Can a natural gas generator work without electricity or in a power outage?

• <div><p>Yes, natural gas generators can work without electricity. Natural gas generators are a common type of backup or whole-house generator that operates when the electrical grid isn’t working. The trick is using a <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/cost-install-generator-transfer-switch.htm?entry_point_id=33797025">transfer switch</a> (which usually needs to be installed with the generator) that safely switches the home electrical system from the power grid to generator power when needed.</p></div>

• <div><p>When installed and used correctly, generators are safe to use. The <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/power-out-3-tips-safely-operate-home-generator.htm">most critical generator safety tips</a> to keep in mind are:</p><ul><li><p>Never use a portable generator inside an enclosed space, as the carbon monoxide exhaust it creates is lethal.</p></li><li><p>Never attempt to connect your generator to your home’s electrical panel independently; hire a professional for this dangerous job.</p></li><li><p>Never overload your generator by connecting more appliances than for which it’s rated; you can damage your generator and appliances or even cause a fire.</p></li></ul><p></p></div>

How long does a whole-house generator last?

• <div><p>When maintained properly, a whole-house generator can last up to <b>20 years</b>. <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 <b>$150 to $300 per year</b> 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. </p></div>

Get matched with top generator install pros in Midpines, CA

Q: How much does it cost to install a generator?

• <div><p>The typical <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-it-cost-install-generator.htm">cost of a home generator</a> is around <b>$5,000</b>, but prices range from <b>$400 up to $13,000</b>, depending on a few factors. The most significant cost factor is the generator size, as larger generators that can support more square footage usually cost more. You can install an emergency backup generator for between <b>$500 and $2,000</b> or a partial-home generator for between <b>$2,000 and $6,500</b>. Whole-home generators usually total between <b>$5,000 and $13,000</b>, with some models climbing as high as <b>$18,000</b>.</p></div>

Q: What happens with the generator when the local power goes back on?

• <div><p>If you have a transfer switch properly installed, the generator and main electrical power cannot feed the system at the same time. However, you should still shut off the power at your main circuit breaker panel before activating the generator. If you do that, you&rsquo;ll simply need to shut off the generator and reset your circuit breaker once the local power comes back on.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Generator Install pros in Midpines, CA

*The Angi rating for Generator Install companies in Midpines, 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 Midpines, 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 November 15, 2025

Reviewed in August 2025
Vern came out and did an excelent job installing an EV receptical and fixing some other issues my house had. He was very professional and very knowledgeable. 10 out of 10 recommend. Will be in touch for future projects.
D.E.I. ELECTRIC INC.
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Reviewed in July 2025
We live in the Joshua Tree area and had a Kohler generator installed in 2021. Unfortunately, by 2025, it had failed. A local electrical contractor inspected it but couldn’t repair the issue, so we turned to the expert—Pete Poillon. I’m incredibly glad we did. Pete promptly diagnosed the...
Poillon Electric
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Reviewed in June 2025
Larry and his boys painted my kitchen and Tiled my backsplash and floors. They even installed my new appliances. I am thrilled with my new kitchen. Excellent craftsmanship.
Service On The GO - Unlicensed Contractor
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Reviewed in September 2020
On time. Under budget. Better-than-expected results. Jared and his crew are second to none. They turned a blank, boring wall in our house into an amazing bookshelf with built in lighting. Even though I was a smaller job for him, they rolled the red carpet out for us and did an incredible job. If...
Big Monkey Renovation & Repair
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Reviewed in August 2016
very well, serviced and fixed my inoperable washing machine within 30 min. they fixed the generator as opposed to just ordering another part or stating i should just get a new one like the mechanic before hand. Their professional service is worth the cost and saved me a substantial amount of...
Major Appliance Co, Inc.
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Reviewed in January 2015
Sales team did not try to over sale me a unit. They did a hard load calculation and sold me what I needed. The install team was clean, fast, and informative.
CLEMMER SERVICES INC
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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 2014
Efficient, professional and speedy installation. Todd has a facility for explaining what he intends to do regarding the job (and why) in layman's terms. No jargon. In my opinion a very good businessman and an indispensable vendor when you have electrical issues.
Hill Electric Inc
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Reviewed in March 2013
I've worked with Gene and Randee Nelson for the past 3 years. I built a new home in 2008, and since then my AC unit has taken multiple electricity hits (we have bad power in 29 Palms). In August 2012, we lost the condenser, and I filed a claim with my home warranty company, they sent out someone...
Nelson Heating & Air
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Reviewed in August 2012
Perfect Installation.
Deel Plumbing Heating & Air Conditioning
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Find Generator install pros in Midpines

AR Power Systems LLC

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AR Power Systems LLC

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1 years of experience

We Specialize in Power Generation. Our team is trained/Led by an ex Air Force technician. We can respond to military bases. Our lead tech has also worked on the civilian side in both residential and commercial. Also in Telecom industry. Our team lead has worked on gens from residential homes up to 2 megawatt Gens supporting the Air Force in Space surveillance. Attention to detail is always practiced.

All Gen Services LLC

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All Gen Services LLC

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All Gen Services LLc is a owner-operated Generac Authorized Sales, service, and parts Dealer. We offer wide variety of Services for home standby units such warranty repairs, general recommended maintenance, as well as emergency on-call. If your looking into purchasing and have one installed we offer free qoutes! As owner-operater I strive to be deliver exceptional customer service and honest quality work that you can count on.

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.

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

Yes, natural gas generators can work without electricity. Natural gas generators are a common type of backup or whole-house generator that operates when the electrical grid isn’t working. The trick is using a transfer switch (which usually needs to be installed with the generator) that safely switches the home electrical system from the power grid to generator power when needed.

The typical cost of a home generator is around $5,000, but prices range from $400 up to $13,000, depending on a few factors. The most significant cost factor is the generator size, as larger generators that can support more square footage usually cost more. You can install an emergency backup generator for between $500 and $2,000 or a partial-home generator for between $2,000 and $6,500. Whole-home generators usually total between $5,000 and $13,000, with some models climbing as high as $18,000.

If you have a transfer switch properly installed, the generator and main electrical power cannot feed the system at the same time. However, you should still shut off the power at your main circuit breaker panel before activating the generator. If you do that, you’ll simply need to shut off the generator and reset your circuit breaker once the local power comes back on.

When installed and used correctly, generators are safe to use. The most critical generator safety tips to keep in mind are:

Never use a portable generator inside an enclosed space, as the carbon monoxide exhaust it creates is lethal.
Never attempt to connect your generator to your home’s electrical panel independently; hire a professional for this dangerous job.
Never overload your generator by connecting more appliances than for which it’s rated; you can damage your generator and appliances or even cause a fire.

When maintained properly, a whole-house generator can last up to 20 years. Costs to maintain and repair generators 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.

The Midpines, CA homeowners’ guide to generator installs

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

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Elisa Greenberg
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Aug 14, 2025Aug 14, 2025
How Much Does a Whole-House Generator Cost? [2025 Data]
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How Much Does It Cost To Install a Generator Transfer Switch? [2025 Data]
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Oct 30, 2025Oct 30, 2025
How Much Does Whole-House Generator Maintenance Cost? [2025 Data]
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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.
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Pros and Cons of a Whole-House Generator
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