Generac Generator Installation

SWVA Mechanical is a certified installer of Generac automatic standby generators in Lebanon, VA. We provide reliable backup power solutions to keep your home or business running during any outage.

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Professional Generac Generator Installation Done Right

A standby generator is the ultimate protection against power outages, providing peace of mind and security. A Generac automatic standby generator seamlessly restores power to your home or business within seconds of an outage. For this system to operate safely and automatically as designed, a professional installation is absolutely required. This complex process involves high-voltage electrical wiring and fuel line connections. Our certified technicians have the training and expertise to install your Generac generator according to all safety codes and manufacturer specifications. Trust us to provide a safe and dependable backup power solution.

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Honest Reviews From Our Clients

Homeowners across Southwest Virginia trust SWVA Mechanical for generator services that are done right the first time. Here’s what real customers have to say about their experience:

Shahram Totonchian
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Shahram Totonchian
May 17, 2025
Douglas Canody
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Douglas Canody
January 25, 2025

We recently had our downstairs residential heat pump fail after 17 years of service. Given the age of the system, and the newer technology available, it made sense to replace both the downstairs and upstairs systems (3- and 2-ton units respectively). I obtained quotes from 4 different installers and ultimately, we selected the Mitsubishi Hyperheat systems as the replacement. Brian at SWVA Mechanical gave us the best price and best answers to our questions and we selected them to do the work. I don't think it could have gone any better. They showed up when they said they would, staged the work so that we could stay warm (installed in December), were respectful of our property and answered all of our questions. All of the SWVA Mechanical workers were friendly, cheerful, and most importantly knowledgeable and competent. Brian encouraged us to consider the Mitsubishi Hyperheat system which would function as a heat pump to below 0 degrees F. Frankly, I had my doubts that a system without auxiliary heat would function properly at such low temperatures without an auxiliary heat source. However, this review is being written 1 week after some of the coldest temperature in years (as low as 6 degrees F and -1-degree wind chill) and I can testify that my house stayed at the temperature set point throughout this very cold period, and in fact my house has been more comfortable than it ever has in similar conditions. I have temperature monitoring data that proves the system worked as Brian said it would. Additionally, the numbers show significant electricity savings compared to the operation of the old system. I will also mention that Brian and his partner Nick, were persistent in being able to get a relatively new steam humidifier installed about 2 years ago to work with the Mitsubishi heat pump and air handler. That required a lot of effort on their part, and a non-standard installation that went beyond the manufacturers’ instructions. I can verify that what they did worked, that it was done properly and is functioning as it should. To reiterate, I would highly recommend SWVA VA Mechanical to anyone in need of their services. They check all the boxes... knowledge, expertise, dependability, reliability, and integrity. Based on our experiences, we intend to use them to service our new system in the future and would not hesitate to work with them again. In my opinion, and based on my past experiences, it would be very hard to do better than SWVA Mechanical in this line of work and expertise.

Jack McArdle
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Jack McArdle
December 5, 2024

I had emergency when the heating system stopped working during the coldest days these past 2 months and Brain came the same day I called SWVM. No other HVAC company in the area would even give me an estimate of when they could come. Brain got the system running just in time for the lows in the teens the next few nights. If you need help this company will do all they can to help you. I would highly reccommend them.

NetworkSandbox
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NetworkSandbox
November 27, 2024

Recently had an installation as well as a preventative maintenance on another unit. I received good communication about scheduling and pricing and they answered any question I had. They showed up on time and performed the work well. After the install, Brian came by to make sure I was happy with the install and that I was fully taken care of. Subsequently for the preventative maintenance that Samuel performed, he thoroughly cleaned and tested the units and communicated to me the way that the unit was originally wired may not be optimal and explained the pros/cons of making a minor adjustment which I had him do. I'm very happy with the service provided and plan to use SWVA Mechanical for any future HVAC needs.

Kristen Jones
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Kristen Jones
September 24, 2024

Called with HVAC issue on Monday had a resolution by Tuesday morning. Owner Nick is amazing. Goes above and beyond for his customers. Technician that came out was 5 star! Polite, conscientious regarding cleanliness, and super helpful. Pricing is extremely reasonable. I will never use another company!

