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>

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Q: Can I use a generator to charge a back-up battery?

• <div><p>Yes. You can connect your home back-up battery to a generator with its designated charger. Be sure that the output of the generator matches the input requirements for the battery for best results.</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: What happens if my whole-house generator is too small for my AC?

• <div><p>An undersized whole-house generator has the potential to overheat and shut down when you try to run a central AC system. This scenario can not only damage the whole-house generator, but can also trip your home&rsquo;s breakers or cause electrical damage. To avoid this situation, hire a local generator installer to correctly size your whole-house generator.</p></div>

Q: What is the life expectancy of a whole house generator?

• <div><p>Whole-house generators can last<b> 20 to 40 years</b> with normal operation and proper maintenance. If you look up the specifications for your generator, you may be able to find a lifespan rated in hours of operation. Life expectancy will vary depending on how often and for how long you use the generator each year. Choosing a fuel with low impact like natural gas or diesel can help generators last as long as possible.</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>

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Verified Reviews for Generator Install pros in Williston, ND

*The Angi rating for Generator Install companies in Williston, ND 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 Williston, ND 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 16, 2025

Reviewed in August 2024
Michael and crew did an awesome job removing old windows and installing new ones. They showed up when they said they would and did professional work. Also did all cleanup in and outside. Also hauled out old windows. Highly recommend and would be happy to use them again Very fairly priced their...
Michael's Home Solutions
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Reviewed in November 2023
Also installed a water softener. Did a great job. Would definitely hire again.
Ace Plumbing
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Reviewed in July 2022
Bath Planet and Your Home Improvement Co. came out to do our tub to shower conversions. The workmanship, install, and value over all was great! Our installer was excellent and very clean. Thank you Brady for coming out to remind us of our warranty and checking out our kitchen.
Your Home Improvement Company
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Reviewed in May 2015
I hire this company to install a new driveway for my mother who is handicapped and had a tough time maneuvering her wheel chair because of a very old broken driveway. I am very pleased with there prompt friendly service and pricing. After calling many concrete company's and being told that my...
T & C Concrete
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Reviewed in December 2014
I had Brock and his crew working on my large landscaping project and they were absolutely fabulous! They did it all from preparing the soil, adding soil in places, doing all the rock work, laying a new patio with columns and a seating area, installing a propane fire pit, installing a "no...
Professional Choice Lawn Care
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Reviewed in June 2014
I found just the paint color I was looking for and the workers were right in there helping me pick a color. They mixed the paint quickly and when I had to return a gallon of generic white later, they took it back, no questions asked.
True Value Hardware Store
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Reviewed in January 2014
Waking up to a very bad leak on my hot water heater, I called them as soon as they opened. Arrived by 8:30 am, got my water shut off, hauled old tank to city dump, and installed a the new one by 11am! This is service you would never get in a large city. I have used them for all my appliance...
OLSEN HARDWARE & APPLIANCES
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Reviewed in November 2013
I fell that they are very knowledgeable and professional. They install a very high quality product. I was very happy with the results and would deffinitely hire them again.
Sakry Plumbing
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Reviewed in October 2013
They were priced way out of our comfort zone and did not want to serve as the general contractor in getting the whole job done which was removing and replacing the basement floor, putting in drain tile, a protective barrier, sump pumps and finishing the rooms.
Groundworks
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Reviewed in November 2012
Very well. We waited about a week for them to come and do the work, which is very good for our area, only took a few hours to install and they stuck to the estimated price exactly.
MON-DAK HEATING & PLUMBING INC
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Find Generator install pros in Williston

Earl's Electric, Inc

5.00(

)

•Approved Pro

Earl's Electric, Inc

5.00(

)

•Approved Pro

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

41 years of experience

Earl's Electric, Inc is a locally owned and operated company that values honesty and integrity in all aspects of our business. Our dedicated team of professionals have over 30 years of hands on experience to provide innovative ideas and suggestions tailored to your projects. Our services are customized to your individual needs, paying close attention to the details of each project that we are involved with. Please feel free to contact us today! earlselectricnd.com

"They are very reliable, customer oriented, and always come on time. I would highly recommend them!"

Jan J on November 2020

"They are very reliable, customer oriented, and always come on time. I would highly recommend them!"

Jan J on November 2020

ACT1V8 Electric, LLC

4.79(

)

•Approved Pro

ACT1V8 Electric, LLC

4.79(

)

•Approved Pro

Customers say: Quality work

16 local quotes requested

5 years of experience

ACT1V8 ELECTRIC LLC is dedicated to providing our customers with the best quality Electrical projects. We are here to build relationships with our customers and communities and to provide our employees with a great place to work. We look forward to working with you!

