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12 Jun,2025

Top 10 Generator Questions Homeowners are asking in Maitland, Winter Park, and the greater Orlando area, summer storms and hurricane season can leave our neighborhoods without power for days—or even weeks. Having a reliable home generator isn’t just a luxury—it’s about comfort, security, and peace of mind.

Smartron Electric has helped hundreds of homeowners choose the right generator solution for their needs and budget. Whether you’re considering a portable generator or a whole-home standby system, here are the top 10 questions we hear the most and the answers that can help you make an informed decision.

1. What Size Generator Do I Need?

The correct size will depend on how much of your home you want to keep powered during an outage. Some homeowners simply want to run key essentials—like a refrigerator and a few lights—while others may prefer a whole-home solution that powers everything, including the HVAC system.

Accurate sizing requires power load calculations and knowledge of startup wattage. It’s always best to work with a licensed electrician who has experience installing residential generators. They will be able to properly assess your home’s needs and recommend the ideal size generator unit for safety, performance, and reliability.

2. How Much Does a Standby Generator Installation Cost?

TThe cost of installing a standby generator can vary depending on several key factors specific to your home. Some of the biggest cost drivers include:

Type of installation – A basic setup with easy access to your electrical panel and fuel source will cost less than a more complex install that requires extra work or upgrades.
Distance between the generator and the transfer switch – The farther apart they are, the more materials and labor are required to safely run wiring and conduit.
Type of gas and fuel line access – Whether your home runs on natural gas or propane can affect installation cost, especially if trenching or a new propane tank is needed.
Generator size and transfer switch type – The specific generator and automatic transfer switch (ATS) your home requires will also impact pricing. Larger homes may need higher-capacity systems and upgraded components for full-home backup coverage.

In short, the closer everything is and the fewer modifications your home needs, the more budget-friendly the installation will be. A walkthrough of your property is the best way to get an accurate estimate based on your layout, fuel access, and power needs.

That’s why Smartron Electric offers a range of solutions—from portable generator setups to fully integrated standby systems—so you can choose an option that fits your home and your budget. Depending on your electrical goals, installation costs can range anywhere from $2,000 to $40,000.

We’re here to guide you every step of the way—with clear pricing, expert advice, flexible options, and a free consultation to get you started with confidence.

3. Can I Install a Generator Myself?

For whole-home standby generators, the short answer is no. Installation must be completed by a licensed electrician and ideally a certified generator specialist to ensure everything is done safely and up to code. It typically involves:

Modifying your home’s electrical panel
Installing an automatic transfer switch (ATS)
Connecting to a natural gas or propane fuel line
Performing load calculations to properly size the system
Securing permits and passing local electrical inspections

Improper installation can lead to serious risks like fire, backfeeding, electrocution, or voided manufacturer warranties. Even if you’re handy, standby generators should always be installed by trained professionals.

For portable generators, DIY use is common, but we strongly recommend hiring a licensed electrician to install a manual transfer switch, inlet, or interlock kit. This ensures your portable system is safely connected and code-compliant—protecting both your home and the utility grid.

4. What’s the Difference Between a Portable and Standby Generator?

Standby generators:

Permanently installed on property.
Run on natural gas or propane.
Start automatically during power outages.
Can power partial or entire home. (dependent on standby unit size)
Low maintenance.
Long-term backup power solution.

Portable generators:

Designed to be movable.
Typically gas or diesel-powered.(manually)
Manually started and connected.
Recommended for temporary use, only.
Power key essential items. (ie. Refrigerator, lights and well pump)
Budget friendly. (upfront)

Both types of generators has its place, but standby generator units offer unmatched convenience, long-term protection and is a great investment for your home.

