Residential & Commercial Electrical Generator Services
Generator Installation & Backup Power Systems
Professional whole-house standby generator installation for homes and businesses throughout the Capital Region, NY. Licensed Master Electrician George Koletas (License #E422, City of Troy) provides turnkey generator solutions—from site assessment through final testing—ensuring your family never loses power during winter ice storms or summer thunderstorms.
When the power goes out, your home becomes vulnerable—frozen pipes in winter, spoiled food, no heat or air conditioning, sump pumps failing during storms. A whole-house standby generator eliminates these worries by automatically restoring power within seconds of an outage. Licensed Master Electrician George Koletas (License #E422) and the team at Koletas Electric specialize in complete generator installation services throughout the Capital Region, NY.
As a proud member of IBEW Local 236, George maintains continuous training in the latest electrical code requirements. Every generator installation meets or exceeds the 2023 National Electrical Code requirements adopted by New York State on December 31, 2025, including proper transfer switch installation per NEC Article 702 for optional standby systems.
Professional standby generator installation completed by Licensed Master Electrician George Koletas
Why Install a Standby Generator?
Power outages in the Capital Region can strike without warning—ice storms, thunderstorms, grid failures, or equipment malfunctions. A whole-house standby generator provides peace of mind and protects what matters most:
1
Automatic Power Restoration
Unlike portable generators that require manual setup, standby generators detect outages and restore power automatically within 10-30 seconds—even when you’re away from home or asleep.
2
Protect Your Home from Damage
Keep your furnace running to prevent frozen pipes, maintain sump pumps during flooding, and preserve food in your refrigerator and freezer. A generator can prevent thousands of dollars in damage
3
Safety & Security
Maintain lighting, security systems, medical equipment, and communication devices. Keep garage doors operational and maintain a safe, comfortable environment for your family.
4
Continuous Fuel Supply
Standby generators connect directly to your home’s natural gas line or propane tank, providing days or weeks of continuous power without manual refueling—unlike gasoline-powered portable units.
5
Home Value & Insurance Benefits
A professionally installed standby generator increases property value and may qualify for insurance discounts. It’s an investment that pays dividends in protection and resale value.
6
Work & Learn from Home
With more people working and learning remotely, power outages can disrupt income and education. Keep your home office, internet, and computers running when the neighborhood goes dark.
- Is a Standby Generator Right for You?
Consider a whole-house generator if:
- Your area experiences frequent or prolonged power outages
- You have a well pump (no water during outages without backup power)
- You rely on a sump pump to prevent basement flooding
- Someone in your home depends on medical equipment
- You work from home and can’t afford extended downtime
- You have significant food storage (freezers, refrigerators)
- You want whole-home comfort—heating, cooling, and hot water
- You travel frequently and want protection while away
Our Generator Installation Services
Koletas Electric provides complete, turnkey generator installation services. We handle everything from initial consultation through final testing—electrical work, transfer switch installation, fuel line coordination, permits, and inspections.
Whole-House Standby Generator Installation
Our most popular service includes complete installation of permanently mounted standby generators that power your entire home. We assess your electrical load, recommend the appropriate generator size (typically 10kW to 26kW for residential), install the unit on a proper concrete pad or composite mounting pad, connect the automatic transfer switch to your electrical panel, and coordinate fuel line installation. The result is a system that automatically powers your home within seconds of any outage.
Automatic Transfer Switch Installation
Manual Transfer Switch Installation
For homeowners with portable generators, we install manual transfer switches that allow safe connection of a portable generator to your home’s wiring. This eliminates dangerous extension cords and back-feeding hazards while providing code-compliant power distribution to selected circuits. Manual transfer switches are an economical option for occasional backup power needs.
Generator Sizing & Load Calculation
Proper generator sizing is critical. An undersized generator will overload and fail when you need it most. An oversized unit wastes money and fuel. George Koletas performs detailed load calculations per NEC Article 220 to determine your home’s power requirements, accounting for starting surge on motors (HVAC, well pumps, sump pumps) and your priorities during an outage. We’ll recommend the right size generator for your needs and budget.
Automatic transfer switch professionally installed and integrated with home electrical panel
The Koletas Electric Generator Installation Process
Our systematic approach ensures safe, efficient, and code-compliant generator installations every time:
- Free Consultation & Assessment: George Koletas personally visits your home to assess your electrical system, discuss your power needs, evaluate potential generator locations, and check fuel source availability (natural gas or propane). We identify any electrical upgrades needed and provide honest recommendations.
- Detailed Proposal & Sizing: Receive a comprehensive written estimate with transparent pricing—no hidden fees. We specify the recommended generator size based on load calculations, transfer switch type, installation location, and all included work.
- Permit Application:We handle all permit applications with local authorities, ensuring your installation meets all code requirements. Generator installations require both electrical and often gas/plumbing permits in most Capital Region municipalities.
- Site Preparation: The generator requires a level, stable surface. We coordinate concrete pad installation or composite mounting pad placement, ensuring proper clearances from windows, doors, and property lines per local codes.
- Fuel Line Coordination: For natural gas units, we coordinate with the gas utility to ensure adequate supply and meter capacity. For propane units, we work with propane suppliers on tank sizing, placement, and line installation.
- Professional Installation: Our licensed electrician installs the transfer switch, runs electrical connections to the generator location, and completes all electrical work to NEC standards. We coordinate with fuel line contractors for gas piping installation.
- Testing & Commissioning: Every installation includes thorough testing—we simulate power outages to verify automatic transfer, check all electrical connections, verify proper grounding, and ensure the generator starts and runs correctly under load.
