Get matched with top generator install pros in Ford City, PA

Q: What size generator do I need for my house?

• <div><p><a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/what-size-generator-do-i-need.htm">Generator size requirements</a> vary wildly among properties, but typical generator sizes are listed below based on home square footage:</p><ul><li><p>1,000 sq ft: 6&ndash;9 kW</p></li><li><p>1,500 sq ft: 7&ndash;10 kW</p></li><li><p>2,000 sq ft: 10&ndash;14kW</p></li><li><p>2,500 sq ft: 12&ndash;16kW</p></li><li><p>3,000 sq ft: 16&ndash;20kW+</p></li></ul><p>Unfortunately, home square footage isn&rsquo;t always a good indicator of generator size requirements. Instead, you should call in a professional to discuss which items in your home you&rsquo;d like to run via your generator. They can calculate peak and average consumption for those items and then size your generator appropriately for optimal performance.</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: What’s the normal lifespan of a diesel generator?

• <div><p>You can expect a diesel generator to last for up to <b>30,000 hours of use</b>, which works out to 20 to 25 years with the proper maintenance, of course. That depends on how much you use it, so a diesel generator used for emergencies a couple of times a year will last a lot longer than a generator that takes over for a faulty electrical grid every month for a day or two. </p></div>

Q: Can a natural gas generator work without electricity or in a power outage?

• <div><p>Yes, natural gas generators can work without electricity. Natural gas generators are a common type of backup or whole-house generator that operates when the electrical grid isn&rsquo;t working. The trick is using a <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/cost-install-generator-transfer-switch.htm?entry_point_id=33797025">transfer switch</a> (which usually needs to be installed with the generator) that safely switches the home electrical system from the power grid to generator power when needed.</p></div>

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>

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Verified Reviews for Generator Install pros in Ford City, PA

*The Angi rating for Generator Install companies in Ford City, PA 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 Ford City, PA 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 December 08, 2025

Reviewed in August 2024
Inside French drain system was installed at a very reasonable price. The workers were respectful, efficient, and cleaned up well. Very satisfied and would hire them again.
Advanced Basement Solutions, Inc.
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Reviewed in January 2024
The two installers showed up in time, were extremely courteous, knowledgable, and professional. Tyler R. and Braden M. went above and beyond. Great job!
West Shore Home Pittsburgh
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Reviewed in June 2023
The rep calls saying they don?t do pre paid off sump pump?s installation. This morning they texted me to. Say they are coming over at 10 am June 22. They are not coming cause they don?t install products customers purchase
Groundworks
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Reviewed in April 2021
Santo was very knowledgable and well qualified. I was pleasantly surprised with the job. I wanted to install addtional electric capacity to a bathroom in a 100 year old home. He did some quick checks of my existing circuits to determine what needed to be done, then he completed the...
Bring the Light LLC
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Reviewed in February 2017
Had them do two jobs in the past 2 months. Excellent on both. Installed a smart door lock and fixed a nuisance screen door in one trip, later came back and installed new drainage pipe. Always available, very flexible, and patient. And of course the work is top-notch.
Banko & Son Remodeling LLC
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Reviewed in December 2016
Jen was excellent with helping us on selections and then measured it all out. The price was very good considering that the installers did EVERYTHING from Removal of old, installing padding, installing 2 types of carpeting and then resetting furniture-truly a Painless process. The installers...
Molyneaux Tile Carpet Wood
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Reviewed in January 2015
Josh Showed up a few minutes early and went straight to work. After I arrived he briefed me on his findings to that point. We walk through the house together to complete the inspection. During the inspection Josh would point out concerns and problems, also telling me why it's and not just that...
Allegiance Home Inspection
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Reviewed in March 2014
Mr. Watt and his crew showed up on time and completed all work in a timely and professional manner. The install went seamlessly and the equipment works great. We have had several power outages, and the generator fires up and is providing power to the whole house within seconds.
RC WATT
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Reviewed in September 2013
Installers arrived on time and the work was completed on time. Workers were very professional and courteous. Damage was done to steps leading to second floor. The installers pointed out the damage and did not try to hide it. Owner called the next day and stated the company would be responsible...
Jed Heating & Cooling Inc
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Reviewed in May 2013
Came well prpared with poduct and tools to install fence. Wasted no time asking me questions as to how it was to be instaled. Went rite to work asking at times if things were correct with the insalation. No time out and worked till the job was complete. Very nice guys very...
Penn Fencing
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