ShareThisQ: Hello Ed, this is not really a plumbing question, but I know you have written some articles on home generators. I'm looking to buy a home that is being sold as "generator ready." What exactly does that mean, and how much work still needs to be done to actually have the home generator installed? Nobody can give me a straight answer. -- Fred, Wisconsin A: This is a very good question since more and more homes are starting to be sold with the "generator ready" option, but there are some gray areas that a potential buyer needs to follow up on.First off, a generator ready home usually has had some extra features installed in the main electrical panel box. These features should allow an easier hook up of the "stand by" generator when the homeowner is ready to make that investment. The gray area is how much generator prep work has the builder already done, and you need to follow up on that.Basically it will break down into three levels; Basic, midlevel, and "true ready". Basic could simply be an electrical panel that has knockouts for the generator's electrical transfer. In this case, it will be an easier generator system hook up, but most of the equipment investment and work still needs to be done. Midlevel can be the actual generator "transfer switch" is already installed at the panel. This is a sizable chunk of change invested into the electrical panel. However, outside you will still need to prep the area where the generator will be installed. Along with an installed "transfer switch" inside, a "true" generator ready set up may have the natural or propane gas lines, concrete pad and wiring access holes installed outside. In this case most of the rough work is completed and basically all you need to do is buy the generator itself and have the final hook ups installed. So, now that you have the "power" of information, find out what level of "generator ready" this home really is, and it may help you negotiate a better deal.Q: Ed my wife and I are planning to build a new house. Could I hire a plumber to lay out and install the water and waste lines and then do all the finish work of installing the fixtures myself? -- Doug, TexasA: Well, first it depends on if your town or city allows the homeowner to pull all the necessary plumbing permits. This way it is your job and a licensed plumber may be more likely to work with you if the permits are in your name. However, there may be the issue. You need to find a licensed and insured plumber that is willing to work with you. The majority of licensed plumbers build their reputation with the quality of their work. And, since most of the rough work on a plumbing system is covered, it's the finish work that shows off a plumbers skills. Many plumbers may not want to lose total control of the finish work, so you may have to work out a more flexible deal with your plumber.(Master Contractor/Plumber Ed Del Grande is known internationally as the author of the book "Ed Del Grande's House Call" and for hosting TV shows on Scripps Networks and HGTVPro.com. For information visit eddelgrande.com or write eddelgrande(at)hgtvpro.com. Always consult local contractors and codes.)
Home generators ... plumbers and finish work
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