What Is a Whole-Home Generator and How Does It Work?

A whole-home generator automatically powers your home during a utility outage. It connects directly to your home’s electrical panel and typically runs on natural gas or propane. Within seconds of losing power, it kicks on to keep lights, appliances, and HVAC systems running.

How Is a Whole-Home Generator Different From a Portable One?

Whole-home generators are permanently installed and can power your entire home automatically. Portable generators require manual setup, limited fuel, and only support select appliances. The convenience, safety, and capacity of whole-home systems make them ideal for long-term reliability.

What Size Generator Do I Need for My Home?

The right size depends on your home’s square footage and the appliances or systems you want to power. Most homes need a generator between 14–22 kilowatts for full coverage. A licensed electrician can calculate your exact power needs and recommend the appropriate model.

Does a Whole-Home Generator Turn On Automatically?

Yes, whole-home generators have automatic transfer switches that detect outages and start the generator within seconds. This ensures continuous power without you needing to lift a finger. When utility power returns, the system shuts off and switches back seamlessly.

Can a Whole-Home Generator Power My HVAC System?

Absolutely—one of the major benefits of a whole-home generator is its ability to support high-demand systems like air conditioning and heating. This keeps your home comfortable even during extended outages. Make sure the unit is sized correctly to handle your HVAC load.

How Often Does a Whole-Home Generator Need Maintenance?

Most generators should be serviced at least once a year, or after every 100–200 hours of use. Regular maintenance includes oil changes, filter replacements, and system checks. Many systems also perform self-tests weekly to ensure they’re ready when needed.

Is a Whole-Home Generator a Good Investment?

Yes, especially in areas with frequent storms or unreliable power. It protects your food, electronics, and comfort while also increasing your home’s value. Many homeowners find peace of mind alone makes it worth the investment.

What Fuel Types Can Be Used for Whole-Home Generators?

Whole-home generators typically run on natural gas or propane, with some models also supporting diesel. Natural gas is convenient if your home already has a line, while propane is great for rural areas with large storage tanks. The fuel choice affects installation and operating costs.

Durham Whole-Home Generators

Name: Ted's Air, Plumbing, & Electric
Brand: Ted's Air, Plumbing, & Electric
Rating: 4.9 (1209 reviews)

Power Your Home With Confidence

Whether it’s storm season or an unexpected outage, a whole-home generator gives your family the comfort and safety you deserve. In Durham, having backup power is more than a luxury—it’s peace of mind. Ted’s Air, Plumbing, Electric installs dependable whole-home generators that integrate with your electrical system to automatically turn on when the power goes out. No more spoiled food, dead devices, or freezing nights. Along with seamless power restoration, many of our generator systems include built-in electrical/surge-protection/”>surge protection—offering an added layer of security for your home’s electrical system. Keep life running smoothly in Durham with a professionally installed generator.

Our Whole-Home Generator Services

We provide a full range of services to ensure your whole-home generator is ready when you need it most. From installation to maintenance and repairs, we are dedicated to delivering reliable solutions. Keep your home powered during outages with our expert services tailored to your needs.

Whole-Home Generator Installation — Installing a whole-home generator ensures your entire house stays powered during an outage. We assess your electrical needs to recommend the perfect unit for your home and provide seamless installation.
Generator Maintenance — Regular maintenance helps prevent costly breakdowns and ensures your generator works efficiently. Our team performs thorough inspections and necessary tune-ups to extend the life of your system.
Generator Repair — If your generator isn’t working correctly, we’re here to diagnose and fix the issue quickly. We handle all types of repairs, from minor adjustments to more complex fixes, so your generator runs smoothly.
Transfer Switch Installation — A transfer switch automatically switches the power to your generator during an outage. We install and set up these systems to ensure an immediate response and hassle-free power restoration.
Generator Load Testing — Testing your generator’s load capacity ensures it will run effectively when needed. We perform comprehensive load tests to confirm your generator is ready for any situation.

To see what Ted's can do for you, call us and schedule today!

