A: Bill, like so many of us you found out first-hand that "we never know what we have until it's gone"! I have received many letters and questions like yours from people stuck without power, and that is the key with standby generators.

You can't wait until it's too late; standby generators need to be installed when there is no emergency since it is a process that may take several weeks to fully complete. The reason it takes a little time is because a permanently installed standby generator is more of a system than a piece of equipment, and they require natural or propane gas for operation.

In the event of a power outage, a "transfer switch," working in tandem with the generator, automatically starts the generator, switches over the breaker panel, and restores the power to your home.

Since a few different contractors may be involved -- like electricians and pipefitters -- it's best to go through an "authorized" distributor of home standby generators. They're pretty easy to find on the Internet, or you can ask around at some of the larger contractor supply houses in your area.

Once you do find a dealer that's right for you, the process will usually involve taking out the proper permits, sizing the generator for your home, locating the unit outside on a concrete pad, installing a fuel supply (natural gas or propane), installing the electrical sub panel and transfer switch, and (finally) firing up and testing the new system.

As you can see, installing a standby generator is not a "do-it-yourself" job, but if you don't "do-it" you may find "yourself" alone in the dark!