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Amplified Electric, Inc.
5.0(
11
)
Generator - Install - For Business

Serving Watkins, MN and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2014

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"High End Professional Service Which one cannot put a Price on! Difficult to find in 2015, many elections set in there ways Don't want to make a Changes or listen to what is Needed. Make Amplified Electric your 1st CALL. Kyle was exceptionally flexible for an initial consultation & Estimate which I hired Him on the Spot. He was willing to speak with a Home Warranty Company so in all I only had a few Hundred dollars out of Pocket to cover a few upgrades to a several thousands in repairs. I'll be refering him Co-Workers Friends & Family always. That is the Biggest Compliment one can give"
2 neighbors recently requested a quote
Recommended by100%of homeowners
H & R Electric, LLC
4.2(
10
)
Fixed Generator - InstallPortable Generator - Install

Serving Watkins, MN and surrounding areas

In business since 1985

"They know whole house generation very well. MN was having historical rain storms and I needed sump pump to run or flooding in the lower level of our house would occur. They responded and discussed what was needed and installed in less than a week. Two days after the install the power went out for 3 hours. the geni turned on and my lake home was fully operational from both AC units, wifi, garage door opener washer and dryer and of course the sump pump. Not cheep at 8,500 clams but I'm done having to think about it. This vendor was perfect in my book."
Recommended by85%of homeowners
Avatar for WM Electric, LLC
WM Electric, LLC
4.2(
5
)
Fixed Generator - InstallGenerator - Install - For BusinessPortable Generator - Install

Serving Watkins, MN and surrounding areas

In business since 2017

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"William is likeable, easy going, professional and courteous. Went above and beyond the normal. He brought electrical from street to tiny house. Included house, two travel trailers, etc. Worked with city for permits etc. I put all my faith in him and am happy to say I picked the right guy and company WM Electric LLC"
Response time10 mins
Recommended by100%of homeowners
Tamm Electric, LLC
0.5(
1
)
Fixed Generator - InstallPortable Generator - Install

Serving Watkins, MN and surrounding areas

In business since 1989

Free estimates

We can take on a wide range of residential and commercial electrical projects to include; full installation for additions and remodels, wiring, panel upgrades, and a variety of other projects. We take pride in the quality of our work and our commitment to outstanding results. We look forward to building strong, long-term relationships with our clients, and guarantee your satisfaction.

Generator Install questions, answered by experts

To determine the right size generator for your house, you should calculate the total wattage of the appliances and devices you want to power during an outage. List all essential items, note their start-up wattages, and add them together.

Here are some typical wattage requirements for common appliances:

  • Refrigerator: 600 watts

  • Large dehumidifier: 700 watts

  • Large window air conditioner: 1,400 watts

  • Water heater: 3,000 to 4,500 watts

  • Electric furnace: 5,000 to 25,000 watts

A 7,500-watt generator might be sufficient for essentials like a refrigerator, freezer, well pump, and lighting circuits. However, for high-demand items like a water heater or furnace, a whole-home generator is a better choice. A portable generator may be enough if you only need to power a few critical items.

While home square footage can offer a rough estimate, it is not always a reliable indicator. For reference, here are some typical generator sizes based on square footage:

  • 1,000 sq ft: 6–9 kW

  • 1,500 sq ft: 7–10 kW

  • 2,000 sq ft: 10–14 kW

  • 2,500 sq ft: 12–16 kW

  • 3,000 sq ft: 16–20 kW+

For the most accurate sizing, consult a professional who can calculate your home's peak and average power consumption and recommend the optimal generator.

Most homeowners won't be able to claim a home generator as a tax write-off. However, a whole-house generator may be tax-deductible in certain situations depending on its purpose. For instance, if it's needed to power essential medical equipment, it may qualify as a medical expense deduction. Also, in some cases, businesses can deduct a generator as a business expense if it supports operations. Always consult a tax professional to determine eligibility based on your specific circumstances and the applicable IRS regulations.

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.

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.

A 1,500 square foot home will likely need a 15kW to 20kW generator. When deciding on whole-house generator size, add up the total wattage of the devices that you’d like to continue running during a power outage. That way, you can ensure you purchase a generator that can power your necessary appliances or medical equipment during an electrical emergency.

The Watkins, MN homeowners’ guide to generator installs

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.