Get matched with top generator install pros in Oakdale, CA

Q: What are the benefits of a portable generator?

• <div><p>Portable generators provide backup power for essential appliances during outages and are easy to relocate.</p></div>

Q: How long can a whole house generator run?

• <div><p>As long as they have enough fuel, whole-house generators can run for weeks at a time (400 to 500 hours) without suffering too much wear and tear. However, this type of extensive use isn&rsquo;t ideal if you want to extend the life of your generator.</p><p>Two important points. First, some generators may need you to periodically check oil levels every day or so and refill as necessary for safe operation. Second, if your generator uses a fuel tank, keep it regularly full so it doesn&rsquo;t suddenly shut off. Many backup generators can run through a full tank in a day when they are powering large portions of a home.</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 size generator do I need for a 1500-square-foot house?

• <div><p>A 1,500 square foot home will likely need a 15kW to 20kW generator. When deciding on whole-house generator size, add up the <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-many-watts-house.htm">total wattage</a> of the devices that you&rsquo;d like to continue running during a power outage. That way, you can ensure you purchase a generator that can power your necessary appliances or medical equipment during an electrical emergency.</p></div>

Q: What happens with the generator when the local power goes back on?

• <div><p>If you have a transfer switch properly installed, the generator and main electrical power cannot feed the system at the same time. However, you should still shut off the power at your main circuit breaker panel before activating the generator. If you do that, you&rsquo;ll simply need to shut off the generator and reset your circuit breaker once the local power comes back on.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Generator Install pros in Oakdale, CA

*The Angi rating for Generator Install companies in Oakdale, 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 Oakdale, 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 January 08, 2026

Reviewed in January 2024
Kyle G. was an amazing plumber. He was very friendly and professional. He was able to pinpoint the problem right away and fixed everything within a short period of time. Discount Plumbing should feel very lucky to have such a professional young man working for them. I will definitely refer...
Discount Plumbing, Heating & Air
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Reviewed in May 2023
Rich and his crew did an excellent job installing my wood floors. Very courteous and polite. Very attentive to the details, will definitely use them again for my next project.
Richard Logan Petero Jr.
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Reviewed in March 2021
Jacob does an excellent job. He is very thorough and knowledgeable
AA Guaranteed Electric
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Reviewed in July 2020
One of the best companies I ve ever worked with. If you ever need a generator installed this is the company to call. From start to finish they are the best. True professionals
GenJazz Electrical Solutions
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Reviewed in July 2020
All issues and concerns were appropriately addressed during installation. Quote sent was very detailed a justified the project cost. Installed both AC and Furnace.
Derek Sawyer Smart Energy Heating & Air, Inc.
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Reviewed in June 2020
Al came with his assistant and did a great job. I actually referred him to a friend, and he was able to get to her first because I was waiting for delivery of the item he was installing. She was very pleased with the results. Al and his assistant were very polite and respectful and explained the...
CC & Son's Plumbing Solutions, Inc.
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Reviewed in March 2020
Dave resounded by phone immediately. Recommended an excellent plumbing supply store where I bought top quality items and got his 20% discount. Installation was perfect.
Dave's Plumbing
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Reviewed in January 2018
Very professional, kept us informed, did a very neat floor repair and hot water heater install, and cleaned up and left a tidy area when he was done. Will definitely keep Pro Plumbing in mind for future plumbing needs. We are very pleased with their work.
Pro Plumbing
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Reviewed in June 2016
Jose is a fine young man who installed my newly purchased Sunsetter Electric Awning. He installed our Sunsetter one day after coming over and giving me a great quote. The work was done professionally, in about 6 hours. They cleaned up after their work, and I couldn't be more pleased with the job.
J.S. Power Electric, Inc.
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