How long does a whole-house generator last?

<div>When maintained properly, a whole-house generator can last up to 20 years. <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-generator-repair-cost.htm">Costs to maintain and repair generators</a> vary by location and type of generator, but you can expect to pay about $150 to $300 per year for annual generator maintenance checks. An experienced generator service technician will inspect your generator’s engine filter, starting mechanism, fuel, lubrication, and coolant levels to keep your generator in good working condition for as long as possible. </div>

How do I know what size generator I need?

<div>When <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/what-size-generator-do-i-need.htm">choosing the right size generator</a> for your needs, consider a few items to help calculate the wattage you’ll need. Start by determining which household items and appliances you want to power, and then add the wattages together. Check out the wattage of these essential appliances:<ul><li>Refrigerator: 600 watts</li><li>Large dehumidifier: 700 watts</li><li>Large window air conditioner: 1,400 watts</li><li>Water heater: 3,000 watts</li></ul>Running home appliances like these requires a partial or whole-house generator. A portable generator may be enough to power your home if you only plan to keep a refrigerator and freezer running. </div>

What can I run on different generator sizes?

<div>Here’s what you can run with different wattages and types of generators:Portable generator:<ul><li>2,000 watts can handle a large appliance like a freezer or refrigerator, plus a few smaller items like phones or computer chargers. </li><li>4,000 watts will keep two large appliances operating and a few smaller devices.</li><li>8,000 watts should power most essential appliances and other devices, including a sump pump, well pump, or your dishwasher.</li></ul>Partial to whole-house generator:<ul><li>20,000 watts and above will make it seem like your home’s power is still on.</li></ul></div>

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Q: How much does a whole-house generator cost?

<div><a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-it-cost-install-generator.htm">Installing a whole-house generator costs</a> about $5,000 on average. Prices range from $1,550 to $8,500, depending on size, brand, fuel type, and assembly. The size of your whole-house generator is the most significant cost factor, with large homes with high energy demands costing the most to power. Types of whole-home generators include:<ul><li>Portable generators with 1kW&ndash;7.5kW capacity: $500&ndash;$2,000</li><li>Partial generators with 9kW&ndash;20kW capacity: $2,000&ndash;$6,300</li><li>Whole-house generators with 22kW&ndash;48kW: $5,000&ndash;$18,000</li></ul></div>

Q: What can I run on different generator sizes?

<div>Here&rsquo;s what you can run with different wattages and types of generators:Portable generator:<ul><li>2,000 watts can handle a large appliance like a freezer or refrigerator, plus a few smaller items like phones or computer chargers. </li><li>4,000 watts will keep two large appliances operating and a few smaller devices.</li><li>8,000 watts should power most essential appliances and other devices, including a sump pump, well pump, or your dishwasher.</li></ul>Partial to whole-house generator:<ul><li>20,000 watts and above will make it seem like your home&rsquo;s power is still on.</li></ul></div>

There are 2 highly-rated local generator installers.

Verified Reviews for Generator Installation pros in Cool, CA

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

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

Last update on May 22, 2025

Reviewed in February 2025
Great hard working, reasonable and fair guys. Clean, and Professional work. Willing to make everything right. Would hire again for any electrical job, large or small
Ber Bros Co.
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Reviewed in December 2013
I was persuaded to buy a contract for two checks of service this coming year. However, as the furnace may be getting old, I wanted it to be checked twice in the next year.
Gilmore Heating & Air
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Reviewed in December 2019
Excellent! Doug got the job done as contracted. Very neat installation and works as it should. I would defiantly contract with Douglas Electric the next time I need and electrician.
Douglas Electric
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Reviewed in September 2022
Our experience With maximum electric was very refreshing .Tyler and Max were extremely professional, timely and courteous. This day and age when it’s almost impossible to even get a callback these gentlemen responded to us immediately and knocked out the work we needed with no issues whatsoever....
Maximum Electric
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Reviewed in July 2022
Highly recommend Scott. He work was great. On time, professional, left the work area clean and picked up.
Varni Electric
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Reviewed in February 2014
Joe was punctual, professional, and courteous. He provided an immediate estimate. I did not hire him as had other plumbing service scheduled for estimates. I choose Park Mechanical for the job.
The Trenchless Co
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