Generator Installation – Charlie’s Electric
When Pierce County Storms Strike, Your Power Stays On
Living in the Pacific Northwest means accepting certain realities: stunning beauty, morning coffee with mountain views, and the inevitable winter storm that knocks out power for days. During a major storm, it can take 24 hours or longer to provide updated information on power restoration, and crews are predicting that the power will be restored for everyone in the region by the end of the day on Saturday after major events.
That’s 3-4 days without heat. Without refrigeration. Without lights. Without life as you know it.
Charlie’s Electric has been installing whole-home generators in Pierce County since 2005. We understand that for homes built between 1900-1990, a generator isn’t just about convenience – it’s about protecting your family when Pacific Northwest weather shows its fierce side.
Call (253) 292-1202 to secure your home’s power independence.
The Pacific Northwest Power Reality
By the Numbers:
- 600,000+ customers lost power in Washington’s recent bomb cyclone
- Average restoration time: 2-4 days for major storms
- Pierce County specific: Often among the last counties restored
- Winter frequency: 2-3 major outage events per season
What Our Customers Say:
“Charlie installed our generator after the 2018 storm left us without power for 5 days. Haven’t worried about an outage since. Worth every penny.” – David, longtime customer
“Professional installation, fair pricing, and now we’re the only house with lights when storms hit. Charlie’s team made it simple.” – Recent review
Why Your 1900-1990 Home Needs Special Generator Consideration
Unique Challenges We Solve:
Limited Electrical Capacity
Older panels can’t handle generator integration without upgrades
Placement Restrictions
Historic homes have specific setback and aesthetic requirements
Complex Wiring Systems
Mixed knob & tube, cloth, or aluminum wiring needs expert navigation
Insurance Requirements
Many insurers offer discounts for permanently installed generators
Foundation Considerations
Proper installation near century-old foundations requires experience
Generator Solutions for Every Pierce County Home
Whole-Home Standby Generators
Automatic Protection When You Need It Most
- Powers entire home automatically during outages
- Runs on natural gas or propane
- Weekly self-test ensures readiness
- Quiet operation won’t disturb neighbors
- 10-year to lifetime warranties available
Popular Sizes for Pierce County Homes:
- 10-12kW: Smaller homes, essential circuits only
- 16-20kW: Average homes, most circuits covered
- 22-26kW: Larger homes, full power maintained
Portable Generator Connections
Budget-Friendly Storm Preparation
- Professional inlet box installation
- Safe transfer switch setup
- Use your portable generator safely
- No backfeeding danger to linemen
- Code-compliant installation
Smart Load Management Systems
Maximum Power from Minimum Investment
- Automatically manages power distribution
- Smaller generator powers more circuits
- Perfect for 100-amp service homes
- Reduces installation costs significantly
The Charlie’s Electric Installation Process
1. Storm-Ready Assessment
We evaluate:
- Your home’s total power needs
- Critical circuits (heat, refrigeration, medical)
- Best placement for your property
- Fuel source options (gas line available?)
- Integration with existing electrical
2. Right-Sized Recommendation
No overselling, just honest advice:
- Calculate actual power requirements
- Consider your budget and priorities
- Plan for future needs (EV charger?)
- Maximize available rebates
- Provide clear, comparable options
3. Professional Installation
Master Electrician expertise ensures:
- Proper permits and inspections
- Utility company coordination
- Code-compliant installation
- Concrete pad preparation
- Clean, organized work site
4. Testing & Training
You’re prepared for the next storm:
- Complete system testing
- Operation training for your family
- Maintenance schedule setup
- Emergency contact information
- First-year check-up included
Real Investment Examples
Essential Circuits Package
10kW Generator + Installation
- Powers: Furnace, refrigerator, some lights, outlets
- Investment: $7,500-9,500
- Perfect for: Smaller homes, budget-conscious
- “Keeps the basics running without breaking the bank”
Whole-Home Comfort
20kW Generator + Installation
- Powers: Everything except highest-draw appliances
- Investment: $10,000-14,000
- Perfect for: Average Pierce County homes
- “Live normally during outages”
Complete Power Independence
26kW Generator + Panel Upgrade
- Powers: Entire home including AC, hot tub
- Investment: $14,000-18,000
- Perfect for: Larger homes, home-based businesses
- “Storm? What storm?”
Includes all permits, labor, and startup
Why Pierce County Chooses Charlie’s Electric
Local Storm Experience
✓ Since 2005 installing generators in Pierce County
✓ Every major storm has taught us something new
✓ Local code expertise for quick permit approval
✓ Proven installations that withstand Northwest weather
Complete Electrical Integration
✓ Panel upgrade expertise for 1900-1990 homes
✓ Load calculation precision maximizes generator efficiency
✓ Future-ready installation for EV chargers, solar
✓ One contractor for all electrical needs
Customer Reviews Speak Volumes
“Thank you Charlie for getting our generator installed before storm season. Your team was professional, clean, and explained everything.” – Katie, University Place
“After 5 days without power in 2019, we called Charlie’s. Haven’t lost power since – the generator kicks on automatically!” – Verified Customer
Maintenance & Service
Annual Service Program
Keep your investment protected:
- Comprehensive 20-point inspection
- Oil and filter changes
- Battery testing and replacement
- Exercise schedule verification
- Priority storm season scheduling
Emergency Support
When storms approach:
- Pre-storm check available
- 24/7 emergency service during outages
- Parts in stock locally
- Rapid response times
- Direct technician phone access
Financing Your Peace of Mind
Don’t wait for the next storm to decide. Charlie’s Electric offers:
Flexible Payment Options
- 0% interest for 12 months
- Extended terms up to 60 months
- No prepayment penalties
- Quick approval process
- Bundle with panel upgrades for savings
Insurance Benefits
Many insurers offer discounts for:
- Permanently installed generators
- Automatic transfer switches
- Professional installation certification
- Annual maintenance programs
Common Generator Questions
How loud are modern generators? Today’s units run at 65-69 dB – quieter than a normal conversation. We position them to minimize any sound concerns.
What about my HOA? We handle HOA applications and ensure compliance with all neighborhood requirements.
Natural gas or propane? If you have natural gas, it’s unlimited fuel. Propane works great too – we help you decide.
How long do they last? With proper maintenance, 20-30 years is common. We service what we install.
What size do I really need? Most Pierce County homes do well with 18-22kW. We calculate exactly what you need – no guessing.
Storm Season Is Coming – Be Ready
Every year, Pierce County residents face the same reality: powerful storms will knock out power. The question isn’t if, but when and for how long.
Charlie’s Electric has helped hundreds of families take control of their power security. From 1920s Craftsman homes to 1980s ramblers, we’ve installed generators that keep families safe, comfortable, and connected when storms strike.
Don’t Wait for the Next Outage
Limited installation slots available before storm season. Secure your family’s comfort and safety now.
Call: (253) 292-1878
Email: joshua@pugetsoundelectric.com
Current Special: FREE 10-Year Extended Warranty
With generator installation booked before storm season
Serving University Place, Tacoma, Lakewood, Steilacoom, Fircrest, and all of Pierce County
Charlie’s Electric – Your Storm-Ready Electrical Specialists Since 2005
Licensed, Bonded & Insured • License #CHARLEL797MP
Master Electrician with 42 Years Experience