Generator Solutions
Generator Solutions | Generators | Electrical | Rockford
When the lights go out in Rockford, HEP keeps homes and businesses running with reliable generators tailored to every need. Our certified electricians handle everything—from assessing your power requirements to seamless installation—so you enjoy quiet, efficient backup energy without lifting a finger. Whether you want a compact unit for essential circuits or a full-scale standby system that powers the whole property, we pair top-tier equipment with meticulous craftsmanship to guarantee comfort and security during any outage.
Beyond installation, HEP delivers ongoing maintenance, remote monitoring, and 24/7 emergency service, ensuring your investment performs flawlessly year after year. Partner with a local team that understands Rockford’s weather challenges, offers transparent pricing and flexible financing, and backs every project with a satisfaction guarantee. Choose HEP and stay confidently connected no matter what the forecast brings.
FAQs
What types of generators do you offer for homes and businesses in Rockford?
We carry a full line of portable, standby, and industrial-grade generators from leading brands such as Generac, Kohler, and Cummins. Residential customers typically choose air-cooled standby units from 7 kW – 24 kW, while small businesses favor liquid-cooled models up to 150 kW. For industrial or mission-critical facilities, we design and install three-phase diesel or natural-gas systems ranging from 200 kW to multiple megawatts, complete with paralleling switchgear.
How do I determine the right size generator for my property?
Proper sizing starts with a load calculation. Our technicians list every circuit or piece of equipment you want powered during an outage, measure or estimate starting (inrush) and running amperage, and factor in voltage and power-factor requirements. For most homes, covering essentials (heat, sump pump, refrigerator, lights, Wi-Fi) requires 10 – 14 kW, while whole-house protection may need 18 – 24 kW. Commercial sites often need 30 %–40 % of their peak demand. We provide a no-cost on-site assessment in Rockford and deliver a written sizing report before you commit.
Does generator installation require permits or inspections in Rockford?
Yes. The City of Rockford and Winnebago County require electrical and, in many cases, mechanical permits for standby generator installations. Natural-gas units also need approval from your gas utility for line sizing and shut-off placement. We handle all paperwork, schedule inspections, and ensure the installation meets NEC, NFPA 110, and local zoning setback rules. Typical permit approval takes 3–5 business days, and the final inspection is usually completed within a week of the system’s startup.
How often should my standby generator be serviced, and what does maintenance include?
Manufacturers recommend preventive maintenance every 6 months or after 100–150 operating hours, whichever comes first. Our maintenance program includes: changing oil and filters, inspecting spark plugs, testing battery voltage and charger, verifying transfer-switch operation, updating controller firmware, and running a 20-30 minute full-load test. We also winterize coolant systems and perform fuel-quality checks for diesel units. Regular service keeps your warranty valid and significantly extends engine life.
Will my generator start automatically during a power outage?
If you choose an automatic standby generator with an ATS (Automatic Transfer Switch), the system constantly monitors utility voltage. When an outage longer than 3–5 seconds is detected, the generator starts, reaches operating speed, and the ATS transfers your load—all within about 10–15 seconds. Once utility power is stable for a preset time (usually 60 seconds), the ATS switches back, cool-down completes, and the generator shuts off. Portable generators require manual start-up and load connection.
What is the average cost to purchase and install a standby generator in Rockford, and do you offer financing?
Pricing depends on capacity, fuel type, and installation complexity. A turnkey 14 kW natural-gas standby generator for a typical Rockford home runs $7,500–$10,000, including permits, electrical work, gas piping, and startup. Whole-house 22 kW systems average $11,000–$14,000. Commercial units range from $18,000 for a 30 kW to $150,000+ for 200 kW three-phase packages. We partner with several lenders to offer 0% introductory or low-APR financing for 12 – 132 months, subject to credit approval, and we accept utility and manufacturer rebates when available.