The Step-by-Step Process to Become a Certified Generac Dealer
Generac is the leading name in home standby generators, and becoming a certified dealer can be a highly profitable move for electrical contractors, HVAC companies, and other home service businesses. The demand for backup power solutions is growing rapidly due to an aging power grid and an increase in extreme weather events. As a certified dealer, you gain access to products, training, and support from the industry leader. This guide provides a clear, step-by-step process on how to become a certified Generac dealer.
The Goal: Joining an Elite Network
The goal is not just to sell generators; it's to become a trusted, factory-authorized partner. Certification from Generac tells customers that you have met the manufacturer's high standards for sales, installation, and service. This designation sets you apart from uncertified installers and gives you a significant competitive advantage.
The Process: From Interest to Certified Partner
The path to becoming a dealer involves several key stages, from expressing initial interest to completing rigorous training requirements. It's a process designed to ensure that every certified dealer is a true expert in Generac products.
Prerequisites: What You Need Before You Apply
Generac looks for established, professional businesses to partner with. Before you begin the application, your business should ideally have:
- A Licensed Electrical Contractor: You must have a licensed electrician on staff or be one yourself. Generator installation involves complex electrical work that must be done to code.
- A Physical Business Location: Generac typically requires its dealers to have a commercial place of business (a shop or office), not just a home address.
- Business Insurance: You will need to show proof of general liability insurance.
- A Commitment to Sales and Service: Generac is looking for partners who will proactively market, sell, install, and, most importantly, service their products.
The Step-by-Step Application and Certification Process
Submit an Inquiry on the Generac Website
The first step is to formally express your interest. Go to the official Generac website (Generac.com) and find the "Become a Dealer" or "Dealer Inquiry" page. You will be asked to fill out a form with basic information about your business, including your company name, location, number of employees, and the types of services you currently offer.
Initial Consultation with a Generac Representative
After you submit your inquiry, a regional Generac sales representative will contact you. This is an initial vetting call. Be prepared to discuss your business model, your customer base, your experience with electrical and mechanical work, and why you want to become a dealer. They will explain the program's requirements, including sales targets and training commitments, in more detail.
Formal Application and Business Review
If the initial consultation goes well, you will be invited to submit a formal application. This will require you to provide more detailed business information, including your business license, proof of insurance, and any relevant trade licenses (like your electrical contractor license). Generac will review your application to ensure you meet their standards for professionalism and financial stability.
Sign the Dealer Agreement
Once your application is approved, you will be sent a Dealer Agreement. This is a legal contract that outlines the terms and conditions of the partnership, including your sales territory, sales expectations, branding guidelines, and the requirements for maintaining your certified status. Review this document carefully before signing.
Complete the Required Factory Training
This is the most critical part of the certification process. Generac requires its dealers' technicians to be factory-trained to ensure safe and proper installation and service. You will need to send at least one technician (and ideally more) to a certified training center. The training covers:
- Air-Cooled Standby Generators: This is the core certification, covering the installation, activation, and servicing of Generac's most popular home standby units.
- Liquid-Cooled Standby Generators: A separate, more advanced course for larger commercial and residential generators.
- Connectivity & Remote Monitoring: Training on Generac's Mobile Link™ system, which allows dealers and customers to monitor generator status remotely.
This training involves both classroom learning and hands-on work with the equipment. There are fees associated with this training.
Place Your Initial Product Order and Set Up Your Showroom
As a new dealer, you will be required to place an initial stocking order of generators and accessories (like transfer switches). Many dealers also set up a small showroom in their office with a working generator model to demonstrate the product to potential customers. Generac provides marketing materials, signage, and co-op advertising funds to help you promote your new status.
Launch and Maintain Your Status
Once your training is complete and you have product in hand, you are officially a Certified Generac Dealer. To maintain this status, you will need to meet annual sales targets and ensure your technicians complete ongoing training to stay up-to-date on new products and service procedures.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the entire certification process take?
The timeline can vary, but most businesses can expect the process to take between 1 to 3 months from the initial inquiry to becoming fully certified. The biggest variable is the availability of the required factory training classes, which can sometimes have a waiting list.
What is the biggest challenge for new dealers?
Beyond the initial investment in training and inventory, the biggest challenge is often generating the first few sales leads. Generac provides marketing support, but successful dealers are proactive in marketing their new services to their existing customer base (e.g., all past electrical or HVAC customers) and through local advertising.
Can I just sell the generators, or do I have to service them too?
To be a certified "Sales and Service" dealer, which is the standard and most beneficial partnership, you are required to have the factory-trained technicians to service the products you sell. This long-term service relationship is a key part of Generac's business model and a major revenue stream for dealers through maintenance plans.
Conclusion: A Commitment to Excellence
Becoming a certified Generac dealer is more than just a business opportunity; it's a commitment to becoming a power solutions expert. The process is rigorous, requiring a professional business foundation and a significant investment in training. However, for those who complete the process, the rewards are substantial. You gain the credibility of the industry's leading brand, access to a high-demand product line, and the factory support needed to build a profitable new revenue stream for your business.
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