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>

Get matched with top generator install pros in Wadsworth, NV

Q: Are natural gas generators worth it?

• <div><p>While natural gas generators are costly, they&rsquo;re a great option for standby power due to the reliability of natural gas as a fuel source. Unlike other fuels, natural gas is delivered through underground pipes, making outages extremely rare and less likely to be affected by the elements. As long as the area isn&rsquo;t prone to earthquakes, they offer an unlimited supply of natural gas that doesn&rsquo;t degrade over time or require storage in tanks.</p></div>

Q: Is a natural gas generator less expensive than using electricity?

• <div><p>Natural gas and electricity rates vary significantly based on location, and pricing can change over time, too. It&rsquo;s possible that in locations where natural gas is particularly inexpensive, it will cost less than grid-based electricity will. However, you should also factor in the generator&rsquo;s initial costs and maintenance needs, as well as its noise level and if it can comfortably power all your home appliances.</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: 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>

There are 0 highly-rated local generator install pros.

Find Generator install pros in Wadsworth

Battle Born Electric & Solar

Battle Born Electric & Solar

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

87 local quotes requested

Welcome to Battle Born Electric & Solar! My name is Jason Baker, a Reno native, proud husband and father, and a licensed journeyman electrician with over 12 years of experience. As a locally owned and operated business, we proudly serve the Reno-Tahoe area, providing fast, reliable, and professional electrical and solar services. I understand the importance of creating a safe and comfortable space for your family, and I’m committed to delivering top-quality work that meets your needs. From small repairs to large installations, my goal is to ensure every customer is completely satisfied with our clean, efficient service. Let Battle Born Electric and Solar power your home or business!

"Jason with Battle Born Electric was amazing. He came out today after previously providing us with a quote and installed a new 240v EV charging plug in my garage. He was able to add a circuit to the power box attached to the house and run cable through the roof to my garage. The work only took him about 2.5 hours, alone. I was able to sit on the couch and relax knowing the job was in good hands."

Teresa B on November 2024

"Jason with Battle Born Electric was amazing. He came out today after previously providing us with a quote and installed a new 240v EV charging plug in my garage. He was able to add a circuit to the power box attached to the house and run cable through the roof to my garage. The work only took him about 2.5 hours, alone. I was able to sit on the couch and relax knowing the job was in good hands."

Teresa B on November 2024

DataTech Communications

DataTech Communications

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

2 years of experience

We have extensive experience in the retail, commercial, and residential industry for network design and cabling installations, and IP camera security solutions. Many of our relationships span the 30+ years we have been in business. Our customers commonly refer to us as their ‘partner’ and we feel this is the highest praise we can receive. At DataTech, we have solidified our place as a leading technology cabling infrastructure vendor through our advanced standards and principles in customer service with the use of our Fluke DSX8000 series Cat8 & Fiber Optic cable certification testers and Fluke Network certified technicians. We pride ourselves on using only the highest quality cables, connectors and hardware to insure that your system will operate properly. Whether it is one station or several thousand, we will be there to assist you at all times 24/7. Accredited through the BBB ID#102759, Reno/Sparks Chamber Of Commerce, Nevada contractors license, insured, and bonded.

"Nice, very professional, and got everything done!"

Lorrie R on January 2024

"Nice, very professional, and got everything done!"

Lorrie R on January 2024

New Phase Electric, LLC

New Phase Electric, LLC

Customers say: Quality work

4 years of experience

Warranties offered

New Phase Electric LLC is dedicated to providing our customers with the best quality and craftsmanship. We are here to build relationships with our customers and communities and to provide our employees with a great place to work. New Phase Electric LLC is a leader in providing our customers with the highest quality products and craftsmanship in an honest, efficient, and professional way. Our pledge is to create successful relationships with our customers, employees and community by building trust, treating every project with the utmost integrity and exceeding expectations. We look forward to working with you!

"We had a great experience using him to install our electric vehicle charger. He was able to install our Tesla universal home charger quickly, and efficiently. Great communication throughout the process and would certainly recommend again."

