Keep the Lights On When Minnesota Weather Strikes

In Minnesota, severe weather isn’t a matter of if – it’s when. Ice storms, high winds, and heavy snow can easily knock out power, leaving your home without heat, lights, or security. A home generator with an automatic transfer switch restores electricity within seconds, keeping essentials running without the hassle of extension cords or the danger of DIY hookups.

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Your Backup Power Options

 Portable generator + manual transfer switch
A budget-friendly choice for homeowners who want peace of mind during shorter outages. When paired with a manual transfer switch, a portable generator can power selected circuits like your furnace, fridge, or sump pump—safely and without back-feeding into the grid.

 Standby generator (automatic transfer switch)
For whole-home comfort and reliability, a permanently installed standby generator is the gold standard. Powered by natural gas or propane, these systems automatically start within seconds of an outage, keeping critical systems and everyday conveniences running no matter how long the storm lasts.

 Battery backup systems
Best for shorter disruptions, battery backups provide silent, emission-free power. They’re often paired with solar panels to maximize efficiency and provide clean, renewable energy resilience. While not as long-lasting as standby generators, they’re an excellent option for homeowners looking for eco-friendly backup.

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Don’t Forget Whole-Home Surge Protection

Restoring power after an outage often brings dangerous voltage spikes. A panel-mounted surge suppressor shields your furnace control board, refrigerator, garage door opener, computers, and TVs from damage. Adding surge protection is a small investment that protects thousands of dollars’ worth of electronics and appliances.

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Installation & Permits in the Twin Cities

When you hire Norske Electric, we handle every detail to ensure your backup system is installed safely and legally:

• ✅ Site assessment – We evaluate your gas line, clearances, and electrical capacity.

• 📝 Permits & inspections – Coordinated with your city to meet Minnesota codes.

• 📊 Load calculations – To size the generator correctly and prevent overloads.

• 🔧 Panel upgrades – Completed if needed to handle the added power demand.

Our licensed electricians make sure your system is reliable, code-compliant, and ready before the next storm hits.

👉 Explore our Home Generators & Transfer Switches to compare options and find the best fit for your home.

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FAQ: Backup Power

How quickly does a standby generator start?
Most models sense a power outage and start automatically within 10–30 seconds, keeping your essential systems online with minimal interruption.

What maintenance is required?
Standby generators should be serviced annually, including oil changes, filter replacements, and inspection of electrical connections. Most units also run periodic “exercise cycles” to stay in ready condition.

Can a generator power my whole home?
Yes. Standby generators can be sized to cover either your entire home or just essential circuits. A licensed electrician will perform a load calculation to recommend the best solution.

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Stay Safe, Stay Powered

Don’t wait until the next storm leaves you in the dark. Protect your home and family with a reliable backup power solution. Call (952) 443-4113 or request service online today to schedule your generator consultation with Norske Electric.