Get matched with top generator install pros in Richmond, IL

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 with the generator when the local power goes back on?

• <div><p>If you have a transfer switch properly installed, the generator and main electrical power cannot feed the system at the same time. However, you should still shut off the power at your main circuit breaker panel before activating the generator. If you do that, you&rsquo;ll simply need to shut off the generator and reset your circuit breaker once the local power comes back on.</p></div>

Q: Can I use a generator to charge a back-up battery?

• <div><p>Yes. You can connect your home back-up battery to a generator with its designated charger. Be sure that the output of the generator matches the input requirements for the battery for best results.</p></div>

Q: How does a generator transfer switch save me money?

• <div><p>It might seem counterintuitive, but installing a generator transfer switch will save you money in the long run. While you&rsquo;ll have to pay between <b>$400 and $2,500</b> to have the transfer switch installed, you&rsquo;ll recoup that amount later on when you don&rsquo;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 <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-to-hook-up-generator-to-house.htm">hook up of a generator to your home</a>. </p></div>

Q: Are there tax credits for home generators?

• <div><p>In most cases, there are no tax credits available for home generators. However, that&rsquo;s a general statement that applies to federal tax credits, so you might have access to state or local tax incentives. You can check the <a href="https://www.dsireusa.org">Database of State Incentives for Renewables &amp; Efficiency (DSIRE)</a> for more information about your area. If you hire a reliable home generator installer, they should also know if there are any state or local perks you can use to reduce your installation costs, including tax breaks and rebates.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Generator Install pros in Richmond, IL

*The Angi rating for Generator Install companies in Richmond, IL 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 Richmond, IL 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 January 06, 2026

Reviewed in June 2025
Brenda is fantastic. My kitchen sparkles when she is done. She is very detailed and gets every nook and cranny.
Clean Home by Brenda
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Reviewed in May 2025
Price competitive. Easy to communicate with and professional from initial meeting and later discussion to add an item. Installation team arrived as promised and removed a vinyl shower, an over sized jacuzzi and completed installation and cleanup within eight hours. We're very pleased with our...
Premier Home Pros, LLC
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Reviewed in November 2024
Great work, service, and post-sale support. They installed a 17kw whole house back-up generator about 6 years ago - still get top notch service, and the generator has been a life saver many times.
Mikus Electric & Generators, Inc.
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Reviewed in March 2024
I have used Jett’s since they open. I recently was having an issue at our new home concerning duct work and the Technician evaluated the situation and made a great recommendation, unfortunately though in the inspection it was determined that my furnace (installed in 1996 by the previous owner)...
Jett's Heating & Air Inc.
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Reviewed in December 2023
Very smooth process and planning, in the end the installation was very well done, completely satisfied. I would recommend Accurate with absolutely no reservations. Brian Scott was not eager to close the deal and left no negative impression. Moreover made very good suggestions and answered all...
Advocate Contracting and Restoration Services, Inc.
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Reviewed in May 2022
Oakwood has serviced our generator for over 10 years and recently installed an EV charger for my new car. Oakwood always provides excellent quality service and are easy to schedule with and always returns calls. Oakwood is local and has been in business for quite a number of years.
Oakwood Electric & Generator
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Reviewed in December 2020
Jason is a very well qualified professional with fair pricing, an excellent & personable demeanor with customers. My wife & I would recommend his generator repair & maintenance services to all prospective customers.
JB Gen Service Company
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Reviewed in October 2020
Very thorough. Sales process was very informative and answered every question I could think of. There was an inspection prior to full commitment to ensure panels could be installed and there weren't any issues. Installation took 4 men a half day. The installers were great; very conscientious....
Sunrun
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Reviewed in February 2020
installed water heater per schedule. identified one new piping problem and resolved it. resecured exhaust pipe to resolve banging problem. cash payment discount.
JVS Plumbing Company
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Reviewed in September 2018
Ryan was wonderful in every aspect of the job, from the initial meeting to the installation. He kept us informed about the status of the project and was timely with the installation. The finished product is better than I could have imagined. We plan to use Closet Improvements, Inc for future...
Closet Improvements, Inc.
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