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

Q: Do you have to turn off the main breaker when using a generator?

• <div><p>As a safety measure, you should always turn off the main breaker while operating your generator&rsquo;s backup breaker. In addition, you should also switch off all appliance breakers so you don't have a power surge when the main breaker turns back on. And finally, turning off the main breaker prevents back-feeding, which endangers utility workers with the risk of electrocution. Back-feeding could also destroy the electrical circuits of your neighbors if they use the same power network.</p></div>

Q: 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&rsquo;ll have to pay between <b>$400 and $2,500</b> to have the transfer switch installed, you&rsquo;ll recoup that amount later on when you don&rsquo;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>

Q: Can a natural gas generator work without electricity or in a power outage?

• <div><p>Yes, natural gas generators can work without electricity. Natural gas generators are a common type of backup or whole-house generator that operates when the electrical grid isn&rsquo;t working. The trick is using a <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/cost-install-generator-transfer-switch.htm?entry_point_id=33797025">transfer switch</a> (which usually needs to be installed with the generator) that safely switches the home electrical system from the power grid to generator power when needed.</p></div>

Q: Can a portable generator power an entire home?

• <div><p>A portable generator can supply power to selected appliances and circuits in a home, but it's generally not designed to handle the entire household's electrical needs simultaneously. Portable generators have limited wattage capacity, so they are only designed to power essential devices and electronics temporarily until local power is restored. If your power needs outweigh the capabilities of a portable generator, consider installing a <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/installing-whole-house-generator.htm">whole-home generator</a> instead. </p></div>

Q: How much does it cost to install a whole-house generator?

• <div><p>The <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-it-cost-install-generator.htm">cost to install a whole-house generator</a> averages at <b>$5,200</b>, but costs can range from <b>$1,500 to $8,900,</b> depending on the type and size of the generator, and the labor required to install it. To find the best deal while still ensuring the unit meets all the needs of your household, hire an electrician to calculate the electrical load of your must-have appliances and electronics beforehand so you don&rsquo;t pay for more power than you need. As always, be sure to get at least three quotes to find the ideal fit for your needs and budget.</p></div>

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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.
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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 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
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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 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
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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 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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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
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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
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