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Avatar for Tech Connect Electric LLC
Tech Connect Electric LLC
5.0(
23
)
Portable Generator - InstallPortable Generator - Repair

Serving Salem, VA and surrounding areas

Approved

Super Service Award Winner

In business since 2024

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Very professional and skilled electrician. Quick response and reasonable price. Replaced 54 year old too small panel with new larger panel with room for expansion. Very neat wire installation and excellent work."
Under cabinet LEDs
Before
After
Response time7 hrs
3 neighbors recently requested a quote
Recommended by85%of homeowners
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%
26 neighbors recently requested a quote
Avatar for Freedom Home Services
Freedom Home Services
4.7(
32
)
Portable Generator - InstallFixed 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
13 neighbors recently requested a quote
Recommended by73%of homeowners
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.

10 neighbors recently requested a quote
Avatar for Ostrom Electrical Plumbing Heating & Air
Ostrom Electrical Plumbing Heating & Air
4.6(
96
)
Fixed Generator - Install

Serving Salem, VA and surrounding areas

In business since 1999

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Things went very well! Ostrom customer service called to alert me in advance that the electricians were on their way, and told me whom to expect. The electricians arrived on time. They were very courteous and professional, and Daniel was very knowledgeable. They knew just how to approach the job and completed it well. For the electrical system safety check, Daniel checked the main electrical panel, the outdoor electrical equipment, the branch circuit wiring, and life safety equipment. He gave me a written evaluation and list of recommendations. It was definitely worthwhile having this done because it made me aware of things that need to be addressed. Daniel just a few days ago installed the wiring for the under-cabinet lighting, and is waiting for the tile work to be completed before he installs the lights. Since they haven't yet been installed, the cost of service noted is only the cost for the chandelier installation."
My jobs
My jobs
My jobs
My jobs
My jobs

+3

Response time1 day
Response rate100%
Recommended by80%of homeowners
Showing 1-10 of 34
Generator Install questions, answered by experts

To power a central air system during a power outage, the whole-house generator will need to be at least 5,000 watts, and this number will significantly increase for larger units. Check the specific wattage requirements of your AC unit to choose the right generator size. Consider consulting a generator installer to ensure your whole-house generator meets your electrical load needs.

It is safe to run a generator continuously, but you must follow safety protocols to ensure personal and home safety. Read the manufacturer’s instructions for specific recommendations, but the general recommendation is to turn generators off overnight or when you’re away from the house. Overworked generators can pose a fire hazard and if your generator is not in a well-ventilated area, running it continuously could lead to carbon monoxide poisoning.

If you have a transfer switch properly installed, the generator and main electrical power cannot feed the system at the same time. However, you should still shut off the power at your main circuit breaker panel before activating the generator. If you do that, you’ll simply need to shut off the generator and reset your circuit breaker once the local power comes back on.

Generators run on a variety of fuel types, ranging from natural gas to solar power. Keep in mind that fuel costs varying by type:

  • Natural gas: $2,000–$21,000 per year 

  • Liquid propane: $2,000–$21,000 per year

  • Diesel: $3,000–$20,000 per year

  • Gasoline: $500–$3,000 per year

  • Solar generator: $2,000–$25,000 per unit

  • Battery backup: $10,000–$25,000 per unit

The cost to install a whole-house generator averages $5,200, with a typical price range of $1,500 to $8,900. However, total costs can vary from $400 for a small portable unit to over $18,000 for a large-capacity system. The most significant cost factor is the generator's size and capacity, but other variables include the brand, fuel type, and labor for assembly and installation.

Generator costs can be broken down by type:

  • Portable or Emergency Backup Generators (1kW–7.5kW): $500 to $2,000

  • Partial-Home Generators (9kW–20kW): $2,000 to $6,500

  • Whole-House Generators (22kW–48kW): $5,000 to $18,000

To avoid paying for more power than you need, consider hiring an electrician to calculate the electrical load for your essential appliances. It is also recommended to get at least three quotes to find the best deal for your specific needs and budget.

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.