How close can a transfer switch be to a generator?

• <div><p>Generally, you’ll want to keep between <b>60 and 70 feet</b> between the generator and the transfer switch. There are a few reasons for this, including:</p><ul><li><p>The distance reduces the noise coming from the generator into your home.</p></li><li><p>It increases efficiency because you won’t have a voltage drop from this short of a distance.</p></li><li><p>Prevents carbon monoxide poisoning: keep at least 15 feet between your generator and an open window. </p></li></ul><p></p></div>

What are the pros and cons of using a natural gas generator?

• <div><p>Potential benefits of using a natural gas generator include reducing your carbon footprint, lower likelihood of carbon monoxide exposure, budget-friendly operating costs, and low-maintenance, continuous fuel supply. Some possible drawbacks, though, include higher initial <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-it-cost-install-generator.htm">installation costs</a>, dependency on a natural gas supply, and installation complexity. Keep in mind that pros and cons will vary based on the type and brand of natural gas generator. </p></div>

Get matched with top generator install pros in Safford, AZ

Q: How do I reduce AC startup power for a generator?

• <div><p>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.</p></div>

Q: How close can a transfer switch be to a generator?

• <div><p>Generally, you&rsquo;ll want to keep between <b>60 and 70 feet</b> between the generator and the transfer switch. There are a few reasons for this, including:</p><ul><li><p>The distance reduces the noise coming from the generator into your home.</p></li><li><p>It increases efficiency because you won&rsquo;t have a voltage drop from this short of a distance.</p></li><li><p>Prevents carbon monoxide poisoning: keep at least 15 feet between your generator and an open window. </p></li></ul><p></p></div>

Q: What are the disadvantages of a standby generator?

• <div><p>While standby generators provide essential backup power, they can fail when you need them most due to lack of maintenance, fuel supply issues, dead batteries, electrical problems, or improper installation. To avoid costly failures, professional installation and regular maintenance are crucial. Licensed technicians ensure safety, uphold warranty requirements, comply with regulations, and provide expert servicing.</p></div>

Q: Do diesel generators have any important downsides?

• <div><p>While diesel is relatively stable, it won&rsquo;t last nearly as long as propane and you may have to replace it if it sits unused for too long. Diesel can sometimes struggle to work efficiently or start engines during especially cold weather, so it&rsquo;s not the best choice for every climate. Compared to fuels like propane and natural gas, diesel generators tend to be noisier and create more exhaust, which isn&rsquo;t always ideal for home use. </p></div>

Enter your ZIP and get matched with up to 5 pros

Verified Reviews for Generator Install pros in Safford, AZ

*The Angi rating for Generator Install companies in Safford, AZ is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Generator Install needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Generator Install companies in Safford, AZ is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Generator Install needs.

Last update on October 29, 2025

Reviewed in June 2025
Mike was here when he said he would be. Found the problem but didn’t have the part. He got the right part over a weekend and installed it had me up and running. Great customer service and is very knowledgeable. I would use him again if needed, highly recommended him!!!!!!!
ETA APPLIANCE
Request a quote
Reviewed in April 2024
From my first phone call, to final install, they kept an open line of communication. The employees were very courteous and friendly. I am very pleased with my experience with ESC!
Energy Conservation Specialist, LLC
Request a quote
Reviewed in August 2023
Clem and his crew did an outstanding job installing my Barn. Door. I appreciate their craftsmanship and attention to detail! Not to mention, they hung it in this ungodly Arizona heatwave!
C&D Garage Doors
Request a quote
Reviewed in January 2023
We were very pleased with everything from the install to the final walk through. We liked that Sunny Energy had their own materials and equipment; they didn't have to contact someone else to install the product. Everyone we worked with was professional, courteous and responded quickly. A...
Sunny Energy, LLC
Request a quote
Reviewed in March 2022
Awesome job,... The install went great. The installer were very knowledgeable and personable. The install was on time and without issues. The installers were polite and respectful. I would HIGHLY recommend Dynamic Comfort. Thank you
Dynamic Comfort, LLC
Request a quote
Reviewed in August 2019
Charles, Brandon, Josh, and Albert did a remarkable job. Very polite and considerate. Both crews made sure everything was installed properly and that I was instructed on the use of each individual window. I was very pleased with the work that was preformed.
Dreamstyle Remodeling of Southern Arizona
Request a quote
Reviewed in June 2017
Well, A/C is 10 years old, they did an inspection and evaluation. The capacitor was in need of replacement and was probably costing us in higher electric bills. Also they installed a programmable thermostat for us. We were very pleased.
ProSkill Plumbing, Heating & Air
Request a quote
Reviewed in May 2015
It went very well. They accompanied me to Home Depot, helped me select what I needed, and installed the faucets. They could not have been more helpful or efficient.
Jay's Construction Inc Your Maintenance & Honey Do
Request a quote
Reviewed in May 2011
Mike, the repairman, arrived at the promised time on Monday, May 16, 2011 and removed the torn screen door. He then inspected the faulty sliding door and determined that the rollers had failed. He removed the stationary side of the door, in order to access the sliding side, then removed the...
BOULEVARD GLASS
Request a quote

Find Generator install pros in Safford

BRYDEN'S AUTO SVC INC

2730 E McDowell Road

5.00(

)

BRYDEN'S AUTO SVC INC

2730 E McDowell Road

5.00(

)

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

Bryden's Auto Service has been in business since 1995.We have an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau.We are a Full service repair facility.We have ASE certified Master Technicians.We offer service for foreign and domestic vehicles including diesel vehicles.We are located at 2730 E. McDowell Rd. Suite #1 in Phoenix,Az. Quality workmanship and customer service is our number one priority.We care about getting your car in great shape as quickly as possible so you can get back on the road and on with your life.

