spacer Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I get a standby power system for my home?
How does a standby generator power system work?
Are these generators big and loud?
Can I install my own home standby system?
What size generator do I need?
I have a generator, should my utility company be notified?
Why is a portable generator less expensive than a home standby system?

Why should I get a standby power system for my home?
Because when the power goes out, life can really stink. You've got no lights. No TV. No climate control. Pipes freeze. Food spoils. Security systems don't work. Garage doors don't open. It goes on and on. It's unpleasant, inconvenient and can lead to property damage. It can also be dangerous. With a standby power system from Atlantic South Power systems, you can relax. Whether you're home or away at the time of the power outage, the system will keep the house running like everything is normal.
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How does a standby generator power system work?
When the power goes out because of a storm, accident, or brown-out, the generator set automatically starts and begins supplying electricity within seconds. The system connects directly to a permanent fuel supply of natural gas or LP to provide protection against power outages 24 hour-a-day, 365 days a year. Click here for more details on how the system works.
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Are these generators big and loud?
Our rugged generators vary in size, depending on which model you need. But essentially, they're comparable to the size of a central air conditioning unit. They can be installed next to your house, under a deck, or in a wooded area. It's common to plant bushes around the unit so it can blend in with a natural environment. And our generators are amazingly quiet. About as loud as a car idling. The neighbors probably won't hear it running. Of course, they'll notice you're the only house on the hill with the lights on.
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Can I install my own home standby system?
Not unless you're the Mac Daddy of do-it-yourselfers. The homeowner should not attempt to specify and install a power system on their own. Leave it to our certified technicians at Atlantic South Power Systems. We're experts.
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What size generator do I need?
That depend on the power (wattage) requirements of your home. Some appliances with electric motors (refrigeration, air conditioners), require up to 2 to 3 times the listed wattage. The generator should be 20% larger than calculated requirements. Also, additional capacity allows more circuits to be added for future use. Atlantic South Power Systems offers a variety of output sizes from 12 kW to 45kW and beyond. And we will carefully assess your home to determine which system is best for you.
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I have a generator, should my utility company be notified?
Yes. Utility companies often retain this type of information and make it accessible to the line workers in the event of a power outage. Such restoration could be postponed while line workers examine to see if a generator is being properly used. Providing accurate up-to-date information to your local utility can reduce these types of delays.
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Why is a portable generator less expensive than a home standby system?
A portable generator is handy if you want to keep the fridge going and a couple of lights on, but our standby generator systems can run the whole house like it's a normal day. They also include many features not found on a portable generator set, such as a more sophisticated control system, a fully weather protective enclosure, significantly quieter operation, and more power, so you don't have to "get by" with just a few conveniences. Also, with one of our standby systems connected directly to a fuel system and your home's electrical system, you never have to fill the gas tank, haul it out of the garage, or manually transfer power. If fact, you don't have to think about it at all.
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