How does a generator transfer switch save me money?

• <div><p>It might seem counterintuitive, but installing a generator transfer switch will save you money in the long run. While you’ll have to pay between <b>$400 and $2,500</b> to have the transfer switch installed, you’ll recoup that amount later on when you don’t have to pay for expensive repairs to your appliances, devices, and electrical system that may have burned out, overloaded, or stopped working due to a sudden loss of power or an incorrect <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-to-hook-up-generator-to-house.htm">hook up of a generator to your home</a>. </p></div>

Get matched with top generator install pros in Kotzebue, AK

Q: What is the life expectancy of a whole house generator?

• <div><p>Whole-house generators can last<b> 20 to 40 years</b> with normal operation and proper maintenance. If you look up the specifications for your generator, you may be able to find a lifespan rated in hours of operation. Life expectancy will vary depending on how often and for how long you use the generator each year. Choosing a fuel with low impact like natural gas or diesel can help generators last as long as possible.</p></div>

Q: Can a portable generator power an entire home?

• <div><p>A portable generator can supply power to selected appliances and circuits in a home, but it's generally not designed to handle the entire household's electrical needs simultaneously. Portable generators have limited wattage capacity, so they are only designed to power essential devices and electronics temporarily until local power is restored. If your power needs outweigh the capabilities of a portable generator, consider installing a <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/installing-whole-house-generator.htm">whole-home generator</a> instead. </p></div>

Q: Do you have to turn off the main breaker when using a generator?

• <div><p>As a safety measure, you should always turn off the main breaker while operating your generator&rsquo;s backup breaker. In addition, you should also switch off all appliance breakers so you don't have a power surge when the main breaker turns back on. And finally, turning off the main breaker prevents back-feeding, which endangers utility workers with the risk of electrocution. Back-feeding could also destroy the electrical circuits of your neighbors if they use the same power network.</p></div>

Q: Can I install a portable generator myself?

• <div><p>DIY is possible for basic setups. Professional installation ensures safe and proper electrical connections.</p></div>

Enter your ZIP and get matched with up to 5 pros

Verified Reviews for Generator Install pros in Kotzebue, AK

*The Angi rating for Generator Install companies in Kotzebue, AK is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Generator Install needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Generator Install companies in Kotzebue, AK is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Generator Install needs.

Last update on November 19, 2025

Reviewed in January 2018
Great service! Tom and Sam squeezed us in first thing Monday morning at -20 to come take a look at our well system that had failed over the weekend. They pulled the well pipe down to the pump and found a hole just above the pump that was causing the system to loose pressure. They replaced that...
Alaskan Drilling, LLC
Request a quote
Reviewed in December 2016
This is for the Comcast Cable service in Guerneville, California. There really is no particular service provider. You can order the receiver in the mail and hook it up yourself or you can pay to have a tech come out and do it. This review is not for the installation service. It is for the...
COMCAST CABLE
Request a quote
Reviewed in November 2013
Everything went well. He arrived on time and was thorough in his work. This was on a boiler that he had previously installed a couple of years ago. That installation also went very well. We will be using him the future for boiler maintenance and repair and would highly recommend him for boiler...
Joshua Industries
Request a quote
Reviewed in September 2013
I thought it would be simple to install the stove, and maybe it was, but I opted to have a pro do it right. They showed up on time and installed the stove with no problem. The plumber even helped me move back a heavy piece of furniture I'd moved to get it out of the way. Prompt and...
Alaska Best Heating and Plumbing Inc
Request a quote
Reviewed in September 2013
Very successfully. Had it done on two different years-upstairs one year, downstairs another. They kept schedule well, cleaned up all the materials. Also were helpful on followup for screen problem the next year. Don't remember the cost exactly so it is left blank-as expensive as it was, it...
ABC Inc
Request a quote
Reviewed in August 2012
A technician from Altrol came over to my house to look at the existing system and give me an estimate on a new one. He showed up on time and thoroughly explained how the process worked, how long it would take, and all of the associated costs. I was especially impressed with the binder of...
Altrol Heating Cooling & Plumbing
Request a quote
Reviewed in August 2012
The WORST! He only works with insurance companys(ie home warranty;fidelity, home warranty and others) He treated me and my family like idiots. Not polite at all and very arrogant, it was like we inconvenienced him. He had no manners, did not wear shoe protectors and generally just a real a**....
TOM RODGERS ENTERPRISES LLC
Request a quote
Reviewed in November 2011
I needed to replace the muffler on a friend's VW Jetta. I called several places and had a lot of difficulty finding what I needed. Most muffler shops don't sell any parts to individuals because they want to be the ones to do the installation. (I wanted to do the work myself and save some $$)....
HAWAII IMPORT PARTS
Request a quote