Book Online

919-823-7344

Why Choose Ted’s For Whole-Home Generators?

Ted’s Air, Plumbing, Electric offers more than just high-quality generator services; we provide peace of mind. Our skilled technicians are dedicated to ensuring that your home stays powered during unexpected outages. We offer personalized service tailored to your home’s specific needs and always prioritize your safety. With our trusted team, you can rest assured knowing you’re getting reliable and efficient generator solutions.

Tailored Solutions for Your Home — We take the time to assess your home’s power needs and recommend the best whole-home generator. Our personalized approach ensures that your generator installation fits your home perfectly.
Full Range of Services — From installation to maintenance and repair, we provide complete generator services. No matter what your generator needs, our team has the expertise to get the job done right.
Attention to Detail — Every job we take on is handled with precision and care. Our technicians go above and beyond to make sure everything from the generator installation to the transfer switch is correctly set up.
Trustworthy Advice — We offer clear, honest advice about the best generator options for your home. Our team helps you make informed decisions so you can invest in the right generator for your needs.
Thorough Workmanship — Our technicians ensure that all aspects of your generator installation or repair are completed with the utmost attention to detail. We follow industry best practices and guarantee that your system will operate efficiently.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Our Customers Say About Us

4.9 Google Rating

Levi was an amazing technician and the first to diagnose our problem on the first visit. Our family appreciated his thorough investigative approach to the diagnostic appointment and providing options for other projects we need for the long term health of our home utilities. We look forward to working with Ted's in the future.

Ani Khaos

3 days ago

Levi, the plumber, did a fantastic job of asessing the plumbing system he was friendly and professional. I will definitely be using this company again!

Adam Wunsch

3 days ago

Liam was great. He explained everything well and made sure we had all the information before choosing repair options.

Ryan Pomeroy

4 days ago

Quick easy professional

Jon Sheldon

6 days ago

down to earth professionalism, went through all options in detail for new HVAC system, very satisfied as a whole

Matt Morris

6 days ago

I think the service techs name was Levi woke up last night with no water. Contacted Ted's at about 7:30am and within an hour they called and said he was on the way. Well pump burned up had me up and running in about 2 and a half hours . Great guy checked everything else and all is good now. Never have any problems with Ted's.

Jonathan Stewart

6 days ago

AC went out after hours. My AC was fixed and everything went great 👍

Teresa shouff

6 days ago

Levi was very professional and had the problem diagnosed and repaired.

Michael Johnson

7 days ago

Our water went out over the weekend. After leaving a message with their automated system, the weekend operator reached out so that we could get a tech out same day, which I greatly appreciated. Daniel, our technician, came to our house within 30 minutes of us requesting an emergency appointment. He was knowledgeable, explained everything up front, and had our water back on quickly. We really appreciated the level of care, transparency, and fantastic customer service we received!

Heather Bulman

1 week ago

Excellent ! Hunter and Tyler did an amazing job. Very professional and considerate. Top notch customer service and work. Daniel was great as well explaining everything.
I highly recommend this business. Have not had this kind of customer service in a very long time.

Char Burks

2 weeks ago

Quick response, friendly service, and provided multiple options.

Heather Hillaker

2 weeks ago

Omar provided absolute five-star service today from Ted's Air, Plumbing, & Electric. He was incredibly thorough, kind, and patient, taking the time to explain the entire A/C process clearly. He did an outstanding job installing our new UV light and dust-prevention air filter. If you want high-quality, professional HVAC service, I highly recommend asking for Omar at Ted's!

Frank Moneymaker

2 weeks ago

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Ready for Unbeatable HVAC, Plumbing, and Electrical Service?

Your home deserves top-quality care from experts who prioritize your comfort and safety. Whether you need a fast repair, a system upgrade, or routine maintenance, our skilled team is here to deliver reliable solutions with unmatched professionalism. We take the time to understand your needs and provide services that enhance efficiency, performance, and long-term savings. With a commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction, we ensure every job is done right the first time. Experience the difference of expert service—contact us today to schedule your appointment!

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