# The Boston-Area Homeowners Guide to Standby Generators > Because of natural disasters such as Hurricane Sandy, which left many Boston homes without power, more people are opting to invest in standby generators. [![standby generators, Holliston, Massachusetts](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/power-outage.jpg)](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/power-outage.jpg)Because of natural disasters such as Hurricane Sandy, which left many Boston homes without power, more and more people are opting to invest in standby generators. [![standby generators, Holliston, Massachusetts](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/power-outage.jpg)](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/power-outage.jpg) These generators can supply power to your home for days after an outage and are a [dependable solution](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-blog/the-advantages-a-whole-house-generator-provides.html) in times of need. In blackout situations, a standby generator can make all the difference between having your home comforts and being left out in the cold. ## How do they work? Standby generators connect directly to your home's electrical panel and are powered by an external fuel supply. Smaller, air-cooled, essential-circuit units can keep certain parts of your home going, whereas larger units can comfortably power the whole house. [Standby generators](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-blog/choose-standby-generator.html) operate intelligently via an automatic transfer switch which can safely disconnect you from your utility when it detects a disruption in service. Once off the grid, the switch initiates the generator which transfers power to your home's electrical panel. Bear in mind, these generators don't run by themselves. Instead they're fueled by an internal combustion engine which runs on natural gas, diesel or liquid propane. ## Safety in mind Once your regular power supply is available, the switch automatically shuts down the generator, and you're reconnected to the grid. This system works well for those with small children or occupants who need an uninterrupted power supply for medical equipment. The switch itself is also a safety mechanism, preventing any back-feeding of electricity to the grid, which can be hazardous. ## Other considerations [Generators](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-blog/youre-protected-with-a-standby-generator-no-matter-what-the-weather-throws-at-you-this-summer.html) can be a costly investment for any homeowner, but determining the size of generator that's needed can help. If you live in a city, check for noise ordinances restricting the use of generators. These systems can be rated at 62 decibels, which is often measured at 25 feet and is roughly equal to an idling Harley. Building codes can also require that generators are installed at least 5 feet from a house opening and flammable materials. For more information and advice about standby generators for your Boston area home, contact the experts at [Rodenhiser Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning](http://rodenhiser.com/call-rodenhiser.html) today. *Image via [Shutterstock.com](http://Shutterstock.com)* ## Navigation - [Rodenhiser Home Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/) - [Rodenhiser Plumbing Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/plumber-framingham.html) - [Rodenhiser Heating Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/furnace-framingham.html) - [Rodenhiser Cooling Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/air-conditioning-framingham.html) - [Rodenhiser Electrical Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/framingham-electricians.html) - [Rodenhiser Home Services: Book Online](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/call-rodenhiser/book-online.html) - [Rodenhiser Remodeling Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/remodels/bathroom-remodeling-framingham.html) - [Rodenhiser Home Services: Reviews](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-heating.html) ## Company information - Rodenhiser Home Services - [https://bc.rodenhiser.com](https://bc.rodenhiser.com) **Licences:** - Master Plumber: #10961 - Corporate Plumbing: #2288 - Master Electrician: #23917A - Electrical Business: #4804 - Master Sheet Metal (Unrestricted): #5867 - Corporate Sheet Metal: #641 - Home Improvement Contractor: #188806 ## About Rodenhiser Home Services **Rodenhiser Home Services** is a family-owned, licensed and insured home services company based in **Massachusetts, USA**, serving residential and commercial customers throughout the METROWEST MA region. Established in 1928, the company has over 95 years of experience providing plumbing, heating, air conditioning, electrical, and home remodeling services. Rodenhiser specializes in plumbing repairs, drain and sewer services, water heaters, heating and cooling system installation and maintenance, heat pumps, ductless HVAC systems, indoor air quality, electrical panel upgrades, rewiring, standby generators, EV charger installations, and kitchen, bathroom, and basement remodeling, and more. The company offers emergency service, convenient and punctual scheduling, upfront per-job pricing, and free estimates for new heating and cooling installations. All work is backed by written warranties and a satisfaction guarantee. Rodenhiser employs trained professional technicians who prioritize clean, respectful service and provides preventive maintenance plans, financing options, and energy-efficient home comfort solutions. Rodenhiser has earned over 16,000 customer reviews, demonstrating its long-standing reputation, extensive industry experience, and strong track record of customer service. **Nice People…Great Service** ## Page information - [Canonical URL: https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-blog/boston-area-homeowners-guide-standby-generators.html](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-blog/boston-area-homeowners-guide-standby-generators.html)