Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the questions Generator One customers ask most often — covering installation, maintenance, repair, warranty, consultations, and the communities we serve across Northeast Ohio. Use the links below to jump to a topic, or scroll the full list.
General Service Questions
How long does the generator installation process take?
Our turnkey installation process typically takes 2-4 weeks from initial consultation to final hookup, depending on permitting and site preparation requirements. Our factory-trained technicians handle all aspects including permits, site prep, and final inspections to minimize delays.
Why is planning ahead for a generator installation so important right now?
With increased demand and industry-wide supply chain challenges, waiting times have grown longer. Proactive planning ensures you’re protected before the next major storm or outage. Don’t wait until it’s too late—schedule your consultation today.
Do you offer ongoing generator maintenance plans or service contracts?
Yes, we offer comprehensive maintenance plans including annual check-ups, preventative maintenance, and remote monitoring services. Our service memberships provide priority scheduling, discounted repairs, and extended warranty coverage to keep your generator running at peak performance.
What generator brands do you sell and service?
Generator One sells and installs Generac as our primary brand, as NE Ohio’s #1 authorized Generac dealer. Our technicians are trained to service all major makes and models for maintenance and repair.
What kind of warranty protection is included with my new generator?
We stand by our generators with one of the best warranties in the industry. As an authorized dealer, all installations include manufacturer warranty coverage, and we offer extended warranty options for additional protection. Our warranty services ensure your investment is protected for years to come.
Generator Installation
Do I need a permit for generator installation?
Yes, in most Ohio municipalities a permit is required for standby generator installation. Generator One handles all permitting on your behalf as part of our turnkey installation process — we prepare the paperwork, coordinate with your local building department, and schedule required inspections so you don’t have to navigate the process yourself.
How long will the installation take?
Most residential standby generator installations are completed in one to two days. The timeline includes site preparation, mounting, fuel connection, transfer switch installation, and electrical integration. Commercial installations may take longer depending on system size and site complexity. We’ll give you a clear timeline estimate during your free consultation.
How do I choose the right size generator?
The right generator size depends on how much of your home or business you want to keep running during an outage. We perform a detailed load calculation during your free estimate, factoring in your square footage, HVAC system, appliances, and any special requirements — such as medical equipment or commercial refrigeration — to recommend the exact unit that fits your needs and budget.
Do you use subcontractors for installations?
No. Every Generator One installation is performed by our own factory-trained, licensed technicians — never subcontractors. This ensures consistent quality, proper warranty coverage, and accountability on every project.
What fuel types do standby generators use?
Generator One installs generators that run on natural gas or propane. If your property is connected to a municipal natural gas line, we’ll connect the generator directly for automatic, seamless operation. Propane is an excellent alternative for rural properties, with on-site tanks providing a reliable fuel supply.
What happens after installation?
After installation, we perform full system testing — including a simulated power outage — to ensure everything functions correctly. Generator One offers three tiered maintenance service levels — Standard Service ($284.95), Fortified Service ($334.95), and Twice the Life! ($599.95) — along with extended plans and aftermarket warranties to keep your system protected for the long term.
Generator Maintenance
What is the cost of a service plan?
Generator One offers three maintenance service levels for your generator: Standard Service ($284.95) includes factory-specified filters, semi-synthetic oil, spark plugs, battery testing, and our exclusive 40-Point Maintenance Process; Fortified Service ($334.95) adds Greenlight Performance IOA Additive for extended-outage protection; and Twice the Life! ($599.95) is our premium reengineered service with Castrol EDGE™ 5W-30 oil, NGK spark plugs, and a 4× airflow air filter. Every level includes the 40-Point Maintenance Process and is available for all generator brands we install and service — Generac, Kohler, and Briggs & Stratton. Contact us for a plan recommendation based on your generator model and usage.
How often should my generator be serviced?
Most standby generators should be serviced at least once per year, even if they haven’t run frequently. If your generator operates regularly — such as during extended outage seasons — more frequent service may be recommended. Generator One follows manufacturer guidelines for service intervals on all brands we support.
Do you cover warranty claims as part of maintenance?
Yes. Keeping your generator on a regular maintenance schedule is essential to preserving your manufacturer warranty. Generator One documents all service visits and can process warranty claims on Generac equipment as an authorized service center. We’ll flag any warranty-eligible issues discovered during routine maintenance visits.
Can you service a generator I didn’t buy from you?
Absolutely. Generator One services generators purchased from us or from any other source. We support all major brands for both routine maintenance and emergency repairs.
What does remote monitoring do for maintenance?
Generac Mobile Link remote monitoring connects your generator to a cloud platform that tracks system health in real time. Our technicians can review specific fault codes remotely, often diagnosing issues before they become failures. This allows us to schedule proactive service visits, reduce emergency calls, and ensure your generator is always in standby-ready condition.
Generator Repair
How fast can a technician arrive?
Generator One offers 24/7 live phone support and rapid dispatch throughout our NE Ohio service territory. We prioritize emergency repair calls — particularly during active outage events — and dispatch stocked technicians as quickly as possible to minimize your downtime.
Do you service my generator model?
Yes. Generator One services all major generator brands and models. As NE Ohio’s #1 Generac authorized dealer, we have specialized expertise in the full line of Generac residential and commercial generators, and our technicians are trained on all major manufacturers.
What types of faults do you repair?
Our technicians diagnose and repair a full range of generator faults, including failure to start, low oil shutdowns, battery failures, transfer switch malfunctions, control board issues, fuel system problems, and mechanical failures. We use manufacturer-authorized diagnostic tools and carry an extensive parts inventory to resolve most issues in a single visit.
Do you handle warranty repairs?
