Carroll EMC works 24/7 each day of the year to avoid potential power outages and to ensure Members have reliable power. However, the cooperative cannot guarantee uninterruptable service due unpredictable weather and acts of nature. Home backup generators are the first line of defense in keeping your house or business online in the event of a power outage.

Carroll EMC has partnered with a certified Generac generator installer to bring our Members a variety of backup solutions for any-sized home or business.

The backup generator is installed permanently at your place of residence or business and is connected directly to the electrical system. If an outage occurs, the generator automatically cuts on, providing safe and continuous power until the electric grid is restored. Depending on the unit size, it can power your entire home, including lights, appliances and HVAC systems. Home backup systems are fueled by natural gas or propane which eliminates the need for manual refueling required by portable generators.

Whole home generators typically incorporate a large up-front cost but can protect your home or business from future uncertainties or setbacks. With regular maintenance and professional installation, home backup generators are a long-term solution to increasing your property value and giving you peace of mind.

Pricing Options

Generator prices vary based on the size and power rating of the generator, and installation requires additional costs. Contact Carroll EMC at (770) 832-3552 and be referred to a professional for a free quote. The free quote provides several pricing and sizing options to allow you to make an informed choice.

Installation

Certified installers can install a generator in about one day, and the installation process typically follows four steps:

1. Site Selection: Members will work with installation experts to determine the best site for a generator. The ideal site should be well-drained and should not experience flooding. The generator must also be at least 3 feet from utility meters, air conditioning units, combustibles or anything serviceable. It is important to note that the closer the site is to the electric meter and the natural gas supply line, the less installation will cost.
2. Generator Installation: The installer will first set a bed of gravel or cement slab that is 18 inches from the house and 60 inches from doors, windows, and fresh air intakes. The generator will be installed on top of the gravel or cement layer.
3. Connecting Fuel and Electrical: The installer connects a fuel line from your home’s existing natural gas or propane line to the generator. If your home does not have a natural gas or propane source, then it is important to speak with a Generac expert before purchasing a generator. Next to the main breaker box, the transfer switch is installed. The transfer switch is a device that transfers load from one source to another. In the case of a generator, the transfer switch identifies when utility power is unavailable and switches the load to the generator.
4. Simulating an Outage: To ensure that your generator and transfer switch are working properly, the installer will simulate a power outage. Fuel is drawn from the fuel line and the generator is turned on to restore power during the outage simulation. Finally, the installer will set up the generator to run weekly tests to ensure that all parts are working properly.

Contact us at (770) 832-3552 to learn more and to invest in a home backup generator today.