By Loyal Lab Electric & Generators – Serving Somersworth, NH and Surrounding Communities
It’s February in New Hampshire, the wind is howling outside, and over the wind gusts you hear *
blip*.
Crap.
There goes the power, and you’re left wondering if the pipes will freeze or your food will go bad in the freezer before Eversource gets to you. Sound familiar? If you’ve lived in the Granite State for any length of time, you know exactly what I’m talking about.
This situation is exactly why more New Hampshire homeowners are installing standby generators. But before you just jump right into generator installation, there’s a lot more to consider than just picking the first unit you can find. Trust us, we’ve seen homeowners make some costly mistakes over the years, and our goal is to help you avoid them.
Whether you’re living in a rural area where it takes hours, if not days for the power to come back on, or if you simply want peace of mind during our notorious Nor’easters, this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know to understand your options for a generator. From standby generator requirements to proper whole-house generator sizing, we’ll cover it all so you can make the smartest decision for your family and your budget.
Understanding Your Power Needs = The Foundation of Smart Generator Installation
Something that most homeowners unfortunately don’t realize until it’s too late: not all generators are created equal, and bigger isn’t always better. I’ve walked into too many homes where someone installed a massive generator that could power their neighbor’s neighbor, only to find out, big surprise, they’re spending a ton on fuel and maintenance for power they’ll never be able to fully use.
This is why the first step in any solid home generator installation is performing what is called an electrical load calculation. Performing one of these is the difference between a generator that is the perfect fit, and one that is either too small for your needs or wastes your money.
What is Calculated During a Test?
Great question, we focus on your essential circuits. These typically include:
- Heating and cooling systems (the big power hogs)
- Refrigeration and freezers (after making sure you don’t freeze, food comes next)
- Well pumps (especially for rural NH homes)
- Medical equipment (absolutely non-negotiable)
- Basic lighting and outlets
- Garage doors (you’d be surprised how often people forget this one)
- EV Chargers (if that is your only vehicle, you need to have a way to charge during an outage)
When we performed a load calculation for a client in Dover last fall, they initially wanted a 20kW generator because their neighbor had one. We get keeping up with the Jones’, but for a generator, you need the one that fits your needs best, not your neighbor’s.
Turns out, after we ran the numbers, we discovered their actual needs were perfectly met by a 14kW unit, saving them over $3,000 upfront and significantly reducing their ongoing fuel costs.
The math isn’t complicated, but it requires understanding both your home’s electrical system and your family’s actual needs during an outage. At Loyal Lab Electric & Generators, we use specialized equipment to measure your current electrical usage, and we always factor in New Hampshire’s insane winters.
This is especially important if you’re either considering or need other electrical upgrades, like
a service panel upgrade, which might affect your power needs. Remember, a sizing mistake for a whole house generator can be expensive to fix later, so trust the pros to get it right the first time.
For most New Hampshire homes, standby generators range from 10kW to 24kW, but I’ve seen efficient 2,000 square foot homes run comfortably on 12kW systems while some bigger properties with electric heat need 30kW or more. The key is matching the system to your requirements, not your neighbors.
Navigating New Hampshire’s Generator Installation Requirements
Now, let’s address something that trips up a lot of DIY-minded homeowners: New Hampshire has specific requirements for generator installations, and ignoring them can cost you, big time. Although rare, I have seen projects shut down by code enforcement, insurance claims denied, and even electrical hazards created by improper and DIY installations.
First up: permits. Yes, you need them. And yes, we get they are a pain.
Installing a generator falls under electrical work in New Hampshire, which means you need both an electrical permit, a Gas Permit, and often a building permit. The process varies by town (Dover will have different requirements than Rochester or Durham), but the state electrical code applies everywhere.
Some Key Standby Generator Requirements Include:
- Proper setback distances: Your generator must be AT LEAST 5 feet from any window, door, or air intake. We’ve had to relocate generators because homeowners didn’t account for their neighbor’s property lines too.
- Concrete pad specifications: The pad must be level, properly sized, and able to handle the weight and vibration. A shifting generator is a dangerous generator.
- Gas line requirements: If you’re going with natural gas (which I often recommend), the line must be properly sized and pressure-tested. Propane installations have their own set of rules.
- Transfer switch installation: This is the brain of your system and must be installed by a licensed electrician. No exceptions. These can be installed either inside or outside, depending on the system’s design.
Unfortunately, one of our Rochester generator clients had to learn this lesson the hard way. They had a handyman friend install their generator to save money, only to discover their homeowner’s insurance wouldn’t cover storm damage because the installation wasn’t up to code. We ended up having to completely redo the installation, and it cost them close to double what they would have paid originally.
The inspection process after everything gets installed is also critical. Where most parts of New Hampshire (Including Somersworth, Strafford, and Dover) require permits for a generator installation, this means they also require an inspection. And trust me, these inspectors know what to look for. Luckily for us and our clientele, we’ve never had an installation fail inspection because we make sure to follow all codes and regulations meticulously, but I’ve seen my fair share of DIY jobs that had to be completely redone.
Pro tip: Always verify your electrician is licensed and insured in New Hampshire. Check with your local building department before starting any work, and make sure all permits are pulled before the first shovel hits the ground. If you’re planning other electrical work alongside your generator installation, consider bundling services like
lighting upgrades or repairs to maximize efficiency and potentially save on costs.
Choosing the Right Generator Type for New Hampshire Homes
When it comes to backup generator options NH homeowners have, there are really three main categories to consider, and each has its place depending on your specific situation and budget.
