How close can a transfer switch be to a generator?

• <div><p>Generally, you’ll want to keep between <b>60 and 70 feet</b> between the generator and the transfer switch. There are a few reasons for this, including:</p><ul><li><p>The distance reduces the noise coming from the generator into your home.</p></li><li><p>It increases efficiency because you won’t have a voltage drop from this short of a distance.</p></li><li><p>Prevents carbon monoxide poisoning: keep at least 15 feet between your generator and an open window. </p></li></ul><p></p></div>

What can I run on different generator sizes?

• <div><p>Here’s what you can run with different wattages and types of generators:</p><p>Portable generator:</p><ul><li><p>2,000 watts can handle a large appliance like a freezer or refrigerator, plus a few smaller items like phones or computer chargers. </p></li><li><p>4,000 watts will keep two large appliances operating and a few smaller devices.</p></li><li><p>8,000 watts should power most essential appliances and other devices, including a sump pump, well pump, or your dishwasher.</p></li></ul><p>Partial to whole-house generator:</p><ul><li><p>20,000 watts and above will make it seem like your home’s power is still on.</p></li></ul><p></p></div>

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Q: Can you run a whole-house generator constantly?

• <div><p>Yes, whole-house generators run constantly for extended periods. Whole-house generators can run for longer periods of time than portable generators, but be careful. First, they may need regular applications of engine oil (as frequently as daily), depending on the engine design. Second, running constantly for several days will increase the wear and tear on the generator and shorten its lifespan.</p></div>

Q: How long can a whole house generator run?

• <div><p>As long as they have enough fuel, whole-house generators can run for weeks at a time (400 to 500 hours) without suffering too much wear and tear. However, this type of extensive use isn&rsquo;t ideal if you want to extend the life of your generator.</p><p>Two important points. First, some generators may need you to periodically check oil levels every day or so and refill as necessary for safe operation. Second, if your generator uses a fuel tank, keep it regularly full so it doesn&rsquo;t suddenly shut off. Many backup generators can run through a full tank in a day when they are powering large portions of a home.</p></div>

Q: How close can a transfer switch be to a generator?

• <div><p>Generally, you&rsquo;ll want to keep between <b>60 and 70 feet</b> between the generator and the transfer switch. There are a few reasons for this, including:</p><ul><li><p>The distance reduces the noise coming from the generator into your home.</p></li><li><p>It increases efficiency because you won&rsquo;t have a voltage drop from this short of a distance.</p></li><li><p>Prevents carbon monoxide poisoning: keep at least 15 feet between your generator and an open window. </p></li></ul><p></p></div>

Q: What can I run on different generator sizes?

• <div><p>Here&rsquo;s what you can run with different wattages and types of generators:</p><p>Portable generator:</p><ul><li><p>2,000 watts can handle a large appliance like a freezer or refrigerator, plus a few smaller items like phones or computer chargers. </p></li><li><p>4,000 watts will keep two large appliances operating and a few smaller devices.</p></li><li><p>8,000 watts should power most essential appliances and other devices, including a sump pump, well pump, or your dishwasher.</p></li></ul><p>Partial to whole-house generator:</p><ul><li><p>20,000 watts and above will make it seem like your home&rsquo;s power is still on.</p></li></ul><p></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>

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Verified Reviews for Generator Install pros in Shelbina, MO

*The Angi rating for Generator Install companies in Shelbina, MO 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 Shelbina, MO 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 November 22, 2025

Reviewed in May 2024
Installed a back-up sump pump. Great job! Thank you!
Tri-State Water, Power & Air
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Reviewed in October 2023
Prompt response and competitive prices. Excellent customer service before and after the purchase and install.
America's Fence & Deck, LLC
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Reviewed in July 2023
showed up on time stayed until got everything figured out and installed
C&R Communications
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Reviewed in February 2022
Workmanship was outstanding and the installers were very professional. Everything was done in a timely mater
Midtown Home Improvements, Inc. (St. Louis)*
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Reviewed in February 2015
The technician came out and installed the hardware and wiring. The receiver is a small rectangular device that is installed on the roof of the house. A small connection box is located inside the house. The entire installation went well and looks very good.
BAYS-ET High Speed Internet
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Reviewed in July 2005
THIS COMPANY IS VERY KNOWLEDGEABLE ABOUT COMPUTERS IN GENERAL. THEY WERE ABLE TO FIX THE PROBLEMS I HAD ON MY COMPUTER. THE STAFF WAS VERY PROFESSIONAL AND VERY FRIENDLY. THE PRICES WERE REASONABLE.
Geek Squad - Best Buy
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Find Generator install pros in Shelbina