Bill Fletcher
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Bill Fletcher
September 7, 2024

Nick Cross and his team are amazing. Did a great job for us. They are polite, professional and knowledgable. Our challenge is with a house built in 1913 and their work has given us more control over our HVAC system and made our living space more comfortable. Price was very reasonable. Highly recommended.

Tony
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Tony
July 12, 2024

Samuel came out and did a great job!! He serviced my unit inside and outside. Company was amazing to begin with. Answered and returned my calls every time. They were prompt in letting me know when they would arrive and informed me of all repairs before doing anything. Amazing job!! Highly recommended.

Robert Elswick
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Robert Elswick
June 3, 2024

Highly Recommend! Brian and his team done an outstanding job installing my new Mitsubishi mini splits. I couldn’t have asked for a better HVAC Team than SWVA Mechanicals!

Brian Hale
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Brian Hale
April 13, 2024

I recently had a heat pump replaced by SWVA and they did an excellent job. As we were weighing the options of repairing my old system and the cost and benefit of the new system they were very helpful. I never felt they were trying to up-sale me. I especially appreciate the fast service both on the repairs I needed on my old system and with this new install. I was in a bind because it was winter but they had me up and running with a new system fast. I would highly recommend them again!

Scott Beverly
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Scott Beverly
April 8, 2024

I can't say enough good about the folks at SWVA mechanical. They came to my house and quoted the Mitsubishi unit to me and I had it installed within a few weeks. Every tech was very professional and respectful while in our home and did an outstanding job. I had one company give me a quote for the same system and it was over $4000.00 more than what Brian at SW VA Mechanical quoted, plus the other company didn't want to even talk about the Mitsubishi units that have the best reputation in the business. These more efficient units will save us money on our electric bill and they are so quiet you can't even hear them run. If you need a HVAC system or just need your old system repaired, give Brian at SW VA Mechanical at call and you will not be disappointed. They are more than fair on their prices and will treat you with respect and not try to burn you up on the charges. They are my new HVAC company. Scott Beverly

Jackie Rife
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Jackie Rife
January 19, 2024

Our furnace went out during frigid weather. Called Brian and he came immediately. He is very knowledgeable and professional. I highly recommend this company!

bill vaden
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bill vaden
December 25, 2023

Brian and Samuel real good people sincerely want to help when you’re in trouble just installed a new heat pump force excellent job

Tully Wright
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Tully Wright
November 13, 2023

Excellent service. Friendly, good communication, punctual, quality work. I was very pleased and highly recommend this company for any of your heating and cooling needs

Joe Johnson
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Joe Johnson
October 26, 2023

I had these guys install a new American Standard 3 ton heat pump this week. I got quotes from different companies and after a great deal of research chose SWVA Mechanical. Nick and Brian explained everything in detail and Jesse and Sam did our install. We are very happy with the entire process. Nick asked me a number of times during and after the install if we were happy and everything was to our expectations. They really care about customer satisfaction and it shows. Great product and install! I would highly recommend this company to anyone on the market for a new system. Great price and great product!

Joel Clark
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Joel Clark
August 27, 2023

SWVA Mechanical took care of us quickly and efficiently! Very knowledgeable in all the services they have provided to us. Highly recommend!

mountainview retirement
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mountainview retirement
August 7, 2023
Kevin McGlothlin
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Kevin McGlothlin
July 21, 2023

Brian and his employees were wonderful to deal with. They installed a Mitsubishi Mini Split system for our office and needless to say was the best investment both for quality and cost. We truly appreciate SWVA Mechanical's willingness to go the extra mile for us.

Amy Barrett
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Amy Barrett
July 4, 2023

Excellent quick service from Brian and all of his crew! Called on Sunday and had a new heat pump on Monday they went above and beyond to get my family’s air going again. The best guys around for all your hvac needs!!

Rhonda Hale
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Rhonda Hale
June 17, 2023

Highly recommend. They did an excellent installation on our new 4 ton heat pump and electrical work. 10 year warranty on the heat pump and 1 year on all the labor. These guys are the best around!

