Get matched with top generator install pros in El Cajon, CA

Q: Can you plug a generator directly into your house?

• <div><p>No, this is extremely dangerous, often illegal, and you should never attempt it. If you connect your generator to your home without a transfer switch, the generated power can backfeed, essentially flowing back into the utility lines. Backfeeding exposes a significant threat of fatalities or harm to you and utility personnel, in addition to jeopardizing the structural integrity of your home.</p></div>

Q: What can I run on different generator sizes?

• <div><p>Here&rsquo;s what you can run with different wattages and types of generators:</p><p>Portable generator:</p><ul><li><p>2,000 watts can handle a large appliance like a freezer or refrigerator, plus a few smaller items like phones or computer chargers. </p></li><li><p>4,000 watts will keep two large appliances operating and a few smaller devices.</p></li><li><p>8,000 watts should power most essential appliances and other devices, including a sump pump, well pump, or your dishwasher.</p></li></ul><p>Partial to whole-house generator:</p><ul><li><p>20,000 watts and above will make it seem like your home&rsquo;s power is still on.</p></li></ul><p></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: Is a natural gas generator less expensive than using electricity?

• <div><p>Natural gas and electricity rates vary significantly based on location, and pricing can change over time, too. It&rsquo;s possible that in locations where natural gas is particularly inexpensive, it will cost less than grid-based electricity will. However, you should also factor in the generator&rsquo;s initial costs and maintenance needs, as well as its noise level and if it can comfortably power all your home appliances.</p></div>

Q: How do generator specifications and installation requirements impact the overall cost?

• <div><p>Costs depend on generator type, labor, and additional wiring or transfer switch requirements.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Generator Install pros in El Cajon, CA

*The Angi rating for Generator Install companies in El Cajon, 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 El Cajon, 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 19, 2025

Reviewed in July 2025
Initially spoke with Chris very helpful connect me with Jon his knowledge and experience is helpful installing a pump in a brewery is work was time sensitive could not be more appreciative I would recommend them to anyone a lot of the communication was after hours and they were very generous...
Capital Shield Electric Company, Inc.
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Reviewed in October 2024
Where other companies just assumed a generic installation, Walter Electric spent a lot of time planning a customized arrangement that worked best for our particular layout. They gave more options and suggestions, and it made all the difference in the end. I would definitely recommend them to...
Walter Electric
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Reviewed in June 2016
We just had our first anniversary with using the solar system Perk Solar installed. We have had no problems with the system at all and it met every metric for performance. We just had our first "true-up" period with SDG&E and will be getting a credit from them for over generating power. The...
Perk Solar Inc. Formerly Perkins Electrical
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Reviewed in November 2014
They were too Replace garage door rollers and drums and general maintenance of garage doors. In addition they were to replace garage door trim. In general they did a good job everything looks good works good. I have one nail in a tire and have pictures of 13 other nails left in my garage and...
Garage Door Medics
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Reviewed in September 2013
Airmaxx's technician (Gene) was super prompt, curteous, and knowledgeable. Showed me the parts and explained why the AC condensor unit wasn't coming on. I would recommend.
Airmaxx Inc
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Reviewed in May 2013
Generally very well. I like the product. The sales person (Justin) and the install crew (John et al) were very professional and friendly. We had a minor snafu but it was worked out. There was a little issue with some caulk which didn't work properly and it is being taken care of once it dries....
Approved Contractor, Inc.
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Reviewed in January 2013
Generally goes very well. Invoice can be confusing. I did have to call and have them explain it to me. That's an area they need to work on. Otherwise everything is fine.
Barrett Propane
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Reviewed in May 2012
You just pay for the trip, which is different from how normal travel agencies work. Generally that includes the plane tickets and any excursions you want to take.
Go Ahead Tours
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Reviewed in April 2011
I was very satisfied and everything was fine. They were able to detect the leak and we subsequently had it repaired by a general contractor.
Ideal Plumbing Heating Air Electrical Inc
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Reviewed in February 2011
DePrizio Development, Inc. installed rain gutters on our new construction project. DePrizio Development was also our general contractor for our new construction project. Everything looks great!
DePrizio Development Inc
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