Standby Generator Questions, Answered

A portable generator is stored in your garage, rolled out during an outage, and connected manually — it powers a few things through extension cords or a manual inlet. A standby generator is permanently installed outside like an AC unit, wired to your panel through an automatic transfer switch, and starts itself within seconds of an outage. Standby systems cost more and can power the whole home, including central AC.

Both are the dominant residential brands in Central Texas. Generac has the largest dealer and parts network, which can mean faster service. Kohler units are known for sturdy construction and slightly quieter operation at comparable sizes. In practice, the quality of the local installer and their service support matters more than the badge — which is why getting a proper site visit and written quote matters. Cummins is a third option seen on larger homes.

Most Hays County homes land at 22–26kW for true whole-home coverage with central AC. Smaller homes, or homes willing to manage loads, can use 14–18kW. An installer calculates this from your panel size, AC tonnage, and any big loads (ovens, dryers, pool equipment, EV chargers) — be wary of anyone who quotes a size without asking about your panel.

Yes. All three cities require permits for the electrical and gas/plumbing work involved in a standby installation, with inspections after. In unincorporated Hays County, requirements differ but the electrical work still must meet code. Your installation provider should pull the permits as part of the job — confirm that in writing.

Generally yes, with conditions. Most Hays County HOAs treat generators like AC equipment: permitted with architectural review, set placement rules (side or rear yard, near the existing AC unit), setback requirements, and sometimes noise or screening conditions. Your installer will usually prepare the drawing your HOA needs. Texas law also limits how far HOAs can go in restricting standby generators, but following the approval process avoids fines and delays.

The physical installation is typically 1–2 days. The full process — site visit, quote, HOA approval if needed, permits, scheduling — usually runs 2–6 weeks. Propane tank installation or panel upgrades can add time.

Oil and filter changes roughly once a year or after extended run time, air filter and spark plug service, battery checks, and keeping the weekly self-test cycle running. Many owners use a service plan (typically $300–$500/year); manufacturers require documented maintenance to keep warranties in force.

Appraisers and listing agents in outage-prone parts of Texas increasingly treat whole-home standby power as a selling feature, particularly after Uri. It rarely returns its full cost at resale on its own — think of it primarily as protection and comfort, with a resale bonus.

Nothing. Submit the form and your request goes to one local installation provider, who contacts you to schedule a site visit and prepare a written quote. We're a matching service, not an installer — see the disclosure in the footer.