How does a generator transfer switch save me money?

• <div><p>It might seem counterintuitive, but installing a generator transfer switch will save you money in the long run. While you’ll have to pay between <b>$400 and $2,500</b> to have the transfer switch installed, you’ll recoup that amount later on when you don’t have to pay for expensive repairs to your appliances, devices, and electrical system that may have burned out, overloaded, or stopped working due to a sudden loss of power or an incorrect <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-to-hook-up-generator-to-house.htm">hook up of a generator to your home</a>. </p></div>

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Q: What size generator does my house need?

• <div><p>You can determine what size generator you need by listing the various appliances it will power during an outage. Write down the start-up watt usage, and then add them all together. </p><p>A 7,500-watt generator will run your refrigerator, freezer, well pump, and lighting circuits without a problem. However, you&rsquo;ll need an extra 3,000 to 4,500 watts to run your water heater and another 5,000 to 25,000 watts to run your electric furnace. In these instances, a whole-home generator is your best bet for running your critical equipment.</p></div>

Q: How much horsepower do I need?

• <div><p>If your home already has a grinder pump and you&rsquo;re still noticing issues (like frequently clogged toilets and sinks), it could be time to upgrade your grinder pump. Start by checking your existing horsepower. If there are four or fewer people living in your home, using a 1/2-horsepower grinder pump should be sufficient. Larger households should consider investing in a 1-horsepower grinder pump to maximize wastewater removal efforts.</p></div>

Q: Is it safe to run a generator continuously?

• <div><p>It is safe to run a generator continuously, but you must follow safety protocols to ensure personal and home safety. Read the manufacturer&rsquo;s instructions for specific recommendations, but the general recommendation is to turn generators off overnight or when you&rsquo;re away from the house. Overworked generators can pose a fire hazard and if your generator is not in a well-ventilated area, running it continuously could lead to carbon monoxide poisoning. </p></div>

Q: Where can you install a whole-house generator?

• <div><p>Whole-house generators need to be installed on level ground several feet away from walls and other objects. Because they tap into the electrical system directly, they usually need to be close to your home electrical panel for a transfer switch installation. It also helps with installation if they are near to a gas line or propane tank installation.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Generator Install pros in Bishop, CA

*The Angi rating for Generator Install companies in Bishop, CA 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 Bishop, CA 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 November 17, 2025

Reviewed in August 2025
Vern came out and did an excelent job installing an EV receptical and fixing some other issues my house had. He was very professional and very knowledgeable. 10 out of 10 recommend. Will be in touch for future projects.
D.E.I. ELECTRIC INC.
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Reviewed in July 2025
We live in the Joshua Tree area and had a Kohler generator installed in 2021. Unfortunately, by 2025, it had failed. A local electrical contractor inspected it but couldn’t repair the issue, so we turned to the expert—Pete Poillon. I’m incredibly glad we did. Pete promptly diagnosed the...
Poillon Electric
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Reviewed in June 2025
Larry and his boys painted my kitchen and Tiled my backsplash and floors. They even installed my new appliances. I am thrilled with my new kitchen. Excellent craftsmanship.
Service On The GO - Unlicensed Contractor
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Reviewed in September 2020
On time. Under budget. Better-than-expected results. Jared and his crew are second to none. They turned a blank, boring wall in our house into an amazing bookshelf with built in lighting. Even though I was a smaller job for him, they rolled the red carpet out for us and did an incredible job. If...
Big Monkey Renovation & Repair
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Reviewed in August 2016
very well, serviced and fixed my inoperable washing machine within 30 min. they fixed the generator as opposed to just ordering another part or stating i should just get a new one like the mechanic before hand. Their professional service is worth the cost and saved me a substantial amount of...
Major Appliance Co, Inc.
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Reviewed in January 2015
Sales team did not try to over sale me a unit. They did a hard load calculation and sold me what I needed. The install team was clean, fast, and informative.
CLEMMER SERVICES INC
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Reviewed in December 2014
didn't work, at first . . had to come out again . . finally got heater to work . . said it needed other parts . . bought and installed.
HVAC THERAPY
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Reviewed in May 2014
Doug Williams was personable, honest and extremely helpful from estimate to actual repair. He even came back out to our home to install an addition rain gutter. Crew was incredibly efficient and entire roof was removed and replaced in one day.
Lanier Roofing and Restoration
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Reviewed in March 2014
Efficient, professional and speedy installation. Todd has a facility for explaining what he intends to do regarding the job (and why) in layman's terms. No jargon. In my opinion a very good businessman and an indispensable vendor when you have electrical issues.
Hill Electric Inc
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Reviewed in March 2013
I've worked with Gene and Randee Nelson for the past 3 years. I built a new home in 2008, and since then my AC unit has taken multiple electricity hits (we have bad power in 29 Palms). In August 2012, we lost the condenser, and I filed a claim with my home warranty company, they sent out someone...
Nelson Heating & Air
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Find Generator install pros in Bishop

