Power outages aren’t just inconvenient—they can disrupt your daily life, threaten your safety, and even damage home systems and appliances. In North Alabama, where storms, extreme heat, and unexpected grid issues can leave homes without electricity for hours—or days—a dependable generator isn’t just a nice-to-have. It’s a smart investment in your home’s resilience.

At Blake Brothers, we’ve been helping local homeowners protect what matters most since the 1880s. Our legacy is rooted in dependable service and doing right by our community—values we bring to every installation, repair, and recommendation. If you’re considering a backup generator, this guide will walk you through the key decisions, from sizing and fuel types to installation and long-term support.

Step 1: Determine What You Need to Power

Before selecting a generator, think about what you want it to support when the power goes out. Every home is different, and your priorities may range from basic comfort to full-home operation.

Backing Up the Essentials

If your goal is to keep just the necessities running, a smaller standby generator may be enough. These systems typically power items such as:

Refrigerators and freezers
Lighting
Wi-Fi router
Sump or well pumps
Medical equipment
A few key outlets or circuits

This approach is cost-effective and provides peace of mind during short outages or seasonal storms.

Powering the Whole House

For many homeowners, especially those with families, remote work needs, or medical dependencies, full-home coverage is the best option. Whole-house generators can run your HVAC system, kitchen appliances, water heater, washer/dryer, and more—essentially allowing your home to function normally even when the grid is down.

This type of system is ideal if you:

Experience frequent or extended outages
Rely on electricity for health-related devices
Want maximum comfort and continuity during emergencies

Get the Right Size

Sizing your generator correctly is critical. A unit that’s too small won’t meet your needs, while one that’s too large could waste energy and money. Our licensed technicians evaluate your home’s layout and power usage to calculate the proper size generator—so you get optimal efficiency and performance.

Step 2: Choose Your Fuel Source

Generators come in different fuel types, and each has its pros and cons depending on your location, energy usage, and home infrastructure.

Natural Gas

Connects directly to your existing utility gas line
No need to refuel or store fuel onsite
Cleaner-burning and lower maintenance

If your home is already supplied with natural gas, this is often the most seamless and reliable choice.

Propane

Stored in tanks on your property
Burns clean and stores well
Great for homes without a gas line

Propane generators are a good fit in rural areas or for homeowners who want to be independent from utility interruptions.

Diesel

High energy density and efficiency
Ideal for larger homes or commercial applications
Requires regular maintenance and fuel storage

While diesel is less common for residential properties, it’s sometimes used when fuel availability and longevity are key concerns.

Not sure what makes sense for your home? Blake Brothers can walk you through the options and help you select the safest, most cost-effective fuel source for your needs.

Step 3: Understand the Installation Process

Installing a standby generator is a project that requires precision, permits, and professional coordination—but the results are well worth it. Here’s what the process typically looks like:

On-Site Consultation

Our team begins with an in-person assessment to determine your power requirements and inspect the layout of your home. We’ll ask about your goals, review energy usage, and provide clear guidance on the best generator options.

Permit Handling

We take care of all the necessary permits and code compliance, so you don’t have to worry about red tape. Our team ensures every step meets local regulations and safety standards.

Professional Installation

Our highly trained technicians install your generator with expert-level care. From connecting the electrical panel to setting up fuel lines and transfer switches, we handle everything—ensuring the system works reliably when you need it.

Once installed, we test the system thoroughly and walk you through how it works, so you feel confident and prepared for the next outage.

Standby vs. Portable Generators

Many people ask whether they really need a standby generator or if a portable unit would do. While portable generators can be helpful for camping or quick fixes, they aren’t ideal for long-term home protection.

Standby Generator Benefits:

Automatic activation: Powers on within seconds of a utility outage
Hands-free operation: No need to manually fuel or connect cords
Permanent installation: Hardwired into your home for seamless power
Improved safety: No extension cords, open fuel containers, or carbon monoxide risks

When your family’s comfort and safety are on the line, a professionally installed standby generator is a better long-term solution.

Generator FAQs

How much does a whole-home generator cost?
The cost varies based on size, fuel type, and installation complexity, but most systems range from $5,000 to $15,000. At Blake Brothers, we offer transparent pricing and personalized quotes—no surprises or hidden fees.

How long will a generator run during an outage?

Natural gas units can run indefinitely as long as the gas supply remains active.
Propane and diesel models typically run 24–72 hours on a full tank, depending on usage and fuel storage capacity.

Can I power my entire home with a generator?
Yes. With proper sizing and installation, your generator can support your whole home—just like the power never went out.

Do generators need maintenance?
Absolutely. Generators are like any other mechanical system—they require routine care to stay in top condition. We recommend an annual inspection to test performance, check fluids and filters, and make sure everything is operating safely.

Why Homeowners Trust Blake Brothers

When you choose Blake Brothers, you’re not just getting a generator—you’re getting the support of a company with nearly 140 years of experience serving the North Alabama region. We offer:

Exceptional customer service at every step
Prompt and reliable response times
Emergency support, 24/7
Skilled technicians who get it done right the first time
Advanced, energy-efficient solutions that add value and peace of mind

We’re proud of our heritage and equally committed to helping today’s homeowners protect their families with smart, future-ready home systems.

Be Ready Before the Next Storm Hits

Power outages don’t come with a warning—but preparation can make all the difference. A backup generator is more than a convenience; it’s protection for your family, comfort, and livelihood.

Whether you’re ready to install or just exploring options, Blake Brothers is here to help. We’ll take the time to answer your questions, assess your needs, and recommend the best solution for your home—backed by our longstanding commitment to integrity, service, and community.

Call us today to schedule your in-home consultation.
Let’s ensure your home stays powered, safe, and comfortable—no matter what comes your way.

How to Choose the Right Generator for Your Home