to protecting comfort, productivity, and peace of mind. Experience worry-free living and working in any season; schedule a free on-site assessment today and discover why Old Fort counts on us for reliable generators that simply never quit.
FAQs
What size generator do I need for my home or business in Old Fort?
The correct generator size depends on the total wattage you want to keep running during an outage. Start by listing the appliances, HVAC equipment, and critical circuits you can’t be without, then add up their starting (surge) and running watts. Most single-family homes in Old Fort choose units between 14 kW and 24 kW, which handle essentials plus central air. Small businesses with more equipment may require 30 kW–60 kW or a 3-phase model. Our technicians can perform a free on-site load calculation, evaluate Duke Energy service capacity, and recommend a generator that balances power needs, fuel costs, and future expansion.
Are permits required to install a standby generator in Old Fort, NC?
Yes. McDowell County and the Town of Old Fort require electrical and sometimes structural/mechanical permits for any permanently installed generator. The permit process verifies that the unit is set on an adequate pad, wired with UL-approved transfer equipment, bonded to the existing service, and located at least 5 ft from openings as required by the NC Mechanical Code. Our installation team handles the drawings, fee payment, and inspections, so you stay fully compliant and avoid fines or re-work.
How long can a standby generator run continuously during a power outage?
Air-cooled residential generators are generally rated for up to 200 hours of continuous operation per outage event, while liquid-cooled commercial units can safely run well over 500 hours, provided they receive scheduled oil checks. Runtime is ultimately limited by fuel supply. A 250-gallon propane tank will keep a 20 kW unit running about 4–5 days at 50 % load, whereas a natural-gas generator can run indefinitely as long as the municipal gas line remains pressurized. We size fuel storage for at least 72 hours of autonomy to cover Old Fort’s most common storm-related outages.
What routine maintenance does my generator need to ensure uninterrupted energy?
Standby generators are engines that require the same attention as a vehicle. Manufacturer guidelines call for an oil and filter change after the first 25 hours and every 100–150 hours thereafter, plus yearly spark-plug, air-filter, and valve-clearance checks. Batteries should be load-tested annually, and the transfer switch inspected for loose lugs or pitted contacts. Our Old Fort maintenance program includes a bi-annual service visit, automatic remote monitoring, and 24/7 emergency dispatch, keeping your warranty intact and dramatically reducing unexpected downtime.
How loud are residential standby generators, and will they meet Old Fort’s noise regulations?
Modern air-cooled units from brands like Generac and Kohler produce 60–70 dB at 23 ft—about the level of an electric heat pump. Old Fort does not have a specific decibel cap for residential zones, but McDowell County references the state nuisance standard of 70 dB from 7 a.m.–9 p.m. and 60 dB overnight. Because generators run primarily during utility outages—often in bad weather—complaints are rare. For extra quiet operation, we offer hospital-grade mufflers, sound-attenuating enclosures, and strategic placement behind landscape features.
Which fuel type is best for a backup generator in Old Fort, and what are the pros and cons?
1. Natural gas: Ideal inside the Old Fort municipal service area. Unlimited runtime, no refueling, clean combustion, and lower maintenance. Outages are rare but possible during severe line damage. 2. Propane (LP): Widely available for rural customers without gas service. Tanks from 120–1,000 gallons give 2–10 days of operation. Fuel is stable for years but costs more per BTU. 3. Diesel: Preferred for large commercial or agricultural loads. Higher energy density and faster transient response, but fuel must be treated to prevent algae and tanks need secondary containment. We evaluate your site’s utility access, runtime goals, and budget to recommend the right fuel and tank sizing so you always have power when Old Fort’s grid goes down.