Choosing a Generator Contractor

DECEMBER 13, 2018 UPDATE: Blog now reflects Hale’s new Generac PowerPro Premier Dealer Status.

After you have determined that you are ready to purchase a backup generator system for your home or business, the next step is deciding where to purchase and who will install the equipment and provide you peace of mind after the sale.

Questions to consider when choosing a generator contractor and where to buy are:

PRICE: What is the actual price of the generator, the installation and is the price a firm price on a contractual form, a verbal price between you and the contractor or simply a scrap of paper with a number scribbled on a piece of paper? Hale’s Electrical Service provides a formal sales and installation contract which includes the price of the equipment, the price of the installation, as well as what is included in the contract and what will not be included. Our price is our price, is our price and you can read / see exactly what you are getting for the price.

WHAT DO YOU HAVE TO DO: Some generator contractors will expect you to pull an electrical permit, or they won’t even worry about pulling a permit. A homeowner should never be asked to pull an electrical or gas permit. It is the contractor’s responsibility to apply for building permits from the local jurisdiction. An electrical and gas permit for your installation is a protection to you, by providing a second set of eyes to review the installation for correctness and to ensure the appropriate codes have been followed. Read your contracts closely to make sure all details are spelled out.

WHAT DO I GET: Is the contract clear and does it explain exactly what the contractor will do or not do? Do you have to contract a gas plumber? Do you need to contact your Natural Gas Supplier? Are you responsible for the cost of the gas work, or is that also included? Do you have options to purchase additional factory accessories? As a Generac Power Systems, Inc.  PowerPro Premier Dealer, Hale’s Electrical Service can offer remote monitors that allow you to monitor the readiness of your generator from your kitchen or any other room in your home. We also have the ability to offer a 5-year Generac Extended Warranty, unavailable through other contractors who are not direct dealers. Does your installation contractor provide Generac Warranty Service? Is it 24/7/365? Do they stock genuine Generac Parts on their trucks for immediate repairs or do they have to order them (if they are a dealer and have access to parts) and can they submit a warranty claim to Generac, or do they bill you for warranty work performed? Do they have annual maintenance programs available and in place? Hale’s has all of these! 24/7/365 service, fully stocked service vehicles, the ability to submit warranty claims direct to Generac. We offer accessories and Generac Extended Warranties, as well as annual maintenance, we offer annual maintenance each year thereafter! No need to worry, Hale’s Electrical Service, Inc. gives you peace of mind and worry-free maintenance!

Watch for more articles coming soon on what to look for when purchasing a home standby backup generator system.