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

Avatar for CD Electric
CD Electric
5.0(
6
)
Fixed Generator - InstallFixed Generator - RepairGenerator - Install+4 more

Serving Columbia, IL and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2021

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"CD Electric was fantastic. They added electrical outlets to the interior and exterior of my home and installed an exterior light. Chase was very thorough with the estimate he provided me and completed the job in the time he said it would take. I would definitely hire them again for any future jobs and I highly recommend them to anyone else."
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+6

Response time20 mins
Response rate100%
Recommended by100%of homeowners
Avatar for Grasser Electric
Grasser Electric
4.6(
30
)
Fixed Generator - InstallFixed Generator - RepairGenerator - Install+4 more

Serving Columbia, IL and surrounding areas

In business since 1975

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"I had a great experience with them. Their bid was right in the middle where it should have been. The guy who showed up had estimated for 5-6 hours worth of work, and he ended up staying here for almost 9 hours, but they didn't charge me extra for it, and I was happy about that. He was able to run the wiring where I wanted it to run. There weren't all the cables showing and he was able to stick it through my wall, and that is why he ended up staying here for so long. I was really happy with the service. My biggest thing was that the guy stayed until the work was done, he didn't say he would come tomorrow even if it meant working overtime."
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Recommended by92%of homeowners
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Generator Install FAQs, answered by experts

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.

Costs range from $500 to $2,500, depending on generator type and installation complexity.

Sizing a generator is a careful process that requires calculating the electrical load of your entire house. You have to take into account every device you want to use and their wattage requirements, plus the wattage needed to start them, and look for a generator that can safely run all that at around 80% capacity.

In more practical terms, a small home can run on a 10,000-watt generator (and if you only want to power a few key appliances, much less than that). A mid-sized home may need something between 15,000 and 22,000 watts. Larger homes require 25,000 watts or more. 

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.

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.

The Columbia, IL homeowners’ guide to generator installs

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