Get matched with top generator install pros in Rancho Santa Fe, CA

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>

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: 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: Do I need a permit to install a generator?

• <div><p>In most municipalities, you will need a permit to install a permanent home generator, including emergency backup, partial-home, and whole-home generators. A permit for a generator usually costs between <b>$50 and $250</b>, depending on where you live. Your electrician or certified generator installer will usually pull the permit for you&mdash;and might be required to do so by your building department&mdash;but you&rsquo;ll be on the hook for the cost of the permit. You should ask your installer before agreeing to any work if they will pull the necessary permits for your project.</p></div>

Q: How long does a whole-house generator last?

• <div><p>When maintained properly, a whole-house generator can last up to <b>20 years</b>. <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-generator-repair-cost.htm">Costs to maintain and repair generators</a> vary by location and type of generator, but you can expect to pay about <b>$150 to $300 per year</b> for annual generator maintenance checks. An experienced generator service technician will inspect your generator&rsquo;s engine filter, starting mechanism, fuel, lubrication, and coolant levels to keep your generator in good working condition for as long as possible. </p></div>

Enter your ZIP and get matched with up to 5 pros

Verified Reviews for Generator Install pros in Rancho Santa Fe, CA

*The Angi rating for Generator Install companies in Rancho Santa Fe, 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 Rancho Santa Fe, 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 01, 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.
Request a quote
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
Request a quote
Reviewed in November 2015
Pricing was competitive with other providers and we selected this provider based on quality and price. Installers were efficient, professional and courteous. Salespeople were very knowledgeable and generous with samples while we were in the decision making process. Very pleasant experience.
GENEVA FLOORING
Request a quote
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
Request a quote
Reviewed in August 2014
The previous owner of my house had rented it out for a few years and the general state of most of the home systems had seriously deteriorated (and was done on the cheap). Ben Guthrie helped me bring some much needed fixes to the duct system and replaced some sub-par components that were...
Guthrie & Sons Heating, Air, & Solar
Request a quote
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
Request a quote
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
Request a quote
Reviewed in June 2008
Work was to be done on a tight time schedule due to our leaving for an extended trip. Work was done on time, workmanship by in-house staff was excellent. Workmanship of sub-contractors was generally good, unsatisfactory work was corrected. Excellent coordination between project...
Lars Remodeling & Design
Request a quote
Reviewed in April 2005
OVERALL EXPERIENCE WAS VERY POSITIVE. A REPRESENTATIVE CAME OUT AND CONSULTED WITH ME BEFORE GIVING ME A PERSONALIZED, COMPUTER GENERATED, DRAFT OF THE PROPOSED FINISHED PRODUCT. TURNAROUND TIME AND INSTALLATION WAS COMPLETED IN A TIMELY MANNER.
California Closets
Request a quote

Find Generator install pros in Rancho Santa Fe

Dwelling Electric Inc.

Dwelling Electric Inc.

Customers say: Quality work

Recommended by 92% of Angi customers

84 local quotes requested

Looking for an electrician who values your time and delivers top-quality results? Dwelling Electric Inc. offers prompt service, upfront pricing, and clear communication throughout San Diego. We specialize in EV charger installations, recessed lighting, and elegant lighting solutions. Text us now at 619-940-6262 for a fast, no-hassle estimate!

"I had fire alarms replaced and the project went really well with Dwelling Electric. Jeff was professional and efficient. All was completed very quickly and he spent time explaining everything to me."

Katherine C on August 2025

"I had fire alarms replaced and the project went really well with Dwelling Electric. Jeff was professional and efficient. All was completed very quickly and he spent time explaining everything to me."

Katherine C on August 2025

ASAP Electric & Solar

ASAP Electric & Solar

Customers say: Quality work

Recommended by 98% of Angi customers

50 local quotes requested

Full Service electrical, lighting, landscape lighting, and generator installation specialist with over 14 years in the business. We pride ourselves in being the most professional and clean electrical company out there. We truly listen to our customers concerns and needs and provide excellent and honest work.

"Excellent quality workmanship, provides honest transparent, and reliable services. Took care of permits and City inspection scheduling. Pricing was as quoted and well in line with industry standards. Highly recommend for any electric services."

Jennifer R on March 2022

"Excellent quality workmanship, provides honest transparent, and reliable services. Took care of permits and City inspection scheduling. Pricing was as quoted and well in line with industry standards. Highly recommend for any electric services."

Jennifer R on March 2022

Roper Electric Inc.

Roper Electric Inc.

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

23 local quotes requested

Roper Electric is a family owned & operated business that relies on quality of work and work ethic to grow our business. Our technicians started and grew up in the electrical trade in San Diego County. We are a word of mouth business that is rapidly growing in San Diego County.

"outsatnding"

Christer D on March 2018

"outsatnding"

Christer D on March 2018

Fahr Electric Inc

Fahr Electric Inc

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

37 local quotes requested

Fahr Electric Inc is your go-to electrical service provider in San Diego. We specialize in all electrical needs for both residential and commercial properties. From appliance installation to wiring, our experienced team is here to assist you. Contact us today for reliable and professional service.

