How does a generator transfer switch save me money?

• <div><p>It might seem counterintuitive, but installing a generator transfer switch will save you money in the long run. While you’ll have to pay between <b>$400 and $2,500</b> to have the transfer switch installed, you’ll recoup that amount later on when you don’t have to pay for expensive repairs to your appliances, devices, and electrical system that may have burned out, overloaded, or stopped working due to a sudden loss of power or an incorrect <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-to-hook-up-generator-to-house.htm">hook up of a generator to your home</a>. </p></div>

Get matched with top generator install pros in Wheelock, VT

Q: What size of diesel generator do you need to run a house?

• <div><p>Sizing a generator is a careful process that requires calculating the <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/electrical-load-calculation.htm">electrical load</a> of your entire house. You have to take into account every device you want to use and their wattage requirements, plus the wattage needed to start them, and look for a generator that can safely run all that at around 80% capacity.</p><p>In more practical terms, a small home can run on a 10,000-watt generator (and if you only want to power a few key appliances, much less than that). A mid-sized home may need something between 15,000 and 22,000 watts. Larger homes require 25,000 watts or more. </p></div>

Q: What is a remote start generator?

• <div><p>These advanced generators use a key fob or a smartphone app to remotely start, which is ideal for getting power back on immediately without venturing outside. This feature is more common on whole home generators, but you may be able to find it on large portable generators, too.</p></div>

Q: How long can a whole house generator run?

• <div><p>As long as they have enough fuel, whole-house generators can run for weeks at a time (400 to 500 hours) without suffering too much wear and tear. However, this type of extensive use isn&rsquo;t ideal if you want to extend the life of your generator.</p><p>Two important points. First, some generators may need you to periodically check oil levels every day or so and refill as necessary for safe operation. Second, if your generator uses a fuel tank, keep it regularly full so it doesn&rsquo;t suddenly shut off. Many backup generators can run through a full tank in a day when they are powering large portions of a home.</p></div>

Q: Is a natural gas generator less expensive than using electricity?

• <div><p>Natural gas and electricity rates vary significantly based on location, and pricing can change over time, too. It&rsquo;s possible that in locations where natural gas is particularly inexpensive, it will cost less than grid-based electricity will. However, you should also factor in the generator&rsquo;s initial costs and maintenance needs, as well as its noise level and if it can comfortably power all your home appliances.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Generator Install pros in Wheelock, VT

*The Angi rating for Generator Install companies in Wheelock, 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 Wheelock, 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 2023
The folks at Jay Mechanical were amazing! We got our quote quickly and within 3 days they were at the house installing our new hot water tank. The technicians were courteous and very considerate - even putting down drop cloths so no dirt would be on the floors. Their pricing was very fair and...
Jay Mechanical, Inc.
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Reviewed in July 2022
Windows were pricey but the high quality of work/installation helped to balance the overall cost. The installation expert was courteous, knowledgeable and professional. I would and will recommend him in the future.
View of Vermont Windows & Roofing
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Reviewed in July 2022
Honest & hardworking professional. Repaired chimney grout joints & installed chimney cap on high metal roof. Very conscious of protecting the roof during work.
Apex Chimney Repairs, LLC
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Reviewed in November 2020
Elite was absolutely phenomenal. A+ communication, was on-time, completed the work in a professional manner with a very clean install. They offered friendly advice and made sure I was happy with the work. Would absolutely hire again.
Elite Comfort Solutions Co
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Reviewed in September 2019
Excellent, great service through the entire process. From picking out color and style to the installation Alumfab was great, highly recommend.
Alufab USA Hurricane Protection
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Reviewed in October 2017
Sivic is very knowledgeable and is generous with sharing his knowledge about the best way to get a task accomplished. He explained everything he was going to do and showed me how he was doing the work. I learned a lot from working with him.
Masonry Boston
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Reviewed in July 2013
Carmine's just finished a job at our home replacing two air conditioning systems (outside compressors as well as air handlers). Here were the pros and cons: PROs --Best price of the 3 quotes I obtained --Salesman (Pete) was terrific. Knowledgeable, professional, friendly, no-pressure,...
Carmine's Plumbing, Heating & AIr Conditioning
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Reviewed in December 2011
The sales guy came out the day after I initially called them. I was a little wary at first because they were so much cheaper than the competition. After I placed the order it took 3 weeks for the windows to be made. On the day of the install, they were running a little late on another job but...
United Better Homes
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Reviewed in June 2010
Generally we have heard much praise about this repair shop so we made the appointment to bring our car to them. We were very satified. About 15 yeARAS AGO THEY HELPED MY WIFE and MOTHER-IN-LAW WITH THE two children in the car who had a minor fire when the wheel bearings overheated while they...
Fletcher's Auto Repair
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Reviewed in June 2008
Joel came on time and was well versed in radon mitigation. He was quick, efficient and clean. The system was installed correctly and functions well.
MOUNTAINVALLEY BUILDING INSPECTIONS INC
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Find Generator install pros in Wheelock

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

Sugar Hollow Electric

2110 Sugar Hollow Rd

No reviews yet

Sugar Hollow Electric

2110 Sugar Hollow Rd

No reviews yet

22 years of experience

Additional email - [email protected].

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

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

Sizing a generator is a careful process that requires calculating the electrical load of your entire house. You have to take into account every device you want to use and their wattage requirements, plus the wattage needed to start them, and look for a generator that can safely run all that at around 80% capacity.

In more practical terms, a small home can run on a 10,000-watt generator (and if you only want to power a few key appliances, much less than that). A mid-sized home may need something between 15,000 and 22,000 watts. Larger homes require 25,000 watts or more.

These advanced generators use a key fob or a smartphone app to remotely start, which is ideal for getting power back on immediately without venturing outside. This feature is more common on whole home generators, but you may be able to find it on large portable generators, too.

As long as they have enough fuel, whole-house generators can run for weeks at a time (400 to 500 hours) without suffering too much wear and tear. However, this type of extensive use isn’t ideal if you want to extend the life of your generator.

Two important points. First, some generators may need you to periodically check oil levels every day or so and refill as necessary for safe operation. Second, if your generator uses a fuel tank, keep it regularly full so it doesn’t suddenly shut off. Many backup generators can run through a full tank in a day when they are powering large portions of a home.

It might seem counterintuitive, but installing a generator transfer switch will save you money in the long run. While you’ll have to pay between $400 and $2,500 to have the transfer switch installed, you’ll recoup that amount later on when you don’t have to pay for expensive repairs to your appliances, devices, and electrical system that may have burned out, overloaded, or stopped working due to a sudden loss of power or an incorrect hook up of a generator to your home.

Natural gas and electricity rates vary significantly based on location, and pricing can change over time, too. It’s possible that in locations where natural gas is particularly inexpensive, it will cost less than grid-based electricity will. However, you should also factor in the generator’s initial costs and maintenance needs, as well as its noise level and if it can comfortably power all your home appliances.

The Wheelock, 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.
Breyden Kellam
•
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.
Breyden Kellam
•
Apr 1, 2025Apr 1, 2025
Gas Generator vs. Natural Gas Generator: What’s the Difference?
Before deciding between a gas generator and a natural gas generator, explore the differences. Compare gas vs. natural gas generator with our informative guide.
Melissa Graham
•
Jul 23, 2024Jul 23, 2024
15 Generator Uses for Homeowners
A portable generator can serve several uses beyond its traditional purpose. If you’re looking for ways to put your generator to work, our guide can help.
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.