There was a time when standby generators were viewed as an optional luxury—an expensive box you installed only if you had the budget or a strong concern about losing power. That’s no longer the case. With increasingly frequent weather disruptions and growing demands on aging electrical infrastructure, backup generators have moved into the category of essential planning for many homeowners, particularly in rural and cottage settings.
In both new home builds and whole-home renovations, more clients are asking us about permanent standby generators. The technology has improved, costs have come down, and the reality is this: when the power goes out, you don’t want to be left in the dark—literally or figuratively.
What a generator actually does
The value of a generator lies in its ability to keep your life running. Depending on how it’s configured, a standby system can power anything from basic essentials to your entire home. While some people think of a generator in terms of convenience—hot coffee, Netflix, and yes, even a hot tub—it’s just as much about protecting your home and safety.
Without power, your sump pump stops working. So does your furnace, your well pump, your refrigerator, and your ability to open the garage door. In some households, the generator makes the difference between disruption and disaster. For elderly residents or those with medical needs, having heat and electricity isn’t just about comfort—it’s about health and security.
Understanding transfer systems
There are two types of systems we typically install, and they handle outages in different ways. A transfer switch is connected to your home’s main panel and supplies generator power to the entire home. When the grid goes down, the switch transfers your home to generator power, covering all circuits.
A transfer panel, on the other hand, allows you to choose which circuits are backed up—kitchen appliances, furnace, lighting, and maybe one or two convenience outlets. It’s an automatic system, just like a transfer switch, but it’s sized for more moderate use. This is often a smart solution for smaller homes or clients looking to manage upfront costs without sacrificing essential systems.
Fuel sources and what makes sense
Most permanent standby generators run on one of three fuels: natural gas, propane, or diesel. Natural gas is the most seamless option for urban and suburban homes connected to municipal service. In rural and off-grid areas, propane becomes the practical choice due to accessibility and ease of storage. Diesel systems are common in commercial and farm applications but less typical for residential use, although they do offer long lifespan and high output.
Fuel source often comes down to what’s already available on-site and how often the system is expected to run. For occasional use, propane is clean and efficient. For remote properties that endure prolonged outages, diesel may have the edge.
Choosing the right size
Not all generators are created equal, and more power isn’t always better. The right size depends on what you plan to back up. Most average homes can run comfortably on an 18 to 22 kilowatt generator. That’ll handle lighting, HVAC, refrigeration, water systems, and some convenience circuits.
Larger homes, or those with high electrical demand—hot tubs, large HVAC systems, full-home coverage—often require generators rated at 25 kilowatts or higher. Oversizing a generator increases your installation and fuel costs, while undersizing can leave you unprotected.
It’s important to match the system to your actual load, not just your square footage. That’s where professional guidance becomes essential.
Installation is a multi-trade process
One of the more common misconceptions is that a generator is a plug-and-play system. In reality, installation requires careful coordination. Electricians are responsible for installing the switch or panel and connecting the system to your home’s wiring. A gas technician is needed to connect the fuel source. And a contractor ensures that the generator is placed correctly, usually on a concrete pad, with consideration for clearance, drainage, and noise.
Each of these elements must come together safely and to code. It’s not a job for a single trade. That’s why we always recommend integrating the generator into your project planning from the start—especially on new builds or full-gut renovations.
Maintenance and long-term use
Think of your generator like a vehicle. It’s a powerful machine that sits idle most of the time but needs to be ready to perform under pressure. Regular maintenance is key.
At a minimum, you should plan for annual oil changes, air filter replacements, and a full system check. Most modern systems self-test weekly, and many include monitoring apps to alert you to service needs. When the lights go out, that reliability is what matters most.
And it’s worth mentioning: today’s generators are much quieter than they used to be. If your neighbour complains about the hum during a storm, hand them an extension cord—they’ll stop complaining quickly.
Who benefits most?
While standby generators can benefit almost any homeowner, they’re especially critical in rural settings where power outages last longer and infrastructure is slower to respond. Cottage properties, farmhouses, and estate homes all fall into this category.
Families with young children, seniors, or anyone who depends on medical equipment should take the idea seriously. While a healthy middle-aged adult can rough it for a few days, not everyone can.
Building in backup with DeCarli
When you’re already planning a new home, cottage, or whole-home renovation, it’s the ideal time to consider a generator. It’s far more cost-effective to integrate the system into your build plan than to retrofit later. And with so many options out there, getting expert advice helps you avoid overbuilding—or under-preparing.
At DeCarli Contractors, we help you navigate these decisions with real-world experience. We coordinate the right trades, recommend proven equipment, and make sure your home is protected the moment the power cuts out.
Because backup power isn’t just about convenience—it’s about peace of mind.
Would you like to learn more? We would love to discuss your ambitions with you. Please get in touch at your convenience.
