Wall pack vs portable generator hookup
A listed wall pack lives in a garage or utility space, makes no exhaust, and can be commissioned to selected circuits. A portable generator needs an inlet, a listed interlock or transfer switch, and outdoor placement.
AJ Long Electric supplies and installs listed EcoFlow, Bluetti, and Anker SOLIX equipment, or connects a customer-selected listed battery. Portable generators stay hookup-only — we do not sell generators or do fuel work.
| Path | What we do | Typical range |
|---|---|---|
| Portable station + install | Supply listed unit or connect yours | $2,500–$6,000 |
| Whole-home / smart-panel integration | Selected circuits, automatic transfer | $6,000–$15,000+ |
| Portable generator hookup | Inlet, transfer, or listed interlock | $900–$2,500 |
What the electrical scope includes
The written proposal separates equipment, transfer or smart-home-panel work, the conductor route, protection, labeling, and the permit path. Hardwired transfer equipment typically needs an electrical permit. We confirm that for the address before the visit is scheduled.
Tesla Powerwall and Enphase product lines are quoted only when the specific listed equipment is confirmed for the property.
Same visit as the panel or the charger
If the panel is already open for a $3,500–$7,500 upgrade or a $1,200–$4,500 EV circuit, the battery connection is cheaper to plan then than as a third trip. That is the one-stop electrical design: charger, backup, and reserved solar-ready space on one load calculation.
Northern Virginia Considerations
Code Requirements
Optional standby connections require listed equipment and a switching method that prevents backfeed.
Permit Information
Hardwired battery connections typically require an electrical permit. Portable generator hookups are a different permit scope.
Typical Costs
$2,500-$6,000 portable; $6,000-$15,000+ whole-home
Local Tips
Attached garages and townhomes often favor a wall pack over a portable generator because of placement and HOA rules.
Frequently Asked Questions (4)
Do you sell home batteries?
We supply listed EcoFlow, Bluetti, and Anker SOLIX systems and we connect other listed customer-selected batteries. We do not sell portable generators.
How much does a wall-pack install cost?
Portable station plus install typically $2,500–$6,000. Whole-home integration through a smart home panel typically $6,000–$15,000+.
Do I need a permit?
Hardwired transfer equipment and smart-panel connections typically need an electrical permit. We confirm the path for the address.
Will a battery work with future solar?
Many listed systems recharge from the grid and can accept solar input when the inverter and interconnection are designed for it. Rooftop solar installation is a separate, gated offer.
Authoritative Sources
- NFPA 70: National Electrical Code (NEC)The NEC is the foundational safety standard for electrical wiring and installation in the U.S.
- Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI)Nonprofit dedicated to promoting electrical safety in the home and workplace.
- Fairfax County — Electrical PermitsLocal permitting requirements for electrical work in Fairfax County, VA.
