Residential Backup Generator Installation in Altadena

Altadena sits in a Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone (VHFHSZ) with a proven history of catastrophic wildfires. The 2025 Eaton Fire destroyed hundreds of homes and demonstrated the vulnerability of foothill communities to wind-driven ember storms and extended PSPS events. SCE now implements PSPS protocols during every red-flag warning, leaving neighborhoods without power for 24–72 hours or longer. A backup generator keeps your family safe during these events: it powers refrigeration, medical devices, garage doors for emergency egress, security systems to prevent looting, well/sump pumps, and communication systems—allowing you to shelter in place safely or evacuate with dignity and control.

PSPS (Public Safety Power Shutoff) events in Altadena typically last 24–72 hours but can extend to 5+ days when post-event inspections reveal transmission line damage or when high winds prevent safe repair access. During severe Santa Ana wind events, SCE de-energizes mountain transmission lines serving foothill communities to prevent downed power lines from sparking wildfires. With a properly sized generator and adequate fuel supply (natural gas from street mains or large propane tanks), you can power critical loads for the entire duration without refueling or manual intervention—critical for families with medical needs, young children, or elderly residents.

Yes. Altadena properties in VHFHSZ areas (which includes most of the community) require LA County Department of Public Works permits (electrical and mechanical) plus LA County Fire Department review for fuel systems, clearances, and ignition-resistant construction compliance. Fire-rebuild projects may qualify for expedited permitting through LA County’s disaster recovery programs. We manage all submittals, address plan check comments, coordinate inspections, and ensure full compliance with California Fire Code, defensible-space requirements, and post-Eaton Fire building standards. Typical permitting timelines are 2–4 weeks, with priority processing available for critical infrastructure.

Many older Altadena homes have standard 1/2 psi natural gas meters that may be undersized for large generators (22kW+), especially when combined with existing gas appliances. We calculate total BTU demand and coordinate meter or service upgrades with SoCalGas when needed—typically a 2–4 week process. For properties with insufficient gas capacity, long service runs, or areas where gas infrastructure was damaged by fire, we design propane systems with 120–1,000 gallon ASME tanks, providing multi-day runtime and complete fuel independence during extended PSPS events or post-disaster utility disruptions.