Generator Installation Process: What Happens From Quote to Startup

Step 1: Decide What You Want to Power

Define the backup brief first.

Essential loads might include:

• Refrigerator
• Freezer
• Lights
• Internet
• Furnace blower
• Sump pump
• Well pump

Whole-home comfort may add:

• Central AC
• Multiple HVAC systems
• Electric water heating
• Pool equipment
• Kitchen appliances

Step 2: Perform a Load Assessment

Generator sizing should consider:

• Running load
• Starting load
• HVAC compressors
• Pumps
• Fuel type
• Load-management strategy

Do not use house square footage as the only sizing input.

Calculate generator size →

Step 3: Site Survey

Site selection considers:

• House openings
• Required clearances
• Gas supply
• Electrical service
• Flooding
• Drainage
• Service access
• Local code

The cheapest compliant site is often close to both electrical service and fuel.

Step 4: Choose Generator and Transfer Switch

The installer selects:

• Generator kW
• Fuel type
• Automatic transfer switch
• Service-entrance arrangement
• Load-management equipment

Step 5: Finalise the Quote

A good quote should specify:

• Generator model
• Transfer switch
• Pad
• Electrical work
• Fuel work
• Permits
• Trenching
• Load management
• Startup/testing

Read generator installation cost →

Step 6: Permits

Required permits vary by jurisdiction.

Common examples:

• Electrical
• Gas/plumbing
• Mechanical
• Building

Read generator permits →

Step 7: Utility Coordination

Some projects require utility involvement for:

• Natural-gas meter upgrade
• Electrical service work
• Meter-integrated equipment
• Utility approval

This can become the longest part of the schedule.

Step 8: Prepare the Generator Site

The location must be stable, level, drained and code compliant.

Depending on model and local requirements, the base may be:

• Concrete
• Composite pad
• Crushed stone / pea gravel system

Step 9: Place the Generator

The generator is positioned before permanent fuel and electrical connections are completed.

Step 10: Install the Automatic Transfer Switch

The ATS controls transfer between utility and generator.

This is qualified electrical work.

Step 11: Run Electrical Wiring

Electrical work can include:

• Generator power conductors
• Control wiring
• Conduit
• Breakers
• Grounding
• Bonding

Step 12: Connect Natural Gas or Propane

The generator must receive the required:

• Pressure
• Flow
• Pipe capacity

Natural gas may require meter or regulator work.

Propane may require tank and regulator work.

Step 13: Install Load Management

If used, load-management devices are connected to large optional loads such as:

• AC
• Water heater
• Pool equipment
• Dryer

Step 14: Configure the Generator

The controller is configured for:

• Fuel
• Date/time
• Exercise schedule
• Monitoring/connectivity
• Installation settings

Step 15: Startup

Initial startup can include:

• Battery check
• Fuel check
• Controller check
• Engine startup
• Voltage/frequency checks
• Alarm check

Step 16: Simulate a Power Outage

A proper installation should be tested as a system.

The test confirms:

1. Utility loss is detected.
2. Generator starts.
3. Transfer switch transfers.
4. House receives generator power.
5. Utility return is detected.
6. ATS transfers back.
7. Generator cools down and stops.

Step 17: Test Major Loads

Where appropriate, confirm intended loads operate correctly.

Step 18: Inspection

The local authority may inspect:

• Electrical work
• Gas work
• Placement
• Clearances
• Pad
• Permits

Step 19: Owner Handover

Before the installer leaves, you should know:

• AUTO/OFF operation
• Generator breaker location
• Status lights
• Exercise schedule
• Maintenance interval
• Service contact

How Long Does the Installation Process Take?

Physical installation:

often one working day

The full quote-to-operation process:

often multiple weeks

Read generator installation time →