Power outages in the Aiken area are not a matter of if -- they are a matter of when. Summer thunderstorms, ice storms, fallen trees, and aging utility infrastructure all cause outages that can last hours or days. A whole-home standby generator eliminates the disruption entirely. When the power goes out, the generator starts automatically within seconds and keeps your entire home running as if nothing happened.
Unlike portable generators that require manual setup, fuel management, and extension cords, a standby generator is permanently installed outside your home and connected directly to your electrical panel through an automatic transfer switch. It runs on natural gas or propane, so there is no gasoline to store or refill. Unity Power & Light designs, installs, and maintains whole-home standby generator systems from Generac, Kohler, and other leading manufacturers throughout Aiken, SC and surrounding areas.
What We Do
A standby generator installation involves electrical, fuel, and site work. We manage the complete process from initial sizing to final commissioning.
Generator Sizing
The most important step is selecting the right size generator for your home. We perform a detailed load calculation that accounts for your HVAC system, water heater, kitchen appliances, well pump if applicable, and all other circuits. An undersized generator will overload and shut down. We size it right the first time.
Automatic Transfer Switch
The transfer switch is the brain of the system. It monitors utility power continuously and, when an outage is detected, signals the generator to start and transfers your home's electrical load from the utility to the generator -- all within 10 to 30 seconds, with no action required from you.
Generac Systems
Generac is the most popular residential standby generator brand in the United States. We install Generac Guardian and Protector series units ranging from 14kW to 26kW for whole-home coverage. Generac units include Mobile Link remote monitoring so you can check your generator's status from your phone.
Kohler Systems
Kohler generators are known for their commercial-grade engines and quieter operation. We install Kohler residential units from 14kW to 26kW with OnCue Plus monitoring. Kohler's corrosion-resistant enclosures are well-suited to the humidity and weather conditions in the Aiken area.
Natural Gas & Propane
Standby generators run on either natural gas or liquid propane. If your home has natural gas service, the generator connects to your existing gas line. For homes without natural gas, we coordinate propane tank installation and fuel line routing. Both fuel types provide unlimited runtime during extended outages.
Maintenance Plans
A standby generator runs a brief self-test cycle every week to stay ready. Beyond that, it needs annual professional maintenance -- oil change, filter replacement, spark plug inspection, battery test, and transfer switch exercise. We offer maintenance plans to keep your system reliable year after year.
Our Installation Process
Site Assessment and Load Calculation
We visit your home to evaluate the electrical panel, calculate total load, determine the optimal generator size, identify the best placement location (considering setback requirements, noise, and fuel access), and plan the transfer switch installation. You receive a detailed proposal with equipment specifications and a firm price.
Permits and Preparation
We pull all required electrical and mechanical permits, prepare the concrete pad or gravel base for the generator, and coordinate with your gas provider or propane company for fuel line installation. We handle the permitting process so you do not have to navigate it yourself.
Install Generator and Transfer Switch
We set the generator on its pad, install the automatic transfer switch at your electrical panel, run the electrical connections between the generator and transfer switch, and connect the fuel supply. The transfer switch is wired to handle your entire home's load or specific priority circuits based on the system you selected.
Commission and Test
We start the generator, simulate a power outage to verify the automatic transfer switch activates correctly, test all circuits under generator power, verify the system transfers back to utility power when it is restored, and set up remote monitoring on your phone. We walk you through the entire system so you know exactly how it works.
Why Professional Installation Matters
Standby generator installation is one of the most complex residential electrical projects. Here is why professional installation is essential for safety and reliability.
Correct Generator Sizing
An undersized generator will overload when multiple large loads start simultaneously -- your air conditioner compressor, water heater, and dryer all kicking on at once. An oversized generator wastes fuel and money. We perform a precise load calculation that accounts for starting surges and simultaneous loads to select the right unit.
Transfer Switch Safety
The automatic transfer switch must be installed correctly to prevent backfeeding -- a condition where generator power flows back onto utility lines, creating a lethal hazard for utility workers and neighbors. A properly installed transfer switch makes backfeeding physically impossible. This is not optional. It is a code requirement and a life-safety issue.
Code and Setback Requirements
Generators must be placed a minimum distance from windows, doors, air intakes, and property lines as specified by local codes and manufacturer requirements. In Aiken, these setback requirements vary depending on your neighborhood and lot configuration. We know the local requirements and position your generator to comply.
Warranty Protection
Both Generac and Kohler require installation by a certified dealer to maintain the full manufacturer warranty. An improper installation that causes equipment damage or failure will not be covered. Unity Power & Light is a certified installer, and our work protects your warranty from day one.
Whole-Home Generator Pricing
Unity Power & Light provides complete turnkey pricing for standby generator systems. Your quote includes the generator, transfer switch, concrete pad, electrical installation, fuel connection coordination, permits, and commissioning.
The final price depends on the generator size, the complexity of the electrical and fuel connections, whether a panel upgrade is needed, and site conditions. We provide an exact quote after a site assessment at your home.
For help understanding what size generator your home needs, read our blog post: Whole-Home Generator Sizing Guide for Aiken, SC
Why Choose Unity Power & Light
Already have a portable generator and want to upgrade? We also install generator interlock kits and manual transfer switches as a more affordable alternative to whole-home standby systems.
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Serving Aiken, SC and surrounding communities including North Augusta, Graniteville, New Ellenton, Jackson, and Clearwater. Get your free site assessment and quote today.