Generator sizing is based on a load calculation that accounts for the circuits and appliances you need to power during an outage. A whole-home system that covers every circuit requires a larger unit than a system designed to protect only your critical circuits, such as heating, sump pump, refrigeration, and lighting. There is no universal answer, which is why we perform an on-site load calculation before recommending any system. An undersized generator will struggle under load and wear out faster, so getting the sizing right from the start is one of the most important parts of the installation process.

A standby generator is permanently installed outside your property, connected to your natural gas or propane supply, and wired directly into your electrical panel through an automatic transfer switch. It starts on its own within seconds of an outage and requires no action from you. A portable generator is a temporary solution that requires manual setup, an extension cord or manual transfer switch, and a separate fuel supply. For Ithaca homeowners who experience regular winter outages, a standby system offers a level of convenience and reliability that a portable unit cannot match.

Yes. Generator installations in the City of Ithaca and across Tompkins County require an electrical permit, and in most cases a mechanical permit as well depending on the fuel connection involved. Pleasant Valley Electric handles the full permit application and coordinates the required inspection on your behalf. Every installation we complete is fully permitted and inspected before we consider the job done.

Yes. We install and service generators from all major manufacturers including Generac, Kohler, and Briggs and Stratton. Our team is experienced with the full range of residential, commercial, and industrial generator systems available in the market. During your assessment we will recommend the system that best fits your property, load requirements, and budget regardless of brand.

Most standby generators are designed to run a brief weekly self-test cycle automatically, which keeps the engine conditioned between outages. Beyond that, annual professional maintenance is recommended for most residential systems. This typically includes an oil and filter change, spark plug inspection, battery test, cooling system check, and a full operational test. Commercial and industrial systems may require more frequent service depending on runtime and load. Staying current on maintenance is the most reliable way to ensure your generator performs when you need it.

Call us at (607) 272-6922. We provide 24-hour emergency electrical service across Tompkins County and treat generator failures during active outages as priority calls. Do not attempt to diagnose or repair a generator yourself during an outage, particularly if the system involves a natural gas or propane connection. Our technicians carry common replacement parts and can resolve many generator failures on the first visit.

Yes. Pleasant Valley Electric handles generator installations for commercial properties, industrial facilities, and multi-unit residential buildings across Tompkins County. Commercial and industrial installations involve a more detailed assessment process than residential work, including higher output requirements, larger transfer switch configurations, and in some cases coordination with the utility provider. Call us to schedule a consultation and we will give you a clear picture of what your project involves.