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>

What size generator do I need for my house?

• <div><p><a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/what-size-generator-do-i-need.htm">Generator size requirements</a> vary wildly among properties, but typical generator sizes are listed below based on home square footage:</p><ul><li><p>1,000 sq ft: 6–9 kW</p></li><li><p>1,500 sq ft: 7–10 kW</p></li><li><p>2,000 sq ft: 10–14kW</p></li><li><p>2,500 sq ft: 12–16kW</p></li><li><p>3,000 sq ft: 16–20kW+</p></li></ul><p>Unfortunately, home square footage isn’t always a good indicator of generator size requirements. Instead, you should call in a professional to discuss which items in your home you’d like to run via your generator. They can calculate peak and average consumption for those items and then size your generator appropriately for optimal performance.</p></div>

Get matched with top generator install pros in Kaunakakai, HI

Q: Can a portable generator power an entire home?

• <div><p>A portable generator can supply power to selected appliances and circuits in a home, but it's generally not designed to handle the entire household's electrical needs simultaneously. Portable generators have limited wattage capacity, so they are only designed to power essential devices and electronics temporarily until local power is restored. If your power needs outweigh the capabilities of a portable generator, consider installing a <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/installing-whole-house-generator.htm">whole-home generator</a> instead. </p></div>

Q: What are the benefits of a portable generator?

• <div><p>Portable generators provide backup power for essential appliances during outages and are easy to relocate.</p></div>

Q: Do you need a permit to install a whole-house generator?

• <div><p>In many cases, you&rsquo;ll need a permit or basic inspection to install one of these large generators. Since they include significant alterations to your home electrical system and many produce exhaust fumes, local governments often require jumping through a few hoops for general safety purposes. Your installer may be able to help you with these permits.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Generator Install pros in Kaunakakai, HI

*The Angi rating for Generator Install companies in Kaunakakai, HI 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 Kaunakakai, HI 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 01, 2025

Reviewed in February 2025
General cleaning was immaculate and done efficiently. The walls, the ceilings and the baseboards were included. The windows and screens of the entire 2story house were also cleaned. The maintenance visit kept my bathrooms shiny and bright. My adult son took photos after the cleaning to show...
Sparkle and Shine Cleaning Service
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Reviewed in July 2021
STILL IN BUSINESS. NEW NAME: Hartman Pacific Construction. Ho Hawaii.com Did my floors. Top notch quality install. I am retired military and I know attention to detail. Will bend over backwards to make sure job is done right. Has his general contractor license now. Does it all. One stop shopping.
Hartman Pacific Construction
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Reviewed in July 2018
This company charged me $512 to install a kitchen faucet. Steve's Plumbing is so overpriced I can't even believe it.
Steve's Plumbing & A/C Service
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Reviewed in April 2016
Their rep didn't seem as knowledgeable about the particulars of the solar system as the other company. They made their appointment and they kept their appointment. The rep should have a general knowledge of the whole process because you have to deal with the electric company. There's a whole...
Haleakala Solar Inc.
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Reviewed in June 2015
general work
Cruisin Maui
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Reviewed in January 2014
They did not know how to install the faucet so I had to buy a new one and then I got it installed by somebody else. It was leaking after they fixed it so I had to buy another one. It was a father son team; the father was great but the son not so much. They didn’t come out like for a year and...
James A Wheat & Sons Inc
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Reviewed in October 2013
These guys were awesome. Friendly, helpful and right on time. They said they needed about three hours so we dropped off the truck and went hiking around Kahalui. Came back in 3 hours, had to wait for about 15-20 minutes for them to button everything up and the job was done. The installed an...
ACE AUTO GLASS INC
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Reviewed in November 2012
Pete is a no-nonsense, honest, and efficient worker. He picked up my generator on a Saturday and returned it the following day with complete explanation of what he did and what I should do to prevent further problems. Would definitely use him again.
Pete's Small Engine Repair
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Reviewed in November 2012
It was wonderful. The staff was great and communicated very well. The installation is beautiful and the materials were better than we anticipated. A+++ rating to them! We will be back!
Exclusively Yours
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Reviewed in March 2012
I was generally happy with the job. I wish he would have done final inspection a little bit better.
JEFF'S PLUMBING
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Find Generator install pros in Kaunakakai

William Young

William Young

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

45 years of experience

45+

"Absolute professionals, got the job done very quickly and on budget. Amazing consideration working with and around other trades on the site. Would absolutely recommend."

Sean C on July 2024

45+

"Absolute professionals, got the job done very quickly and on budget. Amazing consideration working with and around other trades on the site. Would absolutely recommend."

Sean C on July 2024

Power Generation Industries

98-1038 Moanalua Rd

4.20(

)

Power Generation Industries

98-1038 Moanalua Rd

4.20(

)

Customers say: Terrific value

11 years of experience

We are proud to be Hawaii's interface for our expert services. We offer many services and are linked, networked throughout the islands. We are ready standing by.

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

Generator Install questions, answered by experts

A portable generator can supply power to selected appliances and circuits in a home, but it's generally not designed to handle the entire household's electrical needs simultaneously. Portable generators have limited wattage capacity, so they are only designed to power essential devices and electronics temporarily until local power is restored. If your power needs outweigh the capabilities of a portable generator, consider installing a whole-home generator instead.

Portable generators provide backup power for essential appliances during outages and are easy to relocate.

In many cases, you’ll need a permit or basic inspection to install one of these large generators. Since they include significant alterations to your home electrical system and many produce exhaust fumes, local governments often require jumping through a few hoops for general safety purposes. Your installer may be able to help you with these permits.

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.

Generator size requirements vary wildly among properties, but typical generator sizes are listed below based on home square footage:

1,000 sq ft: 6–9 kW
1,500 sq ft: 7–10 kW
2,000 sq ft: 10–14kW
2,500 sq ft: 12–16kW
3,000 sq ft: 16–20kW+

Unfortunately, home square footage isn’t always a good indicator of generator size requirements. Instead, you should call in a professional to discuss which items in your home you’d like to run via your generator. They can calculate peak and average consumption for those items and then size your generator appropriately for optimal performance.

The Kaunakakai, HI 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

Alison Kasch
•
Oct 29, 2025Oct 29, 2025
How Much Does It Cost To Install a Generator Transfer Switch? [2025 Data]
The cost to install a generator transfer switch depends on several factors. Our guide will help you understand all of the costs.
Elisa Greenberg
•
Aug 14, 2025Aug 14, 2025
How Much Does a Whole-House Generator Cost? [2025 Data]
The average cost of a whole-house generator falls between $5,000 and $25,000. Keep reading to learn how much you can expect to spend.
Breyden Kellam
•
Oct 30, 2025Oct 30, 2025
How Much Does Whole-House Generator Maintenance Cost? [2025 Data]
Keeping on top of generator maintenance and repairs gives you extra peace of mind as a homeowner. Find out how much regular generator maintenance costs.
Breyden Kellam
•
Apr 1, 2025Apr 1, 2025
Gas Generator vs. Natural Gas Generator: What’s the Difference?
Before deciding between a gas generator and a natural gas generator, explore the differences. Compare gas vs. natural gas generator with our informative guide.
Kat Brancato
•
Jul 1, 2024Jul 1, 2024
What Size Generator Do I Need? A Guide to Choosing the Right Generator for Your Home
Emergency generators come in many types and sizes to suit various needs. If you’re wondering what size generator to buy, here’s what to consider.
Tyler Lacoma
•
Mar 10, 2025Mar 10, 2025
How Do Whole-House Generators Work?
Whole house generators are a power alternative that can deal with frequent blackouts and other problems. Here’s how they function.