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Generator FAQs

Why Own a Generator

Prepare for hurricane season and unforeseen incidents with a generator that will light up your home, even when the power goes out. Discover why a generator is a wise investment that will give back to you for years to come.
Keep Power Access

While the rest of the block loses power, your lights and appliances will stay on. Your usual routine will not be disrupted when you own a generator.

Vector of Hand Holding House
Stay Safe at Home

A power outage may mean losing access to medical devices, modes of communication, and security systems. But, with a generator, you will remain safe.

Peace of Mind

A generator ensures you will remain comfortable, even in the middle of a storm. Know that you can rely on a backup power source in times of crisis.

Frequently Asked Questions

Learn more about how generators work, how to choose the right generator for you, and more with the answers to frequently asked questions from our customers.

Can solar power be used instead of a generator? What about alternative power sources like battery backups or Powerwalls?

Solar power is a more expensive investment than a generator, and if you expect to use it during a lasting storm like a hurricane, you may be disappointed. Solar power only lasts so long without sun, and battery back-ups are the same. Only a generator can power you through a power outage that lasts beyond just a few days.

How does a home standby generator work?

The generator monitors incoming voltage from the utility line. When utility power is interrupted, the generator detects the loss of power and goes to work. The automatic transfer switch safely disconnects the utility line and simultaneously connects the power line from the generator. Power is restored within seconds. When utility power is restored, the process is reversed, and the generator returns to standby mode.

While in standby mode, the generator automatically starts once a week to perform an “exercise.” The exercise time varies depending on the generator model. For air-cooled models, the time is approximately 5-12 minutes. For larger liquid-cooled models, the exercise time is approximately 20 minutes. This allows the oil to circulate throughout the engine and provides an opportunity for the system to complete a self-diagnostic test. During the weekly exercise, the customer may hear the unit running, but the power to the house will remain unaffected.–

Can solar power be used instead of a generator? What about alternative power sources like battery bakups or Powerwalls?

Alternatives like battery back-ups or solar power do not have the same reliability, functionality, and long-lasting power as a standby generator. A battery will drain within a matter of days, as will solar power or a Powerwall, especially if it is stormy and raining. A generator is built to last you through a power outage, even if it continues for days on end. Furthermore, while a generator is an investment, it is a more cost-effective solution than a solar installation.

How long will the installation take?

This largely depends on the amount of time it takes your local municipality and HOA, if applicable, to approve the permit. Other factors to consider are coordinating with FPL and the building department for all the inspections involved. All things considered, the average time frame to complete the installation from the contract signing to start up is roughly 90 days.

Do I have to be home for the installation?

In most cases, you will need to be home to provide any needed access to the installers or to answer any questions they may have. This does not mean you must be present for the entire process. This is determined on a case-by-case basis, so it is best to check with the technician or the installation manager the day the work is scheduled.

How long will the power be out during installation?

The power will be out no longer than necessary, and it will be restored before the installer leaves your home. In most cases, if the power must be disconnected, we try to limit this to no longer than 4 hours. Complex installations with multiple transfer switches take longer to complete.

How long is the warranty?

Most factory warranties are 5 years with limitations. There are extended warranties for up to 10 years available, depending on the manufacturer. Briggs & Stratton offers a standard 10-year warranty on select models.

How do I know which size generator I need?

Assurance Power Systems uses our proprietary program called Gensizer to calculate all the electrical loads in your home to determine the exact size generator needed.

Will this power everything in my house at the same time?

You may elect to purchase a large enough generator to power everything in your house at the same time, however that is not necessary. Power management devices make it possible to utilize a smaller generator with the most important items prioritized. While every electrical device is still connected, not everything will run simultaneously.

Why do you need a transfer switch?

You need a transfer switch to safely transfer the power from the utility to the generator system. The transfer switch also prevents the generator from back-feeding the utility.

What is the purpose of a module?

Smart management modules activate when the demand on the generator reaches the point of overload. Certain appliances are set up to shed off the system before they can overload the generator.

Trusted Generator & Electrical Service Providers

Assurance Power Systems has provided excellent service to South Florida residents and businesses since 2005. We continue to uphold our high standards, whether we’re offering repairs, maintenance, or installations. Our services are provided by our employees, and we do not subcontract out our work.

When you need assistance, count on Assurance Power Systems to provide reliable service with a personal touch.

Schedule a Consultation Today

Our technicians and Power Advisors are here to help.
We are prepared to tackle your electrical and generator service needs. Contact us today to set up a consultation.

What brands do you offer?

Generac, Kohler, and Briggs & Stratton. We are a Generac Premier and Industrial Dealer, as well as a Kohler Residential and Industrial Dealer.

How much fuel does a generator use?

This depends on the size of the generator and how much power you are using. Imagine a gas pedal in your vehicle. The harder you push on the pedal, the more gas you will use. Generators are much the same. The more power you use, the more fuel it will consume.

Are generators noisy?

Most of these generators run between 62-68 decibels under normal load. A standard home vacuum cleaner is measured at 70 decibels.

Multiple financing options are available from 0% interest plans to long term plans with lower payments.

What is the difference between an air-cooled and a liquid-cooled generator?

An air-cooled generator uses the outside air to cool the engine. A liquid-cooled generator, much like an automobile, has a radiator containing liquid to cool the engine.

How long does an automatic standby generator last?

The average life span of a standby generator in South Florida is 10-15 years.

Does your company do all the work, or do you use subcontractors?

APS does not use subcontractors. Our large team enables us to do all the work involved in generator services, as well as additional electrical services.

How much does it cost to get a permit?

Permit costs vary between municipalities. One way to get an idea of what your permitting costs will be is to contact your local building department.

What determines the location of the generator?

There are specific guidelines set forth by each manufacturer regarding recommended placement and clearances when installing a standby generator. It is necessary to comply with these guidelines as they are enforced by the local municipality having jurisdiction.

What are the specific clearances needed?

*If an opening is closed to allow placement of the generator, it must be permanently sealed, and all work completed before the delivery of the generator.

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