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Power outages transform from minor inconveniences to serious problems fast. Your refrigerator stops keeping food safe. Air conditioning quits during dangerous heat. Medical equipment loses power. Home security systems go dark. Well pumps stop providing water. And you sit helplessly waiting for utility crews to restore service—which might take hours or days depending on the problem's severity. Since 2006, Summit Electric has been installing backup generators throughout the Inland Empire, giving homeowners the security of automatic power that activates within seconds of outages.
We understand what drives homeowners to install generators. Sometimes it's practical necessity—you rely on well water, medical equipment, or home offices that can't tolerate outages. Sometimes it's climate reality—Inland Empire summers are dangerous without air conditioning, and power outages during heat waves create genuine health risks. And sometimes it's simply peace of mind—knowing your family stays comfortable and safe regardless of grid conditions.
From initial sizing and placement through natural gas or propane connection, automatic transfer switch installation, permits and inspections, and final commissioning, we handle every aspect of your generator project. You get backup power that activates automatically, runs reliably, and provides the security of knowing your home stays powered when your neighbors go dark.
Call (951) 550-4832 for professional generator installation throughout the Inland Empire.
Inland Empire power outages occur for various reasons—summer storms and lightning strikes damage lines, high winds (especially in Pass areas) knock down overhead services, extreme heat stresses the electrical grid beyond capacity, scheduled maintenance requires temporary outages, vehicle accidents damage utility poles, and wildfires create preventive shutoffs in threatened areas.
Most outages resolve quickly—within hours. But some extend to days, particularly after major storms or during heat events that stress infrastructure across wide areas. And even short outages cause problems if they occur at critical times—midnight in July when temperatures barely drop below 90°F, during preparation for important events or work deadlines, or when medical equipment or well pumps lose power.
Backup generators eliminate outage anxiety. When the grid fails, your generator detects it within seconds and activates automatically. Your lights stay on, your air conditioning continues running, your refrigerator keeps food safe, and your life continues normally. You might not even notice the utility went down until you see your neighbors' dark homes.
Inland Empire summers create situations where air conditioning isn't luxury—it's health necessity. When temperatures exceed 105°F for days and barely drop below 85°F overnight, losing AC creates genuinely dangerous conditions, particularly for elderly residents, young children, and anyone with health conditions. Heat-related illness and death are real risks during extended outages in extreme heat.
Beaumont and Pass area homes face additional challenges. High winds regularly damage overhead lines, creating outages that take longer to repair because crews must assess and fix damage across wide areas. Properties distant from main utility routes sometimes wait longer for restoration than homes on primary circuits.
San Jacinto Valley properties relying on well water face unique vulnerability. Without power, well pumps don't operate. No well pump means no water—no drinking water, no toilet flushing, no showers, no basic sanitation. For these homes, generators aren't conveniences—they're necessities.
Many families depend on medical equipment requiring continuous power—CPAP machines for sleep apnea, oxygen concentrators, refrigerated medications, mobility equipment chargers, and monitoring devices. Power outages put health at risk and create genuine medical emergencies.
Home offices present different stakes. If your livelihood depends on internet connectivity, computer equipment, and reliable power, outages mean lost income and potentially damaged client relationships. Generators keep your business operating regardless of grid conditions.
Extended power outages mean food spoilage. A fully-stocked refrigerator and freezer represent $300-800 of food that spoils during outages exceeding 4-6 hours. Repeated outages multiply these losses quickly.
Some homes face additional risks. Swimming pools without filtration circulation during extended outages can develop algae blooms requiring expensive treatments. Koi ponds without aeration lose fish. Security systems go dark, leaving homes vulnerable.
Generators prevent these losses. Your refrigerator keeps running, pools stay filtered, security systems stay active, and life continues normally.
Standby generators are permanently installed outside your home, connect to your home's natural gas or propane supply, and activate automatically when power fails. Within 10 seconds of detecting an outage, your standby generator starts, your automatic transfer switch disconnects from the utility and connects to generator power, and your home's electrical system operates normally on generator power.
