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Portable Generator Hookups

Plug In Your Portable Generator, Safely

Stop running extension cords through the window. A generator inlet with a panel interlock or a manual transfer switch lets you power the circuits you choose, safely and to code.

Call (979) 559-3684 Request Service

Texas Master Electrician · TECL #39231 · Serving 7 Gulf Coast counties from El Campo, TX

Your options

Two Safe Ways to Connect a Portable Generator

Both keep your generator from feeding power back onto the utility lines, which protects line workers and your equipment.

Inlet + panel interlock

A weatherproof inlet outside and an interlock on your panel. Flexible and usually the lower-cost option.

Manual transfer switch

A separate switch with your chosen circuits. Simple to use during an outage.

Generator cord and sizing help

We'll help you match the inlet and cord to your generator's outlet and size.

Upgrade path

Many customers move up to a standby generator later. The work carries over where it can.

Generator interlock kit installed on a residential breaker panel
Panel interlock
Exterior manual transfer switch with a power inlet box
Manual transfer switch with inlet
Manual transfer switch panel for portable generator backup
Manual transfer switch panel

Is it right for you?

A Good Fit If You

  • ✓Already own a portable generator, or plan to buy one
  • ✓Want backup for essentials: fridge, freezer, lights, fans, well pump
  • ✓Aren't ready for a standby generator yet
  • ✓Are tired of extension cords during outages
  • ✓Want to be ready before hurricane season

Safety first

  • Never plug a generator into a wall outlet ("backfeeding"). It can kill line workers and damage your home.
  • Run the generator outside, away from doors and windows, because of carbon monoxide.
  • A portable generator can't run every load at once. We'll help you pick the circuits that matter.
  • We recommend a surge protector at the panel. No device prevents all damage.

How it works

From First Call to Finished Job

1

Call or send photos

Call (979) 559-3684 or text photos to the same number. Many jobs can get a free estimate by phone or from your photos.

2

On-site visit if needed

Some jobs need us to see them first. On-site consultations are paid and credited toward the job if you accept the proposal (see our Rate Sheet).

3

Written proposal

You get a written proposal in your client portal that lists what's included, the permits we'll pull and the price.

4

We do the work

A licensed electrician does the work to code, and we handle the inspection where one is required.

What does it cost?

Typical price ranges for a generator inlet with a panel interlock and for a manual transfer switch are on our Cost Guide.

Questions

Generator Hookup FAQ

Is an interlock legal in Texas?

Listed interlock kits installed to code are a common, accepted way to connect a portable generator. Local rules can vary, and we pull a permit where one is required.

What size generator do I need?

It depends on what you want to run. Tell us the essentials and we'll help you size the inlet and circuits.

Can I run my central A/C?

Usually not on a typical portable generator. A standby generator sized by a load calculation is the way to back up central A/C.

Will this work with a standby generator later?

Some of the work may carry over, but a standby generator uses an automatic transfer switch. We'll go over it with you.

Prices on our website are general information, not an offer.

Be Ready Before the Next Outage

Call us, text photos of the job, or request service online. Your price comes in a written proposal.

Call (979) 559-3684 Text Us Photos Request Service

Related: Standby generators · Generator repair · Generator costs