Portable generator hookups around Lake Winnipesaukee.
A weatherproof inlet, interlock kit, or manual transfer switch for the portable unit you already own.
Portable Hookups
What a portable generator hookup includes
A portable generator only helps when it can feed the panel safely. We mount a weatherproof inlet, add an interlock kit or manual transfer switch, and keep generator power and utility power from ever meeting. Common work on lake houses around Lake Winnipesaukee and Squam Lake.
- Weatherproof generator inlet, 30-amp or 50-amp
- Generator interlock kit installation
- Manual transfer switch installation
- Safe separation of generator and utility power
- Panel labeling and homeowner walkthrough
Choosing a System
Standby generator or portable generator with a transfer switch?
| Feature | Most lake homesAutomatic standby | Lower costPortable with a transfer switch |
|---|---|---|
| Starting | Starts itself. Shuts down when the utility returns, whether anyone is home or not. | Connect, start, and disconnect by hand every time. |
| Fuel | Natural gas, propane, or diesel, permanently piped in. | Gasoline, diesel, or propane, refueled by hand. |
| Coverage | Whole home or essential circuits, depending on size. | Essential circuits. Large motors are usually out of reach. |
| Run time | Days, or indefinitely on natural gas or a large propane tank. | Limited by the tank. A long outage means repeated refueling. |
| NH winters | Battery maintainer, scheduled self-tests, cold-weather starting built in. | Fuel stabilization, stored fuel, and a cold start by hand. |
| Connection | Hardwired to an automatic transfer switch. | Mounted inlet to a manual transfer switch or a panel interlock kit. |
| Noise | Roughly 65 to 70 dB at the unit. | Roughly 70 to 90 dB. |
| Safety | Enclosed, permanently wired. No cords, no refueling in the dark. | Safe when installed correctly. Placement and exhaust clearance are on you. |
| Maintenance | Self-tests on a schedule. Annual professional service recommended. | Oil changes, fuel stabilization, and test runs, all by hand. |
| Cost | Higher up front for equipment, installation, and fuel work. | Lower for both the generator and the electrical work. The unit goes with you. |
Questions
Common questions about portable generator hookups
Do I need an interlock kit or a manual transfer switch?
Both keep generator power and utility power from ever meeting. An interlock is a sliding plate on your existing panel. A manual transfer switch is a separate piece of equipment that moves selected circuits over. We recommend the right option after we see the panel.
Will the hookup work with any portable generator?
Yes. For portable hookups the generator is usually yours already. The inlet, interlock, or transfer switch we install works with any make that matches the inlet amperage.
Can you install a portable hookup at a seasonal home?
Yes. Lake houses around Lake Winnipesaukee and Squam Lake are a large share of this work. You still connect and start the unit by hand when you are there for an outage.
Is a portable hookup safer than running extension cords?
Yes. A code-compliant inlet and interlock or transfer switch feeds the panel the right way and prevents backfeeding the utility. Extension cords cannot do that job.
How do I get a portable hookup estimate?
Call or text 603-619-8875, or use the estimate form. Same-day response during business hours when the schedule allows. Send a panel photo if you have one.
The Upright Standard
Why Lakes Region homeowners trust us with portable hookups
Workmanship and installation
Discounts for those who serve
Coverage above the standard
Five-star Google rated
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