Generator sizing and quotes
The right size is the one that runs what you need, starts your largest loads and fits your fuel supply. Here’s how we work it out.
Generator sizing and quotes: an overview
Picking a generator by guesswork usually ends one of two ways: a unit that’s too small and trips under load, or one that’s bigger and costlier than the home needs. Sizing is the step that prevents both, and it’s where we spend real time on every job.
We start with your goal. Some homeowners want everything to keep running as if nothing happened. Others want the essentials: refrigerator, some lights, internet, a few outlets, maybe one air-conditioning system. Both are reasonable; they simply lead to different equipment and different transfer-switch setups.
From there we look at the electrical panel, the large motor loads such as air conditioners and well pumps (these draw a surge when they start), your fuel source and where a unit can legally and practically sit. The result is a recommendation you can understand, with the reasoning written down rather than just a model number.
What’s included
What this work typically covers. Your scope depends on your home and equipment.
Your coverage goal
Whole-home or essential-circuit backup, and what you can live without during an outage.
Panel and service review
Service size, panel condition and available space for a transfer switch.
Large-load check
Air conditioners, electric ranges, dryers, water heaters, pool equipment and well pumps.
Fuel evaluation
Natural gas service, or LP-gas tank sizing and placement if gas service isn’t available.
Placement options
Clearances from windows, doors and property lines, plus flood exposure and access for service.
Written recommendation
A Generac or Kohler option, the transfer-switch approach and what the job includes.
Questions we’ll answer during sizing
- Will my central air run on generator power?
- Do I need load management to avoid overloading?
- Is my natural gas meter large enough?
- How big does an LP-gas tank need to be?
- Where can the unit go on my lot?
Why homeowners call Kelm for generator sizing & quotes
Certified Generac and Kohler dealer
We install and service both brands, so recommendations are based on your home, not on a single product line.
Electrical and fuel under one roof
Clint Kelm holds Texas Master Electrician and Master Plumber licenses and an RRC LP-Gas exemption, so the wiring, transfer switch and gas line are all handled by Kelm.
Standby generators since 2005
Clint has installed and serviced residential and commercial standby generators for two decades on the Gulf Coast.
Local and family-run
Kelm Home Services has been a family business for more than 50 years, based in League City and Santa Fe.
How it works
From your first call to a finished, tested job.
Call us
We ask a few questions about the home, outages and what matters most to you.
On-site review
Panel, loads, fuel and placement are checked in person.
Options explained
We walk through the choices, including Generac versus Kohler.
Quote
You get a clear scope of work for the recommended system.
Next steps
If you go ahead, we move to permits and scheduling.
Generator Sizing & Quotes FAQ
Common questions about this service.
Can I size a generator myself online?
Online calculators are a starting point, but they can’t see your panel, your motor loads or your gas meter. An on-site review avoids surprises.
What is load management?
Load management lets a smaller generator cover more of the home by temporarily shedding big loads, like a second AC unit, when demand gets high. Whether it fits depends on your home.
Does my gas meter matter?
Yes. A generator needs enough gas volume and pressure at full load. Sometimes the utility needs to upgrade the meter; we’ll flag that early.
Is the quote free?
Call us at 409-316-9834 and we’ll explain how we handle site visits and quotes for your project.
Get an estimate for generator sizing & quotes
Tell us about your home and the work you need. We’ll follow up by your preferred method.
Related services
Standby Generator Installation
Generac and Kohler standby generators installed by a licensed team that handles the electrical, the gas and the pad.
Learn moreGenerac vs Kohler
We’re a certified dealer for both, so we don’t need you to pick one over the other. Here’s how we help homeowners choose.
Learn moreGas Lines for Generators
Natural gas or LP-gas piping sized for your generator, installed by a licensed Master Plumber with LP-gas credentials.
Learn moreFinancing
Synchrony financing is available for your standby generator project, subject to credit approval.
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