"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."
"I hired them to come and install an exhaust fan as well as a thermostat. After realizing my hvac system also had a humidifier function that was incompatible with the thermostat I bought they were able to properly install my exhaust fan (I bought the wrong kind as well) and hung a chandelier under two hours. Very efficient and fair pricing."
"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."
"Mr. Electric responded immediately to my request and scheduled the quote visit the next day. They were able to fix the electrical switch during that apointment in a very fast and professional manner. I highly recommend them."
"Anthony and his team do expert electrical work of all kinds. We are a 145 year old non-profit organization with buildings and grounds, and have contracted with Technician Engineers Group (TEG) on two large projects (and several small ones) over the last 15 years. One project rewired a large 125 year old building listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and one installed an extensive outdoor lighting system. In these two unusual situations TEG worked closely with us to find innovative solutions to our unique needs. We are very pleased with the results, enjoyed their can-do approach, and highly recommend this company for any electrical challenge. We found TEG reliable, honest, on time, and all the work was completed ahead of schedule."
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
"Ron Ethridge (owner) did the work. He was friendly, helpful, knowledgeable, and experienced. He was available on the phone during the project - after hours and weekends. He is very familiar with permitting and licensing and working with Pepco and the inspectors."
"Callahan worked me in during a busy week before the 4th even though it was a cold call. I did not know him.. The electrician was exactly on time at 8AM and he wore a mask. He did a perfect job, and went out of his way to make the wire out of site as it was installed across my garage.. Even though it took a little longer than anticipated, he still charged me the quoted price.. I will definitely call him again for all my electrical work."
"Paradise Construction did a great job. Tim is prompt, knowledgeable and very professional. They did an excellent job on the work and honestly exceeded my expectations. I would definitely hired again and as importantly would highly recommend without reservations."
"Everything was installed correctly, but it was crooked. A little bit of effort to make it straight goes a long way. But overall, happy with the job and would hire again. They were punctual and delivered what I needed."
It is safe to run a generator continuously, but you must follow safety protocols to ensure personal and home safety. Read the manufacturer’s instructions for specific recommendations, but the general recommendation is to turn generators off overnight or when you’re away from the house. Overworked generators can pose a fire hazard and if your generator is not in a well-ventilated area, running it continuously could lead to carbon monoxide poisoning.
Yes, in most municipalities, you will need a permit to install a permanent home generator, including emergency backup, partial-home, and whole-home models. Because these installations involve significant alterations to your home's electrical system and produce exhaust fumes, local governments often require a permit or inspection for safety purposes. A generator permit typically costs between $50 and $250, depending on your location. Your electrician or certified installer can usually handle the permitting process for you, but you will be responsible for the cost. It's a good practice to confirm with your installer that they will pull all necessary permits before work begins.
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.
A 10,000-watt generator can run a small to mid-sized central AC unit (typically up to 3 tons or 36,000 BTU) along with a few other appliances. However, larger AC units or additional loads will require a bigger generator. Consult a local generator installer to ensure you add the correct size generator to your home.
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’s largest outlet is 30 amps, you’ll need a 30-amp transfer switch.
The West River, 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.
Thinking about a generator installation? Learn about backup power options, costs to expect, and how to hire the right local pro to keep your home running.