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>

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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: How long can a whole house generator run?

• <div><p>As long as they have enough fuel, whole-house generators can run for weeks at a time (400 to 500 hours) without suffering too much wear and tear. However, this type of extensive use isn&rsquo;t ideal if you want to extend the life of your generator.</p><p>Two important points. First, some generators may need you to periodically check oil levels every day or so and refill as necessary for safe operation. Second, if your generator uses a fuel tank, keep it regularly full so it doesn&rsquo;t suddenly shut off. Many backup generators can run through a full tank in a day when they are powering large portions of a home.</p></div>

Q: Can you use biofuel in a whole-house generator?

• <div><p>In some situations, yes. Never try to put biofuel into any home generator without checking the specifics first. If a generator has the ability to run on diesel, it can also run pure biofuel (the clear kind made from seed oils, for example). But if you are using biofuel made from animal fats or vegetable oils, the generator will need significant modifications before it can handle a sludgier type of biofuel.</p></div>

Q: How much does portable generator installation cost?

• <div><p>Costs range from $500 to $2,500, depending on generator type and installation complexity.</p></div>

Q: What happens if my whole-house generator is too small for my AC?

• <div><p>An undersized whole-house generator has the potential to overheat and shut down when you try to run a central AC system. This scenario can not only damage the whole-house generator, but can also trip your home&rsquo;s breakers or cause electrical damage. To avoid this situation, hire a local generator installer to correctly size your whole-house generator.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Generator Install pros in Nathrop, CO

*The Angi rating for Generator Install companies in Nathrop, 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 Nathrop, 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 June 2025
Jack is a great installer, highly recommend.
321 Epoxy Flooring
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Reviewed in November 2024
They didn't have an option for "What work did you needdone." I was forced to pick a generic option. I hired them in August to remove clay, add good soil and install sod. They ran out of soil. One of the workers left and got soil but it was different soil then what was used. No...
RDS Hardscape Service
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Reviewed in December 2023
David and team were responsive, reasonably priced, and did a high quality job on our interior and exterior paint job. He also turned us onto a general contractor who has beautifully handled our overall home renovation.
Dapp Painting & Drywall
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Reviewed in November 2019
Installers were very careful to protect my home. They placed plastic on the floor, and steps, from the front door to the work area. They also hung a plastic curtain around the work area to contain airborne dust. The two installers explained to me in advance what they were going to do and kept me...
Skylight Specialists, Inc.
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Reviewed in November 2017
Very professional. Very fast. Some obvious flaws. In general cool.
Creative Masonry
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Reviewed in August 2017
Kristin was very helpful and took the time to give me a lot of helpful information so I will be prepared to get a generator. She basically gave me a generator 101 lesson. I appreciated her knowledge and the time she spent with me. I would use their service in the future.
SPECTRUM ELECTRIC LTD
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Reviewed in March 2015
He has the best prices for carpet in the county and his installers do a great job.
CARPET EXPRESS INC
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Reviewed in September 2013
I take my Subarus only to Buddy at Mobile Mechanics. That's all they do there...subarus. And, they really know their business, respect their customers and are honest about what really needs to be done. They'll give you alternatives and explain the details, as much as you want. I've checked...
Mobile Mechanics Inc
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Reviewed in September 2012
I purchased the stove including installation. There was some mixup in the installation date, but was not a problem. The price was competitive in this area. The salesman explained the features and capabilities of their various stoves are recommended one appropriate for my requirements. The...
Mountain Hearth & Patio
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Reviewed in June 2009
Installation was done during peak period for all furnance vendors. Lead technician was excellent and very knowledgeable. Vendor provided options and an open dicussion when a small issue was uncovered prior to the installation. One piece of the furnace was not installed properly but was...
All American Heating, Inc.
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Find Generator install pros in Nathrop

Modern Tech

Modern Tech

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

65 local quotes requested

We are a dealer and installer of Camera Systems, Alarm Systems, Alarm Monitoring, Access Control, Audio/Visual, and so much more.