Anthony Mullins
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Anthony Mullins
June 3, 2023

Called Brian on a Friday night after 8pm and told him my situation!! He was here in less than 5 minutes and took care of me!! He don’t have to answer his phone on a Friday night!! Very professional, knowledgeable, and courteous!! Will use this company from now on!!

Benjamin Price
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Benjamin Price
April 18, 2023

Excellent service and quality installation job for my business on a total install of 12 mini split units. The units have a 10 year warranty and with the savings in my power bill, the units will pay for themselves in 5 years. Highly recommend this small business for anything related to HVAC

April Dawson
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April Dawson
September 6, 2019
Sami J.
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Sami J.
June 3, 2018

Excellent service , on time, freindly, very knowledgeable, reasonable prices, definitely will use again if needed, thank you

Generac Generator Installation Service

Our installation process begins with a detailed consultation and professional sizing of your new generator. We will discuss your specific needs to determine what you want to power during an outage. Some clients wish to cover only essential circuits, like their refrigerator, well pump, and heating system. Others prefer a whole-house solution that can power everything, including central air conditioning. Based on your needs, we will perform a load calculation to determine the correct kilowatt (kW) size for your generator. This ensures the unit can handle the electrical load without being overworked.

Proper placement of the generator is a critical first step for a safe installation. Our technicians will perform a site assessment to select the best location for the unit. We must adhere to strict local and national codes regarding the generator’s distance from windows, doors, air intakes, and any combustible materials. Once the location is chosen, we will prepare a stable, level pad for the generator to sit on. This is typically a reinforced concrete slab or a specialized composite pad designed for this purpose.

Once the pad is ready, we will set the new Generac generator in place. Our qualified technicians will then run a new fuel line to the generator. Generac standby generators typically run on either natural gas or liquid propane (LP). We will connect the generator directly to your property’s existing gas or propane supply. This process is done with meticulous attention to safety, ensuring all connections are secure, leak-tested, and fully compliant with all local fuel gas codes. This provides a continuous fuel source without any need for refueling.

The heart of an automatic standby power system is the Automatic Transfer Switch, or ATS. The ATS is an intelligent switch that is installed next to your main electrical panel. Its job is to constantly monitor the power coming from the utility company. As soon as it detects a power outage, it automatically disconnects your electrical panel from the utility line. It then signals the generator to start up. This is the component that makes the entire system work seamlessly without any manual input from you.

The electrical connection of the generator and the ATS is a complex and dangerous job that must be performed by a qualified technician or licensed electrician. Our team will safely wire the Automatic Transfer Switch into your home or business’s main electrical panel. We will then run the necessary high-voltage power wiring and low-voltage control wiring from the ATS out to the generator itself. Every connection is made according to the National Electrical Code to ensure the system is both safe and reliable for years to come.

After all the fuel and electrical connections have been made, we will perform a complete system activation and test. Our technician will install the battery, check all fluid levels, and activate the generator for the first time. We will then program the unit’s weekly self-test, or “exercise” schedule. The final and most important step is to simulate a power outage. We will turn off the main utility power to confirm that the ATS detects the outage, the generator starts automatically, and power is restored to your property.

Upon successful completion of the test, our technician will perform a final walkthrough with you. We will show you the installed generator and the Automatic Transfer Switch. We will explain what the status indicator lights on the side of the generator mean. You will receive the owner’s manual and all relevant warranty information. We will also explain the recommended maintenance schedule to keep your new generator in top condition. We want to ensure you are completely comfortable and confident with your new backup power system.

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Emergency Generac Generator Installation Near You

While most generator installations are planned, some situations create an urgent need for backup power. A forecast for a major storm, a need to power critical home medical equipment, or a business that cannot afford any downtime are all urgent scenarios. SWVA Mechanical offers priority scheduling for these emergency and high-priority Generac generator installations. We will work to expedite the entire process, from consultation to final startup, to ensure your property is protected as quickly as possible. We understand the critical importance of having a reliable power source when you need it most.

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Most Common Generac Generator Installation Questions

A standby generator is a significant investment in your property’s security and your family’s peace of mind. Homeowners and business owners often have many questions about this powerful technology. We have answered some of the most common questions our Lebanon customers ask about Generac generator installation.