"They arrived on time, answered all my questions, and their pricing was reasonable. I’ll definitely be using them again for any electrical needs or repairs in the future."

Timothy V on June 2025

"They arrived on time, answered all my questions, and their pricing was reasonable. I’ll definitely be using them again for any electrical needs or repairs in the future."

Timothy V on June 2025

Green Electric Solutions

10606 Camino Ruiz Suite 8-190

Green Electric Solutions

10606 Camino Ruiz Suite 8-190

Customers say: Quality work

13 years of experience

Free onsite estimate

Contact the Professionals at Green Solar Electric Solutions for the highest quality professional electrical contractors. We handle all electrical improvements from service calls to installing solar panels. We operate in the San Diego County areas. Call us today and see how we can light up your life.

"A bit overpriced for the task"

Farzad T on December 2024

"A bit overpriced for the task"

Farzad T on December 2024

Green Earth Electric

Green Earth Electric

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

19 years of experience

Welcome to Green Earth Electric! We have a single mission; to achieve complete customer satisfaction. We work with the highest quality materials and experienced professionals. With many years of experience, we have built our culture around consistently focusing on the needs of our customers, providing personalized attention, and a stress free experience, which sets us apart from our competition and keeps our customers coming back. Give us a call today!

"Prompt response and a neat installation of outlet for EV charging."

Stephen L on November 2021

"Prompt response and a neat installation of outlet for EV charging."

Stephen L on November 2021

Green Electric Solutions

10606 Camino Ruiz Suite 8-190

Green Electric Solutions

10606 Camino Ruiz Suite 8-190

Customers say: Super punctual

333 local quotes requested

13 years of experience

"went above and beyond, stayed until job was completed"

Cory W on October 2025

"went above and beyond, stayed until job was completed"

Cory W on October 2025

Fregoso Electric Service

1360 Melody Lane, Suite J

Fregoso Electric Service

1360 Melody Lane, Suite J

Customers say: True professional

88 local quotes requested

15 years of experience

Fregoso Electric Service is a locally owned and operated company with over 25 years of experience. We value honesty, integrity and stand behind our work. We specialize in a variety of electrical work and much more. We have earned a solid reputation and pride ourselves on the quality of our work as well as our commitment to outstanding results. We look forward to building long-term relationships with our clients and guarantee your satisfaction!

"Prompt, flexible, professional and great price! Exactly what we were looking for and can't recommend Luis enough!"

Blair R on October 2025

"Prompt, flexible, professional and great price! Exactly what we were looking for and can't recommend Luis enough!"

Blair R on October 2025

Martin Electric

13465 Camino Canada, Suite 106-411

New on AngiNew on Angi

•Approved Pro

Martin Electric

13465 Camino Canada, Suite 106-411

New on AngiNew on Angi

•Approved Pro

26 years of experience

Free onsite estimate

Typically involves upgrading electric service with new or expanded electric panels & a larger main service cable. Often done as part of a remodeling project or when additional electrical appliances & fixtures are desired.

RV Generator Repair

Woodside Avenue

No reviews yet

RV Generator Repair

Woodside Avenue

No reviews yet

Free onsite estimate

Hello! I am a locally operated San Diego Mobile RV Generator Repair. I service all of San Diego and fix all types of Generators, specializing in Onan (the green ones) with 10 years of experience. My services include -Complete Diagnostics -Tuning and Maintenance -Full Repairs On Most : Diesel, gas, and propane Commercial Mobile or RV Generator Applications. Available all days of the week including weekends! Call or Text for an estimate

Showing 1-10 of 37

Generator Install questions, answered by experts

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’ll simply need to shut off the generator and reset your circuit breaker once the local power comes back on.

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.

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.

In most municipalities, you will need a permit to install a permanent home generator, including emergency backup, partial-home, and whole-home generators. A permit for a generator usually costs between $50 and $250, depending on where you live. Your electrician or certified generator installer will usually pull the permit for you—and might be required to do so by your building department—but you’ll be on the hook for the cost of the permit. You should ask your installer before agreeing to any work if they will pull the necessary permits for your project.

When maintained properly, a whole-house generator can last up to 20 years. Costs to maintain and repair generators vary by location and type of generator, but you can expect to pay about $150 to $300 per year for annual generator maintenance checks. An experienced generator service technician will inspect your generator’s engine filter, starting mechanism, fuel, lubrication, and coolant levels to keep your generator in good working condition for as long as possible.

The Rancho Santa Fe, 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.
Jenna Jonaitis
•
Feb 14, 2025Feb 14, 2025
7 Questions to Ask About Installing a Portable Backup Generator
Installing a portable generator can power key appliances during outages. Learn about the best backup generator questions to discuss with a pro.
Breyden Kellam
•
Apr 1, 2025Apr 1, 2025
Do Natural Gas Generators Produce Carbon Monoxide? A Complete Guide
Natural gas generators emit carbon monoxide, a harmful gas. Learn about what carbon monoxide is and tips to operate your generator safely.
Alison Kasch
•
Mar 7, 2025Mar 7, 2025
Choosing a Generator for Hurricane Season: A Complete Guide
Backup generators are a necessity to keep your home powered during a hurricane. Find out how to choose the best generator for hurricane season.