Generators & Battery Backup
Guides to generator inlets and interlocks, standby generators, home batteries and outage safety in California, including PSPS shutoffs.
Power outages are stressful, especially with family at home. These guides explain safe ways to keep the lights on, from a generator inlet to standby generators and home batteries, plus the safety basics everyone should know.
Guides in this section 3
Portable generator hookup: inlet and interlock, the safe way
How a generator inlet and panel interlock let you power your home safely in an outage, why backfeeding through an outlet is deadly, and IES pricing.
Read guide Generators & Battery BackupStandby generator vs home battery backup
Whole-home standby generators vs home batteries like Powerwall or Enphase: run time, what they power, noise, fuel, solar pairing and PSPS outages.
Read guide Generators & Battery BackupPower outage and generator safety
Stay safe in a power outage or PSPS shutoff: generator carbon monoxide risk, extension cords, downed lines, food and medical devices, and restoring power.
Read guideHelpful tools
Generator sizing estimate
Pick what you want to run in an outage and see running and starting watts, a suggested portable generator size and whether a 30 A or 50 A inlet fits.
Open tool ToolCan my panel handle it? (EV, heat pump, hot tub)
Quick, rough check of whether a 100 to 200 amp panel can handle a new EV charger, heat pump or hot tub, using a simplified NEC 220.82 load calculation.
Open toolWe’re a family-run, licensed C‑10 electrician in Auburn.
More sections
- Panels & Service Upgrades
- EV Chargers
- Solar
- Safety & Hazards
- Older Homes & Old Wiring
- Troubleshooting
- Wiring Basics
- Permits & Inspections
- Lighting & Outlets
- Calculators & Tools
General information for California homes. Local rules and inspectors can vary. Not a substitute for an on-site inspection.