Stop Guessing During Power Outages—

Power Your Home Safely Instead 

When the power goes out, most homeowners end up doing the same thing:

 

  • Running extension cords through the house
  • Plugging appliances in one by one
  • Hoping nothing overloads or goes wrong

And in some cases… doing things that are actually dangerous without realizing it.

A generator bypass system gives you a safe, controlled way to power your home—without the chaos.

✔ No dangerous backfeeding
✔ No extension cord mess
✔ Installed safely and up to code

See If a Generator Bypass System Is Right for Your Home

 

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The Real Problem

What Most Homeowners Get Wrong During Power Outages

 

When the power goes out, people try to make a generator work however they can.

We see it all the time:

  • Extension cords running through multiple rooms
  • Appliances plugged in wherever there’s space
  • Generators connected in ways that “seem” like they should work

The problem is, some of these methods are:

  • Unsafe
  • Not up to code
  • Capable of damaging your electrical system

One of the most dangerous mistakes is plugging a generator into a regular outlet (called backfeeding), which can create serious safety hazards.

A properly installed generator bypass system eliminates these risks and gives you a safe, reliable setup.

 

WHAT A GENERATOR BYPASS SYSTEM DOES

A Safer, Simpler Way to Power What Matters 

A generator bypass system connects your generator directly to your home’s electrical panel—safely and correctly. 

Power essential circuits like your refrigerator, lights, and outlets

 

Avoid dangerous backfeeding

 

Keep everything controlled through your electrical panel

Eliminate the need for multiple extension cords

 

How Much Does a Generator Bypass System Cost?

This is one of the most common questions we get—and one most companies avoid answering.

Here’s the honest answer:

Most generator bypass system installations fall somewhere in the range of:

$1,200 - $3,000

Sometimes we see unique situations that may cause the price to decrease or increase.  We'll tell you everything upfront - no costly surprises.

The exact cost depends on:

  • Your existing electrical panel
  • The type of generator you’re using
  • The complexity of the installation

Compared to a whole-house standby generator—which can cost significantly more—a bypass system is often a much more practical and affordable solution.

 

 

What Most Electricians Won't Tell You

 Before You Install Any Generator Setup, Know This 

Here are a few things most homeowners don’t realize:

  • Some electrical panels may need upgrades before installation (and some don't)
  • Most portable generators can't power central AC on there own - but there are options
  • The wrong setup can limit what you’re actually able to run
  • Improper installation can create serious safety risks

For example, many homeowners assume a portable generator can run their AC—but in reality, that depends on the system and setup.

This is why choosing the right solution—and installing it correctly—matters.

 

 

Is a Generator Bypass System Right For Your Home? 

This is a great fit if:

✔ You want to power essential circuits (not the entire home)
✔ You already have or plan to use a portable generator
✔ You want a safer, cleaner alternative to extension cords

This may NOT be the best option if:

❌ You want full-home, automatic backup power
❌ You expect to run large systems like central AC without limitations

Most homeowners choose a generator bypass system because it offers the best balance of safety, cost, and control.

 

HOW IT WORKS

What Happens Next

  1. You request a quote
  2. We evaluate your panel and current setup
  3. We recommend the safest and most practical option
  4. We schedule installation—often within just a few days

No guesswork. No surprises.

 

 

Takes less than 60 seconds • No obligation • We’ll never pressure you 

UNDERSTANDING THE BREAKDOWN OF YOUR GENERATOR BYPASS SYSTEM

The Inlet: The inlet serves as the connection point for your generator, opposite to a regular outlet.

Exploring the Interlock Kit (Bypass System): This crucial component prevents your main breaker from being active simultaneously with the generator's breaker.

Significance of the Bypass System: Incorrect generator operation can be fatal, especially during post-storm scenarios when utility workers are restoring power lines. Without a bypass system, there's a risk of back feeding power, potentially endangering workers and others by sending live electricity back into the grid. Investing in or comprehensively understanding portable generator safety is paramount to safeguard everyone's well-being.

