Be Prepared for Power Outages in Charleston, SC: Why You Need a Generator Installation in the Lowcountry

Living in Charleston, SC means enjoying gorgeous coastal views and a uniquely vibrant community, but our region’s beauty comes with weather-related challenges. Hurricanes, tropical storms, and periodic coastal flooding can knock out power for hours or even days. As a family-owned local contractor, Hammes Services knows how critical it is to keep homes running reliably during Charleston’s toughest weather. That’s why we offer comprehensive generator solutions—including custom-built wooden generator platforms and all logistics—to ensure your home is ready for any storm.

Why Install a Standby Generator?

Coastal South Carolina is no stranger to power outages. In recent years, storms have left thousands of Charleston residents without power, sometimes for several days. Standby generators are essential for:

Keeping refrigerators and freezers running to protect food
Powering medical or mobility devices
Ensuring lights, security, and garage doors work
Keeping HVAC systems active in extreme heat or cold

A home standby generator offers seamless backup, switching on automatically when the grid goes down.

Generator Runtime and Sizing Your System

Most standby generators can keep your home running for as long as fuel is available—whether that's propane, natural gas, or diesel. For most Charleston homeowners, this means reliable power for several days. Hammes Services can help determine your fuel needs and provide maintenance to ensure your system is always ready.

Generator sizes are based on your home's power usage. Here are typical setups:

10-12 kW (Small to Medium Homes)
Capacity: Covers essential circuits (fridge, sump pump, lights, select outlets)
Estimated installed price: $4,500–$6,500 (includes permits)
kWh per day: 200–250
16-20 kW (Medium to Large Homes)
Capacity: Whole-house power including major appliances and central AC
Estimated installed price: $7,500–$9,500 (includes permits)
kWh per day: 330–400
22-24 kW (Large Homes or Small Commercial Buildings)
Capacity: Full backup for large homes or businesses
Estimated installed price: $10,000–$13,000 (includes permits)
kWh per day: 440–500

Example: Hammes Services installed a 20 kW Generac propane generator—complete with permits and all rental equipment—for $14,500. This included a custom-built wooden platform and equipment rental to safely lift the generator in place.

Flood-Resistant Wooden Platforms

Because Charleston is so vulnerable to flooding, it’s crucial to elevate generators above the typical flood line. Our team builds sturdy custom wooden generator platforms, engineered to withstand both the weight of the generator and severe weather conditions. Platforms are designed to local code, protecting your investment and ensuring your generator remains operational during floods.

Equipment Rental & All-Inclusive Installation

Installation on custom platforms often requires the use of heavy equipment, such as forklifts or cranes, to safely position your generator. Hammes Services includes the cost of equipment rental in your installation quote, so there are no surprises.

Example Pricing:
- Custom wooden platform: $3,000
- 20 kW Generac propane generator with platform installation, permits, and equipment rental: $14,500

Trust Hammes Services, Your Charleston Generator Installation Experts

Hammes Services is your trusted local source for reliable generator installation, maintenance, and flood-safe solutions in Charleston. We handle everything: site assessment, generator sizing, permitting, platform construction, equipment rentals, and expert installation.

Don’t wait until the next outage—be ready in advance. Contact Hammes Services today for a complimentary assessment and let us protect your home, your comfort, and your peace of mind.

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