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: Do I really need a generator transfer switch?

• <div><p>Yes, in some locations, it is required by the National Electric Code (NEC) to have a transfer switch installed for <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/what-is-an-electrical-emergency.htm">electrical emergencies</a>. In addition to following electrical code, generator transfer switches ensure your home is fully protected during a power outage. By switching the power from the main breaker to the generator breaker, you can seamlessly operate your HVAC, lights, appliances, devices, and more during an emergency. </p></div>

Q: Do you have to turn off the main breaker when using a generator?

• <div><p>As a safety measure, you should always turn off the main breaker while operating your generator&rsquo;s backup breaker. In addition, you should also switch off all appliance breakers so you don't have a power surge when the main breaker turns back on. And finally, turning off the main breaker prevents back-feeding, which endangers utility workers with the risk of electrocution. Back-feeding could also destroy the electrical circuits of your neighbors if they use the same power network.</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>

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: Do installations include unit assembly?

• <div><p>Many services include assembling the unit and securing it in the window. Confirm with your provider.</p></div>

There are 0 highly-rated local generator install pros.

Verified Reviews for Generator Install pros in Saint Paul, NE

Last update on October 12, 2025

Diane R.
5.0
10/2025
Walkout garage door was replaced and painted. Broken handle on glass storm door was replaced. New tv was installed on retractable mount and new soundbar was installed. Very satisfied with all repairs and installations. Workers were very professional and left the areas clean and tidy.
House Doctors Northwest Omaha
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Denny H.
5.0
01/2016
Patient, knowledgeable, came directly to house with samples. Great installation crew as well.
Floor It GI
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Robert G.
5.0
11/2015
When I made the decision to sell my cooperative apartment, I knew I had no choice but to update the kitchen and both bathrooms if I was to achieve anything resembling an acceptable purchase price. I am not a handy person, nor do I have time to invest in learning such skills so, absent any...
Ardsley Badolato Home Improvement & Construction
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Pixie K.
5.0
01/2015
Very happy with service provided. Called for an estimate to replace heating and air which he came out same day and they are actually from town 30 miles away. Emailed me an estimate by next morning. Called to get some other ideas for pricing which he provided right away by email. Tried to...
Nebraska Heating & Air, Inc
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Kurt R.
5.0
11/2013
First, the guys that came over to our place were professional and courteous. Dean was the main salesman. The first thing they did was to ask me what I wanted to change in my home in regards to comfort. I appreciated that as they actually cared about the things that I saw as problematic. They...
Thermal Services Inc
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Margo M.
1.0
04/2012
This company sent out canvousers, and we called them for new windows and patio door. We where lied to from the start. The y claim you save 50% on energy bills, they qualify under the Nebraska Energy Assistance Program and the all your windows and doors that are custom built will be...
American Exteriors
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Find Generator install pros in Saint Paul

James Mendyk Services

James Mendyk Services

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

1 years of experience

We pride our company on reliability, great communication, integrity, and quality work. We are experts in our trade and will do our best to keep you as educated as we can on your particular task or project. We look forward to earning your business!

"Hie is Very particular. Very neat. Does everything perfect."

Barb H on October 2024

"Hie is Very particular. Very neat. Does everything perfect."

Barb H on October 2024

Boyles Electric LLC

Boyles Electric LLC

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

2 years of experience

Boyles Electric LLC It can be a daunting task looking for not only the right contractor for your job but also the right contractor for you. We completely understand what you're going through. We know every customer has different desires, different needs and different schedules. We're not only here to turn your ideas into reality but to make it a memorable experience every step of the way. Call us right now, no matter where you are in the planning process.

"Zach was quick getting to the work, he was there within a few short days of contacting him"

Sheryl C on September 2023

"Zach was quick getting to the work, he was there within a few short days of contacting him"

Sheryl C on September 2023

My Classic Car Trader LLC

312 Prospect Ave

2.00(

)

My Classic Car Trader LLC

312 Prospect Ave

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

LIGHTHOUSE ELECTRICAL CONTR

1001 19th Avenue

4.25(

)

LIGHTHOUSE ELECTRICAL CONTR

1001 19th Avenue

4.25(

)

Customers say: Terrific value

20 years of experience

Electrical Contracting company based out of Scottsbluff, Nebraska. We serve the Wyobraska area. We accept credit cards, check, and cash payments.

Generator Install questions, answered by experts

Yes, in some locations, it is required by the National Electric Code (NEC) to have a transfer switch installed for electrical emergencies. In addition to following electrical code, generator transfer switches ensure your home is fully protected during a power outage. By switching the power from the main breaker to the generator breaker, you can seamlessly operate your HVAC, lights, appliances, devices, and more during an emergency.

As a safety measure, you should always turn off the main breaker while operating your generator’s backup breaker. In addition, you should also switch off all appliance breakers so you don't have a power surge when the main breaker turns back on. And finally, turning off the main breaker prevents back-feeding, which endangers utility workers with the risk of electrocution. Back-feeding could also destroy the electrical circuits of your neighbors if they use the same power network.

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.

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.

Many services include assembling the unit and securing it in the window. Confirm with your provider.

By submitting this question, I acknowledge and agree that Angi may publicly display my name, city, state, and question on the website for professionals and others to see.

The Saint Paul, NE homeowners’ guide to generator installs

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Feb 10, 2025Feb 10, 2025
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