Is it better to repair or replace a malfunctioning generator?

• <div><p>It’s usually better to repair your generator if it isn’t working properly, as it will typically be much more affordable and should yield similar results. Generator repairs cost around <b>$300</b> on average, while <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-it-cost-install-generator.htm">installing a new whole-house generator costs</a> around <b>$5,000 </b>on average. The only exception is if you know your generator is reaching the end of its useful life, usually between 30 and 40 years. If you have an older generator, you could face multiple repairs in the coming years, which might mean that a full replacement will be more cost-effective over time.</p></div>

Are there tax credits for home generators?

• <div><p>In most cases, there are no tax credits available for home generators. However, that’s a general statement that applies to federal tax credits, so you might have access to state or local tax incentives. You can check the <a href="https://www.dsireusa.org">Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency (DSIRE)</a> for more information about your area. If you hire a reliable home generator installer, they should also know if there are any state or local perks you can use to reduce your installation costs, including tax breaks and rebates.</p></div>

How do I know what size of whole house generator to choose?

• <div><p>Generators are usually sized by running watts and starting watts. Ideally, you’ll want a generator that can offer both the necessary running watts and starting watts for everything you need to power without going beyond 90% of its capacity. <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/electrical-load-calculation.htm">Calculate your home’s electrical load</a> based on the breakers in your home or adding up the appliance and lighting needs of connected rooms.</p></div>

Get matched with top generator install pros in Alturas, CA

Q: Is using a generator safe?

• <div><p>As long as your generator is used as recommended by the manufacturer, it&rsquo;s safe to use for auxiliary power. Make sure that fuel powered generators are used outdoors and that the fumes dissipate away from your home. A professional generator installer will ensure your generator&rsquo;s placement and set-up meets safety standards when installing or repairing your back-up power source.</p></div>

Q: Is it better to repair or replace a malfunctioning generator?

• <div><p>It&rsquo;s usually better to repair your generator if it isn&rsquo;t working properly, as it will typically be much more affordable and should yield similar results. Generator repairs cost around <b>$300</b> on average, while <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-it-cost-install-generator.htm">installing a new whole-house generator costs</a> around <b>$5,000 </b>on average. The only exception is if you know your generator is reaching the end of its useful life, usually between 30 and 40 years. If you have an older generator, you could face multiple repairs in the coming years, which might mean that a full replacement will be more cost-effective over time.</p></div>

Q: What size whole house generator do I need to run central AC?

• <div><p>To power a central air system during a power outage, the whole-house generator will need to be at least 5,000 watts, and this number will significantly increase for larger units. Check the specific wattage requirements of your AC unit to choose the right <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/whole-house-generator-sizing.htm">generator size</a>. Consider consulting a generator installer to ensure your whole-house generator meets your electrical load needs.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Generator Install pros in Alturas, CA

*The Angi rating for Generator Install companies in Alturas, CA 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 Alturas, CA 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 December 15, 2025

Reviewed in September 2025
Brandon and his crew worked with me to build a 25 year dream I had in my head. His professionalism and fabrication skills were incredible. They installed a retainer wall, 58 yards of concrete complete with grading and base, increased my concrete front porch along with incidentals. Then Brandon...
Unique Outdoor Creations LLC
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Reviewed in August 2021
I am only at the measuring stage â ¦ but so far the customer service has been excellentâ ¦ canâ t wait for installation! My present windows are duct taped on â ¦ and so cloudy you canâ t see thru them â ¦ over 100 years old ! So excited!
Selig Construction Corporation
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Reviewed in November 2020
We had a patio installed at our rental property late summer in Fredericksburg and they were very accommodating and helpful throughout the whole process. We were not in state and they made everything extremely easy and smooth throughout the whole process. Excellent communication! Highly recommend...
American Custom Concrete INC.
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Reviewed in October 2017
Very good. Actual part needing repair was different from what first vendor told us and they were able to not only obtain it quickly but installed it promptly as well.
HIGH DESERT AIR INC
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Reviewed in September 2016
In my ten years as an Interior Designer, I have never encountered such an unprofessional business. Which unfortunately, I had to deal with during renovations to my own house First, the owner, Mojy convinced us to use metal Schluter pieces to finish our tub surround, as opposed to using a...
HOUSE OF INTERIORS
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Reviewed in September 2015
Installation went smoothly, workers were on time and courteous. Great job!
Accent Southwest Windows & Doors
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Reviewed in December 2014
didn't work, at first . . had to come out again . . finally got heater to work . . said it needed other parts . . bought and installed.
HVAC THERAPY
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Reviewed in March 2013
The quality of the installation sticks out the most to me.
Deel Plumbing Heating & Air Conditioning
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Reviewed in December 2012
They set up the appointment. They came out and installed the sample test. We mailed it in after a few days and then they sent the results
ACE RADON CORPORATION
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Reviewed in May 2012
I had called all the storm shelter companies I could find and they were able to install the quickest with a decent price. They were out first thing in the morning and had the shelter installed and were done in two hours. We also use them for our septic tank and have nothing but great things to...
LAWTON SEPTIC TANK & STORM SHELTER
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Find Generator install pros in Alturas

Wholesale provider of new american made artificial grass and turf products. We also carry a line of off grid solar products.

