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

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 HVAC, Plumbing, & Electrical 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!

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919-823-7344

Why Choose Ted’s For Whole-Home Generators?

Ted’s HVAC, Plumbing, & Electrical 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.

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What Our Customers Say About Us

4.9 Google Rating

Technician Justin Brown was very detailed and did a great job and was very professional in his explanation of what he was doing. He performed hvac maintenance on my gas pack. Excellent service!

Bruce Moore

3 days ago

Very helpful and professional! Understood our needs, asked follow up questions and listen to what was discussed.

Douglas Wagner

3 days ago

Kendall at Ted’s stopped to help me while I was stranded on the side of the road. I can only imagine the work done over at the company if everyone is as kind as this guy!! Huge thank you to Kendall! Great guy!

Jamie Poteat

3 days ago

5/29/25..Kail returned today for our routine HVAC maintenance and like before he was very friendly and professional..He explained everything he did and even showed pictures he took..All of Ted's workers are always super nice, very well mannered and don't look like they just rolled out of bed..As always we appreciate the great service and are proud to be Ted club members.. 12/2024..Kail came out today for routine hvac maintenance; super friendly and professional! He noticed we had a plumbing issue under the house so they sent plumbers Grant and Josh out and they had us fixed up in no time..All three of these guys are very smart and so well mannered..I can never say enough good things about this company.. Update 7/17/24..Had both our plumbing and HVAC serviced today..Hunter and Sam were so friendly, professional, and know what they are doing..It is so refreshing to see young ambitious people with such good work ethics..Everyone that has ever worked with us from there, including Grant, has been so well mannered and polite..We will never use anyone else.. Original post: fantastic service..the techs were smart as whips i was so impressed..we got a great unit with wifi..we also got a reasonable price..this is a great company!

C Blalock

3 days ago

Kendall came out on short notice. He was courteous and efficient. He fixed the issue in no time. Will definitely use again.

Larry Coleman

3 days ago

I had a opportunity to use Ted's HVAC, Electrical and Plumbing last week and just wanted to share my experience with this company. I called to request service at my residence and just wanted to let everyone know the ease of making an appointment for service was so easy. I was informed every step of the way once my Tech arrived at my residence. Service Tech Grant assessed my problems and gave a solutions to fix the problem. He was he very professional and knowledgeable and did outstanding work. Thanks again for the quick response and I would highly recommend Ted's HVAC, Electrical and Plumbing.

Dean Ward

3 days ago

It took a long time for your staff to understand my issue and I must say Chris was the one person who took the time to read the emails I forwarded to you that detailed what was to be done. Since Chris and I talked we are now on the road to addressing my issue of a new WiFi adapter for my unit that is being supplied by Mitsubishi. Thank you Chris!

Nelson Johnson

3 days ago

Prompt, friendly and professional service, highly recommended. Will use again

Peter Wright

4 days ago

LJ and Nathan were awesome! Saved me money while fixing our issue! That’s what I love about Ted’s. Their technicians and the fact they stand behind their service.

nancy oberman

4 days ago

Justin did a great job inspecting my HVAC. Explained me the issues with visual pictures and recommended my options to fix. Great job

Sridher Sathi

4 days ago

Justin it's one of the best technicians I ever met recommend them highly

Sotos Efthimiadis

4 days ago

Kendell & Ted came out and fixed me right up! Had several electrical outlets that needed upgrading & repairs, they did a GREAT job!!! Very friendly, polite & knowledgeable on what needed to be done!! Will definitely use them again for future needs!! Thank you!

Elaine m

5 days ago

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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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