When the power goes out, your comfort, safety, and even your plumbing can be at risk. Whether it’s a summer storm, winter ice, or an overloaded grid, losing electricity shouldn’t mean losing control of your home. That’s where a standby generator comes in—offering reliable, automatic backup power to keep your essential systems up and running.

At Shane Elmore, we understand how important it is for your home to stay comfortable and functional, no matter the weather. And while we’re best known for expert plumbing solutions, we’re also here to help you make informed choices when it comes to protecting your home—including backup power options that can safeguard everything from your water heater to your sump pump.

Let’s walk through how to choose the right generator for your home—so you can feel prepared, protected, and at peace, no matter what comes your way.

Why Backup Power Matters

Power outages don’t just mean the lights go out. No electricity can also mean:

Your well pump or sump pump stops working
Water heaters and boilers can’t run
Pipes risk freezing in winter months
Security systems and appliances shut down
Food in the fridge starts to spoil

Installing a generator gives you peace of mind that your home will stay functional and your plumbing systems protected—even if the rest of the neighborhood goes dark.

Choosing the Right Size Generator

Think about what you want to keep running—and for how long.

The first step is to determine what you want your generator to power. Are you only concerned with the essentials, or would you prefer full-home coverage?

Essential Power Backup

This setup focuses on a few critical appliances like the refrigerator, sump pump, lights, Wi-Fi, and maybe a space heater or window AC unit. It’s budget-friendly, and great for short outages.

Whole-Home Backup

This option allows your entire home to run as usual, including your HVAC system, washer/dryer, water heater, stove, and more. It’s perfect for families who want seamless comfort during extended outages.

Sizing tips:

Add up the wattage for each system you want to power
Account for “surge watts”—the extra power some devices need when starting up
Plan for any future upgrades that may increase energy demand

When in doubt, get a professional load assessment. It’s the most accurate way to match your needs to the right generator size.

Choosing a Fuel Type

Generators typically run on natural gas, propane, or diesel. Each has pros and cons depending on your location, usage habits, and fuel availability.

Natural Gas

Connected directly to your gas line, this option offers unlimited runtime without the need for refueling.

Pros:

Low maintenance
Clean burning
No need for on-site storage

Cons:

Requires access to a gas utility line

Propane

Stored in a tank on your property, propane is a popular choice for rural homes or places without gas hookups.

Pros:

Long shelf life
Burns clean
Reliable during long outages

Cons:

Needs a refill plan and space for a storage tank

Diesel

Ideal for large homes or commercial buildings, diesel generators are durable and powerful.

Pros:

High energy output
Efficient and dependable
Great for long-term outages

Cons:

Needs fuel storage and more frequent maintenance

Need help deciding? At Shane Elmore Plumbing, we take the time to understand your home setup and recommend options that match your needs—without the upsell.

Installation & What to Expect

Installing a generator is more involved than setting up a portable unit. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Home Evaluation

A trained technician will review your home’s systems and electrical panel, calculate your energy usage, and recommend the right size and placement.

2. Permits & Prep

Local codes and utility guidelines must be followed. A professional installer will handle all permits and inspections so everything is safe and compliant.

3. Generator Installation

The generator is installed outside your home, similar to an AC unit. It’s connected to your fuel line (if applicable) and wired into your home’s electrical system via a transfer switch.

4. Final Testing

Your installer will test the system, explain how it works, and schedule any needed maintenance to keep it running strong for years.

At Shane Elmore Plumbing, we believe in full-service support—from the first conversation to long after installation. That’s part of what makes us your trusted neighborhood plumber—and more.

Standby vs. Portable Generators

While portable generators may seem like a simple fix, they come with limitations.

Portable Generators:

Require manual setup and fueling
Can’t power central systems (like your furnace or well pump)
Create noise and carbon monoxide risks
Not ideal for long-term outages

Standby Generators:

Automatically start when the power goes out
Support large systems like HVAC and plumbing
Run quietly and safely
Provide long-term peace of mind

If you want protection without the hassle, a standby generator is the way to go.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How much does a generator cost?
A: Prices vary based on size, fuel type, and installation needs. A basic system might cost $5,000–$7,000 installed, while a whole-home system could range from $10,000–$15,000 or more. We’ll walk you through options that fit your budget.

Q: Will it power my whole home?
A: Yes—if you choose a properly sized whole-house unit. If not, we can prioritize the systems that matter most to you.

Q: How long do they run?
A:

Natural gas: As long as the utility service is uninterrupted
Propane/Diesel: Anywhere from 12 to 72 hours depending on the fuel tank size and load

Q: Do generators require maintenance?
A: Yes. Like any mechanical system, they need routine maintenance to stay reliable. Annual service checks will keep everything running smoothly and ensure you’re ready for the next outage.

Why Homeowners Trust Shane Elmore Plumbing

Choosing the right generator is about more than watts and wires—it’s about feeling safe and supported in your own home. That’s why families across the region count on Shane Elmore Plumbing not just for expert plumbing, but for advice, service, and care that goes beyond expectations.

Here’s why our neighbors choose us:

Rooted in Community: We’re local, we’re trusted, and we care about every home we serve.
Skilled & Dependable: Our team is trained, licensed, and ready for anything.
Customer-Driven Service: You’ll never feel like just another job. We communicate clearly and treat your home like our own.
Full-Service Plumbing Experts: From water heaters to sump pumps and everything in between—we keep your home running smoothly.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

When the next storm hits, will your home be ready? Choosing the right backup generator ensures you won’t have to worry. And when you work with a team that cares—like Shane Elmore Plumbing—you can trust that every recommendation is made with your safety and comfort in mind.

Call us today or schedule online to talk with a member of our team. We’ll help you explore your options, answer your questions, and make sure your home stays powered—whatever the weather.

Shane Elmore Plumbing – Your trusted neighborhood plumber.