Generator & Backup Power Installation

Backup power keeps essential circuits running during outages, but it has to be connected safely. A generator or battery tied into a home's wiring without the right transfer equipment can send power back onto utility lines and endanger utility workers and neighbors. That's why connection work belongs to a qualified electrician.

Why Ventura County homeowners look at backup power

Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS). During dangerous fire weather, such as strong Santa Ana winds, SCE may turn off power in high-risk areas to reduce wildfire risk. Homes in foothill and canyon areas are more likely to be affected.
Storms and equipment failures that cause outages.
Medical needs, such as powered medical devices or refrigerated medications. SCE has programs for customers who rely on medical equipment; check SCE for details.
Working from home, well pumps on rural properties, and keeping food cold.

What are the main options?

Portable generator with a transfer switch or interlock. An electrician installs an inlet and a transfer switch or a panel interlock so the generator powers selected circuits without backfeeding the grid.
Permanent standby generator. A fixed unit, typically fueled by natural gas or propane, that starts automatically when power fails, with an automatic transfer switch.
Battery storage, often paired with solar. Batteries are quiet, produce no exhaust, and can power essential loads, with capacity limits.

Generator safety rules

Never run a generator indoors, in a garage (even with the door open), or near windows, doors, or vents. Generator exhaust contains carbon monoxide, which can kill. Keep it well away from the house.
Never plug a generator into a wall outlet to power the house. This "backfeeding" is dangerous and illegal.
Have working carbon monoxide alarms in the home.
Store fuel safely, away from living areas and ignition sources.
Keep the generator dry, and follow the manufacturer's instructions.

How big should a backup system be?

It depends on what you need to run. Many households choose essential circuits only: refrigerator, some lights and outlets, internet, a furnace fan, medical equipment, and a well pump if they have one. Whole-home systems are larger and cost more. An electrician can list your critical loads and size the system.

Solar, batteries, and current rules

Most solar systems shut off during an outage unless paired with batteries and the right equipment. Starting in 2023, new solar customers in SCE territory have generally been on California's net billing tariff, which has made batteries more attractive for many homes. Rules and incentives change, so ask installers to explain what applies to you now.

Permits and placement

Standby generators, transfer switches, and batteries need permits from your city or the County of Ventura. Placement rules address clearances from windows, doors, and property lines, plus noise limits and gas line sizing. HOAs may have rules too.

Maintenance matters

Backup power only helps if it works when the lights go out. Standby generators typically run a short self-test on a schedule and need periodic oil changes, filter changes, and battery checks. Portable generators need fresh fuel or fuel stabilizer and a test run every so often. Battery systems need their software and settings kept current, and you should know which circuits they cover. Ask your installer for a maintenance schedule in writing, and keep the manual where you can find it during an outage, when you can't look it up online.

Keep a battery-powered radio, flashlights, and phone chargers on hand as well, since no backup system covers everything.

Hiring tips

Check the contractor's license at cslb.ca.gov, ask for proof of liability insurance, and get a written proposal listing the equipment, transfer method, circuits covered, fuel or battery details, permits, and maintenance needs. See also panel upgrades.

Frequently asked questions

Can I plug my portable generator into an outlet to power the house?

No. That's called backfeeding, and it can electrocute utility workers and damage equipment. Have an electrician install a transfer switch or interlock with a proper inlet.

Where should a portable generator run?

Outdoors only, well away from windows, doors, and vents, never in a garage. Generator exhaust contains deadly carbon monoxide.

Will my solar panels work during an outage?

Most grid-tied systems shut off during outages for safety unless they're paired with batteries and equipment designed for backup.

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