Yes. Generator One performs both warranty and non-warranty repairs for all generators we sell and install, as well as non-warranty repairs for generators purchased elsewhere. We’re a Generac authorized service center, so warranty claims on Generac equipment are processed directly through us.
How can I avoid emergency repairs?
The best way to prevent unexpected breakdowns is a regular maintenance program. Generator One offers annual maintenance service — based on manufacturer guidelines — that includes oil changes, battery checks, filter replacements, and full system testing. Customers on a maintenance plan experience significantly fewer emergency repair situations.
Warranty Coverage
What does “Full Coverage” mean?
Labor, travel, parts, and major components are all included.
Do I need to pay extra for this warranty?
No. It’s included free with your purchase.
How does this compare to Generac’s extended warranty?
Generac charges up to $1,035 for 10 years of Full Coverage. We give you 12 years at no cost.
Is this available everywhere?
Only through the Canter Power Systems Network of Brands.
What is the Canter power Systems Network of Brands?
Canter Power Systems and its family of brands represent the largest generator installation network in America. Being a Canter Brand allows for unique offerings such as the 12-yr warranty.
More information on the Canter Network of Brands here: https://canterpowersystems.com/brands/
How do warranties stay active?
For all manufacturer and dealer warranties, generators must have maintenance performed every year. Our warranty requires that we perform the maintenance to ensure proper upkeep and protect your investment
What products does it cover?
The 12-yr warranty is offered on all Generac Air Cooled units.
Are there exclusions?
- The warranty applies to the generator and transfer switch components only.
- Does not cover routine consumables (filters, oil, spark plugs, etc.) or damage resulting from improper installation, misuse, or non-compliance with the service schedule.
- Coverage remains valid only while annual maintenance is performed by a Certified Technician.
- See full Terms & Conditions for complete details of eligibility and exclusions.
Where can I find terms and conditions?
Terms and conditions are listed here.
Consultations
How long does a virtual consultation take?
Most virtual consultations run 20 to 40 minutes. Our specialist will walk through your property needs, ask about your priorities, and gather the information needed to recommend the right generator and develop a preliminary estimate — all without requiring an in-person visit.
What documents do I need for an estimate?
No documents are required for your initial consultation. It helps to have a recent utility bill on hand (to reference your average electrical usage) and to know the approximate square footage of your home or business. For commercial applications, information about critical loads — refrigeration, servers, medical equipment — is useful.
How is generator size determined?
Generator sizing is based on a load calculation that accounts for your property’s square footage, the HVAC system, appliances and electronics you want to power during an outage, and any special requirements such as medical equipment or commercial refrigeration. Our specialists perform this calculation as part of every estimate — free of charge and with no obligation.
Is the consultation really free?
Yes, completely free and no-obligation. Generator One has offered free estimates since our founding, and we never charge for consultations regardless of whether you move forward with an installation.
Can I get financing information during the consultation?
Yes. Your Generator One specialist will walk through current financing options during the consultation, including 12 and 18-month same-as-cash (SAC) financing options, so you have a complete picture of both the system cost and the payment options available before making any decision.
Service Areas
What size generator do I need?
The size of the generator you need depends on how much of your home or business you want to keep running during a power outage. Some people choose a smaller unit to power only essentials — like lights, refrigerators, and critical appliances — while others prefer whole-property coverage that includes HVAC systems, water heaters, and more. Our team will evaluate your space, walk through your priorities, and perform a load calculation to recommend the generator that best fits your needs and budget.
How long does installation take?
Most standby generator installations are completed in one to two days, but the exact timeline depends on your property and setup. The process includes site preparation, mounting the unit, fuel connection, and electrical integration with your home or business. We also handle permitting and local code compliance to ensure everything meets safety standards. Once installed, we perform full testing so you can be confident your generator will work the moment you need it.
Do generators run on natural gas or propane?
Yes. Standby generators typically run on natural gas or propane, providing continuous power without the need for manual refueling like portable units. If your property has access to a natural gas line, we’ll connect the generator directly for seamless operation. If not, propane is an excellent alternative, with on-site tanks that provide dependable fuel supply. We’ll help you decide which option is best based on your location, availability, and preferences.
How often should a generator be serviced?
For best results, generators should be serviced at least once a year, even if they haven’t been used often. Regular maintenance includes inspections, oil and filter changes, testing, and cleaning to keep all components in peak condition. If your generator runs frequently — such as during extended outages or heavy storm seasons — additional service may be recommended. Keeping up with maintenance not only prevents unexpected breakdowns but also extends the life of your investment.
Will a generator increase my property value?
Yes. A professionally installed standby generator is a highly valued upgrade for both homeowners and business owners. Buyers see it as a major benefit because it provides security, comfort, and convenience during outages. Beyond peace of mind, a generator can also give your property a competitive edge in the real estate market, particularly in areas prone to storms or grid instability.
What happens during an outage?
When utility power goes down, your standby generator automatically detects the loss and starts within seconds — restoring power to your home or business without you lifting a finger. Depending on your setup, it can supply electricity to essential appliances or your entire property until normal service is restored. Once the utility grid is back online, the generator shuts itself off and returns to standby mode, ready for the next outage.
How long does a standby generator last?
With proper maintenance, most standby generators can last 15–20 years or longer. The lifespan depends on how often the generator runs, the quality of care it receives, and the environment it’s in. Generators that are regularly serviced and run according to manufacturer recommendations typically deliver many years of reliable performance. Investing in annual maintenance helps protect your generator and maximize its life.
Let’s Power Up
Want to learn more about how Generator One delivers faster, smarter, and more affordable protection? Explore our generator solutions or schedule a consultation today.
