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>

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Q: Do installations include unit assembly?

• <div><p>Many services include assembling the unit and securing it in the window. Confirm with your provider.</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: Can a 10,000-watt generator run a central AC unit?

• <div><p>A 10,000-watt generator can run a small to mid-sized central AC unit (typically up to 3 tons or 36,000 BTU) along with a few other appliances. However, larger AC units or additional loads will require a bigger generator. Consult a local generator installer to ensure you add the correct size generator to your home.</p></div>

Q: Can you run a whole-house generator constantly?

• <div><p>Yes, whole-house generators run constantly for extended periods. Whole-house generators can run for longer periods of time than portable generators, but be careful. First, they may need regular applications of engine oil (as frequently as daily), depending on the engine design. Second, running constantly for several days will increase the wear and tear on the generator and shorten its lifespan.</p></div>

Q: Is using a generator safe?

• <div><p>As long as your generator is used as recommended by the manufacturer, it&rsquo;s safe to use for auxiliary power. Make sure that fuel powered generators are used outdoors and that the fumes dissipate away from your home. A professional generator installer will ensure your generator&rsquo;s placement and set-up meets safety standards when installing or repairing your back-up power source.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Generator Install pros in Gowrie, IA

*The Angi rating for Generator Install companies in Gowrie, IA 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 Gowrie, IA 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 18, 2025

Reviewed in May 2025
Installed new LVP flooring, along with new trim. Completed when he said he would, work looked great! Also installed a front door!
Savage Renovations, LLC
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Reviewed in May 2025
Excellent job of installation - friendly, answered my questions. Cleaned up after the job. Love the windows!
Renewal by Andersen
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Reviewed in December 2024
Great customer service Fast installation Affordable service Skyline tore off and re did the asphalt roof on my house after wind and hail damage. I was so impressed I hired them to also do my garage and shed. These guys do great work.
SKYLINE RESTORATION INC
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Reviewed in December 2023
Jon, Ler and Emanuel L were the crew who installed 5 piers on the corner of my house. They were very efficient, and left things looking exactly as before they did the job. I received updates as their work progressed.
Groundworks
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Reviewed in June 2023
David was personable, prompt, and precise in his installing of a deadbolt and door knob. I would hire him for other work, as well! 5/5
David J. Soukup Construction, Inc.
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Reviewed in September 2022
The installer did a very good job. The only hang up was the bracket for my shower seat. The package was labeled for a right side bracket, but a left side bracket was inside the page. It was mislabeled at the warehouse. Certainly not the installers fault. Bath Planet scheduled a time to come...
Bath Planet
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Reviewed in February 2020
Phil and his crew rearranged their current jobs to ensure that our floors were refinished in time to get the painting done before our move-in date. We also asked them to remove all the baseboards and quarter round - which was good thing because then we could see how poorly the flooring had been...
Oak Wood Floor
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Reviewed in May 2017
Everything went well. Installation and adaptation to my existing ducts was exactly as I wanted it. The price seemed high, but they were actually the lowest of 3 local bids.
C AND K Heating, Cooling & Plumbing
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Reviewed in August 2016
I decided to make the purchase though I did not need all of the equipment. The TRITON 9000 RS Generator/Compressor/Welder machine was what I really had my eye on. I had never seen a machine with so many functions before. The 10,000 gas generator is the machine I needed the most, but the other...
AMP-American Multi-Products
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Reviewed in May 2014
Our first interaction with our point of contact went well. We were given lots of information in both oral and written form. Sales person was not pushy and was very prompt with his estimates. We accepted the proposal, scheduled an installation date, andproceeded to have the system installed. The...
Neighbors Heating Cooling Plumbing & Geothermal
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Find Generator install pros in Gowrie

Panora Auto Parts

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Panora Auto Parts

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14 years of experience

We specialize in small engine repair including brands like Stihl, Toro, Briggs & Stratton, Honda, Kohler, etc. Pick up and delivery is included within a 15 mile radius.

IA Electric

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IA Electric

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12 years of experience

Full service electrical contractor serving the North Iowa area. We use flat rate pricing that guarantees the price we quote is the price you pay, no surprises when the invoice shows up.

Trinity Electrical Services LLC

5.00(

)

Trinity Electrical Services LLC

5.00(

)

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

We are a family run full service electrical contracting company based in Sioux City, Iowa. No project too big or small for us.

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

Generator Install questions, answered by experts

Many services include assembling the unit and securing it in the window. Confirm with your provider.

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.

A 10,000-watt generator can run a small to mid-sized central AC unit (typically up to 3 tons or 36,000 BTU) along with a few other appliances. However, larger AC units or additional loads will require a bigger generator. Consult a local generator installer to ensure you add the correct size generator to your home.

Yes, whole-house generators run constantly for extended periods. Whole-house generators can run for longer periods of time than portable generators, but be careful. First, they may need regular applications of engine oil (as frequently as daily), depending on the engine design. Second, running constantly for several days will increase the wear and tear on the generator and shorten its lifespan.

As long as your generator is used as recommended by the manufacturer, it’s safe to use for auxiliary power. Make sure that fuel powered generators are used outdoors and that the fumes dissipate away from your home. A professional generator installer will ensure your generator’s placement and set-up meets safety standards when installing or repairing your back-up power source.

The Gowrie, IA homeowners’ guide to generator installs

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

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