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Top-Rated Generator install pros in Buffalo - Updated Nov 2026

Apex Electrical Solutions
5.0(
3
)
Generator - Install - For BusinessGenerator - Repair - For Business

Serving Buffalo, IL and surrounding areas

In business since 2025

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"Apex installed a Whole Farm generator for my horse farm. They were very professional when they came to determine the size generator I needed and the quote was quite reasonable. The installation and hook up was completed in a timely manner. I now have peace of mind knowing that in the event of a power outage I can still provide excellent care to my horses. I will certainly be contacting Apex for my future electrical projects."
Response time2 days
Avatar for Copper Creek Electric Inc
Copper Creek Electric Inc
4.9(
7
)
Fixed Generator - InstallFixed Generator - RepairGenerator - Install - For Business+1 more

Serving Buffalo, IL and surrounding areas

In business since 2010

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"I was so impressed at the excellence and professionalism of this company in doing the projects I needed for my remodel. Iâ m learning that surprises are to be expected when doing so, and for a homeowner, what would be daunting for me, was dealt with easily and knowledgeably for Ryan and Kyle. Ryan came back to address an issue stemming from the quality of the fixtures I chose, and helped me to find an adequate solution, with patience and a great attitude, which spoke volumes to me. I am grateful to find professionals that do quality work, and possess integrity, and I would highly recommend Ryan and his crew."
Response time4 days
Recommended by100%of homeowners
Raines Electric, LLC
5.0(
1
)
Fixed Generator - InstallFixed Generator - RepairGenerator - Install - For Business+2 more

Serving Buffalo, IL and surrounding areas

In business since 2018

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

We take great pride in our experience, expertise, quality and customer service that we provide to meet the consumer's needs. It is our mission to provide excellent workmanship and complete customer satisfaction, from start to completion of a project. In order to understand the needs and expectations of our customers, we take great care to work and communicate with every customer in a professional manner. Our reputation is based on service, safety and quality, regardless of how large or small the job. \n \n \n \n \nWe are a locally owned and operated company that values honesty and integrity and treats your home as if it were our own. We have many years of experience to give you confidence that we are your number one choice for your next home project. You will find us to be competitively priced with close attention to the details. We look forward to building a lasting relationship and guarantee your satisfaction! \n \n

Recommended by100%of homeowners
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Generator Install FAQs, answered by experts

To determine the right size generator for your house, you should calculate the total wattage of the appliances and devices you want to power during an outage. List all essential items, note their start-up wattages, and add them together.

Here are some typical wattage requirements for common appliances:

  • Refrigerator: 600 watts

  • Large dehumidifier: 700 watts

  • Large window air conditioner: 1,400 watts

  • Water heater: 3,000 to 4,500 watts

  • Electric furnace: 5,000 to 25,000 watts

A 7,500-watt generator might be sufficient for essentials like a refrigerator, freezer, well pump, and lighting circuits. However, for high-demand items like a water heater or furnace, a whole-home generator is a better choice. A portable generator may be enough if you only need to power a few critical items.

While home square footage can offer a rough estimate, it is not always a reliable indicator. For reference, here are some typical generator sizes based on square footage:

  • 1,000 sq ft: 6–9 kW

  • 1,500 sq ft: 7–10 kW

  • 2,000 sq ft: 10–14 kW

  • 2,500 sq ft: 12–16 kW

  • 3,000 sq ft: 16–20 kW+

For the most accurate sizing, consult a professional who can calculate your home's peak and average power consumption and recommend the optimal generator.

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.

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.

If you’re wondering if you can use your electric vehicle as a backup battery, it depends on whether your EV is compatible with bidirectional charging. This technology allows energy to flow both ways, enabling vehicle-to-home (V2H) backup power, vehicle-to-load (V2L) for appliances and camping, and vehicle-to-grid (V2G) to support the power grid. Compatible EVs convert stored DC energy into usable AC power, helping reduce energy costs and enhance grid stability while providing emergency backup power.

The average cost to install a home generator is $5,200, but total costs can range from $500 to $18,000 or more. The final price depends on several factors, including the generator's size, type, brand, fuel source, and the cost of labor and assembly. The generator's size is the most significant cost factor, as units that can power larger homes with higher energy demands cost more.

Cost breakdowns by generator type are typically as follows:

  • Portable or Emergency Backup Generators (1kW–7.5kW): $500–$2,000

  • Partial-Home Generators (9kW–20kW): $2,000–$6,500

  • Whole-House Generators (22kW–48kW): $5,000–$18,000

To ensure you get the right size unit for your needs without overpaying, consider hiring an electrician to calculate the electrical load of your essential appliances. It is also recommended to get at least three quotes from qualified installers to find the best fit for your budget.

The Buffalo, IL homeowners’ guide to generator installs

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