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>

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Q: Can you run a whole-house generator constantly?

• <div><p>Yes, whole-house generators run constantly for extended periods. Whole-house generators can run for longer periods of time than portable generators, but be careful. First, they may need regular applications of engine oil (as frequently as daily), depending on the engine design. Second, running constantly for several days will increase the wear and tear on the generator and shorten its lifespan.</p></div>

Q: What incentives or rebates are available for home wind turbine installation?

• <div><p>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.</p></div>

Q: Can you switch fuel types for a whole-house generator?

• <div><p>In many cases, yes. There are models called dual-fuel generators and fuel switches, but only between certain types of fuel. For example, with the right setup you can convert a generator from natural gas to propane. Some allow switching between diesel and gasoline. There are even tri-fuel generators available in some cases, which adds a large layer of security if you are worried about fuel availability in times of crisis. Always check your generator capabilities and manual instructions before trying to switch fuels. Some generators can use another fuel but may need a fuel conversion kit to prep them first.</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’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>

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Verified Reviews for Generator Install pros in Topsham, VT

*The Angi rating for Generator Install companies in Topsham, VT 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 Topsham, VT 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 October 26, 2025

Reviewed in August 2024
Great quality installation with reasonably priced
Your Local Floor Pro LLC
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Reviewed in February 2024
Excellent job with hard working and respectful employees - cleaned the basement of 200+ year old home littered with generations of junk as well as mold; it now looks fantastic. Shoveled out drive way as a bonus.
Silver Environmental
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Reviewed in January 2024
We had a new chimney and 2 liners installed. Steve was awesome! Explained all aspects of the work and did a beautiful job!
Kearley Masonry
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Reviewed in November 2022
Had a gutter system installed this fall. The customer service reps were friendly and knowledgeable. After install, saw a small concern in which they immediately came out and addressed. Problem was more the roof than the gutter system actually.
Clear Choice Home Improvements, LLC
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Reviewed in July 2022
Only placed our order on July 21, not installed yet.
Budget Blinds of Concord & Hanover
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Reviewed in January 2022
Sincal installed a new chimney and air tube fell out after 5 uses. Tech came o tightened part and it fell out 2 days later along with bricks. Company blamed us of taking brand new chimney apart. Took about 2 months for a response just wanted $150 refund for the fact that what they fixed fell...
Sin Cal Chimney's
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Reviewed in February 2021
They were on time and very efficient, complete install done in one day. Many excellent additional features we took advantage of, such as surge suppressor and monitoring. Honest and dependable company to work with. Would recommend them without hesitation.
Generator Supercenter of Maine
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Reviewed in October 2017
The men from Claremont Glassworks did an excellent job when I had my garage doors replaced. They were on time, professional, and polite. They had both doors removed, and new ones replaced, plus two new garage door openers installed, in only a couple of hours. Great doing business with them
CLAREMONT GLASSWORKS
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Reviewed in September 2016
On time bed was installed in my water bed frame which I wanted to keep. Install went great. Very happy with our bed. No problems.
SleepZero Sleep Systems
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Reviewed in August 2012
They helped me find stain free carpet, came out to my house to do the measuring, and their installers were extremely professional and fast. They also allowed me to do two rooms in one day and two more the next day.
O'Briens Carpet One Floor and Home
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Find Generator install pros in Topsham

Vertex Contracting Inc.

Vertex Contracting Inc.

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

126 local quotes requested

3rd generation electrician. We specialize in re-wiring historical sites, electrical services, repairs, installs, troubleshooting, lighting, panel upgrades, ceiling fans, EV/Electric Charging Stations, and more! We guarantee your satisfaction, and we won’t leave until the job is done right. We pride ourselves on the quality work we provide, while delivering great customer service! Check out all the services we offer below and call -or- click to schedule a free estimate today!

"They are outstanding!"

Jake V on August 2023

"They are outstanding!"