"My son needed assistance in getting his Cadillac through emissions. I went to a lot of places. They all wanted at least 3 times the value of the vehicle. I went on the DMV website and searched for mechanics with a 100 percent pass rate. I found Bryden's and found good reviews. Went in. Met a mechanic that was friendly. Explained everything and laid out the options and made it downright affordable. They did the repair and physically took it though emissions. Specifically track down an intake leak on a 2001 Cadillac Seville STS. Not an easy task. Job done. Very pleased with the service. I highly recommend them to not just do emissions but do other repairs."

Keith S on October 2018

"My son needed assistance in getting his Cadillac through emissions. I went to a lot of places. They all wanted at least 3 times the value of the vehicle. I went on the DMV website and searched for mechanics with a 100 percent pass rate. I found Bryden's and found good reviews. Went in. Met a mechanic that was friendly. Explained everything and laid out the options and made it downright affordable. They did the repair and physically took it though emissions. Specifically track down an intake leak on a 2001 Cadillac Seville STS. Not an easy task. Job done. Very pleased with the service. I highly recommend them to not just do emissions but do other repairs."

Keith S on October 2018

My Classic Car Trader LLC

312 Prospect Ave

2.00(

)

My Classic Car Trader LLC

312 Prospect Ave

2.00(

)

53 years of experience

Sales, Service & Rebuilding of Antique and Classic Car Components such as, Carburetors, Starters, Generators, Fuel Pumps, Double & Single Action Fuel Pump Rebuilding, Water Pumps, Hydraulic Top Pumps, Distributors, and DELCO Knee Action Shocks, We also carry a complete line of NOS and NORS parts. We offer FREE Technical advice for any YEAR Classic Car 609-462-7412

"Beware. They charged me double shipping even after I told them I would wait so I wouldn’t have to pay two shipping fees. The last item was a fuel pump that I had a problem with. I have made 4 calls to ask for help with no return call. Poor"

Frank H on July 2020

"Beware. They charged me double shipping even after I told them I would wait so I wouldn’t have to pay two shipping fees. The last item was a fuel pump that I had a problem with. I have made 4 calls to ask for help with no return call. Poor"

Frank H on July 2020

R & R ELECTRIC LLC

4410 N FORT GRANT RD

5.00(

)

R & R ELECTRIC LLC

4410 N FORT GRANT RD

5.00(

)

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

Residential and Commercial Electrical Contractor

Generator Install questions, answered by experts

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.

Generally, you’ll want to keep between 60 and 70 feet between the generator and the transfer switch. There are a few reasons for this, including:

The distance reduces the noise coming from the generator into your home.
It increases efficiency because you won’t have a voltage drop from this short of a distance.
Prevents carbon monoxide poisoning: keep at least 15 feet between your generator and an open window.

While standby generators provide essential backup power, they can fail when you need them most due to lack of maintenance, fuel supply issues, dead batteries, electrical problems, or improper installation. To avoid costly failures, professional installation and regular maintenance are crucial. Licensed technicians ensure safety, uphold warranty requirements, comply with regulations, and provide expert servicing.

Potential benefits of using a natural gas generator include reducing your carbon footprint, lower likelihood of carbon monoxide exposure, budget-friendly operating costs, and low-maintenance, continuous fuel supply. Some possible drawbacks, though, include higher initial installation costs, dependency on a natural gas supply, and installation complexity. Keep in mind that pros and cons will vary based on the type and brand of natural gas generator.

While diesel is relatively stable, it won’t last nearly as long as propane and you may have to replace it if it sits unused for too long. Diesel can sometimes struggle to work efficiently or start engines during especially cold weather, so it’s not the best choice for every climate. Compared to fuels like propane and natural gas, diesel generators tend to be noisier and create more exhaust, which isn’t always ideal for home use.

The Safford, AZ homeowners’ guide to generator installs

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

See all articles

Alison Kasch
•
Feb 10, 2025Feb 10, 2025
How Much Does It Cost To Install a Generator Transfer Switch? [2025 Data]
The cost to install a generator transfer switch depends on several factors. Our guide will help you understand all of the costs.
Breyden Kellam
•
Aug 14, 2025Aug 14, 2025
How Much Does Whole-House Generator Maintenance Cost? [2025 Data]
Keeping on top of generator maintenance and repairs gives you extra peace of mind as a homeowner. Find out how much regular generator maintenance costs.
Elisa Greenberg
•
Aug 14, 2025Aug 14, 2025
How Much Does a Whole-House Generator Cost? [2025 Data]
The average cost of a whole-house generator falls between $5,000 and $25,000. Keep reading to learn how much you can expect to spend.
Tyler Lacoma
•
Apr 1, 2025Apr 1, 2025
Diesel Generator Maintenance Services: 10 Steps to Know
Diesel remains a popular fuel option for a variety of home generators, but you will need to plan your maintenance carefully. Here’s how it works.
Tyler Lacoma
•
Mar 26, 2025Mar 26, 2025
Pros and Cons of a Whole-House Generator
Whole house generators can power homes when electric problems hit, but they aren’t for everyone. Here’s what you should know when you’re thinking about buying.
Melissa Graham
•
Aug 8, 2024Aug 8, 2024
8 Types of Generators for Homeowners
Depending on your needs, many types of generators can power your home, RV, or campsite. Check out our guide for the best types of generators.