An automatic standby generator works in a seamless, five-step process that requires no action from you. The first step is constant monitoring. The Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS) is constantly sensing the electrical power coming from the utility grid. Second, when the ATS detects an outage, it immediately and safely disconnects your home from the utility line. Third, within seconds of the disconnection, the ATS sends a signal to the generator, telling it to start its engine.

The fourth step is the power transfer. Once the generator is running at the correct speed and producing stable electricity, the ATS automatically switches your home’s electrical panel over to draw power from the generator. This restores power to your selected circuits or your entire home, usually within 30 seconds of the initial outage. The final step occurs when the utility power is restored. The ATS senses the return of stable grid power, automatically switches your home back to the utility, and signals the generator to shut down until it is needed again.

This entire process is completely automatic. You do not need to be home for it to work. You do not need to run extension cords or store gasoline. The system waits quietly in the background, ready to restore power to your home or business at a moment’s notice. It is the most convenient and reliable form of backup power available.

The Automatic Transfer Switch, or ATS, is the true brain of your standby generator system. It is a sophisticated piece of electrical equipment that is typically installed right next to your main circuit breaker panel. The ATS has two primary, critical functions. Its first job is to continuously monitor the electricity coming from the utility company. It is constantly looking for any interruption or instability in that power source. This monitoring is what allows the system to react instantly to an outage.

Its second and most important job is to act as a safety and switching device. When it detects a power outage, it performs the crucial task of disconnecting your home from the main utility grid. This is essential for safety. It prevents the power from your generator from “back-feeding” onto the utility lines, which could endanger utility workers who are trying to restore power. Once your home is safely isolated, the ATS then switches your electrical panel over to receive power from the generator.

When the utility power returns, the ATS performs these actions in reverse. It switches you back to grid power and reconnects your home to the utility. Without the ATS, the system would not be automatic, and it would not be safe. It is the single most important component that makes a standby generator system so effective and convenient.

The size of the generator you need is determined by the amount of electrical load you want it to handle during an outage. Generator size is measured in kilowatts (kW). A smaller, essential-load generator might be in the 10-14 kW range. This size is typically powerful enough to run key circuits in your home, such as your refrigerator, furnace fan, well pump, sump pump, and some lights and outlets. This is a great option for homeowners who want to ensure their basic necessities are covered.

A larger, whole-house generator might range from 18 kW to 26 kW or more for a residential property. A generator in this size range has enough power to run everything in your home simultaneously. This includes all the essentials, plus large appliances like a central air conditioner, electric stove, and clothes dryer. This option provides the ultimate convenience, as life inside your home can continue as normal during a power outage. Businesses will often require even larger units based on their specific equipment.

The only way to determine the correct size for your property is to have a professional load calculation performed. A technician from SWVA Mechanical will assess all the circuits you want to power and calculate the total electrical demand. Based on this calculation, we can recommend the precise generator size that will meet your needs without being undersized or excessively oversized. Proper sizing is key to a reliable system.

Yes, absolutely. Generac offers a wide range of generator sizes, many of which are specifically designed to provide whole-house backup power. Models in the 22 kW to 26 kW range are among the most popular residential generators because they have enough capacity to power most standard-sized homes completely. This includes running large 4 or 5-ton central air conditioning units, which have a very high starting load, as well as all other appliances and lights.

To power your entire home, the generator must be paired with a service entrance rated Automatic Transfer Switch. This type of transfer switch is installed between your electric meter and your main electrical panel. It is capable of handling the full electrical load of your house. When an outage occurs, the ATS will transfer your entire main panel over to generator power. This means every circuit and every outlet in your home will be live, just as they would be with utility power.

A whole-house generator provides the ultimate peace of mind and convenience. You do not have to choose which circuits are most important. During an extended power outage, your family can continue to live in complete comfort, with access to air conditioning, cooking appliances, and all other modern conveniences. Our team can perform the necessary calculations to ensure we select a generator that is perfectly sized to handle your entire home’s electrical load.

