Top-rated generator install pros.

Get matched with top generator install pros in Cottondale, AL

Enter your zip and get matched with up to 5 pros

Need a pro for your generator install project in Cottondale, AL?

Select your specific project to find the pro for you.

Find Generator install pros in Cottondale

Avatar for Dunn's HVAC, Plumbing & Electrical
Dunn's HVAC, Plumbing & Electrical
New to Angi

Serving Cottondale, AL and surrounding areas

Approved (Corporate)

In business since 2014

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

At Dunn's Heating, Cooling, Plumbing, and Electrical, we know how hard it is to find a Dependable company you can trust. The time-consuming effort can be frustrating and overwhelming. We believe what matters is getting back to what’s important to YOU, so we provide dependable service Dunn right! Dunn's Heating, Cooling, Plumbing, and Electrical is built upon honesty, integrity, and trust. \n\nWe are your local choice for all your HVAC repair, installation, and service needs. We are proud to serve Anniston and Pelham, AL, as well as the surrounding cities. We are family-owned and also family-operated. As a local business, we care about and are invested in the well-being of our community and its future.

25 neighbors recently requested a quote
Avatar for Coolray Heating, Cooling, Plumbing and Electrical
Coolray Heating, Cooling, Plumbing and Electrical
4.2(
23
)

Serving Cottondale, AL and surrounding areas

In business since 1966

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"My installer Samuel was top notch, very detailed, pleasant, answered all my questions. Excellent representative. The only problem I had was miscommunication on their end as I was told available payment options and Samuel was told another. Did not affect installation or quality of work at all."
Additional Photos
Additional Photos
Additional Photos
Additional Photos
Recommended by45%of homeowners
Avatar for Mach 1 Mechanical Services
Mach 1 Mechanical Services
5.0(
4
)

Serving Cottondale, AL and surrounding areas

In business since 2019

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"The seal on the bottom of my garage door had dry rotted. I hired someone to replace it. They bought the part but could not install it. We were expecting a lot of rain, so I needed it done as soon as possible. I called Mach 1 Mechanical. Jason came out the same day. He was very professional and courteous. Jason determined that the part I had was not the correct part. Since it would take time to get the correct part, Jason decided to modify the part I had. He successfully modified and installed the part. There has been zero water entering under the door. Jason went the extra mile and I could not be happier with the job he did. He did it at an excellent price. I would hire him again in a heartbeat."
Truck @ ATV
Generator
Response time2 days
Recommended by100%of homeowners
Avatar for The Home Depot - Generators
The Home Depot - Generators
2.5(
1
)

Serving Cottondale, AL and surrounding areas

In business since 2003

Free estimates

Small jobs welcome

Today, we're proud to be the world's largest home improvement retailer. In 2,300 stores across North America, we aspire to excel in service – to our customers, associates, communities and shareholders. That's what leadership means to us. That's The Home Depot difference.

Generators
Generators
Generators
Generator
Generators

+5

Showing 1-10 of 28
Generator Install questions, answered by experts

Portable generators provide backup power for essential appliances during outages and are easy to relocate.

The average cost to install a home generator is $5,200, but total costs can range from $500 to $18,000 or more. The final price depends on several factors, including the generator's size, type, brand, fuel source, and the cost of labor and assembly. The generator's size is the most significant cost factor, as units that can power larger homes with higher energy demands cost more.

Cost breakdowns by generator type are typically as follows:

  • Portable or Emergency Backup Generators (1kW–7.5kW): $500–$2,000

  • Partial-Home Generators (9kW–20kW): $2,000–$6,500

  • Whole-House Generators (22kW–48kW): $5,000–$18,000

To ensure you get the right size unit for your needs without overpaying, consider hiring an electrician to calculate the electrical load of your essential appliances. It is also recommended to get at least three quotes from qualified installers to find the best fit for your budget.

To reduce AC startup power for a whole-house generator, install a soft start kit or hard start capacitor, which lowers the initial surge by gradually ramping up the compressor. Using a smart load manager can also help by staggering startup loads, preventing a system overload and future costly repairs.

To determine the right size generator for your house, you should calculate the total wattage of the appliances and devices you want to power during an outage. List all essential items, note their start-up wattages, and add them together.

Here are some typical wattage requirements for common appliances:

  • Refrigerator: 600 watts

  • Large dehumidifier: 700 watts

  • Large window air conditioner: 1,400 watts

  • Water heater: 3,000 to 4,500 watts

  • Electric furnace: 5,000 to 25,000 watts

A 7,500-watt generator might be sufficient for essentials like a refrigerator, freezer, well pump, and lighting circuits. However, for high-demand items like a water heater or furnace, a whole-home generator is a better choice. A portable generator may be enough if you only need to power a few critical items.

While home square footage can offer a rough estimate, it is not always a reliable indicator. For reference, here are some typical generator sizes based on square footage:

  • 1,000 sq ft: 6–9 kW

  • 1,500 sq ft: 7–10 kW

  • 2,000 sq ft: 10–14 kW

  • 2,500 sq ft: 12–16 kW

  • 3,000 sq ft: 16–20 kW+

For the most accurate sizing, consult a professional who can calculate your home's peak and average power consumption and recommend the optimal generator.

Yes, in most municipalities, you will need a permit to install a permanent home generator, including emergency backup, partial-home, and whole-home models. Because these installations involve significant alterations to your home's electrical system and produce exhaust fumes, local governments often require a permit or inspection for safety purposes. A generator permit typically costs between $50 and $250, depending on your location. Your electrician or certified installer can usually handle the permitting process for you, but you will be responsible for the cost. It's a good practice to confirm with your installer that they will pull all necessary permits before work begins.

The Cottondale, AL homeowners’ guide to generator installs

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.