5. Which Fuel Type Is Best for a Generator?

The best fuel type for your generator depends on your home’s setup, availability of utilities, and how you plan to use your system. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Natural Gas – Ideal for standby generators if your home already has natural gas service. It’s clean, reliable, and doesn’t require refueling—making it the most convenient option for long-term outages.
Propane – Also clean-burning and dependable. It’s a great alternative when natural gas isn’t available, though it does require a storage tank and regular refills.
Diesel – Known for durability and efficiency, with less wear on generator engines. However, it’s rarely used for residential properties due to fuel storage and emissions.
Gasoline – Common for portable generators. While easy to find, it’s not ideal for extended outages due to limited storage life and frequent refueling needs.

For most homes in Central Florida, natural gas is the preferred choice if available. If not, propane is typically the next best option. A licensed electrician or certified generator specialist can help evaluate your home and recommend the best fuel source based on what’s accessible and safe for your property.

6. Is It Safe to Use a Portable Generator Indoors or in the Garage?

Absolutely not. Portable generators produce deadly carbon monoxide and can build up quickly— becoming fatal even with doors and windows open.

Safe practices include:

Always operate a portable generator at least 20 feet away from your home.
Use a canopy or tent to protect against the weather— but never bring indoors.
Never attempt to plug a portable unit into a wall outlet.
Install a manual transfer switch or inlet and interlock to safely use.

7. Do I Need a Transfer Switch?

Yes—if you’re installing a standby generator, a transfer switch is required to safely and legally connect it to your home’s electrical system. Without one, you risk backfeeding, damage to your home, and potential harm to utility workers.

A transfer switch:

✅ Prevents backfeeding (a major fire and electrocution hazard)
✅ Ensures code compliance
✅ Lets you choose which circuits receive power
✅ Monitors voltage and frequency
✅ Automatically transfers power during an outage (for automatic systems)

What About Portable Generators?

For portable generators, a manual transfer switch or generator interlock kit is highly recommended, but not required by law. These devices make it safer and easier to power parts of your home without running extension cords or risking unsafe connections. They also help keep your system more organized and efficient.

While it’s technically possible to use a portable generator without one, having a licensed electrician install a manual transfer switch greatly improves safety and convenience.

8. How Long Can a Generator Run Continuously?

Portable Generators: Usually can run 6–18 hours on a full tank of fuel. Propane based units are able to run longer with a large external fuel tank.

Standby Generators: Are designed for extended use. With a steady fuel supply (natural gas or propane), they can run for days. Smartron Electric recommends regular maintenance and occasional rest during long power outages.

9. What Kind of Maintenance Does a Generator Need?

Just like your car engine, your generator needs regular maintenance to stay reliable—especially during unexpected outages.

Routine generator maintenance includes:

✅ Oil and air filter changes
✅ Battery inspections and testing
✅ System diagnostics and load testing
✅ Transfer switch functionality checks

Neglecting maintenance can lead to breakdowns, reduced lifespan, or even void your manufacturer’s warranty.

That’s why we recommend annual generator servicing, ideally before Central Florida’s storm and hurricane season. We proudly offer full maintenance and service plans for homeowners in Maitland, Winter Park, and the greater Orlando area—so your generator is ready when you need it most.

10. How Do I Get Started with a Generator Installation?

Getting started is simple. It begins with a free in-home generator assessment from a licensed and certified generator electrician.

During your consultation, we will:

✅ Evaluate your home’s backup power requirements
✅ Listen to your priorities and concerns
✅ Review the best installation locations, generator sizing, and fuel options
✅ Provide smart recommendations, clear options, and fair, transparent pricing

From permitting and placement to installation, inspection, and long-term service—we handle everything so you can feel confident every step of the way.

Whether you’re in Maitland, Winter Park, or the greater Orlando area, our certified team is here to make the process seamless and stress-free.

Ready to get started?
👉 Schedule your free generator consultation today.

Smartron Electric is a top-rated, licensed, and certified generator installer serving Maitland, Winter Park, and the greater Orlando area. We specialize in home generator solutions and turnkey installations. Our experienced electricians can help guide you in choosing the best generator setup for your home and budget.

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