Generator installation in Olympia, WA

Want backup power for Olympia windstorm outages? Call (815) 456-4349. We connect you with an independent, L&I-licensed electrical contractor who installs standby generators and portable generator hookups with a proper transfer switch.

Call (815) 456-4349 Electrician in Olympia

Washington
licensed pros
Permits pulled
when required
Written estimate
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Olympia
and nearby

Generator installationBackup power for PSE outages

What it is

Standby generators and portable hookups

Generator installation is the wiring of a backup generator to a home through a transfer switch or interlock. The switch keeps generator power off PSE lines, which protects line crews.

Standby generator: fixed unit outside, starts on its own when power fails.
Portable hookup: an inlet box and interlock or transfer switch for a portable generator.
Load choice: whole house, or selected circuits such as furnace, fridge, well pump and lights.

Why Olympia owners add one

Windstorms push trees into lines across Thurston County. On April 4, 2022, winds cut power to thousands from northeast Olympia to Lacey. Homes with sump pumps, well pumps or medical equipment feel these outages first.

Planning

What the install involves

Pick the loads you need during an outage.
Size the generator to those loads.
Choose a transfer switch or interlock.
Get the City of Olympia electrical permit.
Install, inspect and test.

Some homes need new circuit installation first, so key loads can be grouped on the generator side.

Safety rules

Never backfeed through a wall outlet
Keep portable units outside, away from doors and windows
Natural gas or propane units may need a separate gas permit

Fuel and placement

Choosing fuel and a location

Standby generators in the area usually run on natural gas or propane. Gas lines and tanks have their own rules and permits, so the electrical contractor and the gas installer plan together.

The unit sits outside on a pad, with clearance from windows, doors and vents set by the maker. Placement also affects noise for you and your neighbors.

Portable generators are a lower-cost option. An inlet box on the outside wall and an interlock on the panel let you run chosen circuits safely from a cord.

Loads people pick

Furnace or heat pump air handler
Refrigerator and freezer
Well or sump pump
Some lights and outlets

From call to final inspection

How a typical Olympia job works

You call
Tell us what is happening, your ZIP and how urgent it is. Have a photo of the panel label ready if you can.
We connect you
We match you with an independent, licensed electrician who handles that kind of work near you.
Estimate and permit
The electrician confirms the scope in writing and pulls a permit when the job needs one.
Work and inspection
The work is done, the local inspector signs off when required, and the utility reconnects service if it was disconnected.