As the number of power outages across the U.S. continues to soar, homeowners are desperate for reliable energy sources. Though it is tempting to impulsively buy a standby generator after experiencing a power outage, it is crucial to consult with a professional before agreeing to a cheap installation job – your safety could depend on it.
Don’t let the idea of a good deal make you the next victim of faulty generator installation scams. Unqualified companies often attempt to take advantage of the high demand for standby generators, promising homeowners savings on installations. Though the benefits of having a standby home generator outweigh the investment, they are financial commitments where quality should never be compromised.
Faulty installation jobs are done incorrectly and sometimes even illegally with non-permitted generators, leaving homeowners with possible legal, financial and even physical damages. A non-permitted generator can lead to Department of Buildings (DOB) violations and costly penalties and even require the removal of the generator from one’s home. Any damages caused by an illegally installed generator can also impact one’s home insurance coverage.
When standby generators are not properly installed and fail to meet code, they can also be incredibly dangerous. The biggest risk this poses is known as “feedback,” a hazardous condition in which an electrical current is fed back into the grid, potentially electrocuting and harming homeowners, utility workers and others who are using the same utility transformer.
Faulty installations also leave homeowners with unreliable power sources more likely to experience malfunctions, tripped breaks and a short generator lifespan. These unexpected damages can cause inconvenient and potentially dangerous scenarios, leaving homeowners without power during severe weather events, despite owning a generator.
When done correctly, at-home generator installations take approximately four to six weeks and require a licensed electrician and plumber, as well as an architect to obtain permits. Though proper generator installation requires more time and investment, the peace of mind and added home value are priceless.
Avoid unreliable generators that could leave you in a dangerous situation and consult with the experts. At Reliable Plumbing, our team of highly trained professionals offers expert plumbing solutions for residential, commercial and industrial clients. As licensed plumbers, you can depend on us to ensure the plumbing side of your generator is properly installed. Contact us to learn more about our installation services and how we can help you stay safe and out of the dark.
