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>

What size generator do I need for a 1500-square-foot house?

• <div><p>A 1,500 square foot home will likely need a 15kW to 20kW generator. When deciding on whole-house generator size, add up the <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-many-watts-house.htm">total wattage</a> of the devices that you’d like to continue running during a power outage. That way, you can ensure you purchase a generator that can power your necessary appliances or medical equipment during an electrical emergency.</p></div>

Get matched with top generator install pros in Happy Camp, CA

Q: What size generator does my house need?

• <div><p>You can determine what size generator you need by listing the various appliances it will power during an outage. Write down the start-up watt usage, and then add them all together. </p><p>A 7,500-watt generator will run your refrigerator, freezer, well pump, and lighting circuits without a problem. However, you&rsquo;ll need an extra 3,000 to 4,500 watts to run your water heater and another 5,000 to 25,000 watts to run your electric furnace. In these instances, a whole-home generator is your best bet for running your critical equipment.</p></div>

Q: Is a home generator a tax write-off?

• <div><p>Most homeowners won't be able to claim a home generator as a tax write-off. However, a whole-house generator may be tax-deductible in certain situations depending on its purpose. For instance, if it's needed to power essential medical equipment, it may qualify as a medical expense deduction. Also, in some cases, businesses can deduct a generator as a business expense if it supports operations. Always consult a tax professional to determine eligibility based on your specific circumstances and the applicable IRS regulations.</p></div>

Q: What are the disadvantages of a standby generator?

• <div><p>While standby generators provide essential backup power, they can fail when you need them most due to lack of maintenance, fuel supply issues, dead batteries, electrical problems, or improper installation. To avoid costly failures, professional installation and regular maintenance are crucial. Licensed technicians ensure safety, uphold warranty requirements, comply with regulations, and provide expert servicing.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Generator Install pros in Happy Camp, CA

*The Angi rating for Generator Install companies in Happy Camp, 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 Happy Camp, 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 09, 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 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 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 August 2014
He demanded payment with out finishing his work!! I asked for a credit. the scope was to install gas line to a stove, Drierand a water heather ready to install the appliances, he came back with air pressure test only with no shut off valves or reducers to fitt the valves..... I waited for his...
Heart Plumbing
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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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Reviewed in April 2012
I recently contacted Garage and Closet Kingdom regarding an installation question, I was very pleased with their immediate response time. I would most defiantly contact Garage and Closet Kingdom in the future for my garage and closet needs. I appreciated their professionalism.
GARAGE & CLOSET KINGDOM
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Find Generator install pros in Happy Camp

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

You can determine what size generator you need by listing the various appliances it will power during an outage. Write down the start-up watt usage, and then add them all together.

A 7,500-watt generator will run your refrigerator, freezer, well pump, and lighting circuits without a problem. However, you’ll need an extra 3,000 to 4,500 watts to run your water heater and another 5,000 to 25,000 watts to run your electric furnace. In these instances, a whole-home generator is your best bet for running your critical equipment.

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.

A 1,500 square foot home will likely need a 15kW to 20kW generator. When deciding on whole-house generator size, add up the total wattage of the devices that you’d like to continue running during a power outage. That way, you can ensure you purchase a generator that can power your necessary appliances or medical equipment during an electrical emergency.

Most homeowners won't be able to claim a home generator as a tax write-off. However, a whole-house generator may be tax-deductible in certain situations depending on its purpose. For instance, if it's needed to power essential medical equipment, it may qualify as a medical expense deduction. Also, in some cases, businesses can deduct a generator as a business expense if it supports operations. Always consult a tax professional to determine eligibility based on your specific circumstances and the applicable IRS regulations.

While standby generators provide essential backup power, they can fail when you need them most due to lack of maintenance, fuel supply issues, dead batteries, electrical problems, or improper installation. To avoid costly failures, professional installation and regular maintenance are crucial. Licensed technicians ensure safety, uphold warranty requirements, comply with regulations, and provide expert servicing.

The Happy Camp, 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]
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Before installing a fixed generator, think about your use and space. Review these backup generator questions to prepare for a talk with your contractor.
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15 Generator Uses for Homeowners
A portable generator can serve several uses beyond its traditional purpose. If you’re looking for ways to put your generator to work, our guide can help.
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Can a Generator Get Wet? What You Need to Know
Can a generator get wet? Protective covers are necessary for using a portable generator in the rain, and they shouldn’t be used in extreme weather.