Residential Electrical • Backup Power

Generator Inlet Installation

Connect your portable generator safely. A generator inlet with interlock kit lets you power selected circuits in your home during outages — no extension cords through windows, no dangerous backfeeding. The affordable alternative to a whole-home standby generator.

Get a Free Inlet Quote (936) 500-0739

Licensed Master ElectricianCode-Compliant

Generator inlet box installation for portable generator hookup

Why Install an Inlet

Safe Portable Generator Hookup

The right way to use your portable generator.

Texas storms mean power outages. A portable generator can keep your essentials running, but connecting it safely matters. A generator inlet mounted outside your home connects to an interlock at your panel, letting you safely transfer power to selected circuits without risk of backfeed. It's a fraction of the cost of a standby generator while giving you reliable backup power when you need it.

Weatherproof exterior inlet box
Interlock kit prevents dangerous backfeed
Power essential circuits from your panel
Works with generators you already own

Installation Process

How Generator Inlet Installation Works

Safe hookup for your portable generator.

Load Assessment

We identify which circuits you want to power during outages and size the inlet and interlock accordingly.

Inlet Placement

We install the power inlet box on an exterior wall near where you'll park your portable generator.

Transfer Setup

We install an interlock kit or manual transfer switch at your panel to safely switch between utility and generator power.

Testing

We test the entire system with your generator connected to ensure proper operation and safe transfer.

Ready to Get Started?

Call today for a free consultation. We'll walk you through the process and answer any questions.

(936) 500-0739

Common Questions

Generator Inlet FAQ

What's a generator inlet and why do I need one?

A generator inlet is a weatherproof outdoor receptacle that lets you safely connect a portable generator to your home's electrical system. Without one, you'd have to run extension cords through windows — inconvenient, limited, and potentially dangerous.

What's an interlock kit?

An interlock is a mechanical device installed on your panel that prevents the main breaker and generator breaker from being on simultaneously. This prevents backfeed — sending power back into utility lines — which is illegal and dangerous to utility workers.

What size generator do I need?

It depends on what you want to power. A 5,000W generator handles essentials (refrigerator, lights, fans, phone chargers). To run AC or a well pump, you'll need 7,500W or more. We can help you calculate your load and recommend the right generator size.

Can I power my whole house with a portable generator?

Typically no. Most portable generators (3,000-10,000W) can power selected circuits but not an entire home. The inlet/interlock system lets you choose which circuits receive power. For whole-home backup, consider a standby generator.

How is this different from a standby generator?

A standby generator is permanently installed, starts automatically during outages, and powers your entire home. A portable generator with inlet requires you to wheel out the generator, connect it, and manually switch power — but costs a fraction of the price.

Is it safe to connect a generator without an inlet?

Running extension cords is inconvenient but generally safe if done properly. What's dangerous is backfeeding through a dryer outlet or double-male cord — this sends power back into the grid and can electrocute utility workers. An inlet with interlock is the safe, code-compliant solution.

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