Keep Your Power On When the Grid Goes Down

Standby generator installation for homes throughout Johnston, Iowa

Your home in Johnston depends on electricity to run the furnace, refrigerator, sump pump, and other critical systems. When severe weather knocks out power, a standby generator kicks on automatically to keep those systems running. Midwest storms can cause outages that last hours or even days, and without backup power, your home is at risk for frozen pipes, spoiled food, and flooded basements.

Jenson Electric, LLC. installs whole-home and backup generators sized to your home's electrical load. The generator is connected to a transfer switch that detects when grid power is lost and activates the generator within seconds. You can choose full-home coverage or essential-circuit coverage depending on your needs and budget. Installation includes proper load sizing, fuel line connection, transfer switch wiring, and testing to confirm the system activates correctly. Ongoing generator maintenance and service are available to keep the unit reliable year after year.

If your Johnston home needs backup power protection, contact Jenson Electric, LLC. to schedule a consultation and load assessment.

What Happens After the Generator Is Installed

When you schedule generator installation in Johnston, the electrician calculates your home's electrical load to size the generator correctly. The unit is installed on a concrete pad outside your home and connected to your natural gas or propane supply. A transfer switch is wired into your electrical panel, and the generator is tested under load to confirm it starts and switches over smoothly.

After installation, you notice that the next time the power goes out, your generator activates within ten to fifteen seconds. Lights stay on, the furnace continues running, and your refrigerator stays cold. If you chose essential-circuit coverage, the generator powers your most important systems while leaving non-essential circuits offline. If you chose full-home coverage, every circuit in your house remains powered. The generator runs as long as needed and shuts off automatically when grid power is restored.

The installation includes permit coordination, inspection scheduling, and a walkthrough to explain how the system operates. Generators are designed for reliable power protection during Central Iowa storms and grid outages. Jenson Electric, LLC. also provides ongoing maintenance to keep your generator ready for the next outage. The section below answers questions homeowners in Johnston typically ask before installing a generator.

Most Homeowners Ask About These Details

Homeowners in Johnston often have similar questions about generator installation and operation before they schedule the work. The answers below cover what to expect during and after installation.

What is the difference between full-home and essential-circuit coverage?
Full-home coverage powers every circuit in your house, including outlets, appliances, and HVAC systems. Essential-circuit coverage powers only the most important systems such as the furnace, refrigerator, sump pump, and select outlets, which reduces generator size and cost.
How long does a standby generator take to start during an outage?
Most standby generators installed in Johnston activate within ten to fifteen seconds after detecting a loss of grid power. The transfer switch prevents backfeeding and routes power from the generator to your panel automatically.
Why does a generator need ongoing maintenance?
Generators require oil changes, filter replacements, and system checks to remain reliable. Annual maintenance ensures the unit starts when needed and runs efficiently during extended outages.
What fuel source is better for a backup generator?
Natural gas is convenient if your home is already connected to a gas line, and it never runs out during an outage. Propane requires a tank but is available in areas without natural gas service.
When should I schedule generator installation?
Most homeowners in Iowa schedule installation in spring or fall when weather is mild and scheduling is more flexible. Installing before storm season ensures your home is protected when severe weather arrives.

Jenson Electric, LLC. installs standby generators for homeowners throughout Johnston and surrounding Central Iowa communities who need reliable backup power during storms and outages. If your home needs a generator, reach out to discuss sizing, coverage options, and installation scheduling.