 

Watch This Video: Step-by-Step Guide to Using Your Generator Inlet

WARNING! Never connect your generator directly to your home's electrical system without using a transfer switch or interlock kit, as required by local electrical codes. Directly connecting your generator like this is known as "backfeeding". It is a dangerous practice that could cause an electrical fire, as well as lead to severe shocks or electrocution for any utility linemen working to restore power to the grid. Always use a transfer switch that has been installed in accordance with all local electrical codes and the National Electrical Code by a licensed professional electrician

"Absolutely outstanding. On time for the estimate and install. Honest and accurate estimate that was significantly lower than others. Provided expert advice about generator start up and AC load requirements and mitigation options for generator start. Great guys."

- Andre H.

"Had a transfer switch installed for our generator. Great work. Clean and neat and explained the steps to use it. Great communication and would definitely recommend them."

- Connie G.

"Outstanding from start to finish for a generator bypass switch install. Communication was great, estimate received when promised and the crew that came to complete the job was phenomenal. Would 100% use again."

- Francisco T.

"Bryan Hindman Electric installed a generator transfer switch for me. They were very punctual to scheduled times for both the estimate and the install. Good explanation of the process and all associated costs. Tested the system and it worked exactly as promised. I would definitely recommend them and would use Bryan Hindman for any future electrical needs."

- William S.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Installing a generator hookup system typically costs around $1,200. That includes installing your inlet and your bypass system.  The cost can increase up to $3,000 or more, depending on the system type (interlock kit or subpanel), generator size, and installation distance (ex. how far from your panel will your inlet go?). 

  1. Prevents Backfeeding: A transfer switch stops dangerous backfeeding, which can energize the grid and harm utility workers.
  2. Compliance with Electrical Codes: Using a transfer switch ensures adherence to local and national safety regulations.
  3. Avoids Electrical Hazards: It prevents electrical fires by properly managing the generator's power and isolating it from the grid.

 

Yes, you can run your air conditioner (A/C) with a portable generator, however, it's crucial to ensure the generator can handle the A/C's starting and running wattage requirements. Using a soft start capacitor can help reduce the initial power surge needed, making it more feasible to run the A/C efficiently with a portable generator.

Click to read our blog post Can a Portable Generator Run My A/C?

Visit our blog to learn more.

How to Choose The Right Size Generator for You

Automatic transfer switches (ATS) are used with whole-home standby generators (5-20 kW) that automatically activate during outages. They switch power from the generator back to the grid once restored, usually powering all circuits.

Manual transfer switches, more affordable than ATS, pair well with portable generators rated at least 3,600 watts. Manually start the generator and switch power to selected circuits during outages, then revert to grid power once restored.

Dive deeper into selecting the ideal transfer switch tailored to your needs by exploring our insightful blog article.

Guide to Purchasing a Generator Transfer Switch

To connect your generator to your home's electrical system while keeping it isolated from the power grid, a transfer switch is necessary. This device guarantees a continuous power supply to critical appliances and safeguards against the risk of simultaneous electricity flow from both sources. In the event of a power outage, the transfer switch automatically supplies your home with electricity from your generator.

A licensed electrician must install the switch to guarantee correct setup and compliance with all electrical codes.  This service also requires county permits and inspections, which a professional electrician can arrange for.

Dive into our blog post for a deeper understanding of the importance of licensed electricians.

What Does it Mean to Be a Licensed Electrician?

Unfortunately, we do not offer repairs or services for generators. For assistance, we recommend reaching out directly to the manufacturer for their expert recommendations.  Here are some of the most common manufacturers and their contact information:

Generator Manufacturer Customer Service Contacts

If you need help with your generator, here’s a quick list of manufacturer support lines you can contact directly:

Yes, payment plans our available with 0% interest for 12 months options for qualified buyers.  

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GET STARTED WITH YOUR GENERATOR BYPASS SYSTEM TODAY!