Rochester winters and summer storms regularly knock out power across Monroe County. A generator is only useful if it's connected safely — and in New York, that means a proper transfer switch installed by a licensed electrician.
Why You Need a Transfer Switch
Running a generator with a “suicide cord” — plugging directly into a dryer outlet or using a double-male extension cord to back-feed your panel — is dangerous and illegal. Here's why:
- Back-feed risk — Generator power can travel back onto utility lines and electrocute RG&E lineworkers restoring power during an outage.
- No surge protection — When utility power is restored, the surge can damage your appliances and generator.
- Code violation — Back-feeding a panel without a transfer switch violates the NEC and New York State code. Insurance may deny claims from generator-related fires if improper connection is found.
Transfer Switch Options
Manual Transfer Switch (for portable generators)
Installed at your panel, a manual transfer switch lets you safely connect a portable generator to specific circuits — typically sump pump, refrigerator, furnace, and a few outlets. You flip the switch when power goes out and plug in the generator. Cost: $500–$900 installed.
Automatic Transfer Switch (for standby generators)
An automatic transfer switch detects when utility power fails and starts your standby generator automatically — usually within 20–30 seconds. No manual intervention needed. Required for whole-house standby generators. Cost: $1,500–$3,000+ installed depending on size.
Generator Interlock Kit
An interlock kit is a code-compliant, budget-friendly alternative to a transfer switch for portable generators. It physically prevents the main breaker and generator breaker from both being on simultaneously. Cost: $300–$600 installed. Only suitable for portable generator use.
What We Need to Know for a Generator Installation Quote
- Portable or standby generator — and the generator's wattage if you already have one
- What circuits you want to power (sump pump? whole house? specific rooms?)
- Your current panel amperage and available breaker space
- Whether you have natural gas available at the house (for standby)
Nate can assess all of this during a free on-site estimate and give you options at different price points.
Generator Hookup — Free Estimates in Rochester
Safe, code-compliant transfer switch installation throughout Monroe County. Call before storm season — installation slots fill fast after major weather events.
Call (585) 371-8893Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a transfer switch for a generator in New York?
Yes. Connecting a generator directly to your home's wiring without a transfer switch is illegal and dangerous — it can back-feed power onto utility lines and injure RG&E workers. A transfer switch is required by code in New York State.
How much does a transfer switch installation cost in Rochester, NY?
A manual transfer switch for a portable generator typically runs $500–$900 installed. An automatic transfer switch for a standby generator runs $1,500–$3,000+ depending on size and complexity. Call Premier Alarms and Electric at (585) 371-8893 for a free estimate.
How long does generator hookup take in Rochester?
Manual transfer switch installation for a portable generator is typically completed in one day. Standby generator electrical connections (automatic transfer switch, gas connection, permit, and inspection) usually take 1–2 days.
Can Premier Alarms and Electric install a whole-house standby generator in Rochester, NY?
Premier Alarms and Electric handles the electrical side of standby generator installation — automatic transfer switch, connection to your panel, permit, and inspection. We coordinate with your gas utility and generator supplier for the full installation.