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Avatar for Tri-State Water, Power & Air
Tri-State Water, Power & Air
5.0(
5
)
Fixed Generator - InstallGenerator - InstallGenerator - Install - For Business

Serving Cambridge, IL and surrounding areas

Approved (Corporate)

In business since 1992

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

We are the experts in the field of Whole Home Generator Sales and Installation, with over 20 years of experience in the game.\nWe provide turn-key installation by licensed professionals - 24 hour emergency service - Remote Monitoring - Long term maintenance and service by factory trained technicians.

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+3

39 neighbors recently requested a quote
J W Koehler Electric, Inc.
4.8(
2
)
Fixed Generator - InstallFixed Generator - RepairGenerator - Install - For Business+3 more

Serving Cambridge, IL and surrounding areas

In business since 1969

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"JW. Koehler Electric has always had a welcoming professionalism that makes you sure to call them back for other projects in their area. I used them for our Premier customers and the customers are always happy. They respond quickly and if they can do it they will without charging arm and leg. I would definitely recommend JW Koehler !"
Recommended by100%of homeowners
Freedom Electrical LLC
5.0(
3
)
Portable Generator - Repair

Serving Cambridge, IL and surrounding areas

In business since 2024

Credit card accepted

"I needed security cameras installed, and I am so glad I ran across Mitchell through Angi. I can’t say enough good things about this guy. He was on time and communicated well in person and through text. He was fast, effective, efficient, thorough, honest, hardworking, and just an overall decent guy. Once again, my wife and I are so glad that we ran across Mitchell at Freedom Electric and Construction, and we are looking forward to working with him on future projects!"
New install
Upgraded panel
Before
Typical replacement
Response time5 hrs
Recommended by100%of homeowners
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Generator Install questions, answered by experts

Whole-house generators can run continuously for extended periods, even for weeks at a time (around 400 to 500 hours), as long as they have a sufficient fuel supply. However, this type of extensive use will increase wear and tear and can shorten the generator's overall lifespan. During long periods of operation, it's important to check and refill the engine oil as needed, potentially as frequently as daily depending on the model. If your generator uses a fuel tank, ensure it is kept full to prevent unexpected shutdowns.

DIY is possible for basic setups. Professional installation ensures safe and proper electrical connections.

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. 

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.

It might seem counterintuitive, but installing a generator transfer switch will save you money in the long run. While you’ll have to pay between $400 and $2,500 to have the transfer switch installed, you’ll recoup that amount later on when you don’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 hook up of a generator to your home

The Cambridge, IL homeowners’ guide to generator installs

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