Power outages are becoming more common due to storms, aging infrastructure, and increased electrical demand. For homeowners and businesses alike, a professionally installed generator provides peace of mind by keeping essential systems running when utility power goes down.
At Smiley Electric, we install reliable generator systems that protect your property, comfort, and operations across Portland, Beaverton, Hillsboro, and surrounding areas.
Types of Generators We Install
Portable Generators
- Lower upfront cost
- Manual setup and refueling
- Best for temporary or limited backup power
⚠️ Must be used outdoors with proper transfer equipment — never plugged directly into outlets.
Standby (Whole-Home) Generators
- Permanently installed
- Automatically turn on during outages
- Powered by natural gas or propane
- Can run essential circuits or the entire home
Standby generators are the most popular choice for long-term reliability.
How Generator Installation Works
A professional generator installation includes:
- Load calculation to determine generator size
- Installation of an automatic transfer switch (ATS)
- Dedicated generator circuits or whole-home coverage
- Proper grounding and bonding
- Utility coordination and permitting
- Full system testing
This ensures safe operation and prevents dangerous backfeeding into the utility grid.
Residential Generator Installation
Homeowners often install generators to keep:
- Refrigerators and freezers running
- Heating systems operational
- Medical devices powered
- Internet and home offices online
In Portland-area homes, generators are commonly paired with essential-load panels to prioritize critical circuits during outages.
Commercial Generator Installation
Businesses rely on generators to:
- Prevent downtime
- Protect inventory and data
- Maintain safety systems
- Meet code and insurance requirements
We install generators for offices, retail spaces, restaurants, and light industrial facilities.
Cost of Generator Installation
Costs vary based on generator size, fuel type, and installation complexity:
- Portable generator with inlet & interlock: $1,500–$3,000
- Standby generator installation: $6,000–$15,000+
- Commercial generator systems: project-based pricing
Smiley Electric provides clear, upfront estimates and helps you choose the most cost-effective option.
Permits, Inspections & Code Compliance
Generator installations require:
- Electrical permits
- Utility approval
- Inspection for transfer switch and grounding
- Compliance with NEC and Oregon Electrical Specialty Code
We handle all permits and inspections so your system is installed correctly the first time.
Why Professional Generator Installation Matters
A professionally installed generator:
- Protects your home or business from power loss
- Prevents electrical hazards
- Ensures insurance and resale compliance
- Operates automatically and reliably
Improper or DIY generator setups are a leading cause of electrical fires and injuries during outages.
Generator Installation Experts
Smiley Electric specializes in:
- Home standby generator installation
- Portable generator inlet and transfer systems
- Commercial generator wiring
- Backup power planning and upgrades
We proudly serve Portland, Beaverton, Hillsboro, Tigard, Lake Oswego, and nearby communities.
👉 Contact Smiley Electric today to schedule a generator consultation and stay prepared for the next outage.