When utility power restores, the system reverses automatically—the transfer switch reconnects to the utility, the generator runs briefly to cool down, then shuts off and returns to standby mode. You don't touch anything. The system handles everything automatically.
Standby generators range from 7 kW (powering essential circuits only) to 48 kW (powering entire large homes). Most Inland Empire homes need 14-22 kW generators for adequate whole-house backup or 10-14 kW for essential systems only.
Advantages of Standby Generators:
Disadvantages:
For most Inland Empire homeowners wanting comprehensive backup power, standby generators are the right choice despite higher initial cost.
Portable generators are stored in garages or sheds and connect to your home via extension cords or transfer switches when needed. You manually start the generator, run extension cords to appliances, or connect to a manual transfer switch if your home has one installed.
Portable generators range from 2 kW (running a few lights and small appliances) to 10 kW (running more substantial loads). They operate on gasoline, requiring fuel storage and dealing with fuel spoilage issues.
Advantages of Portable Generators:
Disadvantages:
Portable generators work for occasional short outages where you need to power a refrigerator, lights, and a few appliances. They're inadequate for extended outages, homes with medical equipment, properties with well water, or situations requiring air conditioning.
For serious backup power in Inland Empire conditions, standby generators are the appropriate choice.
Highly recommended by us! We used Summit for our EV Charger upgrade and installing a subpanel for some outdoor upgrades at our place in Idyllwild. Matt is very responsive and got us quotes and a plan quickly. The work was great and we will use him again for our future electrical work.
John Sawyer
We start every generator project with a thorough assessment of your power needs. This determines appropriate generator size—not the minimum that barely works, not the maximum we can sell you, but the right capacity for your specific situation.
During assessment, we discuss what you want powered during outages (whole house vs. essential circuits), identify critical loads (AC, well pump, medical equipment, refrigeration), calculate total power requirements for your selected loads, and determine the appropriate generator size to handle these loads reliably.
Generator sizing is more complex than simply adding up appliance watts. Motors (AC compressors, well pumps, refrigerators) require 2-3x their running power during startup. We account for these surge demands to ensure your generator handles everything reliably.
Typical Generator Sizing:
We recommend sizing for your actual needs, not worst-case scenarios. Oversized generators cost more, use more fuel, and don't provide additional benefits if you don't need that capacity.
Generator placement requires careful consideration. Generators must be located outside with proper clearances from windows, doors, and air intakes (carbon monoxide safety), with access to natural gas or propane supply, on stable, level concrete pads, with adequate ventilation and airflow, within a reasonable distance from the electrical panel, and considering the noise impact on your household and neighbors.
We evaluate your property and recommend placement that balances code requirements, fuel source access, aesthetics, and practical considerations.
Fuel Source Selection:
Natural Gas—If your home has natural gas service, connecting your generator to natural gas is typically best. Natural gas never runs out (as long as gas service is operating), requires no fuel storage or management, won't spoil or deteriorate, and costs less than propane per BTU in most areas.
The limitation is that gas service can fail during major disasters. For most Inland Empire outages (weather, grid issues, local damage), natural gas continues operating while electricity fails.
Propane—For homes without natural gas or in areas where gas service reliability is questionable, propane is the alternative. We coordinate with propane suppliers to install appropriately sized tanks (typically 250-500 gallons for generator use) that provide multiple days of runtime.
Propane never spoils, provides a reliable fuel supply even when utilities fail, and allows completely independent operation. The drawback is managing tank refills and potentially higher fuel costs.
Automatic transfer switches are the brains of your backup power system. The transfer switch monitors utility power continuously, detects outages within seconds, signals the generator to start, disconnects your home from utility power, connects your home to generator power, and reverses this process when utility power is restored.
We install transfer switches sized appropriately for your generator and electrical system, located near your main electrical panel, and wired according to code requirements for safe, reliable operation.
Transfer switches come in two configurations:
Whole-House Transfer Switches—These handle your entire electrical service, providing generator power to every circuit in your home. You select a generator sized to power everything, and during outages, your home operates completely normally.
