Generator Installation FAQs
Why am I seeing such a big difference in cost between my generator installation contractors?
Some of the items that can impact the labor and material cost of a project dramatically:
- securing permits and inspections
- using separate conduit for high and low voltage wires when required
- using a shielded twisted pair for control wires preventing interference when needed
- using copper wire conductors instead of cheaper aluminum
- trench and bury gas and electric runs in conduit
- securing conduit to walls
- separating grounds and neutrals
- sizing the generator correctly for your home or business
- using the correct pipe and wire size for gas and electric
- using a stone or concrete pad
- employs generator mechanics
- authorized for parts and service not just sales
- licensed and insured to work in your state
- licensed for plumbing and electric work
How does the generator manufacturers warranty work?
First, the installation must be to the manufacturers specifications or you have no warranty. The manufacturer determines if something is covered under the warranty not the Dealer and also requires the Dealer to assume all costs with warranty repair before they accept or pay for warranty claims. They decide what they will pay regardless of what the actual cost to the Dealer was for the repair. If you think that sounds risky for the Dealer you are 100% correct. For that reason it would be considered unusual for generator Dealers to do any warranty service on equipment it did not sell or install. Expect to pay more for the equipment from an organization that will assume that warranty burden and support the equipment. In the same respect don’t expect to get local support on equipment that you had shipped in from a big box store or internet shop. There is nothing but risk and financial loss in that scenario for the local Dealer regardless of what you may read in various marketing campaigns.