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 size generator do I need to run a fridge?

• <div><p>While the rating will tell you how many watts the refrigerator needs at the peak of its cycle, it requires additional wattage to start. At the bare minimum, you’ll need a 1,500-watt generator to get the fridge up and running after a blackout. A 2,000-watt generator should be sufficient for most home refrigerators.</p></div>

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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 happens if my whole-house generator is too small for my AC?

• <div><p>An undersized whole-house generator has the potential to overheat and shut down when you try to run a central AC system. This scenario can not only damage the whole-house generator, but can also trip your home&rsquo;s breakers or cause electrical damage. To avoid this situation, hire a local generator installer to correctly size your whole-house generator.</p></div>

Q: What’s the normal lifespan of a diesel generator?

• <div><p>You can expect a diesel generator to last for up to <b>30,000 hours of use</b>, which works out to 20 to 25 years with the proper maintenance, of course. That depends on how much you use it, so a diesel generator used for emergencies a couple of times a year will last a lot longer than a generator that takes over for a faulty electrical grid every month for a day or two. </p></div>

Q: Can I install a portable generator myself?

• <div><p>DIY is possible for basic setups. Professional installation ensures safe and proper electrical connections.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Generator Install pros in Montague, CA

*The Angi rating for Generator Install companies in Montague, 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 Montague, 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 December 10, 2025

Reviewed in September 2025
Brandon and his crew worked with me to build a 25 year dream I had in my head. His professionalism and fabrication skills were incredible. They installed a retainer wall, 58 yards of concrete complete with grading and base, increased my concrete front porch along with incidentals. Then Brandon...
Unique Outdoor Creations LLC
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Reviewed in November 2020
We had a patio installed at our rental property late summer in Fredericksburg and they were very accommodating and helpful throughout the whole process. We were not in state and they made everything extremely easy and smooth throughout the whole process. Excellent communication! Highly recommend...
American Custom Concrete INC.
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Reviewed in October 2017
Very good. Actual part needing repair was different from what first vendor told us and they were able to not only obtain it quickly but installed it promptly as well.
HIGH DESERT AIR INC
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Reviewed in September 2016
In my ten years as an Interior Designer, I have never encountered such an unprofessional business. Which unfortunately, I had to deal with during renovations to my own house First, the owner, Mojy convinced us to use metal Schluter pieces to finish our tub surround, as opposed to using a...
HOUSE OF INTERIORS
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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 August 2014
He demanded payment with out finishing his work!! I asked for a credit. the scope was to install gas line to a stove, Drierand a water heather ready to install the appliances, he came back with air pressure test only with no shut off valves or reducers to fitt the valves..... I waited for his...
Heart Plumbing
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Reviewed in March 2013
The quality of the installation sticks out the most to me.
Deel Plumbing Heating & Air Conditioning
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Reviewed in December 2012
They set up the appointment. They came out and installed the sample test. We mailed it in after a few days and then they sent the results
ACE RADON CORPORATION
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Reviewed in May 2012
I had called all the storm shelter companies I could find and they were able to install the quickest with a decent price. They were out first thing in the morning and had the shelter installed and were done in two hours. We also use them for our septic tank and have nothing but great things to...
LAWTON SEPTIC TANK & STORM SHELTER
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Reviewed in April 2012
I recently contacted Garage and Closet Kingdom regarding an installation question, I was very pleased with their immediate response time. I would most defiantly contact Garage and Closet Kingdom in the future for my garage and closet needs. I appreciated their professionalism.
GARAGE & CLOSET KINGDOM
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Find Generator install pros in Montague

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.

Energytech Inc. DBA Advance Power Redding

No reviews yet

Energytech Inc. DBA Advance Power Redding

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24 years of experience

Wholesale & retail renewable energy store specializing in energy conservation & production. We install solar or sell you the materials. We stock Solar panels, 6v batteries, LIPO-4 batteries, DC to AC power inverters, wind turbines, Hydro turbines & parts, radiant barrier foil, Son Shield insulating paint & roof coat. And much more.

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

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.

An undersized whole-house generator has the potential to overheat and shut down when you try to run a central AC system. This scenario can not only damage the whole-house generator, but can also trip your home’s breakers or cause electrical damage. To avoid this situation, hire a local generator installer to correctly size your whole-house generator.

You can expect a diesel generator to last for up to 30,000 hours of use, which works out to 20 to 25 years with the proper maintenance, of course. That depends on how much you use it, so a diesel generator used for emergencies a couple of times a year will last a lot longer than a generator that takes over for a faulty electrical grid every month for a day or two.

DIY is possible for basic setups. Professional installation ensures safe and proper electrical connections.

While the rating will tell you how many watts the refrigerator needs at the peak of its cycle, it requires additional wattage to start. At the bare minimum, you’ll need a 1,500-watt generator to get the fridge up and running after a blackout. A 2,000-watt generator should be sufficient for most home refrigerators.

The Montague, 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

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•
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Best Fuel For a Whole-House Generator: 5 Options
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