Build a practical load list
Start with what you need the home to do during an outage. Square footage alone does not describe motor-starting demands or which appliances will operate together.
- List heating controls, refrigeration, lighting and any well or sump pumps that matter to your household.
- Identify air conditioning, electric heating and other large loads you want assessed.
- Include planned equipment additions and explain what could be deferred during an outage.
- Share available panel and equipment information; do not open electrical equipment to gather it.
Understand the transfer arrangement
The assessment should explain how the proposed generator and transfer equipment relate to your existing electrical service. Selected-circuit backup, broader service coverage and load management have different implications for what can operate at the same time.
Compare complete scopes, not just generator sizes
Two proposals can list similar generator capacities but include different work. Ask for a written explanation of the installation responsibilities and assumptions.
- Generator, transfer equipment and any load-management devices.
- Electrical connections and any required service changes.
- Fuel-supply assessment, connection work and site preparation.
- Permit and inspection responsibilities, startup and customer handoff.
- Exclusions, allowances and equipment-specific warranty information.
Prepare for the assessment
Tell us whether the home uses natural gas or propane and whether there is an existing generator or transfer switch. If you are considering other electrical changes, raise them early so the proposal can address the intended setup rather than today’s equipment alone.