Standby Generator Installation: North Shore quotes
A standby generator is installed permanently outside the house, wired through a transfer switch, and fueled by natural gas or propane. When the grid fails it starts on its own within seconds. Tell us about your home and an independent local installer can quote a system sized to what you want to keep running.
What the job involves
- Site visit and load calculation. The installer looks at your electrical panel, gas or propane supply and possible pad locations, and works out what size unit you need.
- Permits. A licensed electrician and licensed gas fitter file for the electrical and gas permits. Some towns also check zoning setbacks.
- Pad, unit and transfer switch. The generator is set on a pad outdoors with the manufacturer's clearances, then wired to an automatic transfer switch and connected to fuel.
- Inspection and startup. Town inspectors sign off, the installer tests the system under load and sets up the automatic weekly exercise cycle.
Why generator safety matters
Backup power is about comfort, but how you get it is a safety decision.
Portable generators kill people every year
CPSC estimates about 85 U.S. consumers die each year from carbon monoxide poisoning caused by gasoline-powered portable generators, and 81% of those deaths happen at homes.(CPSC: Generator safety and carbon monoxide deaths)
Distance is not optional
CPSC says to run a portable generator only outdoors, at least 20 feet from the house, with the exhaust pointed away, and to have working CO alarms.(CPSC: Generator safety and carbon monoxide deaths)
Backfeeding can electrocute line workers
Plugging a generator into a wall outlet sends power back onto utility lines. CPSC warns this can electrocute utility workers and neighbors.(CPSC: Portable generator safety alert (PDF))
Use a transfer switch
OSHA says a generator should only be connected to a building's wiring through a transfer switch installed by a qualified electrician.(OSHA: Using portable generators safely (PDF), Ready.gov: Power outages (including generator safety))
Is this the right fit?
- Your heat, well pump or sump pump stops whenever the power goes out
- Someone in the home depends on powered medical equipment
- You are tired of running a portable generator and extension cords in a storm
- You work from home and need power and internet during outages
- You already have natural gas service or a propane tank
Every job is different. The pro you speak with will explain their own approach and pricing. North Shore Generator Pros does not perform, supervise, or guarantee any work.
Further reading: CPSC: Generator safety and carbon monoxide deaths · Ready.gov: Power outages (including generator safety) · OSHA: Using portable generators safely (PDF)
Generator questions
Standby or portable generator?
A portable generator is cheaper but has to be wheeled out, fueled with gasoline and connected by hand, and CPSC warns it must run outdoors at least 20 feet from the house. A standby unit is permanently installed, starts automatically, and runs on gas or propane.
How long does installation take?
The physical installation is often a day or two. Permits, equipment availability and inspections usually set the overall timeline, so ask each installer for their current lead time.
Are you the installer?
No. North Shore Generator Pros is a free service that connects you with independent local professionals, who quote and perform the work themselves.
How far from the house should a portable generator be?
CPSC says at least 20 feet, outdoors only, with the exhaust pointed away from the home, and never in a garage or basement, even with the door open.
Is it legal to backfeed through a dryer outlet?
It is unsafe and violates electrical code. CPSC warns backfeeding can electrocute utility workers and neighbors. Use a transfer switch or interlock installed by a licensed electrician.
Other generator services
Transfer Switch Installation
Automatic and manual generator transfer switch installation quotes from independent local electricians in Wakefield, Melrose, Stoneham, Woburn and the North Shore, MA.
Generator Gas & Propane Hookup
Natural gas line and propane tank hookup for standby generators.
Generator Maintenance & Repair
Annual service, repairs and battery replacement for home standby generators.