Generator Installation In Charlotte, NC
Despite having a stable power infrastructure, the Charlotte, NC, area is often prone to electrical outages. Lightning strikes and the effects of storms are common in many areas around the country, and Charlotte is no exception. We also have to tangle with some more unique challenges, such as birds and other animals damaging power infrastructure. Regardless of the cause of the outage, getting a generator installation in Charlotte is a great solution—at least until officials get the power flowing again.
Some Charlotte, NC, residents don’t have a generator and want to get one to make sure they have access to the power they need whenever necessary. Other residents in the Charlotte area already have a generator, but it’s seen better days, and it’s time for a replacement. Here are some of the benefits those with generators enjoy, as well as signs you may need a replacement unit and some annual maintenance tips to maximize the effectiveness of your unit.
Benefits of Installing or Replacing a Generator
Even though portable generators can provide a quick, temporary fix in a pinch, there are some unique benefits to having a whole-home, automatic, standby generator. Even though they come with a higher upfront cost, here are some of the benefits that make them a worthwhile investment.
Automatic Power in an Emergency
A whole-home generator turns on automatically without you having to go outside, flick a switch, or yank a rope. The lack of manual operation makes a whole-home generator both convenient and safer for many in the Charlotte, North Carolina, area.
To illustrate, suppose a violent summer storm is raging, and high winds just knocked out your power. With a generator integrated into your home power system, you don’t have to brave the elements and risk your safety to regain power in your home.
Instead, within a few moments, your generator starts producing energy without you having to lift a finger.
The Ability to Power Your Whole Home
The power capacity of a home generator is another benefit, especially if you have several devices and systems that depend on electricity. Although portable generators can supply power to a few devices, they often struggle when you connect more than three or four electrical components, depending on how much power they draw.
This is an especially important benefit for those who have to power medical devices—or may have to in the future. Having a system that automatically turns on when needed can make the difference between a smooth evening at home and a frantic rush to Atrium Health, Novant, or another Charlotte hospital.
For those who work from home, the ability to continue using a laptop, desktop, or other device during an emergency can make a big difference. This is particularly crucial for those who need to be available via email or chat during situations.
Safer When Compared to Portable Units
A standby generator comes with several features that boost its safety, especially when compared to a portable unit.
For instance, since your generator gets installed outside your home, there’s little to no risk of fumes impacting the air you breathe. You also don’t have to worry about handling fuel, especially if your generator is tied to your gas line.
To ensure the safety of your generator’s installation, you can rely on Parks HVAC’s experts to cross every “t” and dot every “i” during the installation and testing process.
Enhanced Property Value
When you invest in a generator for your home, you may also boost your property value because potential buyers often see it as an asset. Whether they want it for safety reasons or just as an added convenience during an emergency, many may be willing to pay a premium for a home power generation system.
How to Know When It’s Time to Replace Your Generator
Parks HVAC repairs and replaces generators, but it may be helpful to understand which solution you need before giving us a call. Here are some signs that you may need to replace your generator instead of having it repaired.
Persistent, Invasive Corrosion
The Charlotte, North Carolina, area gets hit with plenty of rainfall and above-average humidity, both of which can cause considerable corrosion to your generator. In many situations, a simple repair is all that’s needed, instead of a full generator replacement. On the other hand, if the corrosion reaches a point where it impacts the operation of the generator or results in safety concerns, it’s time to replace the unit.
For example, the electromagnetic power generation system your generator depends on requires magnetic components to spin near copper wiring. Rust can cause the metal components to expand, resulting in excess friction and further corrosion of sensitive parts. Once your generator has reached this point, it’s time for a replacement.
Invasive corrosion is also an issue because corroded parts can impact the operation of your unit. For instance, if rusty metal chips find their way into the air intake system, they could damage the inside of the motor.
Also, since corrosion spreads, once it gets inside your generator’s wiring and other internal components, it could gradually incapacitate the entire unit. To avoid unexpected failure at the wrong time, it’s best to replace your generator if corrosion has progressed to this point.
Reduced Power Flow
Although it may sound counterintuitive, reduced power flow may be a more serious problem than intermittent power or your generator suddenly turning off. When your unit suddenly stops providing power, the issue could be with a loose wire or connection, and that could be a relatively simple fix for a Parks HVAC professional.
On the other hand, when your unit consistently produces less juice than it used to, this could indicate a more severe issue with its power generation mechanism. For example, a drop in power may indicate a faulty stator or issues with the brush system. It could also stem from a broken capacitor or other internal components that tend to fail over time.
If you’re not sure what’s causing your power reduction, you can have a pro from Parks HVAC come and diagnose the issue.