"Job was done great in a timely manner!!"

Aaron S on November 2025

"Job was done great in a timely manner!!"

Aaron S on November 2025

We specialize in Commercial and Residential Heating & Cooling products and services. We offer Free Estimates and Consultation. We require 50% down at signing of proposal. The Remaining balance is due upon completion. Financing is available upon credit approval.

My Classic Car Trader LLC

2.00(

)

My Classic Car Trader LLC

2.00(

)

53 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

Bismarck Heating & Air Conditioning Inc

4.37(

)

Bismarck Heating & Air Conditioning Inc

4.37(

)

Customers say: True professional

54 years of experience

Additional contact name - Mike Kambeitz. Financing available. Additional email - [email protected]

"Worst company I've ever dealt with. They charged me 100 bucks for material. They put in a shut off valve and 2 ft of braided hose. When I told him a shut off valve is 9 dollars he responded with Chinese crap on the Internet is cheap. When I said it was from Menards I got the same response. So this company is using solid gold fittings and platinum tape it seems. Also took 6 hours to get a call back from a man it took me all of 2 minutes to get so fed up with I told him to **** himself and hung up. **** you mike can't wait for the attorney general to give you a call"

Zachary L on September 2024

Additional contact name - Mike Kambeitz. Financing available. Additional email - [email protected]

"Worst company I've ever dealt with. They charged me 100 bucks for material. They put in a shut off valve and 2 ft of braided hose. When I told him a shut off valve is 9 dollars he responded with Chinese crap on the Internet is cheap. When I said it was from Menards I got the same response. So this company is using solid gold fittings and platinum tape it seems. Also took 6 hours to get a call back from a man it took me all of 2 minutes to get so fed up with I told him to **** himself and hung up. **** you mike can't wait for the attorney general to give you a call"

Zachary L on September 2024

AUTO THERAPY

4.67(

)

AUTO THERAPY

4.67(

)

Customers say: True professional

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

Locally owned independent automotive repair shop since 1995, we offer a number of services in the Bismarck area to keep your vehicle running properly at all times. All services are carried out by our certified, expert auto service and repair technicians who have years of experience performing everything from oil changes to a complete engine overhaul. We use high-tech diagnostic equipment to guarantee your vehicle is repaired and/or serviced correctly the first time around. We only use the highest quality replacement parts, filters, oils, and components when it comes to your car, SUV, pickups, light duty vans, and/or lighter duty vehicles.

Generator Install questions, answered by experts

Yes. You can connect your home back-up battery to a generator with its designated charger. Be sure that the output of the generator matches the input requirements for the battery for best results.

While diesel is relatively stable, it won’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’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’t always ideal for home use.

An undersized whole-house generator has the potential to overheat and shut down when you try to run a central AC system. This scenario can not only damage the whole-house generator, but can also trip your home’s breakers or cause electrical damage. To avoid this situation, hire a local generator installer to correctly size your whole-house generator.

Whole-house generators can last 20 to 40 years with normal operation and proper maintenance. If you look up the specifications for your generator, you may be able to find a lifespan rated in hours of operation. Life expectancy will vary depending on how often and for how long you use the generator each year. Choosing a fuel with low impact like natural gas or diesel can help generators last as long as possible.

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 Williston, ND homeowners’ guide to generator installs

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

See all articles

Elisa Greenberg
•
Aug 14, 2025Aug 14, 2025
How Much Does a Whole-House Generator Cost? [2025 Data]
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How Much Does It Cost To Install a Generator Transfer Switch? [2025 Data]
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How Much Does Whole-House Generator Maintenance Cost? [2025 Data]
Keeping on top of generator maintenance and repairs gives you extra peace of mind as a homeowner. Find out how much regular generator maintenance costs.
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Apr 1, 2025Apr 1, 2025
Is a Whole-House Generator Worth It? What to Know Before You Invest
Is a whole-house generator worth it? Discover the key factors influencing ROI and whether it's the right choice for your home.
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•
Aug 14, 2025Aug 14, 2025
How To Connect a Generator to Your House Without a Transfer Switch
Using a generator during a power outage is a lifesaver. Our guide will show you how to connect a generator to your house without a transfer switch.
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•
Jul 23, 2024Jul 23, 2024
15 Generator Uses for Homeowners
A portable generator can serve several uses beyond its traditional purpose. If you’re looking for ways to put your generator to work, our guide can help.