"The installation techs for my generator install were very polite and professional. They put a drop cloth down so they wouldn't make a mess on my floors. The generator cummings is top of the line."
"DES added several connections to the main breaker console. Responded timely to my request. Very professional and efficient. Also provided very welcome insights on the operation of the generator equipment, services and overall master system. Outstanding! Very highly recommended."
"I recently had my generator repaired and serviced, and I was very impressed with the quality of work. Johnny was professional, knowledgeable, and took the time to make sure everything was running properly before he left. My generator is now running great, and I appreciate the honest, reliable service. I highly recommend him for generator repair and maintenance needs."
"Sierra did a great job. Ran new electric and installed our Govee lights. Even took the time to help us download app on phone so we can control the lights."
"the plumber, Nick O, did a great job. He was careful, expert in installing a washer/ dryer combo, went the extra mile to do a great job, thank you , Nick"
Kelly's Renovations of Buffalo is the leader in providing our customers with the highest quality service in an honest, efficient, and professional way. Our pledge is to create successful relationships with our customers, employees and community by building trust, treating every project with the utmost integrity and exceeding expectations. We look forward to working with you!\n
South Townes electric, is committed to excellence in every aspect of our business. We uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty and responsibility in all of our jobs. We are a locally owned and operated business with more than 15 years of experience serving Hamburg, NY and surrounding areas. There is no job too big, or too small for our team. Call today and let us put our experience to work for you!
"Creekside Power is outstanding for electrical work!! The attention to detail put into their work when installing my Generac home standby generator was first class. I am pretty OCD about the way things are done, and Shawn s work was definitely up to my standards. I would highly recommend Creekside Power their price was my second lowest out of 14 estimates... Shawn was only $125 higher than my lowest estimate... and that person was not trained & certified to install Generac products, nor was he a Generac dealer like Shawn... that made my decision very easy. Everything was completed in a neat and orderly fashion. Shawn was very patient throughout, taking the time to answer my frequent questions. He used a level throughout the install and took his time as a result, everything lines up and matches up with my existing breaker box, etc. Shawn was very careful, diligent, and a bit OCD about how straight everything was during our install, which I thought was great!! Shawn takes pride in his work and it shows! Call Shawn for a free estimate... Shawn knows his stuff and you will like him. He did a great job for us on two jobs - a backup/standby generator install and a replacement of my meter channel!! He also ran a new electrical line to an out-building at my mom's house. I have already recommended Shawn to anyone I know who mentions wanting to get a generator installed."
Most homeowners won't be able to claim a home generator as a tax write-off. However, a whole-house generator may be tax-deductible in certain situations depending on its purpose. For instance, if it's needed to power essential medical equipment, it may qualify as a medical expense deduction. Also, in some cases, businesses can deduct a generator as a business expense if it supports operations. Always consult a tax professional to determine eligibility based on your specific circumstances and the applicable IRS regulations.
A portable generator can supply power to selected appliances and circuits in a home, but it's generally not designed to handle the entire household's electrical needs simultaneously. Portable generators have limited wattage capacity, so they are only designed to power essential devices and electronics temporarily until local power is restored. If your power needs outweigh the capabilities of a portable generator, consider installing a whole-home generator instead.
No, you should never plug a generator directly into a wall outlet in your house. This practice is extremely dangerous, often illegal, and can cause "back-feeding," where power from the generator flows back into utility lines, creating a life-threatening hazard for utility workers. It can also damage your home's electrical system, including appliances like pumps and HVAC fans. If the main power is restored while the generator is connected, it can destroy the generator and cause an electrical fire. To safely connect a generator, you must use a professionally installed transfer switch or an interlocking kit, which prevents back-feeding by disconnecting your home from the utility grid before the generator provides power.
With proper maintenance, a whole-house generator can last between 20 and 40 years. The specific lifespan depends on how often and for how long the generator is used, and some models may have their life expectancy rated in hours of operation. To maximize its lifespan, expect to spend around $150 to $300 per year for annual maintenance checks from a qualified technician. During these checks, a technician will inspect the engine filter, starting mechanism, fuel, lubrication, and coolant levels. Consulting your installer and choosing a low-impact fuel like natural gas or diesel can also help ensure your generator lasts as long as possible.
It is safe to run a generator continuously, but you must follow safety protocols to ensure personal and home safety. Read the manufacturer’s instructions for specific recommendations, but the general recommendation is to turn generators off overnight or when you’re away from the house. Overworked generators can pose a fire hazard and if your generator is not in a well-ventilated area, running it continuously could lead to carbon monoxide poisoning.
The Amherst, NY homeowners’ guide to generator installs
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
Natural gas generators are whole-home standby generators that are connected to your home’s natural gas line. The average cost for a natural gas generator is $12,000.
Generators should give you peace of mind, but you’ll only get that if your installer knows what they’re doing. Learn how to hire a pro and what red flags to look for.
Thinking about a generator installation? Learn about backup power options, costs to expect, and how to hire the right local pro to keep your home running.