Generator 101: How to Choose, Install, and Maintain a Backup Power Source

Ace Electric STW
Nov 11, 2025
3 min read

When Oklahoma storms roll through, power outages can turn from inconvenient to dangerous fast. Between frozen pipes, spoiled food, and business downtime, losing power for even a few hours can cause major headaches- especially in Stillwater’s unpredictable winter weather.

That’s where a backup generator comes in. Whether you’re protecting your home or keeping your business running, a properly installed generator is more than a convenience -it’s peace of mind.

Here’s everything you need to know about choosing, installing, and maintaining a generator before the next storm hits.

1. Choosing the Right Generator for Your Needs

Generators come in different sizes, styles, and fuel types, but the right one depends on your energy demands and how often you expect to use it.

For Homeowners:

Portable Generators are ideal for short-term outages. They can power essentials like your refrigerator, heater, or a few lights.
Standby Generators (also called whole-home generators) automatically turn on when the power goes out and can run your entire home, including HVAC systems.

For Small Businesses:

Consider a commercial-grade standby generator that can handle critical systems like lighting, computers, and point-of-sale equipment.
- Ace Tip: Ace Electric can help calculate your load requirements so you don’t under- or over-buy. A properly sized generator runs more efficiently and lasts longer.

2. Fuel Options: What Powers Your Power

Generators can run on several fuel sources, and each has its pros and cons:

Natural Gas: Convenient and clean, but requires a gas line hookup.
Propane: Great for rural areas without gas service; long shelf life.
Diesel: Strong performance and longevity, but requires proper storage.
Gasoline: Common for small portable units, though less efficient for long-term use.
- Ace Tip: If you’re in a rural part of Payne County or beyond city limits, propane or diesel may be the most reliable option.

3. Professional Installation Matters

Installing a generator isn’t a DIY weekend project: it involves electrical wiring, permits, transfer switches, and load balancing to keep your home or business safe.

Why Professional Installation Counts:

Prevents dangerous back-feeding into power lines
Ensures NEC (National Electrical Code) compliance
Keeps your warranty valid
Integrates safely with your electrical panel
- Ace Tip: Ace Electric’s licensed electricians handle every step, from site inspection to installation, to ensure your system runs flawlessly when you need it most.

4. Maintenance: Keep It Ready Year-Round

A generator that sits unused for months can fail when you need it most.

Simple Maintenance Schedule:

Monthly: Run your generator for 10–15 minutes to keep it lubricated.
Quarterly: Check oil, filters, and battery voltage.
Annually: Schedule a professional inspection to clean components, check wiring, and test automatic startup functions.
- Ace Tip: Add generator maintenance to your annual electrical safety inspection with Ace Electric- it’s the best way to ensure reliability.

5. Safety First -- Always

Improper use or installation can cause carbon monoxide poisoning, fires, or severe shock.

Safety Essentials:

Never run a portable generator indoors or in a closed garage.
Keep it 20+ feet from doors, vents, and windows.
Use heavy-duty, outdoor-rated cords.
Always use a transfer switch to connect to your electrical panel.
- Ace Tip: Not sure if your setup is safe? We’ll inspect it for you: before bad weather makes it too late.