Find Generator install pros in Kotzebue

No results for Generator install pro in

Try adjusting your search criteria.

Generator Install questions, answered by experts

Whole-house generators can last 20 to 40 years with normal operation and proper maintenance. If you look up the specifications for your generator, you may be able to find a lifespan rated in hours of operation. Life expectancy will vary depending on how often and for how long you use the generator each year. Choosing a fuel with low impact like natural gas or diesel can help generators last as long as possible.

A portable generator can supply power to selected appliances and circuits in a home, but it's generally not designed to handle the entire household's electrical needs simultaneously. Portable generators have limited wattage capacity, so they are only designed to power essential devices and electronics temporarily until local power is restored. If your power needs outweigh the capabilities of a portable generator, consider installing a whole-home generator instead.

As a safety measure, you should always turn off the main breaker while operating your generator’s backup breaker. In addition, you should also switch off all appliance breakers so you don't have a power surge when the main breaker turns back on. And finally, turning off the main breaker prevents back-feeding, which endangers utility workers with the risk of electrocution. Back-feeding could also destroy the electrical circuits of your neighbors if they use the same power network.

It might seem counterintuitive, but installing a generator transfer switch will save you money in the long run. While you’ll have to pay between $400 and $2,500 to have the transfer switch installed, you’ll recoup that amount later on when you don’t have to pay for expensive repairs to your appliances, devices, and electrical system that may have burned out, overloaded, or stopped working due to a sudden loss of power or an incorrect hook up of a generator to your home.

DIY is possible for basic setups. Professional installation ensures safe and proper electrical connections.

The Kotzebue, AK homeowners’ guide to generator installs

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

See all articles

Elisa Greenberg
•
Aug 14, 2025Aug 14, 2025
How Much Does a Whole-House Generator Cost? [2025 Data]
The average cost of a whole-house generator falls between $5,000 and $25,000. Keep reading to learn how much you can expect to spend.
Alison Kasch
•
Oct 29, 2025Oct 29, 2025
How Much Does It Cost To Install a Generator Transfer Switch? [2025 Data]
The cost to install a generator transfer switch depends on several factors. Our guide will help you understand all of the costs.
Breyden Kellam
•
Oct 30, 2025Oct 30, 2025
How Much Does Whole-House Generator Maintenance Cost? [2025 Data]
Keeping on top of generator maintenance and repairs gives you extra peace of mind as a homeowner. Find out how much regular generator maintenance costs.
Melissa Graham
•
Mar 11, 2025Mar 11, 2025
How Long Can a Whole-House Generator Run Continuously?
The type of generator and its fuel source can make the difference between whether it provides temporary relief of long-term comfort. Find out how long a whole house generator can run continuously.
Alison Kasch
•
Apr 1, 2025Apr 1, 2025
Is a Whole-House Generator Worth It? What to Know Before You Invest
Is a whole-house generator worth it? Discover the key factors influencing ROI and whether it's the right choice for your home.
Tyler Lacoma
•
Mar 26, 2025Mar 26, 2025
Pros and Cons of a Whole-House Generator
Whole house generators can power homes when electric problems hit, but they aren’t for everyone. Here’s what you should know when you’re thinking about buying.