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Generator Installation · Illinois

Generator Installation in Illinois

A generator must connect through a transfer switch or an approved interlock so it can never feed power back into utility lines. Electricians install standby generators, portable generator inlets with interlocks, and the transfer equipment for both.

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  • Local guides for 3 Illinois cities

Generator Installation in Illinois: what changes city to city

Chicago-area housing includes many pre-1950 two-flats and bungalows, and Chicago requires conduit in most new wiring.

Across the Midwest, homes deal with cold winters, severe thunderstorms and tornado season. Permit offices, utilities and housing stock differ by city, which affects how generator installation is planned and scheduled. These local guides cover the Illinois cities where we have written specific notes.

Local guides in Illinois

Generator Installation in Chicago, IL

Chicago's summer derechos and winter storms both cause outages, and bungalows and two-flats with basement sump or ejector pumps are especially vulnerable, since a flooded basement often follows a storm that knocked out power. A portable generator connected through an outdoor inlet and panel interlock can run the pump, furnace and refrigerator, while a natural-gas standby generator with an automatic transfer switch handles outages automatically.

Utility: ComEd

Generator Installation in Peoria, IL

Ice storms and severe summer storms cause outages in Peoria, and homes on the wooded bluffs of the West Bluff and Uplands can wait longer for restoration when trees take down lines. Basements with sump pumps are common, so backup power for the pump, furnace and refrigerator is the usual goal.

Utility: Ameren Illinois

Generator Installation in Rockford, IL

Ice storms and blizzards in northern Illinois can knock out power to Rockford homes in deep cold, when a gas furnace still needs electricity for its blower and controls. Keeping the furnace, sump pump and refrigerator running is the usual goal.

Utility: ComEd

Signs it's time to call

  • Frequent outages from storms, ice or heat
  • Medical equipment, sump pumps or freezers that cannot lose power
  • A portable generator with no safe way to connect
  • Planning a whole-home standby unit

How the job usually goes

  1. 1. Size the load

    Circuits that must stay powered are listed and the generator sized.

  2. 2. Choose the connection

    Inlet and interlock, manual transfer switch or automatic transfer switch.

  3. 3. Install and inspect

    Permitted installation, gas connection by a licensed fitter where needed, and inspection.

What moves the price

Electricians set their own prices; local permit fees and utility requirements add to these factors.

  • Portable inlet versus standby system
  • Generator size
  • Transfer switch type
  • Distance from panel and gas source
  • Pad, permits and inspection

Generator Installation in Illinois: questions

Who issues permits for generator installation in Illinois?

Permits come from the city or county where the home is. For example: Chicago: Electrical permits in Chicago are issued by the Department of Buildings and the work must be done by a licensed electrical contractor registered with the city. Peoria: Electrical permits inside the city come from the City of Peoria's community development department. Rockford: Electrical permits inside the city come from the City of Rockford's construction services; Loves Park, Machesney Park and Winnebago County issue their own.

Which utilities are involved in Illinois?

Chicago: ComEd. Peoria: Ameren Illinois. Rockford: ComEd.

Is an interlock kit legal?

Listed interlock kits are accepted in many jurisdictions when installed with a permit. Your electrician will know the local rule.

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