Generator planning starts with what must stay powered during an outage: refrigeration, heat controls, a well pump, medical equipment, or other selected loads. List priorities and tell the installer which appliances can remain off. A whole-house sales label does not explain what a system will actually support.
Compare Portable and Standby Arrangements
Portable equipment and permanently installed standby systems have different operating, storage, fuel, and transfer arrangements. CPSC advises running portable generators outdoors at least 20 feet from homes, with exhaust directed away. Never use a portable generator in a home or garage. Ask a qualified installer to design any connection to house wiring.
Specify the Complete Installation
Request a load assessment, exact equipment, fuel plan, transfer equipment, site preparation, electrical and gas work, permits, inspections, and startup testing. For standby equipment, use the manufacturer’s siting requirements and local review rather than applying a portable-generator clearance as the installation design. Discuss maintenance, fuel availability, noise, and service during a widespread outage.
- Which loads can run together, and which are managed or excluded?
- Who coordinates fuel supply and licensed trade work?
- What demonstration and written operating instructions are included?
Plan for the Outage You Need to Manage
List essential loads and explain whether you need to support medical equipment, a well pump, refrigeration, or heating and cooling. Confirm medical backup arrangements separately with the equipment provider. Ask how storm damage, flooding, snow, or blocked roads could affect fuel delivery and service access. Fixed standby equipment needs placement and connections designed to its instructions and applicable local requirements. Portable-generator safety rules are not a substitute for that design. CPSC says portable generators belong outdoors at least 20 feet from homes, with exhaust directed away. Agree on testing, maintenance, and safe operating instruction.
Questions Homeowners Ask
Will a generator power everything automatically?
Only if the installed system is designed and configured to do so within its limits. Ask for a specific circuit or load list and a demonstration of transfer behavior.
Is installation the end of the project?
No. Obtain the maintenance schedule, fuel responsibilities, warranty terms, and the procedure for faults or failed starts before relying on the system.
Sources And Local Resources
Official sources checked October 17, 2026. Confirm current requirements with the authority responsible for your property.
- CPSC: Carbon Monoxide Information CenterCPSC portable-generator outdoor placement at least 20 feet from homes, exhaust directed away; not a fixed standby siting rule.
- Ready.gov: Power OutagesOutage preparation, essential loads, alternate plans for medical equipment and safe backup power.
- FTC: Avoiding Home Improvement ScamsState or county credential checks, insurance, written estimates, scope and contract terms; contract requirements vary by state.