Commonly Asked Questions About Generators

When the power goes out, life doesn’t just pause—it reverts. Without a generator, you’re suddenly living in a bygone era, relying on flashlights and candles, losing Wi-Fi, and scrambling to keep your food from spoiling.

Short-term outages may feel like a minor inconvenience or even an adventure. But extended blackouts are a different story. If the power stays off for hours—or days—your Virginia, home can quickly become uncomfortable or even unsafe. Indoor temperatures can rise to dangerous levels during a heatwave or plummet in the middle of winter.

You could lose access to work-from-home setups, home security systems, or essential medical and mobility equipment.

The U.S. experiences more power outages than any other developed nation, according to the Department of Energy. Most are caused by severe weather—ice, wind, storms, wildfires—and the threat is growing. As climate events become more extreme and our aging electrical grid continues to strain under demand, power interruptions are becoming both more frequent and less predictable.

You can’t control the weather or fix the grid, but you can be ready for the next outage. Whole-house (or standby) generators automatically power your home’s most critical systems when the utility fails, giving you uninterrupted comfort, security, and convenience.

That’s why more Virginia homeowners are turning to backup power solutions, and Able Heating & Air is here to answer all your questions about generators. We’ll help you choose, install, and maintain the right generator for your needs.

If you’re considering a generator installation in Culpeper, VA, or the surrounding areas, here are some of the most commonly asked questions to help you decide:

How Do Home Generators Work?

Your home generator runs on natural gas, propane, or diesel. Unlike portable generators, which you have to manually start and connect, a standby generator is permanently installed and wired directly to your home’s electrical system through a transfer switch.

When a power outage is detected, the transfer switch automatically activates your generator, allowing it to supply electricity to your home. Once utility power is restored, the system switches back to the grid and shuts the generator off. It all happens seamlessly, without you needing to lift a finger.

Are Whole-Home Generators Easy to Install?

Not exactly. Installing a whole-home generator is a job best left to licensed professionals. It requires electrical expertise, familiarity with local codes and utility requirements, and coordination between your utility company and fuel provider. Improper installation can result in safety hazards or inefficient operation.

Most installations take one to two days, depending on your home layout, fuel source, and generator size. Able Heating & Air handles the full process, from permitting to testing, so you don’t have to worry about the details.

How Long Does It Take to Install a Standby Generator?

Here’s a quick breakdown of how we typically install standby generators:

1. Electrical Assessment and Transfer Switch Installation – We assess your home’s electrical system and install a transfer switch that connects your generator to the grid.
2. Generator Placement – Our team places the generator in a location that complies with clearance requirements and makes sense for your home’s layout and airflow needs.
3. Wiring the Generator – The generator is connected to the transfer switch using heavy-duty electrical wiring.
4. Fuel Connection – A licensed technician connects your generator to a fuel source such as natural gas, propane, or diesel.
5. System Testing – We run a full performance test to ensure your generator is ready to respond when needed.

We also walk you through your owner’s manual and weekly test features so you’re comfortable with how the system works.

How Long Will My Standby Generator Last?

Generators are a solid long-term investment. With proper maintenance, a standby generator can last anywhere from 20 to 40 years, depending on the brand, usage, and local conditions.

Diesel-powered units tend to have a slightly longer lifespan due to their heavy-duty engines, but natural gas models are more convenient and cleaner-burning. Like any major appliance, how well you care for your generator directly impacts its longevity.

Maintaining Your Standby Generator

Consistent maintenance is key to keeping your generator in top working condition—especially if you live in an area with frequent outages. Here are a few tips:

• Run Routine Exercise Cycles – Most modern generators automatically run a short test once a week to ensure everything is working. Listen for strange noises or vibrations during these cycles.
• Keep the Unit Clean – Clear away leaves, dirt, and debris from the outdoor housing. A blocked intake can cause the unit to overheat or shut down.
• Replace Spark Plugs – Spark plugs typically need replacement every two to four years, depending on usage and manufacturer recommendations.
• Professional Tune-Ups – Consider scheduling annual or biannual professional maintenance for inspections, oil changes, battery testing, and system calibration.

Proactive care ensures your generator is always ready when you need it most.

Get a Free Generator Installation Quote!

Power outages are inconvenient at best—and dangerous at worst. Whether due to storms, grid failures, or extreme weather, losing electricity can put your comfort, safety, and daily routine at risk. A whole-house generator offers peace of mind, ensuring your home stays powered when the unexpected strikes.

If you’ve been weighing your options, now is a great time to take the next step.

At Able Heating & Air, we make the process simple with expert guidance, professional installation, and dependable service. Our team is here to help you choose a generator that suits your home, energy needs, and budget. Don’t wait for the next blackout—secure your home today. Call us in Culpeper, VA, at 540-718-7556 or schedule a free consultation online to get started.