ABC Electric LLC

4.50(

)

ABC Electric LLC

4.50(

)

Customers say: Quick response

1968 years of experience

automatic standby generator sales and service.

My Classic Car Trader LLC

2.00(

)

My Classic Car Trader LLC

2.00(

)

1972 years of experience

Sales, Service & Rebuilding of Antique and Classic Car Components such as, Carburetors, Starters, Generators, Fuel Pumps, Double & Single Action Fuel Pump Rebuilding, Water Pumps, Hydraulic Top Pumps, Distributors, and DELCO Knee Action Shocks, We also carry a complete line of NOS and NORS parts. We offer FREE Technical advice for any YEAR Classic Car 609-462-7412

"Beware. They charged me double shipping even after I told them I would wait so I wouldn’t have to pay two shipping fees. The last item was a fuel pump that I had a problem with. I have made 4 calls to ask for help with no return call. Poor"

Frank H on July 2020

"Beware. They charged me double shipping even after I told them I would wait so I wouldn’t have to pay two shipping fees. The last item was a fuel pump that I had a problem with. I have made 4 calls to ask for help with no return call. Poor"

Frank H on July 2020

MIDWEST ENGINEERING CO

No reviews yet

MIDWEST ENGINEERING CO

No reviews yet

2001 years of experience

Consulting Engineering Services for land development, environmental engineering, and asset management

"Making home comfort more Affordable" is our motto. Working hand and hand with our customers, we strive to make every customer feel like family. With the most experienced technicians and highly trained staff, we offer many services pertaining to the insulation field. We work with both home-owners and General Contractors to Bring the best insulation has to offer to YOU.

Power Electric LLC

No reviews yet

Power Electric LLC

No reviews yet

2012 years of experience

Lake area electrical contracting

Tri-State Water, Power & Air

1.00(

)

Tri-State Water, Power & Air

1.00(

)

1992 years of experience

We are the experts in the field of Whole Home Generator Sales and Installation, with over 20 years of experience in the game. We provide turn-key installation by licensed professionals - 24 hour emergency service - Remote Monitoring - Long term maintenance and service by factory trained technicians.

"They initially contacted me via email ready to make a visit for the install. Said that they could do the project no problem. Then when they realized I wouldn’t be buying a generator from them, which I had TOLD them upfront, they canceled on me. That is not an acceptable way to do business. They should simply state that they only install generators that they sell and not waste my time."

James K on May 2025

"They initially contacted me via email ready to make a visit for the install. Said that they could do the project no problem. Then when they realized I wouldn’t be buying a generator from them, which I had TOLD them upfront, they canceled on me. That is not an acceptable way to do business. They should simply state that they only install generators that they sell and not waste my time."

James K on May 2025

Generator Install questions, answered by experts

Yes, whole-house generators run constantly for extended periods. Whole-house generators can run for longer periods of time than portable generators, but be careful. First, they may need regular applications of engine oil (as frequently as daily), depending on the engine design. Second, running constantly for several days will increase the wear and tear on the generator and shorten its lifespan.

As long as they have enough fuel, whole-house generators can run for weeks at a time (400 to 500 hours) without suffering too much wear and tear. However, this type of extensive use isn’t ideal if you want to extend the life of your generator.

Two important points. First, some generators may need you to periodically check oil levels every day or so and refill as necessary for safe operation. Second, if your generator uses a fuel tank, keep it regularly full so it doesn’t suddenly shut off. Many backup generators can run through a full tank in a day when they are powering large portions of a home.

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.

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 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’s value, especially in areas prone to extreme weather and power outages.

The Shelbina, MO homeowners’ guide to generator installs

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

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•
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