Once you approve your generator installation with Matlock Electric & Generator, there's important work happening behind the scenes before installation day.
Our team coordinates the necessary details, from permits and utility requirements to generator placement and scheduling, to help make your installation as smooth as possible.
Serving homeowners throughout Fort Smith, Northwest Arkansas, and Eastern Oklahoma, we're here to make the process straightforward from start to finish.
Your Generator Installation Process: 6 Simple Steps
Here's a quick look at what happens after signing your contract and before your generator is ready to protect your home.
1
Review Installation Details
We confirm your generator model, installation location, electrical requirements, and fuel supply to make sure everything matches your approved plan.
2
Permits & Utility Coordination
We handle necessary permits and coordinate with your utility company when required. Requirements vary depending on your location and installation.
3
Fuel Supply Preparation
We verify natural gas or propane requirements and coordinate any necessary fuel-line, meter, or supply modifications before installation.
4
Prepare the Generator Location
We confirm that the outdoor installation area meets applicable clearance and safety requirements, including any necessary pad or mounting-base preparation.
5
Equipment & Scheduling
We coordinate equipment availability, permitting, and site readiness to schedule your generator installation at an appropriate time.
6
Installation Day
Our technicians install your generator and transfer switch, complete the connections, test the system, and walk you through basic generator operation.
Every home is different. Installation preparation and scheduling depend on equipment availability, permits, utility requirements, and your property's specific needs.
How Long Does It Take After Signing the Contract?
The time between signing your contract and installing your generator depends on equipment availability, permit approvals, utility coordination, and whether your property requires additional preparation.
Some installations are more straightforward than others. If your home needs electrical upgrades, fuel-line modifications, or special site preparation, those requirements may affect scheduling.
Once the necessary preparation is complete, a typical residential generator installation may take one to two days of on-site work. More complex projects may require additional time.
Have questions about your installation date? Contact Matlock Electric for an update specific to your project.
How Should I Prepare for Installation Day?
While our team handles the technical details, there are a few simple things you can do to help make your installation day go smoothly.
- Clear the installation area. Move outdoor furniture, decorations, or other obstacles away from the planned generator location.
- Provide access to electrical equipment. Make sure technicians can reach your electrical panel, meter, and other necessary work areas.
- Secure your pets. Keep animals safely away from the installation area while technicians are working.
- Confirm access and scheduling. Discuss whether someone needs to be home and provide any gate or property access instructions.
- Plan for possible power interruptions. Some installations require a temporary electrical shutdown while connections are completed.
Matlock Electric can explain any special requirements for your property before your scheduled installation.
What Happens After Your Generator Is Installed?
Once your generator is installed and connected, our technicians test the system and explain how it operates. You'll learn what to expect when utility power goes out, how the automatic transfer switch works, and what to know about routine generator maintenance.
Your Generac standby generator is designed to automatically provide backup power during an outage, but regular maintenance is important to keeping it dependable.
Matlock Electric provides ongoing generator maintenance and support throughout Arkansas and Eastern Oklahoma.
Learn more about our home standby generator installation services →
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to install a generator after signing the contract?
The overall timeline depends on permits, equipment availability, utility coordination, and any necessary site preparation. Once everything is ready, a typical residential installation may take one to two days of on-site work. Contact Matlock Electric for a timeline specific to your home.
Does Matlock Electric handle generator installation permits?
Yes. Matlock Electric handles necessary permits and coordinates with utility companies when required. Specific requirements depend on your location and the scope of your installation.
Do I need to contact my natural gas or propane provider?
That depends on your existing fuel supply. During installation planning, we evaluate your natural gas or propane requirements. If your generator needs fuel-system modifications or utility upgrades, we'll discuss the necessary coordination.
Will my electricity be shut off during installation?
A temporary power interruption may be necessary while connecting the automatic transfer switch or completing electrical work. The timing and duration depend on your home's electrical configuration. Confirm the anticipated interruption with our team.
Do I need to be home on installation day?
This depends on the installation and whether technicians need access to equipment inside your home. We recommend confirming access requirements with Matlock Electric before your scheduled date.
What happens if my installation is delayed?
Weather, permit approvals, utility coordination, equipment availability, or unexpected site conditions can affect scheduling. Contact our team for current information about your installation project.
Professional Generator Installation from Matlock Electric & Generator
Matlock Electric has served the region since 1975 and has been a Generac dealer since 2012. As a Generac PowerPro Elite Plus Dealer , we specialize in helping homeowners prepare for dependable backup power.
From your initial consultation through installation and long-term maintenance, our goal is to provide clear communication, professional workmanship, and reliable local service.
Haven't scheduled your initial consultation? Learn what to expect during your free in-home generator assessment .
