Portable Generator Installation

The right generator size depends on the total wattage of the tools and appliances you want to power. For essentials, like a refrigerator, lights, and a few outlets, a 5,000 to 7,500-watt generator is often sufficient. If you’re using power tools for a renovation, you'll likely need more capacity.

Yes. We offer consultations to identify which circuits or appliances are most important to you during an outage. Then we can design a setup to power only those critical loads, such as refrigeration, heat, well pumps, or medical equipment, maximizing the efficiency of your generator.

Portable generators are ideal for powering essential items during short outages. If you want seamless power to your whole home or longer run times without refueling, a standby (whole-house) generator may be a better fit. We’ll assess your home's size, power needs, and lifestyle to help you make the best choice.

Portable generators don’t require a poured pad. They can sit on any flat, stable, non-combustible surface like a gravel pad, patio stone, or driveway. For permanent standby generators, we typically recommend a concrete or composite pad for long-term stability.

Generators should be placed at least 5 feet away from windows, doors, and vents to prevent carbon monoxide from entering your home. Local codes or manufacturer instructions may require even greater distances. We ensure all installations meet code and prioritize your safety.

Yes, we typically install a dedicated outdoor inlet box (also known as a generator interlock or power inlet box) for safe and convenient generator hookup. This allows you to connect the generator without running extension cords through doors or windows.

A manual transfer switch is commonly used with portable generators and is required by code for safely switching power from the grid to your generator. Yes, we install manual and automatic transfer switches and can match the right type to your specific generator and electrical panel.

Gasoline is readily available but has a short shelf life. Propane is clean-burning, stores well, and works with many home fuel systems. Diesel is efficient and stores better than gasoline but requires diesel-compatible generators. We’ll help you choose based on availability, run time, storage safety, and whether you already have propane or diesel infrastructure in place.

Fuel storage is regulated by local fire codes. Typically, you can store up to 5 gallons of gasoline or 25 gallons of propane for residential use without special permits. We’ll advise you based on your jurisdiction and help you follow all safety guidelines for proper storage.

Install battery-operated or hardwired CO detectors on every level of your home, especially near sleeping areas. These devices are essential for detecting dangerous fumes. We can also recommend surge protection and voltage monitoring equipment to protect your appliances.