- Final Inspection & Training: We schedule and coordinate the municipal inspection. Once passed, we walk you through generator operation, explain the weekly self-test cycle, discuss maintenance requirements, and answer all your questions. You receive complete documentation including permits, warranty information, and maintenance guidelines.
Why Choose Koletas Electric?
When it comes to generator installation, experience and expertise matter. Here’s why Capital Region homeowners trust George Koletas:
- Licensed Master Electrician: George Koletas holds Master Electrician License #E422 from the City of Troy, NY, with 15+ years of hands-on experience. All work is performed to the latest 2023 National Electrical Code standards.
- Turnkey Installation: We manage the entire project—electrical work, transfer switch installation, permit coordination, fuel line coordination, inspections, and testing. One contractor, one point of contact, complete accountability.
- Union-Trained Professional: As a member of IBEW Local 236, George has access to continuous professional training including OSHA safety certification, NEC code updates, and specialized generator installation training.
- Local Family-Owned Business: Unlike big-box retailers or national chains, we’re invested in our community. We live and work in the Capital Region and stand behind every installation.
- Upfront Pricing: No surprises, no hidden fees. You’ll know the complete cost before we begin work. Our estimates are detailed, fair, and competitive.
- Code-Compliant Installation: Every installation meets or exceeds NEC Article 702 requirements for optional standby systems, including proper transfer switch installation, grounding, and disconnecting means.
- Quality Equipment: We work with leading generator manufacturers and install only quality equipment backed by manufacturer warranties.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a whole-house generator cost?
Complete installed costs for whole-house standby generators typically range from $8,000 to $18,000+ depending on generator size, fuel type, site conditions, and any electrical upgrades needed. A smaller 10-14kW unit suitable for essential circuits runs $8,000-$12,000 installed. Larger 20-26kW whole-house units that can power everything including central air conditioning typically cost $12,000-$18,000+ installed. George Koletas provides free, detailed estimates with transparent pricing—call 518-406-6021 for your personalized quote.
What size generator do I need for my house?
Generator size depends on what you want to power during an outage. For essential circuits only (refrigerator, some lights, sump pump, furnace), a 10-14kW generator is often sufficient. To power your entire home including central air conditioning, you’ll likely need 20-26kW or larger. Homes with electric heat, hot tubs, or multiple large appliances may require even more capacity. George Koletas performs detailed load calculations per NEC Article 220 to recommend the right size for your specific needs—not too small to be inadequate, not too large to waste money.
Natural gas vs. propane—which is better?
Both are excellent choices. Natural gas is ideal if you already have municipal gas service—it provides unlimited fuel supply without tank refills and typically lower fuel costs. Propane is the standard choice for rural areas without natural gas, or as a backup if gas pressure drops during high-demand periods. Propane requires a storage tank (typically 250-500 gallons for generators) and periodic refills. Both fuels are clean-burning and reliable. George Koletas will assess your property and recommend the best fuel option based on availability, cost, and your specific situation.
How long does generator installation take?
The complete installation process typically takes 2-4 weeks from signed contract to operational generator. This includes permit acquisition (1-2 weeks depending on municipality), site preparation, equipment delivery, installation (usually 1-2 days of on-site work), and final inspection. The actual electrical and generator installation work is typically completed in one to two days. We coordinate all scheduling and keep you informed throughout the process.
Do I need a permit for generator installation?
Yes, generator installations require permits and inspections in Capital Region municipalities. Electrical permits are always required for transfer switch installation and generator connections. Gas or plumbing permits are typically required for fuel line work. Koletas Electric handles all permit applications, coordinates inspections, and ensures your installation is fully code-compliant. Never hire a contractor who suggests skipping permits—it’s illegal, voids warranties, and creates liability for you as the homeowner.
Can a generator power my whole house?
Yes, with proper sizing. A whole-house generator (typically 20kW or larger) with an automatic transfer switch can power your entire electrical panel—all circuits, all appliances, central air conditioning included. You won’t even know the power went out except for the brief transfer time (10-30 seconds). Smaller generators can be configured to power only essential circuits through a load-management transfer switch, which is a more economical option if you don’t need everything running during outages.
How loud are standby generators?
Modern standby generators are designed for residential use and operate at reasonable noise levels—typically 60-70 decibels at 23 feet, comparable to a normal conversation or background music. They’re significantly quieter than portable generators. Generators must be installed with proper clearances from windows, doors, and property lines per local codes and manufacturer specifications, which helps minimize noise impact on your home and neighbors.
What maintenance does a standby generator need?
Standby generators are designed for minimal maintenance. Most units run a weekly self-test automatically (you’ll hear it run for a few minutes). Annual professional maintenance is recommended, including oil and filter changes, spark plug inspection, battery testing, and overall system check. Koletas Electric can recommend maintenance providers or discuss maintenance options after installation. Proper maintenance ensures your generator is ready when you need it most.
Serving the Capital Region, NY
Koletas Electric provides expert generator installation services throughout the Capital Region of New York. George Koletas serves residential and commercial customers with the same commitment to quality, safety, and customer satisfaction that has built our reputation as the area’s trusted electrical contractor.
Whether you need a whole-house standby generator for complete backup power or a transfer switch installation for your portable generator, we have the expertise and experience to handle your project. Contact us today for your free consultation and estimate.
Ready to Upgrade?
Get a free, no-obligation estimate from Licensed Master Electrician George Koletas (License #E422). IBEW Local 236 member with 15+ years of experience.
- Licensed Master Electrician #E422
- Same-Day Emergency Service
- Upfront Pricing, No Hidden Fees
- Family-Owned Local Business
- IBEW Local 236 Union Member
- All Permits & Inspections Included
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