Essential Circuits Transfer Switches – These power selected circuits only (chosen by you during planning). Smaller, less expensive generators power essential systems while non-essential loads (spare bedrooms, workshops, etc.) remain unpowered. This reduces generator size and cost while still providing critical backup power.
Generator installations require electrical and sometimes mechanical permits from your local building department. We handle all permit requirements—preparing applications with specifications, submitting to your city or county, paying fees (included in quotes), and coordinating inspections.
If your generator connects to natural gas, we coordinate with Southern California Gas Company or your gas provider for service connections. We manage this process completely so you don't deal with utility bureaucracy.
On installation day, our licensed electricians and any necessary subcontractors arrive with all equipment and materials. Generator installation typically takes 1-2 days depending on complexity.
Our installation process includes preparing the concrete pad or mounting location, positioning and securing the generator, installing an automatic transfer switch near your electrical panel, running electrical connections from the panel to the transfer switch to the generator, connecting the natural gas or propane fuel supply, installing proper grounding and bonding, programming the transfer switch for your generator, testing all systems for proper operation, and training you on generator operation and maintenance.
We take pride in clean, professional installations. Generator placement is secure and level, electrical connections are code-compliant and weatherproof, and work areas are cleaned thoroughly when we're done.
After installation, your building inspector visits to verify electrical work meets all codes. We schedule inspections, we're present to answer questions, and we ensure work passes on the first visit.
Once inspection passes, we commission your generator system—running the generator under load, verifying automatic transfer switch operation, confirming smooth transitions between utility and generator power, testing emergency shutoff systems, and ensuring everything operates correctly.
We then train you on your new system, including how to monitor generator status, where to check oil and coolant levels (though maintenance typically requires professionals), what maintenance schedules to follow, what warning lights or sounds mean, and how to manually operate the system if ever necessary (though automatic operation is the norm).
You receive all documentation, including warranties, maintenance schedules, and contact information for service.
Generator installation costs vary based on several factors:
Generator Size and Capacity – Larger generators cost more. A 12kW generator costs significantly less than a 24kW unit. We help you size appropriately for your needs—not oversized, not undersized.
Fuel Source Installation – Natural gas connections cost less if your gas line is nearby. Running gas lines long distances or installing propane tanks adds cost. Propane tank installation (typically handled by propane suppliers) adds $1,500-3,000 to total project cost.
Transfer Switch Type – Whole-house transfer switches cost more than essential circuits switches. The difference is typically $500-800, though you also need a larger generator for whole-house backup.
Placement Complexity – Generators located close to panels with easy fuel source access cost less to install than generators requiring long electrical runs, extensive fuel line installation, or complex placement.
Concrete Pad Requirements – Generators need stable, level mounting. If your property lacks suitable locations, concrete pad installation adds $400-800.
Permit Fees – Permit costs vary by jurisdiction, typically $200-500 for generator installations.
For most Inland Empire homes, complete standby generator installation costs:
Small Systems (7-10kW, Essential Circuits) – $5,500-7,500 including generator, transfer switch, installation, permits, and commissioning. These systems power refrigerators, lights, furnace, and selected outlets—enough for basic comfort during outages.
Medium Systems (12-16kW, Essential Circuits + One AC or Well Pump) – $7,500-10,000. These systems handle essential loads plus one major system (air conditioning or well pump), providing substantial backup power.
Large Systems (18-22kW, Whole House) – $10,000-13,500. These systems power your entire home normally during outages, including all air conditioning, appliances, and systems.
Very Large Systems (24kW+) – $13,500-18,000+. Large homes with multiple AC units and extensive electrical systems require these sizes.
These ranges include generator equipment, automatic transfer switch, complete installation, fuel connections (assuming reasonable proximity), permits and inspections, and commissioning. Propane tank installation (if needed) adds $1,500-3,000 and is typically handled by propane suppliers.
The most important benefit of panel upgrades is safety. Modern panels with properly sized breakers, secure connections, and adequate capacity protect your home from electrical fires far better than old, undersized, or hazardous panels.
