"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."
"It went great! Professional, quick to call and discuss the request. What I like the most was their genuine interest in helping me fast. They gave me an estimate the same day and the job was performed in less than 48 hours. I would definitely hire Green Electric for my future requirements. Thanks Mr. Darnell!"
"Your technician that came out to do a yearly maintenance inspection on my generator was very nice and knowledgeable. He arrived actually earlier than expected and went right to work. I would recommend your company to anyone and it was so nice to deal with someone who acted like they enjoyed their work and wanted to please. Thank you!"
"Great job helping sort out the open neutral I had. I was able to get the new wire, breaker, and outlets installed so the electronics are isolated on their own circuit. Thanks again."
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
"We had been considering a home generator for a few years as the power grid we are on has periodic problems, with no solution in sight from Dominion Power. We did our due diligance on interviewing a number of providers found on Angies List. In the end, we had a couple of good offers, but none we are responsive as Patrick Collins of Ritzau. LLC. Patricks team we very responsive and professional. From the time I asked to schedule for an estimate until the deal was complete...he was always matter of fact and to the point, timely with responses to my questions, and was always open and honest. His company is smaller than some I interviewed, and he actaully is the installer and has hands on the entire project. Others companies while competitive, had sales reps visit and do the estimates, and were not part of the install team. It has been my experience that you want to deal directly with the team lead for these types of projects, and Patrick was the best. The package deal included the lastest Generac 22KW generator, vice the 20KW that others offered. The long pole in the tent was getting Washington Gas to install upgraded gas meter that would accomodate the generator, and the Fairfax Country inspections. Overall this was an excellent experience. I would highly recommend Ritzau, LLC and Patrick Collins to anyone who is serious about getting a home generator. They are the pros and get down to business. Quick, professional and timely.
Carbon monoxide emissions aren’t only dangerous to human life, but they also harm our planet. While natural gas generators emit lower levels of CO than other fuel sources, there are still ways to reduce emission levels. For example, shop around for an eco-friendly generator that complies with current emission standards. Also, make sure your generator is serviced regularly to avoid CO buildup.
Generally, you’ll want to keep between 60 and 70 feet between the generator and the transfer switch. There are a few reasons for this, including:
The distance reduces the noise coming from the generator into your home.
It increases efficiency because you won’t have a voltage drop from this short of a distance.
Prevents carbon monoxide poisoning: keep at least 15 feet between your generator and an open window.
The average cost to install a home generator is $5,200, but total costs can range from $500 to $18,000 or more. The final price depends on several factors, including the generator's size, type, brand, fuel source, and the cost of labor and assembly. The generator's size is the most significant cost factor, as units that can power larger homes with higher energy demands cost more.
Cost breakdowns by generator type are typically as follows:
Portable or Emergency Backup Generators (1kW–7.5kW): $500–$2,000
To ensure you get the right size unit for your needs without overpaying, consider hiring an electrician to calculate the electrical load of your essential appliances. It is also recommended to get at least three quotes from qualified installers to find the best fit for your budget.
It’s usually better to repair your generator if it isn’t working properly, as it will typically be much more affordable and should yield similar results. Generator repairs cost around $300 on average, while installing a new whole-house generator costs around $5,000 on average. The only exception is if you know your generator is reaching the end of its useful life, usually between 30 and 40 years. If you have an older generator, you could face multiple repairs in the coming years, which might mean that a full replacement will be more cost-effective over time.
You can expect a diesel generator to last for up to 30,000 hours of use, which works out to 20 to 25 years with the proper maintenance, of course. That depends on how much you use it, so a diesel generator used for emergencies a couple of times a year will last a lot longer than a generator that takes over for a faulty electrical grid every month for a day or two.
The Springdale, 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.
