What this service does
Backup power begins with deciding what needs to stay on during an outage. Refrigeration, heating controls, sump pumps, lighting, and medical equipment may have very different requirements. A safe transfer arrangement separates generator power from utility power.
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Estimated prices for specific jobs
Before tax and permit or utility fees. Hourly labor is not a total project price. Full price list.
Manual transfer switch, 6–10 circuits$1,350–$2,700 per system
Install a manual transfer arrangement for selected essential household circuits.
Standard switch and short connections included. New exterior inlet priced separately if not in package.
Main-panel generator interlock$405–$810 per interlock add-on
Install a panel-compatible interlock, generator breaker and required labeling.
Panel must accept a listed compatible arrangement. Inlet and branch wiring priced separately.
30A generator inlet, L14-30$585–$1,080 per inlet and wiring
Install an outdoor generator inlet and suitable wiring back to transfer equipment.
Approximately 15–30 ft. Interlock/transfer switch, generator and cord excluded.
50A generator inlet, listed 4-wire type$720–$1,350 per inlet and wiring
Install a suitable 50A male power inlet and wiring to compatible transfer equipment.
Approximately 15–30 ft. Specify a listed inlet, not an ordinary 14-50 receptacle. Transfer equipment/generator excluded.
Critical-loads backup subpanel$1,350–$2,700 per subpanel
Move selected essential circuits into a backup-ready subpanel.
Typically 6–12 circuits near existing panel. Transfer equipment and backup source excluded.
Existing generator inlet test and tutorial$225–$450 per visit
Inspect the existing transfer arrangement, perform an operating test and explain normal use.
Generator supplied and available for testing. Repairs, fuel and new hardware extra.
Common options and scope
Portable generator interlock and inlet
Install a listed main-panel interlock kit and a generator inlet, appropriate labeling, and a selected set of backup loads.
Manual transfer switches
Plan a compatible manual transfer arrangement for selected household circuits. Generator output, inlet ratings and intended loads determine the scope; this is not an automatic standby system.
Existing transfer equipment assessment
Evaluate existing generator connections, equipment compatibility, wiring condition, and safe transfer arrangements before expanding or changing a backup system.
What happens during the work
Portable-generator interlocks and manual transfer switches are offered; permanent standby generators, automatic standby systems and gas work are not offered. Never use a generator indoors, in a garage, or near openings; follow manufacturer and public-safety placement guidance.
Helpful to have ready
A short description, your city or ZIP, and photos of the visible area or equipment. Never remove electrical covers or touch exposed wiring for a photo.
Questions
Can I plug a generator into a household outlet?
No. Backfeeding through an outlet is dangerous and can energize utility lines. Use an approved transfer arrangement installed for the application, and operate the generator outdoors according to safety instructions.
Where this service is available
Seattle, the Eastside, and mainland communities from Marysville to Tacoma. See all service areas.
Not sure what you need?
Send a photo. Ask a certified electrician.
Not sure what you need? Send a photo and tell True what’s going on or what you’d like to change. Get help understanding your options and the next step.
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What happens next
Tell us what you’re working on. True will review your request and respond by your preferred contact method. Together, we’ll determine whether the next step is advice based on your photos, a visit, or an estimate. Estimates are free, including on-site visits.