Question 1

What is a generator inlet, and why would I want one?

Accepted Answer

A generator inlet is an outdoor plug wired into your electrical panel so you can safely feed power from a portable generator into your home. Instead of running extension cords all over the house, you plug your generator into the inlet, flip the installed power transfer system, and power circuits in your panel. It’s cleaner, safer, and much more convenient during an outage.

Question 2

Will a generator inlet power my whole house?

Accepted Answer

Usually, no—and that’s ok.
Most generator inlet setups are designed to run essential circuits only, such as:
Refrigerator & freezer, lights and outlets, Wi-Fi, and some larger appliances, During the quote, we talk through what’s most important to you and size the inlet and generator recommendation around that. The goal is comfort and safety, not “every light blazing and both ovens running.”

Question 3

What size generator and inlet do I need?

Accepted Answer

It depends on what you want to run during an outage. Many homes do well with a 30 amp or 50 amp inlet, paired with a generator in roughly the 5,000 to 12,500 watt range. During the quote, I ask what you care about keeping on, look at your panel, and then recommend an inlet and generator size that makes sense so you are not overspending or underpowered.

Question 4

Is it safe to “backfeed” my panel with a generator?

Accepted Answer

Backfeeding is only safe when it is done the right way with a properly wired inlet, the correct breaker and wiring, and a listed interlock kit or transfer device that physically prevents the main breaker and generator breaker from being on at the same time. When it is installed to code and inspected, it protects linemen, neighbors, and your home. What is unsafe is using homemade cords or trying to energize the home through random receptacles.

Question 5

How long does installation take?

Accepted Answer

Most standard generator inlet installations take a few hours to complete. Most installations can be completed with little to no interruption to your homes power. When completed, we test the setup with you, walk you through exactly how to use your generator safely, and make sure all your questions are answered before the next storm.

Question 6

What areas do you serve?

Accepted Answer

We serve Greenville, SC, and surrounding areas including Travelers Rest, Simpsonville, Mauldin, Greer, Taylors, and others!

Portable Generator Inlet Connections in Greenville

Prepare for the next outage by being backup power ready. Simply plug your portable generator into your home and send power directly to your essential appliances and electronics.

Peace of Mind, Simple as 1. 2. 3...

1. Choose a Generator

2. Complete an Inlet Installation

3. Power Your Electrical Panel

Included with your Inlet Installation

Enhanced Safety & Functionality

Expert Consultation & Service

Customer First Approach

And a Little Something Extra!

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Contact Key Electric for safe, prompt, and professional electrical services today.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to common questions about installation & service.