Generators 101
With over 25 years of combined experience in the home generator field, chances are we may have answered a question on your mind. If you don't see your question listed here, let us know, we'll add it to the list.
“There's a lot of generator information out there. Mpower helped me pick a brand
that fit my budget and powered more
than I expected.”Mike M. | Western Springs
“I had an electrician install my system who didn't know much about generators. Mpower diagnosed and fixed a fuel problem we were having. They've earned my business, and my neighbors business too!”
Jim | Glencoe
Sump Pumps
We are often asked if we install sump
pump equipment. We do not, our generator systems are the next level of protection above sump pumps for protecting critical parts of your home. The best sump company we know is Basement Flood Protector.
Ask for Jeff, and tell him Paul sent you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How does an emergency generator work?
A: A residential generator system - which includes a generator and, automatic transfer switch continuously monitors your utility power. In the event of a power interruption or brown out, it powers selected circuits from the generator, even if you aren't home.
Q: What size generator do I need for a
2,500-square-foot home?
A: The size of your home is less important; what is more important is how many items you want to power. (This determines the size of your system, not the square footage.) A good place to start is, one Kw per circuit. Most applications are in the 12-18kW range.
Q: Do I need to choose a system that powers
my entire home?
A: No. Residential generators can be sized to power all, or part of your home. They can provide power for heating, lighting, security systems, wells and sump pumps, refrigerators and freezers, air conditioners, medical support equipment, televisions, computers, and other home electronics equipment.
Q: Will a generator run my furnace?
A: Yes. The typical wattage required to run a furnace fan
is quite small.
Q: How much noise does a generator make?
A: Most residential generators are very quiet. Sound levels of basic units are around 65 decibels, similar to a vacuum cleaner (normal conversation is about 60 decibels). You can be confident the noise a generator system makes will not disturb your normal activities.
Q: How much space does a generator need?
A: Basic units take up space equivalent to an air conditioner.
A typical foot print is 48" x 28".
Q: How long does a backup system installation take?
A: A typically about two days. However, each installation
is unique.
Q: How quickly does a whole house generator activate in the event
of a power outage?
A: Depending on the brand, your standby generator will be up and running in 10 to 30 seconds.
Q: What happens when the power is restored?
A: Your whole house generator will switch back to utility power in a few minutes after recognizing solid utility power has been restored. It will continue to run about 15 minutes longer, in order to cool the system down and reset.
Q: What if the power outage lasts for days?
A: Your standby generator can accommodate your power needs for several days. Regular maintenance is the key to being ready for longer outages.
Q: What about maintenance? Do you offer backup generator service after
the sale?
A: Regular service – including oil/filter changes, power quality tests, and battery/charger checkups are critical to the performance of your system. Mpower offers comprehensive Preventive Maintenance Plans, which include 24/7 emergency service and tracking of regular service calls. We are factory trained technicians and use genuine parts and accessories.
Q: How much does a backup power system cost?
A: Of course, every home's power needs and layout are different. Generally, the cost for a basic unit (installed) is approximately $7,500; generator systems start at $2,700.00. Contact Mpower for an estimate today.