Jake V on August 2023

Northstar Electric LLC

494 Church Rd.

4.94(

)

Northstar Electric LLC

494 Church Rd.

4.94(

)

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

Northstar Electric is a responsive and reliable provider of electrical services for both residential and commercial clients. Our team of experienced professionals is dedicated to providing the highest quality of electrical services, ensuring that each job is completed to the highest standard. We are proud to be your trusted and dependable source for all your electrical needs. Our commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction is unmatched in the industry. We are confident that you will be pleased with the quality of services and results that we deliver. Have you worked with us before? We'd love your feedback. Consider leaving a review on the Testimonials page or on Google.

"Excellent work and on time in an extremely difficult location."

Doug T on April 2021

"Excellent work and on time in an extremely difficult location."

Doug T on April 2021

Schaal Electric PC

73 Depot St

4.00(

)

Schaal Electric PC

73 Depot St

4.00(

)

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

Schaal Electric PC is a family ownwed and operated business located in Wilder Vt since 1972. We are a full service electrical contractor and are regions Distributor for Gillette Generators. Offering to dealers,contractors and retail sales installation and service on all models.We offer a fully installed turn key system.

RICHARD ELECTRIC INC

131 A ST

4.15(

)

RICHARD ELECTRIC INC

131 A ST

4.15(

)

Customers say: Quality work

65 years of experience

Established in 1960. We have 24 hr. emergency service available. Work is completed by Licensed Electricians and Registered Apprentices per the National Electrical Code.

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

BT Morin Electric

5.00(

)

BT Morin Electric

5.00(

)

Customers say: Quality work

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

Residential & light commercial electrical contractor

Powers Generator Service

5 Business Center Dr

4.25(

)

Powers Generator Service

5 Business Center Dr

4.25(

)

Customers say: Super punctual

31 years of experience

Additional address - PO Box 10005, Swanzey, NH 03446. Additional contact name - Sheena Royce. Number of Employees: 45. We offer Financing.

Generator Install questions, answered by experts

Yes, whole-house generators run constantly for extended periods. Whole-house generators can run for longer periods of time than portable generators, but be careful. First, they may need regular applications of engine oil (as frequently as daily), depending on the engine design. Second, running constantly for several days will increase the wear and tear on the generator and shorten its lifespan.

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.

In many cases, yes. There are models called dual-fuel generators and fuel switches, but only between certain types of fuel. For example, with the right setup you can convert a generator from natural gas to propane. Some allow switching between diesel and gasoline. There are even tri-fuel generators available in some cases, which adds a large layer of security if you are worried about fuel availability in times of crisis. Always check your generator capabilities and manual instructions before trying to switch fuels. Some generators can use another fuel but may need a fuel conversion kit to prep them first.

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.

You can expect a diesel generator to last for up to 30,000 hours of use, 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.

The Topsham, VT homeowners’ guide to generator installs

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

See all articles

Alison Kasch
•
Feb 10, 2025Feb 10, 2025
How Much Does It Cost To Install a Generator Transfer Switch? [2025 Data]
The cost to install a generator transfer switch depends on several factors. Our guide will help you understand all of the costs.
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•
Aug 14, 2025Aug 14, 2025
How Much Does Whole-House Generator Maintenance Cost? [2025 Data]
Keeping on top of generator maintenance and repairs gives you extra peace of mind as a homeowner. Find out how much regular generator maintenance costs.
Elisa Greenberg
•
Aug 14, 2025Aug 14, 2025
How Much Does a Whole-House Generator Cost? [2025 Data]
The average cost of a whole-house generator falls between $5,000 and $25,000. Keep reading to learn how much you can expect to spend.
Michelle Nati
•
Apr 1, 2025Apr 1, 2025
Can a Whole-House Generator Run an Air Conditioner?
A whole house generator can keep your home running during a power outage, but can it handle the energy demands of an air conditioner? Here’s what to consider.
Kat Brancato
•
Jul 1, 2024Jul 1, 2024
What Size Generator Do I Need? A Guide to Choosing the Right Generator for Your Home
Emergency generators come in many types and sizes to suit various needs. If you’re wondering what size generator to buy, here’s what to consider.
Tyler Lacoma
•
Mar 26, 2025Mar 26, 2025
Pros and Cons of a Whole-House Generator
Whole house generators can power homes when electric problems hit, but they aren’t for everyone. Here’s what you should know when you’re thinking about buying.