When the lights go out in Houston, life stops fast. Between hurricanes, thunderstorms, and grid failures, reliable backup power isn’t a luxury—it’s a lifeline. But installing a generator isn’t something you just “plug in.”
Preparation makes all the difference between a smooth setup and a costly mistake.
Here’s a quick, honest guide on how to get your home ready.
Quick Takeaways
- Choose the right generator size based on total wattage needs and essential appliances.
- Secure all required permits and inspections before installation begins.
- Plan a level, well-drained site at least 5 feet from windows and doors.
- Check your electrical panel — upgrades may be needed before installation.
- Hire a licensed Houston electrician for safe, code-compliant wiring.
1. Evaluate Your Power Needs
Start by listing what you can’t live without when the power goes out. Think refrigerator, HVAC system, sump pump, medical devices, Wi-Fi router. Add up the wattage.
If you undersize your generator, it’ll struggle. Oversize it, and you’ll waste money and fuel. The sweet spot is enough power to cover essentials comfortably without running the generator at full load all the time.
2. Choose the Right Generator Type
Houston homes usually go one of two routes—portable or standby.
Portable units are cheaper and flexible, but they need manual setup every time. Standby generators kick on automatically and run on natural gas or propane. If you want peace of mind during long outages, standby is the way to go.
Natural gas lines stay steady during most storms here, so many Houston homeowners go that route. It’s cleaner and easier than storing propane or diesel.
3. Get the Right Permits and Approvals
This part isn’t fun, but it’s necessary. The City of Houston requires permits for electrical and gas work. A professional electrician can pull them for you, handle inspections, and ensure your system meets NEC and local codes.
Skipping this step could mean delays—or worse, safety risks that void your warranty or insurance coverage.
4. Prepare the Installation Site
Find a flat, elevated area outside your home. Houston floods easily, so keep it high and dry. You’ll also want at least five feet of clearance from windows, doors, and vents.
Concrete pads are ideal, but a gravel base works if drainage is good. The closer the unit is to your gas meter or propane tank, the better your fuel efficiency will be. Just make sure it’s accessible for maintenance.
5. Inspect and Upgrade Your Electrical System
Your generator can’t do its job if your electrical panel is outdated or overloaded. Have a licensed electrician inspect it first. If it’s due for an upgrade, do it before installation.
You’ll also need a transfer switch—the device that safely moves your home’s power from the utility to the generator. It’s not optional. It prevents dangerous backfeed and keeps linemen safe when the grid is down.
6. Schedule a Professional Installation
DIY doesn’t belong here. A licensed electrician knows how to connect wiring, install transfer switches, and link gas lines properly. They’ll also coordinate with CenterPoint Energy if natural gas adjustments are needed.
Professional installation ensures your generator works safely the first time—and every time after.
7. Test and Maintain Your Generator
Once it’s installed, don’t ignore it. Run your generator once a month for a few minutes. Keep it clean. Check your oil, battery, and connections.
Book annual maintenance with a qualified technician to inspect and test the system. Small issues caught early prevent expensive repairs later.
FAQs About Generator Installation in Houston
Do I need a permit for generator installation in Houston?
Yes. Most permanent standby generators require electrical and gas permits. Your electrician will take care of that for you.
How far should a generator be from my house?
Keep it at least five feet from doors, windows, and vents to meet NEC and local safety codes.
Can I install a generator myself?
No. Generator wiring and gas hookups must be done by a licensed professional. It’s about safety and code compliance.
What size generator do I need for a 2,000-square-foot house?
Most homes that size need a 20–24 kW generator, depending on which appliances you plan to power.
Power Your Home with “Quality with a Master’s Touch”
Don’t wait for another storm to remind you how fragile the grid can be. At Right Touch Electrical, we make generator installation simple, safe, and reliable.
Serving Houston, TX, and nearby areas, we deliver quality with a master’s touch—from permits to testing to your first power-up.
Contact us today to schedule your in-home assessment and protect your home before the next outage hits.