Federal Pacific and Zinsco panels pose genuine fire risks that disappear when replaced with modern panels from reputable manufacturers. Even panels that aren't hazardous brands benefit from replacement if they're old—electrical components deteriorate over time, and connections loosen from thermal cycling. A new panel eliminates these accumulated risks.
Modern panels include better safety features than older panels: AFCI (arc-fault circuit interrupter) protection that detects dangerous arcing conditions, better ground-fault protection, improved breaker designs that respond more reliably to overcurrent conditions, and better connection methods that stay tight over time.
Panel upgrades give you the capacity to live comfortably in your home without constantly managing electrical loads. You can run air conditioning and do laundry simultaneously, operate multiple kitchen appliances at once, charge electric vehicles overnight, and add future loads without worrying about exceeding capacity.
For many homeowners, this freedom from electrical limitations is life-changing. No more planning which appliances you can run together. No more resetting tripped breakers. No more flickering lights when the AC compressor starts. Your electrical system simply works as it should.
Many home improvements require adequate electrical capacity. You can't install an EV charger in a garage if your panel lacks capacity. You can't add central air conditioning if your service is maxed out. You can't install solar panels if your panel can't handle the bidirectional power flow.
Panel upgrades unlock these improvements. Once your electrical foundation is adequate, you can proceed with renovations, additions, and upgrades that improve your home's comfort, efficiency, and value.
Modern electrical systems are significant selling points. Home buyers and their inspectors scrutinize electrical panels carefully. Homes with new panels pass inspections smoothly, satisfy lenders and insurance companies, and demonstrate that critical home systems have been professionally maintained.
Conversely, homes with FPE or Zinsco panels face serious marketability problems. Many buyers walk away immediately when inspectors flag hazardous panels. Those who remain demand panel replacement before closing or substantial price reductions to cover replacement costs. Upgrading proactively removes this obstacle and protects your home's value.
More insurance companies now inspect electrical panels and require upgrades as a condition of coverage. If your insurer flagged your panel, replacement is essentially mandatory if you want to maintain coverage. Even if your current insurer hasn't required upgrades yet, shopping for new insurance with an outdated panel often results in coverage denials or premiums far higher than homes with modern panels.
Panel upgrades satisfy insurance requirements and often reduce premiums. The investment in panel replacement can partially offset itself through lower insurance costs over time.
Old panels with loose connections waste energy through resistance heating. When connections aren't tight, electrical resistance increases, which generates heat and wastes power. While this waste might seem small, it accumulates over time and shows up in your electric bills.
New panels with modern, tight connections reduce this waste. Combined with properly sized circuits that don't operate near capacity limits, new panels can actually reduce your overall energy consumption slightly—not enough to notice day-to-day, but measurable over months and years.
Generac is the largest residential generator manufacturer and the most common brand we install. Generac generators offer reliable operation, wide range of sizes (7kW-48kW), reasonable pricing, readily available parts and service, and comprehensive warranties (5-year limited on most models).
Generac's Guardian series is their mainstream residential line, offering excellent value and reliability. Their higher-end models include features like remote monitoring via smartphone apps and quieter operation.
For most Inland Empire homeowners, Generac generators provide the best combination of reliability, features, and value.
Kohler generators are premium products known for exceptionally quiet operation, robust construction, reliable performance, and long service life. They cost 15-20% more than comparable Generac units but provide premium quality and performance.
Kohler generators are excellent choices for homeowners prioritizing quieter operation (important in neighborhoods where noise matters) or those wanting premium equipment quality.
Cummins is famous for industrial and commercial generators, and their residential units bring that industrial reliability to homes. Cummins generators offer extremely robust construction, long service intervals, very reliable operation, and excellent longevity.
Cummins generators typically cost similar to Kohler units. They're excellent choices for homeowners wanting industrial-grade reliability or those with particularly demanding backup power needs.
Briggs & Stratton offers more affordable generators suitable for homeowners prioritizing lower upfront cost. They provide adequate backup power for essential circuits at lower prices than premium brands.
We recommend Briggs & Stratton for budget-conscious homeowners needing basic backup power or those installing small systems (7-10kW) for essential circuits only.
