Backup Power When the Grid Goes Down

Generator installation in Castro Valley for dependable standby power during outages.

Power outages in Castro Valley happen more often than they used to, whether from planned safety shutoffs during fire season or unexpected grid failures. When the lights go out, your refrigerator stops running, your sump pump shuts off, and your home loses heating or cooling depending on the season. The Atom Electric installs standby generators and backup power systems in Castro Valley homes and businesses, providing automatic power within seconds of an outage so you can continue daily activities without disruption.

This service includes evaluating your home's electrical load, sizing the generator to match your needs, installing the unit outside your home, and connecting it to your electrical panel through a transfer switch. You might need this work if you have medical equipment that requires constant power, a home office that cannot afford downtime, or simply want to avoid the inconvenience and cost of extended outages. Residential and commercial generator solutions are available, and all installations follow California electrical code and manufacturer specifications.

If you want backup power for your Castro Valley property, reach out to discuss generator options and request a quote.

What Happens During a Generator Installation

The Atom Electric begins generator installation in Castro Valley by calculating your home's essential electrical load, which determines the size of the generator you need. A typical installation includes setting a concrete pad outside your home, mounting the generator, running a gas line or connecting to an existing propane tank, and installing a transfer switch inside your electrical panel. The transfer switch detects when utility power is lost and automatically starts the generator, then switches back to grid power once it is restored.

After installation, you will have a system that powers your home within 10 to 15 seconds of an outage, keeping your refrigerator, heating, lights, and critical appliances running without manual intervention. The generator will run weekly self-tests to ensure it is ready when needed, and you will hear a brief operational check each week.

The service includes permit applications, final inspections, and a walkthrough of the system controls. It does not include ongoing fuel delivery or annual maintenance contracts, though The Atom Electric can provide maintenance separately. Once the system is active, your home or business will have reliable backup power during outages that can last hours or days.

Common Concerns About Adding Backup Power

Homeowners in Castro Valley often have questions about generator sizing, fuel types, and noise levels before committing to an installation, especially if they have never had backup power before.

What size generator do I need for my home?
The size depends on which appliances and systems you want to power during an outage. A whole-home generator typically ranges from 12 to 24 kilowatts, while a smaller unit can handle essential circuits like refrigeration, heating, and lighting. The Atom Electric calculates your load during the consultation.
How loud is a standby generator when it runs?
Most modern standby generators operate at 60 to 70 decibels, which is similar to the noise level of a conversation or a dishwasher. You will notice the sound when it starts, but it is not disruptive to neighbors or indoor activities.
What fuel does a standby generator use?
Standby generators typically run on natural gas or propane. Natural gas connects to your existing utility line, while propane requires a tank on your property. The Atom Electric helps you choose based on availability and fuel cost in Castro Valley.
How long can a generator run during an extended outage?
A natural gas generator can run indefinitely as long as the gas supply is available. A propane generator runs until the tank is empty, which could be several days depending on tank size and electrical load. You should monitor fuel levels during extended outages.
What maintenance does a standby generator require?
You should have your generator serviced annually, which includes checking the oil, air filter, battery, and connections. The unit runs a self-test every week to keep the engine ready, but professional maintenance keeps it running reliably when you need it most.

The Atom Electric installs generators throughout Castro Valley with proper sizing, seamless integration, and full code compliance. If you want backup power for your home or business, contact us to schedule a consultation and get a quote.