Generator Back-Up Power
REC works 24/7 and 365 days a year to avoid potential power outages and to ensure that members have reliable access to power. On rare occasions, however, power outages can be unpredictable and unavoidable. Backup generators are the first line of defense in keeping your home or business online in the event of a power outage.
Whole home generators typically incorporate a large up-front cost but can protect your home or business from future uncertainties and setbacks. Loss of refrigeration is not the only danger of power outages. Homes and businesses alike face large financial burdens caused by frozen pipes, mold removal and flooded basements. In the event of a power outage, REC technicians and field crews work quickly to restore power to the members who are affected. Having a permanent and reliable source of backup power offers additional peace of mind. Generators can also increase the value of your property and can last up to 20 years if properly maintained.
Installation
REC is proud to offer whole home solutions through our Electrician Services dealer partnership with Generac. REC will assist in the design, proposing a custom scope of work, while providing professional installation, maintenance, and repairs to your system. The installation process typically follows four steps:
- Site Selection & Proposal: Members will work with REC directly to locate the best site to install the generator and equipment. The ideal site should be well-drained and should not experience flooding. The generator must also be located within safe code compliant distances from other equipment and combustibles. It is important to note that the closer the site is to the electric meter and the fuel source, the less installation will cost. REC will propose a customized cope of work based on full site evaluation.
- Generator Installation: The installer will first set a bed of gravel or cement slab that is 18 inches from the house and 60 inches from doors, windows, and fresh air intakes. The generator will be installed on a pre-form composite pad or concrete pad.
- Connecting Fuel and Electrical: The installer connects a fuel line from your home’s existing natural gas or propane line to the generator. If your home does not have a natural gas or propane source, then it is important to note that REC will aid in identifying fuel install needs can work with you on the best solution. REC will obtain all applicable permits, provide all materials and labor to complete the installation.
- Completion & Commissioning: REC electricians will complete inspections and close permit(s), start and test the equipment to ensure the generator is ready for service through various factory testing and outage simulations. REC will file all applicable closeout documentation and warranty registration.
Affordability Options Available
Portable Generators
For members interested in a more portable solution, there are many generators that may fit your needs and your budget.
Before purchasing either a home or portable generator, it is important to be aware of proper generator safety practices. REC Electrician Services can provide code compliant interlock systems and meter mounted automatic transfer switches for your portable generator to safely connect during an outage. See REC’s webpage on generator safety for important safety tips and FAQ’s.
Frequently Asked Questions
Generac generators run using the existing natural gas or liquid propane fuel supply in your home, so manually refilling the generator is not necessary.
The type of generator you buy should depend on when, where and how you would like to use it. See the comparison chart for a brief overview of home and portable generators.
- Whole Home generators are safer and cheaper to run because they use natural gas and propane from the home rather than gasoline inputs.
- Whole Home generators start automatically within seconds after power is lost, saving time and effort in setting up a portable generator and extension cables. This also means you will not need to be at home in order to turn on or turn off your generator.
The permanent whole home generators offered by Generac run automatically when a power outage is detected and will continue to operate until power from the utility is restored. Some models can be monitored remotely from a smartphone, computer, or tablet using Mobile Link.
Some models are dual fuel where you can utilize natural gas, propane or gasoline. The number of electrical appliances you can power with your generator will be determined by the size of the generator you purchase. For example, a 16kW generator will be able to power more appliances than a 10kW generator.
You should contact Rappahannock Electric Cooperative to schedule a generator installation.