Generators are like cars—they need regular maintenance to operate reliably. Unlike cars, you rarely use your generator, which creates unique maintenance needs. Generators that sit idle for months can develop problems—fuel systems gum up, batteries lose charge, fluids deteriorate, and components corrode from disuse.
Annual maintenance keeps generators ready for emergency operation. During maintenance visits, we change oil and filters, check and charge the battery, inspect fuel systems, test automatic operation, verify transfer switch function, check coolant levels, and identify any developing issues before they cause failures.
Maintenance costs typically $200-350 annually depending on generator size. This small investment ensures your generator operates reliably when you need it—not discovering problems during outages when it's too late.
We offer annual maintenance plans that include scheduled visits, priority emergency service, discounted repair rates, and maintenance reminders. Plans ensure your generator receives proper care without you remembering to schedule service.
Many homeowners prefer maintenance plans because they provide peace of mind that backup power will work when needed. Generator failures during outages often trace to neglected maintenance—batteries that weren't charged, oil that wasn't changed, or components that weren't inspected.
Most generator installations complete in 1-2 days. Day one involves concrete pad preparation (if needed), generator positioning, electrical work, and initial connections. Day two completes fuel connections, final testing, and commissioning. Simple installations sometimes complete in one long day, while complex projects might extend to 3 days.
Standby generators on natural gas or propane can run continuously for days or weeks. They're designed for extended operation and will run as long as fuel supply continues. We recommend checking oil and coolant levels if generators run more than 24 hours continuously, but modern generators handle extended operation reliably.
Yes, generator installations require electrical permits and sometimes mechanical permits. We handle all permit requirements through your local building department. Unpermitted generator installations create code violations, insurance complications, and potential safety hazards.
Generator sizing depends on what you want powered. We assess your specific loads and recommend appropriate sizing. As rough guidance:
7-10kW: Essentials only (fridge, lights, furnace, some outlets)
12-16kW: Essentials plus one AC or well pump
18-22kW: Whole house including all AC
24kW+: Large homes with extensive systems
We provide free assessments that determine exactly what size you need.
Standby generators detect power outages within seconds and start automatically. Total time from outage to generator providing power is typically 10-15 seconds. You experience a brief power interruption, then generator power restores everything (or selected circuits if you chose essential circuits configuration).
Modern standby generators are surprisingly quiet—typically 60-70 decibels at 20 feet, similar to normal conversation volume. Premium brands like Kohler are even quieter. You'll hear the generator operating, but it's not obnoxiously loud. Neighbors 50+ feet away barely notice.Portable generators are much louder (80-90+ decibels), which is one disadvantage compared to standby generators.
Legally, no. California requires licensed contractors to install generators because they involve natural gas or propane connections (potentially dangerous if done wrong), high-voltage electrical work, automatic transfer switches requiring precise installation, and code requirements for safety. DIY installations are illegal, dangerous, void warranties, and won't pass inspection if you try to permit them later.
No. Generators connected to natural gas rely on continuous gas service. For most Inland Empire outages (electrical grid problems, local damage, weather), natural gas continues operating while electricity fails.If you want backup power independent of all utilities, propane-fueled generators are the solution. Propane tanks provide fuel regardless of utility status.
Summit Electric provides professional generator installation throughout Riverside County and the entire Inland Empire. We've installed hundreds of generators and understand the specific conditions, requirements, and common situations in each area we serve.
No matter where you're located in the Inland Empire, we provide professional generator installation with permits, inspections, and reliable backup power.
If you're tired of anxiety about power outages, concerned about summer heat without air conditioning, dependent on well water or medical equipment, or simply want the peace of mind that comes with backup power, Summit Electric provides professional generator installation throughout the Inland Empire. We've installed hundreds of generators for homeowners throughout Riverside County. We understand sizing, placement, fuel sources, and local requirements. We handle everything from assessment through final commissioning, and we stand behind our work with comprehensive warranties.
Call (951) 550-4832 to schedule your free generator needs assessment, or request a quote online. We'll evaluate your power requirements, discuss generator options, and provide a detailed written quote with no pressure and no obligation.
