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Avatar for McLean Electric LLC
McLean Electric LLC
5.0(
15
)
Fixed Generator - Install

Serving Sumter, SC and surrounding areas

In business since 2013

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Nick was wonderful to work with. He was prompt, honest and he had great ideas! The work was completed when he said it would be with very little disruption to our busy lives. I recommend him highly."
44 Thatcher Halloway
44 Thatcher Halloway
Upper and lower cabinet  low voltage Led tape lighting.
44 Thatcher Halloway
44 Thatcher Halloway

+35

Response time1 day
Response rate94%
13 neighbors recently requested a quote
Kirby Electric Services
5.0(
5
)
Fixed Generator - InstallPortable Generator - Install

Serving Sumter, SC and surrounding areas

In business since 1980

Emergency services offered

Credit card accepted

"I can not say enough good things about Mr. Kirby and his company. He was very thorough, efficient and professional. I recently hired him to wire my new barn for lights and power as well as some improvements to my new home. We discussed my wishes prior to starting and his knowledge was pivotal in guiding me through the planning and supply process. He knew and adhered to all the electrical codes and he knew his business and trade. He worked very hard and was there every day until the project was complete. He even found some issues regarding previous work I'd had done and helped me resolve those in addition to the project I hired him for. I highly recommend him for ANY electrical project or problem you may have. I will always call him first for any of my future electrical needs."
Response time3 hrs
Response rate85%
Recommended by100%of homeowners
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Generator Install questions, answered by experts

To determine the right size generator for your house, you should calculate the total wattage of the appliances and devices you want to power during an outage. List all essential items, note their start-up wattages, and add them together.

Here are some typical wattage requirements for common appliances:

  • Refrigerator: 600 watts

  • Large dehumidifier: 700 watts

  • Large window air conditioner: 1,400 watts

  • Water heater: 3,000 to 4,500 watts

  • Electric furnace: 5,000 to 25,000 watts

A 7,500-watt generator might be sufficient for essentials like a refrigerator, freezer, well pump, and lighting circuits. However, for high-demand items like a water heater or furnace, a whole-home generator is a better choice. A portable generator may be enough if you only need to power a few critical items.

While home square footage can offer a rough estimate, it is not always a reliable indicator. For reference, here are some typical generator sizes based on square footage:

  • 1,000 sq ft: 6–9 kW

  • 1,500 sq ft: 7–10 kW

  • 2,000 sq ft: 10–14 kW

  • 2,500 sq ft: 12–16 kW

  • 3,000 sq ft: 16–20 kW+

For the most accurate sizing, consult a professional who can calculate your home's peak and average power consumption and recommend the optimal generator.

Homeowners can often access federal tax credits, such as the Investment Tax Credit (ITC), which covers a percentage of installation costs. Many states and utilities offer additional rebates, grants, or performance-based incentives. These programs can significantly lower your upfront investment. Check the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency (DSIRE) or contact your local energy office for current offers.

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.

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. 

Potential benefits of using a natural gas generator include reducing your carbon footprint, lower likelihood of carbon monoxide exposure, budget-friendly operating costs, and low-maintenance, continuous fuel supply. Some possible drawbacks, though, include higher initial installation costs, dependency on a natural gas supply, and installation complexity. Keep in mind that pros and cons will vary based on the type and brand of natural gas generator. 

The Sumter, SC homeowners’ guide to generator installs

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