About this service
A backup generator supplies selected electrical loads when the normal network supply fails. The installation may use manual or automatic changeover equipment, dedicated essential-load distribution, earthing arrangements, controls and safe connection of the generator.
Generator capacity must account for starting currents, load sequence and the quality of supply required by sensitive equipment. The system also needs a defined operating, testing, fuel, ventilation and maintenance plan.
Common problems we help with
Portable generator is connected unsafely
Improvised leads can backfeed the network, bypass protection or expose users to dangerous voltages.
Generator stalls when loads start
Motors, pumps and refrigeration can draw high starting current.
Entire building is treated as essential
Oversizing and poor priorities make a practical resilience scheme expensive.
Changeover or battery is not tested
Standby equipment can fail when needed if routine exercise and maintenance are ignored.
How we carry out the work
Define essential loads and duration
We list what must operate, for how long and whether interruption is acceptable.
Design generation and changeover
Capacity, load steps, earthing, protection, location, fuel and ventilation are coordinated.
Install, test and simulate failure
Normal and backup operation, changeover, isolation and selected circuits are commissioned under controlled conditions.
What is normally included?
- Initial discussion about the property, symptoms, priorities and timescale
- Assessment of the relevant circuit, equipment, access and existing protection
- A written scope for the proposed backup generator installation work
- The agreed installation or repair work, with disruption kept to a reasonable minimum
- Inspection, electrical testing and appropriate handover documentation
Before the work starts
- Operational loads, critical equipment and permitted shutdown windows
- Existing drawings, circuit schedules and maintenance records
- Access, permits, occupied areas and coordination with site management
- Future capacity, maintainability and business-continuity requirements
What affects the price?
The price depends on the existing installation and the amount of work required. For backup generator installation, the main factors normally include:
- Load, circuit and distribution complexity
- Containment, access equipment and working restrictions
- Phasing, temporary supplies and out-of-hours work
- Testing, documentation and coordination with specialist equipment
Testing, certificates and handover
Once the installation work is complete, we inspect and test it and provide the records that apply to the job.
- Updated labels, schedules and relevant drawings
- Installation or test certification
- Operating and isolation information
- A documented list of agreed variations and remaining recommendations
Backup Generator Installation questions
Can a generator power the whole building?
Possibly, but a selected essential-load design is often more practical and efficient.
Can changeover be automatic?
Yes, with suitable equipment, controls and a generator designed for automatic starting.
What about solar and batteries?
Existing generation and storage must be coordinated so sources cannot energise each other or the network unsafely.
Booking the work
What happens after you contact us
1. Discuss the job
Tell us about the property, the symptoms or the result you want. Photographs and model numbers are often helpful.
2. Inspect and quote
We check the relevant installation and give you a written quotation showing what is included.
3. Complete and test
We carry out the agreed work, verify it electrically and explain any controls, labels or certificates at handover.