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Avatar for Buddy Electric
Buddy Electric
5.0(
6
)
Fixed Generator - Install

Serving Salem, VA and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2023

Free estimates

Warranties offered

For over 20 years, Ken and Ben Helton have proudly called the New River Valley home and have been dedicated to serving their community with integrity and excellence. More than just business partners, they are a family team committed to providing reliable, high-quality electrical services to local residents and businesses alike. Ken Helton, a seasoned Class A electrical contractor, brings strategic leadership and vision to Buddy Electric, while Ben Helton, a master electrician, delivers technical expertise and innovative solutions on every project. Together, they are passionate about making a positive impact and creating a safer, brighter community through trustworthy and exceptional service. At Buddy Electric, family values drive everything we do. We prioritize honesty, reliability, and customer satisfaction in every interaction. From residential repairs to commercial installations, our commitment to quality craftsmanship and personalized service sets us apart.

Ballroom
Main Hall
Main Chandelier
Sammy!
Buddy Crew at Work

+5

Response time10 hrs
Response rate97%
31 neighbors recently requested a quote
Avatar for Freedom Home Services
Freedom Home Services
4.7(
32
)
Fixed Generator - InstallPortable Generator - InstallFixed Generator - Repair+3 more

Serving Salem, VA and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2022

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"The owner was very knowledgeable and honest and fulfilled everything he promised. The technicians were Respectful and hardworking. We were very pleased with install from start to finish and highly recommend freedom heating and air. The owner also gave us a military discount, which was very helpful."
Heat Pump Cleaning
HVAC Cleaning
Bathroom Lighting
Bathroom Lighting
Vanity Lighting

+4

Response time10 hrs
15 neighbors recently requested a quote
Recommended by73%of homeowners
Avatar for Holistiq Building Systems and Services LLC
Holistiq Building Systems and Services LLC
5.0(
8
)
Fixed Generator - Install

Serving Salem, VA and surrounding areas

Approved

Super Service Award Winner

In business since 2025

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"I would like to recommend Joshua Smith as a Tesla installer and overall electrician. He did a great job for my wife and I on the installation of our powerwall 3 and car chargers within our garages as well as trouble shooting some other electrical problems at our new home at Smith Mountain Lake. Additionally, he answers phone calls and shows up on time. Again, we highly recommend Joshua."
Response time5 hrs
10 neighbors recently requested a quote
Avatar for Bobcat Electric LLC
Bobcat Electric LLC
5.0(
5
)
Fixed Generator - InstallGenerator - Install - For BusinessPortable Generator - Install

Serving Salem, VA and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2022

Free estimates

Small jobs welcome

We are dedicated to providing our clients with the very best in service, installation, and repair for all phases of your electrical needs. We specialize in a variety of residential and commercial services and take pride in the attention to detail put into each of the projects we're involved with. We also offer complete Gas Service, including generators, gas stoves & water heaters. We're known for our quality work and the integrity of our business. We look forward to building long-term relationships with our clients, and guarantee your satisfaction.

17 neighbors recently requested a quote
Avatar for Maxfield Electric, LLC
Maxfield Electric, LLC
4.9(
30
)
Fixed Generator - InstallGenerator - Install - For BusinessPortable Generator - Install

Serving Salem, VA and surrounding areas

In business since 2022

Free estimates

Warranties offered

"Alex was great to work with. He installed electrical for a portable generator. He was on-time with appointments, provided quality work, clean work areas, and thoroughly explained the operational process of connecting and running the generator. Exception service all around."
Response time1 day
Recommended by88%of homeowners
Showing 1-10 of 35
Generator Install questions, answered by experts

Costs range from $500 to $2,500, depending on generator type and installation complexity.

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.

With proper maintenance, a whole-house generator can last between 20 and 40 years. The specific lifespan depends on how often and for how long the generator is used, and some models may have their life expectancy rated in hours of operation. To maximize its lifespan, expect to spend around $150 to $300 per year for annual maintenance checks from a qualified technician. During these checks, a technician will inspect the engine filter, starting mechanism, fuel, lubrication, and coolant levels. Consulting your installer and choosing a low-impact fuel like natural gas or diesel can also help ensure your generator lasts as long as possible.

Setting up utilities on a vacant property usually takes at least a few months, or between 6 weeks to 16 weeks. This process requires working with the local planning and zoning department, hiring a building contractor or engineer to design the utility layout, securing permits, laying the lines, and connecting the utilities.

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.

The Salem, VA homeowners’ guide to generator installs

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