Consider a standby or back-up generator

If you have special health needs, operate critical equipment or just want the safety, comfort and security a generator can provide at your home or business, we're here to help. Many requirements must be considered when purchasing and installing a generator, and your safety is our top priority—let us help you make the right choice.

For personalized advice regarding generator safety, purchase, applications or installation, call a PSE Energy Advisor at 1-800-562-1482, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The PSE Energy Advisors can forward you to specific staff that are experts in providing generator expertise.

Permanently installed generators

More and more homes and businesses are purchasing permanently installed generators. Permanently installed generators are set up outside the business and connected to natural gas or propane fuel so they are ready to provide electricity if a power outage occurs.

These units come in lockable, weather-protected enclosures and are designed to be in service for many years. An automatic transfer switch (ATS) starts and transfers your energy usage to the generator within seconds when utility-fed power is unavailable. When the utility-fed power returns, the ATS switches you back to the utility and shuts down the generator. All this occurs whether you are at home or away!

These generators even test themselves weekly to ensure they’re ready 24/7.

Portable generators

Portable generators are available from many retailers within PSE’s service area. Most are designed to be manually started and connected directly to individual electrical devices or connected to the home via a correctly and legally installed manual transfer switch.Most types are fueled by gasoline. Unlike permanently installed generators, these generators will not operate without someone who will start, connect and constantly monitor their operation.

Generator purchase and installation

PSE can assist you with all aspects of planning, sizing, locating, permitting and installing the necessary generator equipment to match your needs!. Our goal is “one-call-does-it-all” service. Call the Energy Advisors at 1-800-562-1482 for more information.

We can refer you to a pre-screened, independent PSE Recommended Energy Professional that can provide equipment and a full installation. These contractors have specific experience in generator installation and are able to provide a complete, fully permitted and safe install.

For more information

If you have a generator now or are looking to buy a permanently installed or portable generator in the future and have questions, we can help. We’re here to provide the guidance you need.

For more information about generators, call a PSE Energy Advisor at 1-800-562-1482, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.