Get matched with top generator install pros in Saint James, MD

Q: How do I know what size generator I need?

• <div><p>When <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/what-size-generator-do-i-need.htm">choosing the right size generator</a> for your needs, consider a few items to help calculate the wattage you&rsquo;ll need. Start by determining which household items and appliances you want to power, and then add the wattages together. Check out the wattage of these essential appliances:</p><ul><li><p>Refrigerator: 600 watts</p></li><li><p>Large dehumidifier: 700 watts</p></li><li><p>Large window air conditioner: 1,400 watts</p></li><li><p>Water heater: 3,000 watts</p></li></ul><p>Running home appliances like these requires a partial or whole-house generator. A portable generator may be enough to power your home if you only plan to keep a refrigerator and freezer running. </p></div>

Q: Can you plug a generator directly into your house?

• <div><p>No, this is extremely dangerous, often illegal, and you should never attempt it. If you connect your generator to your home without a transfer switch, the generated power can backfeed, essentially flowing back into the utility lines. Backfeeding exposes a significant threat of fatalities or harm to you and utility personnel, in addition to jeopardizing the structural integrity of your home.</p></div>

Q: Can I install a portable generator myself?

• <div><p>DIY is possible for basic setups. Professional installation ensures safe and proper electrical connections.</p></div>

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: Can you run a natural gas generator constantly all day?

• <div><p>Natural gas generators are designed to run for extended periods of time, such as power outages during a natural disaster. Since there&rsquo;s no limit to the supply of natural gas, they don&rsquo;t need to stop for refills. However, generators do need maintenance, including pauses to check and add oil. Constantly running them will also cause a lot more wear and tear, leading to a shorter lifespan.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Generator Install pros in Saint James, MD

*The Angi rating for Generator Install companies in Saint James, MD 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 Saint James, MD 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 02, 2026

Reviewed in June 2024
Highly recommended! Took care of my install quickly!
Nipe Electrical Services
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Reviewed in November 2021
Installation Technician was prompt on arrival, friendly, informative and efficient. Will definitely recommend this person to those looking to have their TVs mounted
Doit-4-U
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Reviewed in May 2020
Had the pleasure of meeting the working crew of Vernon Shank, the father Dale Shank, and Vernon's son Austin. A valuable addition to the Shank family is Myron. Myron Martin is a fine hardworking wood craftsman that brings his own independent thinking of carpentry skills and building...
Shank Builders, LLC
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Reviewed in April 2017
Excellent. Steigleman Construction were prompt and professional. They did a standout job. I have also used them for a custom countertop/stove install job witch was completed in Feb 2017.
JL Steigleman Construction
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Reviewed in July 2016
Salesperson, gentleman who measured & sot up appts installers inspector all top notch.
Superior Floorcoverings & Kitchens
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Reviewed in May 2016
Everything went smooth. The crew came out first thing in the morning and was finished by 3:00 that afternoon. The installers were very professional and cleaned up after the job. There was not one scrap of trash, nails or shingles to be found on the ground. I am so pleased with the work, I am...
Olde Glory Contractors Inc
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Reviewed in August 2015
Bill installed a concrete pad to set the outside unit on, mounted the heads inside on the wall and tied the wiring into the panel box. My In-Law's live in a 1903 house and Bill was able to recommend the size unit that would need to be installed to cool the complete downstairs and they are very...
Bill's A/C and Electric Service
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Reviewed in June 2015
Nick came to our home and showed us different products. He gave estimate and then the installation was completed very quickly. We have had no problems with the windows (ten) installed or a fancy metal screen door.
HomeRite Windows and Doors of Waynesboro
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Reviewed in June 2014
Well overall, nice initial presentation, inteligent carpet team who measured and did the majority of the instalation. Had a few questions that were answered durring instalation, had to bring back the team to adjust one area, this took some doing in coordinating a time.
HATCHER'S FLOORS, INC.
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