Get matched with top generator install pros in Commerce City, CO

Q: What’s the normal lifespan of a diesel generator?

• <div><p>You can expect a diesel generator to last for up to <b>30,000 hours of use</b>, which works out to 20 to 25 years with the proper maintenance, of course. That depends on how much you use it, so a diesel generator used for emergencies a couple of times a year will last a lot longer than a generator that takes over for a faulty electrical grid every month for a day or two. </p></div>

Q: What can I run on different generator sizes?

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

Q: 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&rsquo;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&rsquo;s electrical load</a> based on the breakers in your home or adding up the appliance and lighting needs of connected rooms.</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 generator do I need to run a fridge?

• <div><p>While the rating will tell you how many watts the refrigerator needs at the peak of its cycle, it requires additional wattage to start. At the bare minimum, you&rsquo;ll need a 1,500-watt generator to get the fridge up and running after a blackout. A 2,000-watt generator should be sufficient for most home refrigerators.</p></div>

There are 6 highly-rated local generator install pros.

Verified Reviews for Generator Install pros in Commerce City, CO

*The Angi rating for Generator Install companies in Commerce City, CO 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 Commerce City, CO 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 October 26, 2025

Reviewed in December 2024
Juan and his awesome crew just completed a fairly large poured, stamped and tinted concrete patio at my home. Their attention to detail, focus on completing on time and general great attitude made this project incredible. I could not more strongly recommend JDK!
JKD Welding & Construction
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Reviewed in August 2023
Very professional installation and. Service.
Tipping Hat Plumbing, Heating & Electric
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Reviewed in May 2023
Guess I got lucky. Hired Jeremiah to weld a theft proof box on my RV trailer for my 4000 watt Firman generator. Couldn't be happier with his expertise and quality/design. I highly recommend him for just about any weld job. Exceeded my expectations.
Plan B Metal Works
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Reviewed in July 2017
Judy was a pleasure to work with in designing the new driveway divider and planter beds. I knew generally the look I was going for but Judy was able to refine and improve upon my ideas. Miguel and the crew arrived punctually and worked quickly to remove the old landscaping and install the rock,...
TIMBERLINE GARDENS LANDSCAPING
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Reviewed in January 2017
very neat and professional installation.
101 Mobility
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Reviewed in March 2014
They are currently doing the project. We have been strongly involved with the entire process. Their general quality workmanship is very high. Their scheduling and completing the schedule a little below optimal like one step down. The value for dollar seems to be very good. We are generally...
Van Matre Construction LLC
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Reviewed in September 2011
During the installation the servicemen set the motor to run to sensitive. During a huge snow storm last winter I was out of power for a few days because the generator wasn’t working. It really was of no use to us to have the generator. I called the company and they eventually came out to correct...
CDS Home Services
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Reviewed in October 2005
RIVIERA IS EASY TO SCHEDULE WITH A PHONE CALL AND ARE EXTREMELY PUNCTUAL IN THEIR ARRIVAL TIMES. THE TECHNICIANS SEEM TO BE WELL EDUCATED AND TRAINED IN THE GENERAL ELECTRICAL FIELD.
RIVIERA ELECTRIC
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