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Frank Blankenship Properties & Electrical, LLC
4.5(
27
)
Fixed Generator - InstallGenerator - Install - For BusinessPortable Generator - Install

Serving Athens, WV and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2016

Credit card accepted

Offers commercial services

Frank Blankenship Properties & Electrical is just what you needed to light up you life, or main focus is Electrical Switches, Outlets & Fixtures, Electrical Wiring or Panel Upgrade, So don't sreach in the dark for a good electrican when you are ready to hire call us.\n

13 neighbors recently requested a quote
Recommended by84%of homeowners
McSweeney Electric
5.0(
2
)
Fixed Generator - InstallFixed Generator - Repair

Serving Athens, WV and surrounding areas

In business since 2019

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"Nate was the one who came out to install our home charger and he was amazing. He went over what I wanted and where best to execute the procedure. I was very impressed with his knowledge and his attitude, very approachable and would definitely hire again when I am in need of electrical services."
Recommended by100%of homeowners
Avatar for Mister Sparky of Southern West Virginia
Mister Sparky of Southern West Virginia
5.0(
2
)
Portable Generator - Install

Serving Athens, WV and surrounding areas

In business since 2022

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"Monica and Harley treated us like family. The company is fantastic. Lee and his wife made sure we were happy with the work. They went above and beyond. May God bless them and the company with great success."
Response time8 hrs
Recommended by100%of homeowners
Showing 1-10 of 22
Generator Install questions, answered by experts

Yes, in most municipalities, you will need a permit to install a permanent home generator, including emergency backup, partial-home, and whole-home models. Because these installations involve significant alterations to your home's electrical system and produce exhaust fumes, local governments often require a permit or inspection for safety purposes. A generator permit typically costs between $50 and $250, depending on your location. Your electrician or certified installer can usually handle the permitting process for you, but you will be responsible for the cost. It's a good practice to confirm with your installer that they will pull all necessary permits before work begins.

The average cost to install a home generator is $5,200, but total costs can range from $500 to $18,000 or more. The final price depends on several factors, including the generator's size, type, brand, fuel source, and the cost of labor and assembly. The generator's size is the most significant cost factor, as units that can power larger homes with higher energy demands cost more.

Cost breakdowns by generator type are typically as follows:

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

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

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

To ensure you get the right size unit for your needs without overpaying, consider hiring an electrician to calculate the electrical load of your essential appliances. It is also recommended to get at least three quotes from qualified installers to find the best fit for your budget.

Generators are safe to use as long as they are installed and operated correctly according to the manufacturer's recommendations. The most critical safety tips are to never use a portable or fuel-powered generator inside an enclosed space due to the risk of lethal carbon monoxide poisoning; always operate it outdoors where fumes can dissipate away from your home. Additionally, never attempt to connect a generator to your home’s electrical panel yourself—hire a professional to ensure the setup meets safety standards. Finally, avoid overloading the generator by not connecting more appliances than it is rated for, as this can damage your equipment or cause a fire.

Whole-house generators can run continuously for extended periods, even for weeks at a time (around 400 to 500 hours), as long as they have a sufficient fuel supply. However, this type of extensive use will increase wear and tear and can shorten the generator's overall lifespan. During long periods of operation, it's important to check and refill the engine oil as needed, potentially as frequently as daily depending on the model. If your generator uses a fuel tank, ensure it is kept full to prevent unexpected shutdowns.

You can determine what size generator you need for a transfer switch by matching the switch to the largest outlet on your generator. Larger generators can power up to 10 circuits, while most 5,000-watt generators can provide power to six circuits. So, if your generator’s largest outlet is 30 amps, you’ll need a 30-amp transfer switch.

The Athens, WV homeowners’ guide to generator installs

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