Power Solutions
Power Solutions | Generators | Electrical | Philadelphia
When a sudden outage tries to bring Philly to a stand-still, HEP’s Power Solutions Electrical is ready with dependable generators that keep lights on, fridges cold, and businesses humming. Our licensed, neighborhood-trusted technicians design and install customized backup systems tailored to rowhomes near Rittenhouse, bustling kitchens in Fishtown, and data-critical offices downtown—so every circuit springs to life the instant the grid falters.
From free on-site assessments to 24/7 emergency repairs, we blend hometown responsiveness with national-brand expertise, using only top-tier equipment and smart monitoring tech. Count on HEP to deliver clear pricing, clean workmanship, and ongoing maintenance that extends the life of your investment, ensuring Philadelphia stays powered, productive, and comfortable no matter what the forecast holds.
FAQs
Why should I consider a standby generator for my Philadelphia property?
Philadelphia’s aging electrical grid, severe thunderstorms, winter nor’easters, and occasional hurricane remnants all contribute to unexpected outages. A permanently installed standby generator automatically restores power within seconds, keeping critical systems such as sump pumps, refrigerators, medical devices, and security equipment running. This not only protects your property from damage caused by frozen pipes or flooded basements but also provides peace of mind during grid failures that may last hours or even days.
What size generator do I need for my home or business in Philadelphia?
Generator capacity is measured in kilowatts (kW) and depends on the total running and starting wattage of the appliances you want powered. A typical Philadelphia-area home that wants to back up essential circuits (refrigerator, lights, furnace, Wi-Fi, and a sump pump) usually needs 7–11 kW. Whole-house coverage can require 16–24 kW. Small businesses such as restaurants or medical offices may need 30–60 kW to protect refrigeration, HVAC, and POS systems. We offer free on-site assessments where our licensed electricians calculate your exact load, consider future expansion, and recommend the most cost-effective unit.
Do I need a permit to install a generator in Philadelphia, and how long does the process take?
Yes. The City of Philadelphia Department of Licenses and Inspections (L&I) requires both an electrical permit and, for most permanent units, a plumbing/gas permit. We handle the entire process: load calculations, site plan, permit submission, and coordination with PECO for any gas meter upgrades or utility disconnects. Residential installations typically take 1–2 days once permits are approved; commercial projects may take longer depending on size and site complexity. The total timeline from contract signing to final inspection is usually 3–6 weeks, factoring in permit review and equipment lead times.
How often does my generator need maintenance, and do you offer service plans?
Standby generators should be serviced at least once a year or after every 200 hours of run time—whichever comes first. Philadelphia’s humid summers and salty winter road treatments can accelerate corrosion, so we inspect for rust, rodent intrusion, and battery health. Our service plans include: • Annual oil and filter change • Spark-plug replacement • Coolant and fuel system check • Firmware updates and load testing • 24/7 remote monitoring. Plans start at $25 per month and ensure you stay compliant with manufacturer warranty requirements while maximizing reliability.
Can my generator integrate with solar panels or battery storage?
Absolutely. Many Philadelphia homeowners pair rooftop solar with batteries for green energy savings but rely on a generator for extended outages when the batteries deplete. We supply hybrid transfer switches that allow seamless coordination among solar inverters, battery systems (Tesla Powerwall, Enphase, LG Chem), and the generator. During a blackout, the controller prioritizes stored solar energy first, then starts the generator only when needed, reducing fuel use and emissions. Our technicians will review your existing equipment, confirm UL-listed compatibility, and program the system to comply with NEC 2023 standards and PECO interconnection rules.
Which fuel type—natural gas, propane, or diesel—is best for generators in Philadelphia?
Natural gas is the most popular choice within city limits because homes and businesses already have PECO gas lines, eliminating on-site fuel storage and supporting runtimes measured in days. Propane (LPG) is common in suburbs without gas service; tanks are buried or placed above ground and sized for 3–7 days of continuous operation. Diesel offers high energy density for large commercial or critical infrastructure applications, but Philadelphia imposes stricter emissions requirements, so units must include Tier 4-compliant exhaust treatment. We evaluate your site, runtime needs, local zoning, and fuel costs to recommend the optimal solution.