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

I'M a new customer. I am very satisfied of there service .Kendall Rodriguez was very professional and punctual and friendly.it would be a great idea .to get this company to work on your unit ..he is great heating & air guy. the other heating and air company halls .is great to..he will try to explain what he is doing to the heating and air conditioning unit ..to help you understand what he is doing. i called two other heating and air conditioning guys & plumbing..no reply back..thank you Ted's Hvac , .they are a 10 all the way .they dont look down on you if you are on disability or the way you dress or if you can't hear to good.

Timothy Clayton

2 days ago

My experience with The HVAC was awesome. They too me through every step, answer all the questions and assured me that I was making the right decision. They also worked around my schedule . Ted's HVAC cleaned the debre and showed me everything I needed to know. They were so couristy and polite.

Linda Jones

2 days ago

Omar did a very thorough job and was very friendly and professional.

Pam Furstenau

3 days ago

Ted's was very helpful in working through our HVAC issues. Ivan came out and performed troubleshooting. He was able to get the system back in service and explained that he had to make temporary changes to do so. He also followed up to order the parts needed and gave an accurate expected time to return for making permanent repairs. He did a great job explaining the issues and working towards a resolution. He was very professional as well. The scheduling staff also worked to get him here quickly once they were contacted.

Pat Bowen

3 days ago

Every single person that we have had contact with or that has come to work at the house 100% lives up to the company motto! The company's core values are the reason I hired them 3 and 1/2 years ago for some duct repair and a mini split installation when we moved in. And it's the reason why I automatically called them back when we finally needed a brand new system installed. From customer service to repairs, to Sean and Obed's installation to super thorough cleaning and maintenance, to Chris' patient explanation of finances and guidance for decisions , the whole team who worked with us is without a fail polite, professional, super patient and friendly. Even when I'm probably driving them crazy with a fickle noise that comes up without warning, they come check it out and keep at it with customer satisfaction as the number one priority. Sure, maybe there are companies that cost a bit less because of less overhead (but it's helpful that Ted's offers easy payment plans too ) yet the competence, reliability and integrity are worth it!

Kim Napa

3 days ago

Met with Tom today about a new hvac system. Great experience. Very knowledgeable and professional in helping me make the right decision. Well pleased

Alan Revels

4 days ago

Had our first HVAC maintenance service with TEDS HVAC PLUMBING & ELECTRICAL. Our Technician (KENDALL) was prompt, courteous, friendly, professional, & very efficient! Took the time to answer any questions we had, as well as explaining the work to be done, & all other service options offered by the company. I’m very pleased with the services rendered & would highly recommend this company for your home needs.

A.c. Harris

4 days ago

Kendall was amazing, great service today!

SHANNON DAYE

4 days ago

The service tech Kenndal excellent and thorough. 5 stars!

Charles Phillips

5 days ago

Kendall did an efficient review of the HVAC system. LJ did a great job with the plumbing check. Respectful, clean, complete job. We have a maintenance plan.

Kathie Felter

6 days ago

This was our first time using Ted's services..We we're very pleased with Kendall the service guy that came out.I plan to definitely use them in the future

angela rounceville

6 days ago

Chris & Cam were very nice and professional. They kept me informed on everything that they were doing and what needed to be done. Chris & Cam are an asset to your company. Thank-You

Stephanie Daye

6 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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