Reliable Energy
Reliable Energy | Generators | Electrical | Pelham
When Pelham homes and businesses lose power, HEP keeps the lights on with dependable generators designed for every need—from compact portable units to whole-property backup systems. Our licensed electricians size, install, and maintain each unit with meticulous care, ensuring seamless switchover the instant the grid goes down. No more spoiled groceries, stalled projects, or uncomfortable nights; just steady, reliable energy at the flip of a switch.
Backed by decades of local experience, we pair top-tier equipment with 24/7 emergency service, so peace of mind is always within reach. Let HEP safeguard your property, productivity, and comfort—trust the community’s first choice for generators and discover why Pelham relies on us when every second counts.
FAQs
What size generator do I need for my Pelham home or business?
Generator sizing depends on the total running wattage of the appliances and systems you want to power. For most Pelham residences, an 8–14 kW standby unit will cover essentials such as lights, refrigeration, HVAC blowers, and some outlets. Larger homes with central air or businesses with critical equipment often require 20–40 kW. We start every project with a free load-calculation visit, where our technicians measure starting and running loads, factor in voltage drop for longer wire runs, and recommend a unit that delivers at least 20 % headroom for future expansion.
What is the difference between a portable generator and a standby generator?
Portable generators are gasoline- or propane-powered units you wheel out, start manually, and plug appliances into with extension cords. They cost less but require refueling every 6–12 hours, produce higher decibel levels, and cannot safely power hard-wired items like central air or well pumps without a transfer switch. Standby generators are permanently installed outdoors, connected to your natural-gas line or a large propane tank, and turn on automatically within seconds of an outage. They handle an entire electrical panel through an automatic transfer switch, run weekly self-tests, and can supply power for days without manual intervention—ideal for Pelham’s storm-related outages.
How often should my generator be serviced?
Manufacturers recommend professional service every 12 months or 100–150 run hours, whichever comes first. In Pelham’s climate, where temperature swings can stress equipment, we also advise a mid-year check before hurricane season. A standard maintenance visit includes oil and filter changes, spark-plug inspection, valve clearance check, battery load test, firmware updates, and a simulated outage test to confirm automatic transfer. Enrolling in our Reliable Energy Electrical maintenance plan extends warranty coverage and provides priority 24/7 repair service.
Do I need a permit or inspection to install a standby generator in Pelham?
Yes. The City of Pelham requires an electrical permit and, when natural gas is involved, a separate plumbing-gas permit. Our team handles the application, site plan submission, and scheduling of inspections with Pelham’s Building Safety Department. Final approval ensures the generator meets National Electrical Code (NEC), local zoning setbacks (typically 3 ft from property lines), and noise-ordinance limits. Skipping permits can void homeowners-insurance claims and manufacturer warranties.
How does an automatic transfer switch (ATS) work?
The ATS monitors utility voltage 24/7. When it senses a drop below ~85 % of nominal voltage for more than a few seconds, it signals the generator to start. Once the generator reaches rated speed and voltage, the ATS isolates your electrical service from the utility (preventing dangerous back-feed) and routes power from the generator to the load center. When utility power stabilizes, the ATS seamlessly switches back, runs the generator in a cool-down mode for a few minutes, then shuts it off. Modern ATS models include load-shedding modules to prioritize circuits if the generator approaches capacity.
Can installing a generator increase my property value or lower insurance premiums?
According to regional real-estate appraisals, homes in Pelham with professionally installed standby generators see an average resale value increase of 3–5 %, especially attractive to buyers concerned about Alabama’s severe-weather outages. Some insurers, including Alfa and Farmers, offer 5–10 % discounts on homeowner policies when you provide proof of code-compliant generator installation and annual maintenance records. Check with your carrier; we can supply compliance certificates and photos after the final inspection to help you secure any available discounts.