Jason S on October 2024

"We had a great experience using him to install our electric vehicle charger. He was able to install our Tesla universal home charger quickly, and efficiently. Great communication throughout the process and would certainly recommend again."

Jason S on October 2024

Northern Nevada Low Voltage, LLC

Northern Nevada Low Voltage, LLC

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 98% of Angi customers

15 local quotes requested

As members of the community we serve, we are proud to be the area's leading, LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED - NO DEALER MARKUP- low voltage provider! Our goal is to provide our customers with effective solutions tailored to meet any need and budget demand. Our team works quickly and effectively while never compromising quality or customer service. At Northern Nevada Low Voltage, we choose to only partner with manufacturers who provide the industry's top quality audio/visual products and services; and our team has the field experience and certifications necessary to bring these solutions to your home and business. Looking to get the most enjoyment out of your places of leisure? Have an office suite or warehouse needing an infrastructure upgrade? Let the service professionals at NNLV walk you through the process beginning with a FREE SITE SURVEY & ESTIMATE, and help you build the project that is right for you! Contact us and let's get started today! NNLV is fully licensed, bonded & insured.

"They came out into the country to do this job. Very professional. I would definitely hire them again!"

Julia P on October 2022

"They came out into the country to do this job. Very professional. I would definitely hire them again!"

Julia P on October 2022

SmartGigaWatt

SmartGigaWatt

Customers say: True professional

68 local quotes requested

2 years of experience

Insotek LLC (dba SmartGigaWatt) is a comprehensive solutions provider specializing in electrical systems, low-voltage technologies, and advanced automation. We offer a wide range of services designed to enhance the functionality, security, and efficiency of residential and commercial properties. Electrical Systems: From panel upgrades and wiring to solar energy solutions, we deliver reliable and efficient electrical systems tailored to your specific needs. Low Voltage Systems: Our expertise extends to advanced security systems, access control, robust networking, premium audio-visual experiences, and cutting-edge smart home automation. By combining electrical expertise with cutting-edge technology, we create integrated solutions that enhance your property's value, security, and comfort. Our commitment to exceptional service and customer satisfaction sets us apart.

"The job consisted of installing three under-counter LED light fixtures. The job was completed the same day that I contacted Smart Gigawatt. The technician arrived at 5:00 PM and completed the job by 6:00 PM. Everything was perfect, and the technician was courteous and knowledgeable. I would certainly use these people again."

Henry H on September 2025

"The job consisted of installing three under-counter LED light fixtures. The job was completed the same day that I contacted Smart Gigawatt. The technician arrived at 5:00 PM and completed the job by 6:00 PM. Everything was perfect, and the technician was courteous and knowledgeable. I would certainly use these people again."

Henry H on September 2025

T&T Electric

P.O. Box 7377

No reviews yet

T&T Electric

P.O. Box 7377

No reviews yet

26 years of experience

Electrical Contractor working in the greater Reno area for more than 12 years. Our business is based in Reno, Nevada. Contractoring in Nevada and California

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

Bighorn Energy Services

1885 S. Arlington St.

5.00(

)

Bighorn Energy Services

1885 S. Arlington St.

5.00(

)

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

Licensed Nevada Electrical Contractor. No job too big or too small. New customers receive a 10% discount on labor on their first service call.

Generator Install questions, answered by experts

While natural gas generators are costly, they’re a great option for standby power due to the reliability of natural gas as a fuel source. Unlike other fuels, natural gas is delivered through underground pipes, making outages extremely rare and less likely to be affected by the elements. As long as the area isn’t prone to earthquakes, they offer an unlimited supply of natural gas that doesn’t degrade over time or require storage in tanks.

Natural gas and electricity rates vary significantly based on location, and pricing can change over time, too. It’s possible that in locations where natural gas is particularly inexpensive, it will cost less than grid-based electricity will. However, you should also factor in the generator’s initial costs and maintenance needs, as well as its noise level and if it can comfortably power all your home appliances.

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.

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.

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The Wadsworth, NV 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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Whole house generator sizing can be tricky to figure out if you don’t know a few key factors. Our guide can help you determine what size works best for your needs.