Seized Components
Despite the sometimes extreme Charlotte, NC, weather, it’s not uncommon for a generator to go unused for several seasons. For many residents, their power generation system, understandably, becomes an afterthought. When this is the case, they may not start it up periodically, and this may result in internal seizing.
As touched on above, your generator uses electromagnetic energy to power your home, and this depends on parts moving in sync with each other. Depending on where the seizing happens, your generator may have a hard time starting up or producing any power at all. Typically, this is a result of components expanding as they rust, and if this is the case, generator replacement may be on the docket.
Maintenance Tips for Extending the Life of Your Generator
There’s a lot you can do to extend the life of your generator, particularly when performing routine maintenance and system checks. Many of the maintenance measures below only take a few minutes to complete. Some in the Charlotte, North Carolina, area perform maintenance three or four times a year, depending on how much they use their unit. Here are a few things you can do to get the most out of your generator:
- Perform a full inspection for signs of damage or wear. Check for rust, corrosion, and damage from animals, shrubs, or other vegetation.
- Test your system to verify its components work and it’s producing power. After starting your generator, you can check the power flowing from it and listen for signs of the engine running rough, which could indicate issues with the fuel delivery system or air intake mechanism.
- Check the voltage of your battery. Ideally, you want the voltage to be somewhere around 12.5 volts.
- Replace your fuel and air filters. A clogged air filter can reduce the amount of oxygen the motor can use for combustion, which can significantly impact performance. Fuel filter failure can allow debris inside your combustion chamber, which could hurt your motor. Also, a clogged fuel filter can restrict flow to the combustion chamber, resulting in performance issues.
Call Parks at 704-596-8200 to schedule a Generator Installation in Charlotte, NC, or the surrounding areas today.
Why Choose Parks HVAC for Your Generator Installation and Replacement?
When it comes to generator installation and replacement in Charlotte, NC, Parks HVAC is your trusted expert. We focus on delivering exactly what you need, whether you’re installing a new generator or replacing an existing one. Our priority is to provide professional, reliable service that gives you peace of mind, ensuring the job is done right the first time.
With over 50 years of experience in generator installations and replacements, we’ve honed our ability to respond quickly and make scheduling as simple as possible.
At Parks HVAC, we offer a 15% discount to active and retired military personnel as a token of our appreciation. To further ease the process, we provide flat-rate pricing upfront, so you know exactly what to expect. Plus, when you schedule a same-day appointment, we’ll waive your dispatch fee.
Generator Installation in Charlotte, NC or the surrounding areas by calling 704-596-8200 today.
Charlotte, NC Generator Installation Services FAQs
How Do I Know If I Need a New Generator?
It can be difficult to determine if you need a new generator, especially if the issues are minor or not immediately noticeable. However, signs such as frequent power outages, your generator struggling to start, or excessive noise during operation could indicate that it’s time for a replacement.
What Should I Do If I Suspect My Generator Is Failing?
If you think your generator is failing or you’ve noticed signs that could indicate a problem, contact a professional technician immediately. A failing generator can leave you without power when you need it most, so it’s crucial to address the issue quickly. Your technician will inspect the unit to diagnose and repair any problems or recommend a replacement if necessary.
Can I Prevent Generator Failures?
While it’s impossible to prevent all failures, regular maintenance and inspections can significantly reduce the risk of generator issues. Scheduling routine maintenance can catch problems early before they turn into major failures.
How Much Do Generator Installation Services Cost?
The cost of generator installation services varies based on the specifics of the job, including the type of generator and the complexity of the installation. At Parks Heating, Cooling, Plumbing, & Electrical, we provide upfront cost estimates so you know what to expect.
What Should I Do if My Generator Stops Working?
If your generator stops working, the first step is to ensure it’s properly connected and has fuel. If it still doesn’t operate, contact a professional technician to diagnose and fix the issue. Timely service can prevent further damage and ensure your generator is ready when you need it.
Does Installing a New Generator Take a Long Time?
Installing a new generator can often be completed relatively quickly, sometimes in just a few hours. However, the actual installation time depends on the type of generator and the complexity of the job.
Will My Insurance Cover the Cost of a New Generator?
Your insurance company will determine your coverage based on your policy, but some homeowners’ insurance policies may cover the cost of a new generator, especially if it’s needed due to a covered event. It’s best to contact your insurance company to clarify what’s covered.
Call Now for Same-Day Generator Installation Services
For Charlotte homeowners, Pipe Repair Services should be left to the trusted experts at Parks. We have proudly served the Charlotte area for over 50 years and offer unparalleled customer service. With licensed, experienced plumbers, Parks can help homeowners with plumbing repairs, inspections, and maintenance.
When something goes wrong with your pipes, give us a call for same-day service. Contact us today for a free estimate for a generator installation!
