Frequently Asked Questions
A standby generator ensures uninterrupted power during outages caused by storms, equipment failure, or grid issues. It protects essential appliances like refrigerators, heating/cooling systems, medical equipment, and security systems. Unlike portable generators, standby units turn on automatically within seconds of an outage and can power your entire home for days, offering safety, convenience, and peace of mind.
A standby generator is permanently installed outside your home, automatically activates during outages, and can power everything in your home. It runs on natural gas, propane, or diesel and requires professional installation.
A portable generator is manually operated, typically powers only a few items, and requires refueling, extension cords, and manual startup. It’s useful for short-term or low-power needs but lacks the reliability and ease of a standby system.
Generator size depends on your home’s power requirements. Do you want to run your entire home or just a few key systems like the fridge, lights, and HVAC? Our team performs a load calculation during your consultation to determine the right unit size based on your square footage, appliance needs, and usage habits. This ensures you’re never underpowered—or overspending.
The installation process usually takes 1 to 2 days, depending on site conditions and permitting requirements. That includes setting the generator, wiring, installing the transfer switch, and performing final inspections. We handle every step—from permitting to power-up—so you don’t have to worry about coordination or compliance.
It’s recommended to schedule maintenance at least once per year or after every 200 hours of use—whichever comes first. Routine maintenance includes oil and filter changes, battery checks, fuel system inspections, and software updates. Our maintenance plans make it easy to stay on schedule and keep your generator running like new.
Yes. A properly installed standby generator includes an automatic transfer switch (ATS) that detects power loss and starts the generator within seconds. Once power is restored, the system automatically shuts down and switches back to the utility grid—no manual intervention needed.
Yes, we offer flexible financing options to make your investment more manageable. Whether you’re looking to break payments into smaller monthly amounts or take advantage of zero-interest plans, our team will walk you through available programs during your consultation.
Your generator will run as long as it has a fuel supply. If connected to natural gas, it can run indefinitely. If it runs on propane or diesel, runtime will depend on the size of your fuel tank and consumption rate. Most residential generators can run for several days without interruption when properly fueled and maintained.
No. That’s one of the biggest advantages of a standby system. The generator will turn on and restore power even if you’re not home—protecting your food, pipes, appliances, and more.
Absolutely. A standby generator can increase your home’s resale value, lower the risk of costly damage from outages (like burst pipes or spoiled food), and improve your quality of life. For many homeowners, especially those who work from home or rely on electric medical equipment, it’s not just a convenience—it’s a necessity.
Your Local Resource for Backup Power Education and Service
If you live in McKinney or surrounding areas, Cornerstone Power Solutions is here to help you make informed decisions about backup power. Whether you’re exploring options, ready to purchase, or maintaining your existing generator, our team is your go-to source for honest answers and professional service. Reach out anytime with questions or to schedule a free consultation.
It’s not a matter of IF the power goes out, but WHEN the power goes out.