Generator Repair and Installation in Ann Arbor

The Power of Portable Generator Installation in Ann Arbor

Portable generators are the perfect entry-level purchase for anyone who is frustrated by frequent power outages in the Ann Arbor area. There are many pros of installing a generator, including the following:

• Cost savings: A portable generator is cheaper than a whole house standby generator, which makes them a lower upfront investment. Portable generators can be set up to do most of the work of a standby generator at a much lower price. You will also save money in the event of a power outage, as you will still be able to power major appliances like your fridge, so you won’t have to worry about spoiled food.
• Minimized property damage: A power outage may cause flooding if you have a sump pump that can no longer run without electricity or if the pipes freeze without heat. A generator will keep these necessary home functions online, so you won’t have to deal with damages later.
• Access to lifesaving devices: If you or a family member needs access to a medical device like a heart monitor, a generator is a must. Don’t get caught without access to the technology you need, and hire an electrician for Ann Arbor generator installation today.
• Portability: Portable generators are, in fact, portable! This means they can travel with you for camping trips, power outdoor events, or if you’re using them for a business, enable contract work at sites without electricity hooked up. This is one of the main benefits of portable generators over standby generators: they can be used for more than just emergencies.
• Business as usual: Working from home or using your residence as an office is more common than ever. Once you own a generator, you will never have to worry about missing a day of work because the power is out.
  

Safety Tips to Avoid Generator Repairs

These safety tips will help you avoid repairs, but they will also prevent major injury. Using a generator is not as simple as it may seem, which is why it is always smart to engage a professional electrician, like the experts at Current Electrical Systems, for generator repair in Ann Arbor. Our reputation speaks for itself: we are the go-to providers of portable generator service in Southeast Michigan. If you work with us, we’ll help you avoid the following safety risks:

• Don’t install your generator inside or near open windows. Generators produce carbon monoxide, so they must be kept outside, otherwise there is a risk of CO poisoning. Simply placing your generator in a ventilated room is not enough of a precaution: it must be installed outside away from windows.
• Protect your portable generator from the elements. You must designate a sheltered area or install an enclosure for your generator to avoid potential damage from rain, snow, or ice. You will likely have your portable generator outside during bad weather at some point, so it is important to think about this when you first purchase your new generator.
• Use an interlock kit or a transfer switch to separate the main circuit breaker from your generator’s. When the main circuit breaker is still on and you’re also using your generator, this creates backfeed. Backfeed may increase electrocution danger for anyone working on the local power lines near your house. A generator interlock kit avoids this issue with minimal hassle, but it needs to be up to code in Ann Arbor. Generator installation is best performed by a professional electrician because of these restrictions.
  

We Install Generator Interlock Kits

At Current Electrical Systems, we specialize in generator interlock kit installation. If you have a small portable generator that only powers a few limited appliances and devices, you might be able to get away with plugging in extension cords. But, if you’re using your portable generator to power your home in the case of an emergency, you will need a transfer switch or a generator interlock kit. Transfer switches are more expensive and difficult to install than interlock kits but perform similar functions, which is why we recommend generator interlock kits to our clients.

If you have any questions about portable generator installation or generator repair in Ann Arbor, give us a call at (734) 212-8867. Our expert electricians will guide you through the process and give you a free estimate!