"Made the project at 1am and by 10am the next morning it was totally taken care of. Fast, professional, knowledgeable, and fairly priced."

Michelle L on November 2024

We are a dealer and installer of Camera Systems, Alarm Systems, Alarm Monitoring, Access Control, Audio/Visual, and so much more.

"Made the project at 1am and by 10am the next morning it was totally taken care of. Fast, professional, knowledgeable, and fairly priced."

Michelle L on November 2024

Becks Communications, Inc.

Becks Communications, Inc.

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

18 local quotes requested

We take great pride in our experience, expertise, quality, and customer service that we provide to meet the consumer's needs. It is our mission to provide excellent workmanship and complete customer satisfaction from start to completion of a project. In order to understand the needs and expectations of our customers, we take great care to work and communicate with every customer in a professional manner. Our reputation is based on service, safety, and quality, regardless of how large or small the job.

"-"

Rob B on July 2024

"-"

Rob B on July 2024

Tools & Toys Small Engine Repair Company

130 N. 3rd Street

No reviews yet

Tools & Toys Small Engine Repair Company

130 N. 3rd Street

No reviews yet

13 years of experience

Small engine shop that also has a Master Sharpening Service and Plastic Welding/Repair Services. We also specialize in scooters, mopeds, motorcycles from repairs to mods and tuning to full restorations. Please check out our website for more information. Our prices are the best and we will not only match but beat any other business's quote in the area.

Baxter Refrigeration, LLC

4.00(

)

Baxter Refrigeration, LLC

4.00(

)

Customers say: Quick response

20 years of experience

Commercial Refrigeration repair. We repair walk-ins, reach-ins, air conditioning, ice machines, ice cream machines, floral, swamp coolers, heating, beer caves, resteraunt equipment, ventilation and exhaust. Locally owned in Buena Vista, CO. We strive for honesty, integrity, and dependability. We know that your products need service as soon they breakdown, so you don't loose money on what you keep inside of them. We offer service that will meet your needs, with your time in mind.

My Classic Car Trader LLC

312 Prospect Ave

2.00(

)

My Classic Car Trader LLC

312 Prospect Ave

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

June Creek Electric

1124 Airport Rd

5.00(

)

June Creek Electric

1124 Airport Rd

5.00(

)

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

Service Electrical Contractor Service Calls Repair Remodel New Construction Residential and Commercial One man shop offering a Master Electrician on Call Design/Build Company www.junecreek.net

Generator Install questions, answered by experts

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.

As long as they have enough fuel, whole-house generators can run for weeks at a time (400 to 500 hours) without suffering too much wear and tear. However, this type of extensive use isn’t ideal if you want to extend the life of your generator.

Two important points. First, some generators may need you to periodically check oil levels every day or so and refill as necessary for safe operation. Second, if your generator uses a fuel tank, keep it regularly full so it doesn’t suddenly shut off. Many backup generators can run through a full tank in a day when they are powering large portions of a home.

In some situations, yes. Never try to put biofuel into any home generator without checking the specifics first. If a generator has the ability to run on diesel, it can also run pure biofuel (the clear kind made from seed oils, for example). But if you are using biofuel made from animal fats or vegetable oils, the generator will need significant modifications before it can handle a sludgier type of biofuel.

Costs range from $500 to $2,500, depending on generator type and installation complexity.

An undersized whole-house generator has the potential to overheat and shut down when you try to run a central AC system. This scenario can not only damage the whole-house generator, but can also trip your home’s breakers or cause electrical damage. To avoid this situation, hire a local generator installer to correctly size your whole-house generator.

The Nathrop, CO 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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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.
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Mar 11, 2025Mar 11, 2025
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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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Mar 28, 2025Mar 28, 2025
Generator vs. Inverter Generator: Which Should You Choose?
Traditional and inverter generators can provide off-grid or emergency power. Learn the pros and cons of a traditional generator vs. inverter generator.