Generac automatic standby generators are designed to run on the existing fuel source at your home or business, eliminating the need for storing and handling gasoline. The vast majority of models run on either natural gas or liquid propane (LP). During the installation process, a qualified technician will run a permanent fuel line directly from your property’s natural gas meter or your large propane tank to the generator. This provides a continuous and reliable fuel supply that can last for days or even weeks during an extended outage.

The specific fuel type is usually determined by what is available at your property. If you have natural gas service from the utility company, that is typically the preferred and most convenient fuel source. If you live in a rural area without natural gas service, the generator will be configured to run on liquid propane from a large, stationary tank on your property. Most Generac models can be easily converted to run on either fuel type at the time of installation.

The benefit of this system is its autonomy. You never have to worry about running out to buy gasoline or refilling a portable generator’s tank in the middle of a storm. The standby generator has a constant, reliable fuel source ready to go at all times. This is a key feature that makes the system so dependable and hassle-free.

No, you should never attempt to install a standby generator yourself. This is a complex project that involves working with high-voltage electricity and flammable gas fuels. It requires the expertise of both a licensed electrician and a qualified gas technician. An improper installation is extremely dangerous and can lead to property damage, fire, serious injury, or even death. For the safety of your family and your property, this installation must be handled by trained and certified professionals.

The electrical work is particularly hazardous. The Automatic Transfer Switch must be wired directly into your home’s main electrical panel. This is not a standard DIY electrical project. A mistake in this wiring can damage your home’s electrical system, destroy the generator’s sensitive electronics, or create a dangerous back-feeding situation on the utility lines. All electrical work must be done according to the National Electrical Code and will require a permit and an inspection from your local building authority.

Similarly, the fuel line connection must be done by a professional who is qualified to work with natural gas or propane. An improperly installed gas line can leak, creating a serious fire or explosion hazard. A professional installation ensures that all connections are secure, pressure-tested, and fully compliant with all local fuel gas codes. The risks associated with a DIY generator installation are immense, and it is a job that must be left to the experts.

The sound level of a standby generator is a common concern for homeowners. It is important to have realistic expectations. A standby generator is essentially an engine in a box, and it will make noise when it is running. However, Generac has invested heavily in sound-dampening technology. Modern Generac standby generators are significantly quieter than older models and are much, much quieter than portable construction-style generators. They are housed in a sound-attenuated enclosure that is designed to absorb a great deal of the engine noise.

The sound level of a typical air-cooled residential Generac generator is often compared to that of a central air conditioner unit. When you are standing next to it, you will certainly hear it running. However, from inside your house with the windows closed, it is usually just a low hum. Proper placement of the generator is key to minimizing the noise impact. We always try to locate the unit away from bedroom windows and outdoor living spaces like decks and patios.

Generac publishes the decibel (dBA) ratings for all of its models. We can provide you with this information so you can understand the expected sound level. While they are not silent, the security and comfort they provide during a power outage make the noise a very acceptable trade-off for most homeowners.

The weekly exercise is a crucial, automatic self-test that your Generac generator performs to ensure it is always ready for an actual power outage. Once a week, at a day and time that we program during installation, the generator will automatically start itself and run for about five to ten minutes. This short run time is essential for the long-term health of the engine. It circulates the oil through the engine to keep all the internal components lubricated and protected. It also helps to charge the starting battery.

It is very important to know that during this weekly exercise, the generator does not transfer power to your house. The Automatic Transfer Switch remains connected to the utility grid. The generator is simply running a diagnostic check on itself. You may notice the generator running for a few minutes and then shutting off. This is a perfectly normal and desirable part of its operation. It is the system’s way of making sure it is ready to perform when you actually need it.

The exercise schedule is fully customizable. We will typically set it for a time during the weekday when it is least likely to disturb you, for example, mid-day on a Wednesday. This regular, automated self-test is one of the key features that makes a standby generator so much more reliable than a portable generator that may sit unused for months or years at a time.

Free Estimate for Generac Generator Installation

Contact SWVA Mechanical today for a free on-site estimate for a Generac generator installation. Ensure your Lebanon home or business never loses power again.

Book nOw (276) 971-9514
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