In rural areas across Middle Tennessee and North Alabama, whole-home generators are more than a luxury — they’re a necessity. When the power goes out, especially during storms, outages, or winter freezes, your generator keeps lights on, refrigerators running, and well pumps working.

But as more homeowners invest in these systems, one unfortunate trend is on the rise: generator theft.

At AC/DC Electrical Services, we’ve installed countless backup generators on rural properties, and we’ve seen how vulnerable they can be without the right protection. Here’s what you need to know to keep your investment safe.

🛑 Why Are Generators Being Stolen?

Portable generators and even whole-home standby units can fetch thousands of dollars on the resale market. Thieves often target:

• Rural homes with little roadside visibility

• Generators located behind barns, sheds, or homes

• Properties without security lighting or cameras

• Vacation homes or part-time residences

The spread-out nature of rural living makes it easier for thieves to go unnoticed—and that’s exactly what they count on.

🔐 How to Prevent Generator Theft on Rural Properties

1. Anchor the Unit to a Concrete Pad or Slab

If you have a standby generator, make sure it’s bolted down securely to a concrete pad. This simple step makes it far more difficult to move or steal without heavy equipment.

2. Install a Locking Cage or Enclosure

For portable generators stored outdoors or in sheds, a welded steel cage with a padlock offers a strong first line of defense.

3. Use Surveillance Cameras

Even in rural areas, affordable outdoor security cameras (like Ring or Arlo) can deter theft and capture footage of any suspicious activity. Position cameras where they can monitor the generator directly.

4. Add Motion-Activated Lighting

Thieves prefer darkness. Motion lights placed near the generator, along driveways, and near storage sheds make it harder for anyone to sneak around without being noticed.

5. Label and Register the Equipment

Engrave your address or contact info on the unit or use a metal property tag. Also, record the serial number and model in case it’s stolen—you’ll need this for a police report or insurance claim.

6. Limit Access to Keys and Transfer Switches

Don’t leave transfer switch keys, generator remotes, or fuel access unattended. These small steps help protect both the generator and its operation.

🧰 Ask Us About Generator Security Add-Ons

At AC/DC Electrical, we not only install generators—we help secure them. We offer:

• Lockable weatherproof cages

• Hardwired lighting systems

• Remote generator monitoring tools

• Surge protection for sensitive equipment

When we install a generator on your rural property, we always walk through custom protection recommendations based on your location, visibility, and risk.

💡 Peace of Mind Starts with Prevention

You’ve made a smart investment by installing a backup generator. Now, make sure it’s protected. A few simple precautions can save you thousands—and avoid major inconvenience the next time the power goes out.