Wholesale provider of new american made artificial grass and turf products. We also carry a line of off grid solar products.

Liberty Solar

5.00(

)

Liberty Solar

5.00(

)

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

Liberty Solar designs, engineers, and installs Advanced Renewable Energy Systems. We do NOT use sub-contractors. We take great pride in our work and we install only the best American-made equipment and the best prices. We have many financing options available.

My Classic Car Trader LLC

2.00(

)

My Classic Car Trader LLC

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

Sterling Auto Repair

4.50(

)

Sterling Auto Repair

4.50(

)

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

Complete auto care solution, from oil changes to engine swaps we do it all. Quick turn around and friendly, knowledgeable service from start to finish.

Generator Install questions, answered by experts

It might seem counterintuitive, but installing a generator transfer switch will save you money in the long run. While you’ll have to pay between $400 and $2,500 to have the transfer switch installed, you’ll recoup that amount later on when you don’t have to pay for expensive repairs to your appliances, devices, and electrical system that may have burned out, overloaded, or stopped working due to a sudden loss of power or an incorrect hook up of a generator to your home.

You can determine what size generator you need by listing the various appliances it will power during an outage. Write down the start-up watt usage, and then add them all together.

A 7,500-watt generator will run your refrigerator, freezer, well pump, and lighting circuits without a problem. However, you’ll need an extra 3,000 to 4,500 watts to run your water heater and another 5,000 to 25,000 watts to run your electric furnace. In these instances, a whole-home generator is your best bet for running your critical equipment.

If your home already has a grinder pump and you’re still noticing issues (like frequently clogged toilets and sinks), it could be time to upgrade your grinder pump. Start by checking your existing horsepower. If there are four or fewer people living in your home, using a 1/2-horsepower grinder pump should be sufficient. Larger households should consider investing in a 1-horsepower grinder pump to maximize wastewater removal efforts.

It is safe to run a generator continuously, but you must follow safety protocols to ensure personal and home safety. Read the manufacturer’s instructions for specific recommendations, but the general recommendation is to turn generators off overnight or when you’re away from the house. Overworked generators can pose a fire hazard and if your generator is not in a well-ventilated area, running it continuously could lead to carbon monoxide poisoning.

Whole-house generators need to be installed on level ground several feet away from walls and other objects. Because they tap into the electrical system directly, they usually need to be close to your home electrical panel for a transfer switch installation. It also helps with installation if they are near to a gas line or propane tank installation.

The Bishop, CA 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

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.
Alison Kasch
•
Oct 29, 2025Oct 29, 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
•
Oct 30, 2025Oct 30, 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.
Heather Ayer
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May 22, 2025May 22, 2025
Whole-House Generator Installation: A Complete Guide
Whole home generator installations require a professional hand. Read this guide to help you decide which generator is best for your home.
Kat Brancato
•
Mar 7, 2025Mar 7, 2025
Who Can I Hire to Fix a Generator?
Searching for a pro who can fix a generator? Consider hiring a generator technician or an electrician to handle the job.
Melissa Graham
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Jul 23, 2024Jul 23, 2024
15 Generator Uses for Homeowners
A portable generator can serve several uses beyond its traditional purpose. If you’re looking for ways to put your generator to work, our guide can help.