Generac license installer/repair or do HVAC

VE Inc. said:
We tried the Generac dealer route for two years. No longer doing it. Lots of competition in our area, and the big box stores are selling whole home generators cheaper than our cost. Generac is a great product and they have great support. Generac classes are required (or used to be) to maintain status and tech support. We were typically getting between $10k-$11k for a 24kW installation with transfer switch. Annual maintenance is very easy and takes roughly 30-40 minutes. That's been our experience, in a nutshell.
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I install Cummins/Onan, the local supply house stocks them, so I don’t have to keep any inventory. No having to pay Generac for classes. So far in 25 years, I’ve only had to replace a transferswitch. Can’t say that about the Generac’s I’ve installed. They are a little harder to install because they are not made for homeowners like Generac. I’ve had to do the controls for other EC’s. Also no having to connect to the internet for startup.
 
hillbilly1 said:
I install Cummins/Onan, the local supply house stocks them, so I don’t have to keep any inventory. No having to pay Generac for classes. So far in 25 years, I’ve only had to replace a transferswitch. Can’t say that about the Generac’s I’ve installed. They are a little harder to install because they are not made for homeowners like Generac. I’ve had to do the controls for other EC’s. Also no having to connect to the internet for startup.
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Yeah, we definitely prefer Cummins / Onan for all of our commercial installations. I think the perception in my area is that they're a better product for commercial applications. I'll investigate residential generators from those guys. Thanks for the info HillBilly1.
 
About 7-8 years ago I got into Generac and became an authorized service dealer, or whatever they call it. IASS is the acronym, I think. I took the training because I didn't want to install a unit I couldn't service. I have probably supplied and installed 20 - 30. Every one was through a current contact. Prior to that, I referred them to a friend/ colleague. This friend/ colleague services hundreds, if not thousands of Generac generators in a 1 or 2 hour radius. He does well at that, with several employees. He does so well that he prefers to just service them, doesn't even want the installs. Ironically I got into the installs BC he didn't have time to install (3) that were lined up for my customers.

While the training was great, and I learned the units inside and out at the time, it was never meant to be a mainstream of my business. (the service, I continue to install some). If you're going to do generator service well, you need to do it every week, if not most days, IMO.

This is for home standby. Commercial generators are a different beast.
 
If you’re choosing between getting licensed to work on Generac generators or going into HVAC, here’s the simple breakdown. HVAC is more common and always needed—every house needs heating and cooling—so it’s steady work, but it can be physically tough and requires more schooling and certifications. Generac work is more niche with less competition, and the training is quicker, plus you can charge more since not many people do it. HVAC is the safer, broader career path, but being certified in both would make you super valuable. Honestly, start with HVAC for the foundation, then add Generac later and you’ll be able to offer full home comfort and backup power.
 
I already got a game plan. I’ll just do four more years with my apprentice my apprentice.
Then strike a deal with them after his four years of training as a journeyman I’ll sell them my business
Everything vans the highway front building right in the middle of town just get rid of everything to him. I’m done doing electrical. It’s fine, but Too much ass kissing around this neck of the woods and it’s a good old boy town so unless if I’m related to someone it’s hard to sneak in, so I’ll just go another route
Something I actually enjoy doing

Plus, my kids are getting older they’re more important than chasing this dollar and them. I noticed them more employees. I had the more I have to scrounge up work for them. It’s just me and an apprentice. I can keep going a lot easier and a lot less stressful and then hang out with my kids.
Nothing more important than your children
 
Sounds like a good plan. You’ve got your priorities straight, nothing wrong with stepping back and focusing on what matters most. Passing the business on and keeping things simple sounds like a smart move. Family time’s worth way more than the grind.
 
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