Winter Electrical Guide · Updated November 2026
When an ice storm takes down lines across Montco, outages can last hours or days. A generator keeps your furnace, sump pump, well pump and fridge running. The key question is how it connects to your home, because the wrong connection can kill a lineworker or burn up your equipment.
Call (610) 897-0560The most affordable safe option. An electrician installs a power inlet box outside and either a manual transfer switch or a panel interlock kit. During an outage you roll the generator out, plug in one cord and switch over the circuits you need. Never backfeed through a dryer outlet with a double-male cord: it's illegal and can electrocute utility crews.
A permanently installed natural gas or propane unit that starts by itself within seconds of an outage. It needs a concrete or composite pad, gas line, automatic transfer switch, permit and inspection. Standby units can power the whole house, including central AC or a heat pump, if sized correctly.
An electrician does a load calculation to size it properly.
Montgomery County townships require electrical permits for transfer switches and standby units, and many have setback rules for placement near windows and property lines. Keep any generator outdoors, at least 20 feet from windows and doors, because of carbon monoxide.
Yes, a listed interlock kit installed by an electrician with a permit is a code-compliant way to connect a portable generator. Backfeeding through an outlet is not.
It varies with size, gas line length and whether the panel needs work. Get an on-site quote; the transfer switch and gas work are a large part of the cost.
Usually, if you book early. Standby units can take weeks because of equipment availability, permits and gas work. Interlock kits are often done in a day.
Call now for a fast quote. Open 24/7 for emergencies.
Call (610) 897-0560