Liberty Solar

5.00(

)

Liberty Solar

5.00(

)

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

Liberty Solar designs, engineers, and installs Advanced Renewable Energy Systems. We do NOT use sub-contractors. We take great pride in our work and we install only the best American-made equipment and the best prices. We have many financing options available.

Energytech Inc. DBA Advance Power Redding

No reviews yet

Energytech Inc. DBA Advance Power Redding

No reviews yet

24 years of experience

Wholesale & retail renewable energy store specializing in energy conservation & production. We install solar or sell you the materials. We stock Solar panels, 6v batteries, LIPO-4 batteries, DC to AC power inverters, wind turbines, Hydro turbines & parts, radiant barrier foil, Son Shield insulating paint & roof coat. And much more.

My Classic Car Trader LLC

2.00(

)

My Classic Car Trader LLC

2.00(

)

53 years of experience

Sales, Service & Rebuilding of Antique and Classic Car Components such as, Carburetors, Starters, Generators, Fuel Pumps, Double & Single Action Fuel Pump Rebuilding, Water Pumps, Hydraulic Top Pumps, Distributors, and DELCO Knee Action Shocks, We also carry a complete line of NOS and NORS parts. We offer FREE Technical advice for any YEAR Classic Car 609-462-7412

"Beware. They charged me double shipping even after I told them I would wait so I wouldn’t have to pay two shipping fees. The last item was a fuel pump that I had a problem with. I have made 4 calls to ask for help with no return call. Poor"

Frank H on July 2020

"Beware. They charged me double shipping even after I told them I would wait so I wouldn’t have to pay two shipping fees. The last item was a fuel pump that I had a problem with. I have made 4 calls to ask for help with no return call. Poor"

Frank H on July 2020

Sterling Auto Repair

4.50(

)

Sterling Auto Repair

4.50(

)

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

Complete auto care solution, from oil changes to engine swaps we do it all. Quick turn around and friendly, knowledgeable service from start to finish.

Generator Install questions, answered by experts

As long as your generator is used as recommended by the manufacturer, it’s safe to use for auxiliary power. Make sure that fuel powered generators are used outdoors and that the fumes dissipate away from your home. A professional generator installer will ensure your generator’s placement and set-up meets safety standards when installing or repairing your back-up power source.

It’s usually better to repair your generator if it isn’t working properly, as it will typically be much more affordable and should yield similar results. Generator repairs cost around $300 on average, while installing a new whole-house generator costs around $5,000 on average. The only exception is if you know your generator is reaching the end of its useful life, usually between 30 and 40 years. If you have an older generator, you could face multiple repairs in the coming years, which might mean that a full replacement will be more cost-effective over time.

In most cases, there are no tax credits available for home generators. However, that’s a general statement that applies to federal tax credits, so you might have access to state or local tax incentives. You can check the Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency (DSIRE) for more information about your area. If you hire a reliable home generator installer, they should also know if there are any state or local perks you can use to reduce your installation costs, including tax breaks and rebates.

To power a central air system during a power outage, the whole-house generator will need to be at least 5,000 watts, and this number will significantly increase for larger units. Check the specific wattage requirements of your AC unit to choose the right generator size. Consider consulting a generator installer to ensure your whole-house generator meets your electrical load needs.

Generators are usually sized by running watts and starting watts. Ideally, you’ll want a generator that can offer both the necessary running watts and starting watts for everything you need to power without going beyond 90% of its capacity. Calculate your home’s electrical load based on the breakers in your home or adding up the appliance and lighting needs of connected rooms.

The Alturas, CA 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

Taylor Freitas
•
Nov 25, 2025Nov 25, 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.
Tyler Lacoma
•
Mar 13, 2025Mar 13, 2025
Best Fuel For a Whole-House Generator: 5 Options
If you’re investing in a large power alternative for your home, it deserves the right fuel for your job. Here are the top options for a whole home generator.
Christopher Murray
•
Jul 3, 2024Jul 3, 2024
A Complete Generator Maintenance Checklist
Generator maintenance is key to keeping your appliance in good condition. Follow our checklists to make sure your generator stays up and running.
Tyler Lacoma
•
Mar 10, 2025Mar 10, 2025
How Do Whole-House Generators Work?
Whole house generators are a power alternative that can deal with frequent blackouts and other problems. Here’s how they function.