Ever since the uneasiness that led up to Y2K, home generators have become a popular addition for many homeowners. For those who work from a home office or have special health concerns, losing power can have serious consequences. For others, the security that a generator provides is simply worth the cost.
Portable vs. Permanent
The first decision you'll need to make when choosing a generator is whether you want a portable or permanent unit. Portable generators are sufficient if your main concern is riding out a short power outage. They run on gas or propane, are very reasonably priced, and can be tucked away into a corner of the garage when they're not being used. They are not a suitable solution for dealing with extended power outages, however, or if you need continuous power to your entire home. In that case, you'll definitely want to purchase a permanent residential stand-by generator.
You'll Never Be Without Power Again!
Besides providing superior power, permanent generators are completely hands-off once they've been installed. They run on propane or natural gas, and are wired with an automatic transfer switch that determines immediately if you've lost power. Thanks to that technology, the longest you'll be without power is the ten to thirty seconds that pass between the lights going out and your new generator automatically kicking on.
Generator Installation Tips and Guidelines
If you're ready to undertake a permanent generator installation project, there's several things you'll need to consider as you get going.
Permits and Permissions. Before you start any generator installation be sure to talk to all the appropriate authorities and obtain the necessary permits and approvals. This includes your utility provider and, if you're installing a separate fuel tank, your local municipality as well.
Where Will It Go? For starters, your generator will be installed outside your home. Usually the best place is close to where your utilities come into the structure. It makes for easy connection to the electrical coming into your house, as well as to natural gas lines if that's your fuel of choice. If you'll be running your generator on propane, think about installing your tank in the same vicinity as well. Finally, try to find a well-ventilated spot away from windows and doors so the exhaust from your generator doesn't leak back into your home.
Pour a Foundation. Once you've figured out an optimal location for your unit, the next step in your generator installation is pouring a small concrete slab for it to stand on.
Hooking It Up. The final step of any generator installation is hooking up the utilities. Call in the appropriate contractors for this phase if you haven't already brought in professional help.
Go With the Pros
As with any project that involves electrical work and running lines for natural gas or propane, don't try a generator installation yourself unless you're experienced and confident in both. Most likely your generator retailer will have a list of qualified contractors that can help you out, and many retailers provide installation services to their customers. Don't be shy about seeking out these services so you can enjoy the safety and security of your new permanent residential standby generator worry free for years to come. 
Matt Goering, formerly a carpenter and house painter, is a freelance writer for the home improvement industry who has published over 600 articles.
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