What types of fuel do generators take?

• <div><p>Generators run on a variety of fuel types, ranging from natural gas to solar power. Keep in mind that fuel costs varying by type:</p><ul><li><p>Natural gas: $2,000–$21,000 per year </p></li><li><p>Liquid propane: $2,000–$21,000 per year</p></li><li><p>Diesel: $3,000–$20,000 per year</p></li><li><p>Gasoline: $500–$3,000 per year</p></li><li><p>Solar generator: $2,000–$25,000 per unit</p></li><li><p>Battery backup: $10,000–$25,000 per unit</p></li></ul><p></p></div>

Get matched with top generator install pros in Shady Side, MD

Q: Is using a generator safe?

• <div><p>As long as your generator is used as recommended by the manufacturer, it&rsquo;s safe to use for auxiliary power. Make sure that fuel powered generators are used outdoors and that the fumes dissipate away from your home. A professional generator installer will ensure your generator&rsquo;s placement and set-up meets safety standards when installing or repairing your back-up power source.</p></div>

Q: Do diesel generators have any important downsides?

• <div><p>While diesel is relatively stable, it won&rsquo;t last nearly as long as propane and you may have to replace it if it sits unused for too long. Diesel can sometimes struggle to work efficiently or start engines during especially cold weather, so it&rsquo;s not the best choice for every climate. Compared to fuels like propane and natural gas, diesel generators tend to be noisier and create more exhaust, which isn&rsquo;t always ideal for home use. </p></div>

Q: Is it worth it to install a whole house generator?

• <div><p>A whole house generator can be worth the extra money for peace of mind if your home is prone to power outages for extended periods of time or if you have life-saving medical equipment that needs to maintain power at all times. These devices can also increase your home&rsquo;s value, especially in areas prone to extreme weather and power outages. </p></div>

Q: How big of a generator do I need for a transfer switch?

• <div><p>You can determine what size generator you need for a transfer switch by matching the switch to the largest outlet on your generator. Larger generators can power up to 10 circuits, while most 5,000-watt generators can provide power to six circuits. So, if your generator&rsquo;s largest outlet is 30 amps, you&rsquo;ll need a 30-amp transfer switch.</p></div>

There are 8 highly-rated local generator install pros.

Verified Reviews for Generator Install pros in Shady Side, MD

*The Angi rating for Generator Install companies in Shady Side, 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 Shady Side, 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 October 05, 2025

Reviewed in April 2025
The Electrician Larry Hendrickson, upgraded the electronics in our entire home. With the upgrade we are able to not only use multiple major appliances at once but able to use the USB to charge our devices on every floor. With this upgrade we were able to use a stationary generator in our back...
LARRY HENDRICKSON ELECTRIC, LLC
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Reviewed in December 2024
Boyland Service Technicians are knowledgeable, through, and professional. Their generator assessments have insured that we always have successful back up power experiences which are crucial since we live in the country.
Boyland Electric Inc
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Reviewed in September 2014
Vic and James were extremely efficient, they explained everything, and they couldn't have been more pleasant. If only all service work were of this quality.
Murphy Family Electric
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Reviewed in October 2013
I contacted Arundel and dealt with John Greer; a real professional. The whole experience was thoroughly done and every detail was attended to and communicated ahead of time . The installation crew was both polite and assiduous; they left no mess behind after the project was completed. We also...
Arundel Cooling Heating & Electrical Co Inc
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Reviewed in May 2025
BEWARE!! JBI Services is managed by a bunch of frauds and incompetent people. They will sell you unneeded and useless devices and service contracts if you're not extremely careful. DO NOT USE!! They will do everything in their power to drum up additional business for themselves so they can...
JBI Services LLC
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Reviewed in February 2019
Excellent. I have nothing - but good things to say about Wireworx. Chris- the owner is meticulous and efficient. He returns calls quickly and really helps to get to the root of any home electrical issues. I will definitely use Wireworx again- no question.
Wireworx Electric Inc
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Reviewed in August 2022
Excellent! The whole process was explained well, and the installation was very clean and efficient.
Tim Kyle Electric Heating & Cooling
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Reviewed in October 2013
Overall, a very good experience with Tri-Star. The electrical work is second to none. However, I didn't have a good experience with their pluming subcontractor, J&R Plumbing of Millersville. I ended up having to hire AVS plumbing to correct their work. To date our generator system has run...
TriStar Electric
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