• <div><p>When installed and used correctly, generators are safe to use. The <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/power-out-3-tips-safely-operate-home-generator.htm">most critical generator safety tips</a> to keep in mind are:</p><ul><li><p>Never use a portable generator inside an enclosed space, as the carbon monoxide exhaust it creates is lethal.</p></li><li><p>Never attempt to connect your generator to your home’s electrical panel independently; hire a professional for this dangerous job.</p></li><li><p>Never overload your generator by connecting more appliances than for which it’s rated; you can damage your generator and appliances or even cause a fire.</p></li></ul><p></p></div>

Get matched with top generator install pros in Manly, IA

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: 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: 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: What happens if my whole-house generator is too small for my AC?

• <div><p>An undersized whole-house generator has the potential to overheat and shut down when you try to run a central AC system. This scenario can not only damage the whole-house generator, but can also trip your home&rsquo;s breakers or cause electrical damage. To avoid this situation, hire a local generator installer to correctly size your whole-house generator.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Generator Install pros in Manly, IA

*The Angi rating for Generator Install companies in Manly, 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 Manly, 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 October 25, 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 January 2025
Tyson was awesome!!!!! He installed my furnace at a fair price and quick when I needed it the most. He was knowledgeable on the products and installation.
Ursidae Mechanical LLC
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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 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 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 September 2013
ainedThe installer was very friendly and I was pleased when he relocated the inside wall button and thanked him for suggesting it. He also asked if I would like an additional light bulb put in since there was a socket to add another in the opener. He explained everything he had done and showed...
AMES OVERHEAD DOOR STORE (Door & Fence Store)
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Reviewed in June 2013
They did a very good job with the installation, and I haven't had any problems with the system.
LeafGuard By Midlands Home Solutions
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Reviewed in March 2013
The water faucet leaked water because the seal did not fit the openings in our sink correctly. They came back and sealed it with calk. I could have easily done that myself. I paid for and expected a professional installation job. What I got was a sloppy quick fix. I have now replace the...
MASKER PLUMBING & HEATING
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312 Prospect Ave

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

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 may need a permit for a portable generator if you’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.

As a safety measure, you should always turn off the main breaker while operating your generator’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.

When installed and used correctly, generators are safe to use. The most critical generator safety tips to keep in mind are:

Never use a portable generator inside an enclosed space, as the carbon monoxide exhaust it creates is lethal.
Never attempt to connect your generator to your home’s electrical panel independently; hire a professional for this dangerous job.
Never overload your generator by connecting more appliances than for which it’s rated; you can damage your generator and appliances or even cause a fire.

An undersized whole-house generator has the potential to overheat and shut down when you try to run a central AC system. This scenario can not only damage the whole-house generator, but can also trip your home’s breakers or cause electrical damage. To avoid this situation, hire a local generator installer to correctly size your whole-house generator.

The Manly, IA 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

Alison Kasch
•
Feb 10, 2025Feb 10, 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
•
Aug 14, 2025Aug 14, 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.
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.
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.
Becca Lewis
•
Feb 26, 2025Feb 26, 2025
Who Installs Generators? A Complete Guide
Wondering who to hire to install a generator? Consult this guide to learn who to hire to install a generator or a transfer switch.