Portable generator
s are the most affordable option, typically running $500-$2,000. But here’s the reality: in New Hampshire’s harsh winters, running extension cords through snow and ice while setting up a portable generator during a power outage can be majorly inconvenient or even dangerous. Plus, you’re limited to powering just a few essential items.
Standby generators for essential circuits only are where most of our clients end up, and for good reason. These permanent installations automatically kick in when the power goes out, whether you’re home or away. For New Hampshire homeowners, this automatic operation is crucial, especially if you travel or work long hours. Prices range from $8,000 to $15,000 depending on size and features, but the peace of mind is invaluable.
We recently had a client in Dover who was initially hesitant about the cost of a standby system. Then we had that ice storm two winters ago that knocked out power for five days. While his neighbors were dealing with frozen pipes and spoiled food, his generator automatically started up, and his family barely noticed the outage. He called me the next week to thank me and said it was one of the best investments he’d ever made.
Whole-house generators represent the premium option, typically 18kW and above. These units can power virtually everything in your home simultaneously. They’re perfect for larger homes or families with extensive electrical needs, but they’re also the most expensive, often $8,000-$25,000 installed.
One of the most influential factors in people’s decisions are fuel considerations. Believe it or not, this matters more in New Hampshire than many other places. Natural gas is often the most convenient option if it’s available in your area, but many rural properties rely on propane. Diesel generators are extremely reliable but require more maintenance. I generally steer clients away from gasoline-powered standby units because gas goes bad quickly, especially in our climate.
The reality is, most New Hampshire families find that a properly sized natural gas or propane standby generator in the 12-20kW range gives them the best balance of reliability, convenience, and cost. But every situation is different, which is why we always start with that load calculation I mentioned earlier.
For homeowners in areas served by our team, we provide comprehensive generator services throughout
Dover, Rochester, and surrounding New Hampshire communities. Our local expertise means we understand the specific challenges of New Hampshire’s climate and electrical infrastructure.
The Installation Process: What to Expect from Start to Finish
Let me walk you through what a professional generator installation actually looks like, because understanding the process helps you spot potential problems before they become expensive mistakes.
Week 1-2: Planning and Permits:
We start with a site visit to assess your property and electrical system. This isn’t a quick look-around, we’re examining your electrical panel, gas lines, and potential installation sites. We’ll also handle all the permit applications, because honestly, dealing with town offices is part of what you’re paying for.
Week 2-3: Site Preparation
Once permits are approved, we prepare the installation site. This includes setting the concrete pad (we usually use a precast pad that needs proper site prep), running electrical conduit, and coordinating gas line work if needed. Weather can delay this phase in New Hampshire, so we always build in some flexibility.
Week 4: Installation Day
The actual generator installation typically takes 6-8 hours with our crew. We install the transfer switch inside your home, run all electrical connections, connect gas lines, and perform comprehensive testing. Every connection is double-checked, and we test the system multiple times before we consider the job complete.
Timeline Reality Check:
Plan on 4-6 weeks from signing the contract to having your generator operational. This includes permit approvals, equipment delivery, and proper installation. Anyone promising faster turnaround is probably cutting corners somewhere.
After installation, we provide detailed documentation for your records and insurance company, plus we’re always available for questions or concerns. You can read more about our commitment to quality in our
customer reviews where clients share their experiences with our generator installations. A generator installation is a significant investment, and we treat it that way.
What makes Our Process different?
We don’t just drop off equipment and hope for the best. Every single person involved in a generator installation from Loyal Lab Electric & Generators is a certified & licensed electrician (
unlike some other companies who undercut pricing by using unlicensed laborers).
Our process also includes comprehensive training on how to operate and maintain your system. We walk you through the control panel, explain the automatic testing cycles, and make sure you’re completely comfortable with your new generator.
Even after the generator is installed, we still arent done. We provide you with any ongoing support you may need, which means annual maintenance, as well as warrantee repairs (in the rare event that they occur). In addition to any ongoing support, we strongly believe we are one of the best generator installers in NH, so we are proud to stand by our lifetime craftsmanship guarantee.
Ready to Never Worry About Power Outages Again?
Here’s the bottom line: New Hampshire’s unpredictable weather and aging electrical grid make home generators more of a necessity than a luxury. Whether you choose a smaller standby unit for essential circuits or a whole house generator for complete peace of mind, the key is working with professionals who understand both the technical requirements and the unique challenges of our New Hampshire climate.
Don’t wait for winter to be in full swing before you make this decision. Generator installations are scheduled months in advance during peak seasons, and you definitely don’t want to be trying to get one installed after everyone else has already thought of it.
Ready to get started?
Contact Loyal Lab Electric & Generators today or call us at (603) 825-7143 for a free consultation and load assessment. We’ll walk you through all your options, provide transparent pricing, and help you choose the perfect backup generator solution for your home and budget.
After over 15 years in the electrical trade and countless generator installations across the seacoast, we’ve learned that the best generator is the one that fits your specific needs perfectly. Let us help you find yours.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a typical generator installation take in New Hampshire?
Most residential generator installations take 4-6 weeks from contract signing to completion. This includes permit approvals, site preparation, and the actual installation. Weather conditions can occasionally extend timelines during winter months.
What size generator do I need for a 2,000 square foot home?
It depends on your heating system and electrical usage, but most 2,000 sq ft New Hampshire homes need between 12-16kW for essential circuits or 16-20kW for whole house coverage. A proper electrical load calculation is the only way to determine your exact needs.
Do generators work in extreme cold New Hampshire weather?
Yes, quality standby generators are designed to operate in temperatures well below zero. However, proper installation including cold weather packages and regular maintenance are essential for reliable winter operation.
