Get matched with top generator install pros in Salinas, CA

Q: Is it safe to run a generator continuously?

• <div><p>It is safe to run a generator continuously, but you must follow safety protocols to ensure personal and home safety. Read the manufacturer&rsquo;s instructions for specific recommendations, but the general recommendation is to turn generators off overnight or when you&rsquo;re away from the house. Overworked generators can pose a fire hazard and if your generator is not in a well-ventilated area, running it continuously could lead to carbon monoxide poisoning. </p></div>

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

• <div><p>The typical <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-it-cost-install-generator.htm">cost of a home generator</a> is around <b>$5,000</b>, but prices range from <b>$400 up to $13,000</b>, depending on a few factors. The most significant cost factor is the generator size, as larger generators that can support more square footage usually cost more. You can install an emergency backup generator for between <b>$500 and $2,000</b> or a partial-home generator for between <b>$2,000 and $6,500</b>. Whole-home generators usually total between <b>$5,000 and $13,000</b>, with some models climbing as high as <b>$18,000</b>.</p></div>

Q: How do I know what size generator I need?

• <div><p>When <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/what-size-generator-do-i-need.htm">choosing the right size generator</a> for your needs, consider a few items to help calculate the wattage you&rsquo;ll need. Start by determining which household items and appliances you want to power, and then add the wattages together. Check out the wattage of these essential appliances:</p><ul><li><p>Refrigerator: 600 watts</p></li><li><p>Large dehumidifier: 700 watts</p></li><li><p>Large window air conditioner: 1,400 watts</p></li><li><p>Water heater: 3,000 watts</p></li></ul><p>Running home appliances like these requires a partial or whole-house generator. A portable generator may be enough to power your home if you only plan to keep a refrigerator and freezer running. </p></div>

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

• <div><p>You may need a permit for a portable generator if you&rsquo;ll be installing a transfer switch for your primary residence or similar work. Otherwise, a permit for other uses may not be necessary. Check your local building codes or ask a local generator installer for more information about your local regulations.</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>

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Verified Reviews for Generator Install pros in Salinas, CA

*The Angi rating for Generator Install companies in Salinas, 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 Salinas, 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 18, 2026

Reviewed in February 2025
Trejos landscaping and gardening has completed several projects for us and provide regular maintenance. They have installed a new sprinkler system, and redesigned our side yard, installing some edging and wood chips and mulch around our rose bushes. They have transformed our front yard and we...
Trejo's Landscaping & Gardening, LLC
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Reviewed in April 2024
We are extremely pleased with our entire window and door replacements in our home. From meeting with Ashley and Adam in January 2024, to our installation last week, everything has been sterling; RBA told us it would be a three day installation and they completed the entire project in a day and a...
Renewal by Andersen of Central CA
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Reviewed in October 2023
Many different plumbing projects over the7 years in my home and Mike Bruno has consistently and professionally handled all of them with care, advice, fair pricing, alternative solutions when needed or asked for. Always had the utmost confidence in him and his team. Responds to texts, telephone...
Bruno Construction
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Reviewed in January 2023
Michael was very knowledgeable about his work. I would happily recommend him for other roof repair jobs.
Monterey Bay Roofing, Inc.
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Reviewed in March 2022
Reasonable quote with minimal delay, showed up right on time, 3 workers including the senior super expert installed the difficult new door with creativity and energy, always glad to brief us on how it was going. 4 hours and we are happiness!
Pulido's Overhead Door
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Reviewed in September 2020
The job went smoothly, replacing the rollers in two large glass sliding doors. Prior to the job, they were almost impossible to move, now they roll in the track like new. I was a bit surprised by the price, however, the entire job took under three hours and four new rollers were installed, yet...
American Home Renewal Inc
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Reviewed in October 2019
Daniel is extremely professional. I thought I needed a chimney sweep but after his inspection, he was very honest telling me I didn't need a sweep and my chimney was in great condition, no cracks or build up. He did, however, bring my attention to the screen and cap. Apparently my screen blew...
Daniel's Cleaning Service
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Reviewed in June 2015
Jesus was very capable and a hard working man and I almost hired him. The job I had involved a lot of brush and tree clearing and trimming and would take Jesus at least two days by himself. I went with another outfit only because they would send a crew of three and get the job done in a day. ...
La Sirenita Tree Service
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Reviewed in May 2014
Mike had done an amazing job installing new wood floors throughout our townhouse back in 2010. We recently noticed that the wood around one of our toilets was turning dark. Mike came out, looked at the area, and after we repaired the toilet, had his assistant, Orlando, come out and replace the...
M&M Custom Flooring
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Reviewed in December 2012
Mark was very detail oriented and committed to doing the job right. He came to the house multiple times prior to starting the job to measure moisture in the sub floor and did not want to start the job until moisture was within acceptable range. His installer, Aaron, was equally committed to...
Randazzo Hardwood Floors Inc
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