"I’m back again to write another stellar review for GAC. Last year they replaced our HVAC system; this year we circled back and had them install a home generator. This was a long and drawn out process due to the various approvals needed from Montgomery County as well as coordination with Washington Gas (which ended up not just being a simple sign off but necessitating an additional, expensive upgrade to the gas line from the street to our home). Nevertheless, GAC did a fantastic job shepherding this process over the 6+ months of waiting on stakeholders, and they were also maximally accommodating to our family’s significant constraints on time and availability (due to health concerns related to a medically fragile family member). A special kudos to Sandy M, GAC’s master electrician, who took it on personally to ensure we were taken care of all throughout this process, going above and beyond with phone calls, text messages, personal visits, etc. on behalf of my family, I want to thank GAC and am giving top marks across the board for this effort which was complex , lengthy, and ultimately successful."
"On both appointments, the technicians (David the first time, Matt & Evan the second time) were respectful and honest, very well organized. And they arrived right on time. We had ceiling fans and recessed lighting installed. They kept the work areas clean. -Frank K., City of Gambrills. My wife and I are very happy with their work, and the jobs were completed in the quoted time, even early! Everything was well explained and questions were answered with the feeling that they weren't in a rush to leave until I was satisfied. We will call again for future jobs."
Calvert Generator is committed to excellence in every aspect of our business. We uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty, and personal responsibility. Our distinction is the quality of service we bring to our customers. Accurate knowledge of our trade combined with ability is what makes us true professionals. Above all, we are watchful of our customers' interests, and make their concerns the basis of our business.\n
"Phenomenal job by Evergreen. Analyzed the current box and gave me options, best, most cost effective was upgrading the 40 yr old CB panel and adding a generator interlock. Work was done perfectly and efficiently...now when the neighborhood goes dark (all too often when the weather is bad in Northern VA), we have power and AC. Thanks Evergreen."
"EXCELLENT!!! Based on other reviews, I reached out to Paradise to troubleshoot an issue with flickering lights. I was shocked when Tim offered to troubleshoot the issue for free, despite estimating it could take 1.5-2 hours. Tim was prompt (even called to let me know he was running a few minutes late), wore a mask (COVID), was courteous, and determined the issue really quickly. He entertained answering all of my electrical questions, came up with the best path forward to resolving the issue, and provided a very reasonable quote for repairs. I will definitely be having him complete the recommended repairs! It is hard to find tradespeople like Tim in DC; available, knowledgeable, friendly, and, most importantly, a professional who takes pride in his work. If you have a need for an electrician, you must call Paradise Construction."
"Very professional service. The sale person came to verify the scope of work and provided us with a detailed quote. We scheduled the installation soon after. We had only a minor issue, becuase when the technical crew came in they realized that more work was needed (but no change in the quote). We rescheduled the installation a week after and everything went very well. The sale person remained our point of contact before, during and after the installation and he performed a follow up visit to make sure everything was fine. The technical crew was also very professional. I would reccomend them for sure. "
"It went very well, he is a licensed electrician and he changed all of my old s12 sockets to energy efficient sockets so that I could use my electronic devices and not blow circuits. I was being charged each time I called in a help ticket. So I called Mason Electrical Services and had him come out and take a look . He came out and took a look at the problem and gave me an estimate .and I was really satisfied on the price. He arrived promptly on 8 March 2014 had everything he needed to work with, and completed the work it only took a couple of hours and the job was done. In that time he installed a ceiling fan in my bedroom with a remote. He didn't make a mess. I would definitely recommend him to others needing electrical services in the future.
With proper maintenance, a whole-house generator can last between 20 and 40 years. The specific lifespan depends on how often and for how long the generator is used, and some models may have their life expectancy rated in hours of operation. To maximize its lifespan, expect to spend around $150 to $300 per year for annual maintenance checks from a qualified technician. During these checks, a technician will inspect the engine filter, starting mechanism, fuel, lubrication, and coolant levels. Consulting your installer and choosing a low-impact fuel like natural gas or diesel can also help ensure your generator lasts as long as possible.
Whole-house generators need to be installed on level ground several feet away from walls and other objects. Because they tap into the electrical system directly, they usually need to be close to your home electrical panel for a transfer switch installation. It also helps with installation if they are near to a gas line or propane tank installation.
Potential benefits of using a natural gas generator include reducing your carbon footprint, lower likelihood of carbon monoxide exposure, budget-friendly operating costs, and low-maintenance, continuous fuel supply. Some possible drawbacks, though, include higher initial installation costs, dependency on a natural gas supply, and installation complexity. Keep in mind that pros and cons will vary based on the type and brand of natural gas generator.
Yes, in some locations, it is required by the National Electric Code (NEC) to have a transfer switch installed for electrical emergencies. In addition to following electrical code, generator transfer switches ensure your home is fully protected during a power outage. By switching the power from the main breaker to the generator breaker, you can seamlessly operate your HVAC, lights, appliances, devices, and more during an emergency.
Here’s what you can run with different wattages and types of generators:
Portable generator:
2,000 watts can handle a large appliance like a freezer or refrigerator, plus a few smaller items like phones or computer chargers.
4,000 watts will keep two large appliances operating and a few smaller devices.
8,000 watts should power most essential appliances and other devices, including a sump pump, well pump, or your dishwasher.
Partial to whole-house generator:
20,000 watts and above will make it seem like your home’s power is still on.
The Owings, MD homeowners’ guide to generator installs
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
The cost to install a whole-house generator in Baltimore, MD varies based on factors like generator size, fuel type, and installation complexity. Learn the typical price range and what influences your total cost.
The cost to install a whole-house generator in Washington, DC varies based on factors like generator size, fuel type, and installation complexity. Learn the typical price range and what influences your total cost.
Generators should give you peace of mind, but you’ll only get that if your installer knows what they’re doing. Learn how to hire a pro and what red flags to look for.