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>

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Q: Can I use a generator to charge a back-up battery?

• <div><p>Yes. You can connect your home back-up battery to a generator with its designated charger. Be sure that the output of the generator matches the input requirements for the battery for best results.</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>

Q: Do installations include unit assembly?

• <div><p>Many services include assembling the unit and securing it in the window. Confirm with your provider.</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>

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Verified Reviews for Generator Install pros in Elk Run Heights, IA

*The Angi rating for Generator Install companies in Elk Run Heights, IA 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 Elk Run Heights, IA 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 11, 2025

Reviewed in October 2024
They did a very good job on installing our egress window. They were very careful and cleaned up the mess.
Cedar Valley Excavating, LLC
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Reviewed in February 2021
I watched them work, I was very impressed with their attention to detail, bend conduit, step back and eyeball it or measure it, re do it if needed,seldom needed it, then put it up. Great looking install. Very pleased.
Ted Electric, LLC
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Reviewed in September 2018
This installer was a subcontractor to Best Buy and not part of a Geek Squad. Doing business as RedWood.
Best Buy Stores, LP
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Reviewed in June 2018
Everything went great. I had John today and he was nice from the time he walked in my house until he left. Great Guy. I will be having you install a new water heater and fan. Thank you for your great service John!
Dalton Plumbing, Heating, Cooling, Electric and Fireplaces, Inc.
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Reviewed in July 2017
Sales consultant responded quickly upon my initial inquirey. He was very knowledgable and courteous. When we agreed on products and price, he set a delivery date, with installation a week later. They kept me updated constantly on our upcoming install, which I greatly appreciated. The...
Pella Windows and Doors
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Reviewed in July 2017
Very smooth project. We had everything ready, coordinated with plumbers/furnace company, and ready to go! We purchased most of what was needed prior to beginning. Very easy to work with and professionalism is second to none! Understanding of our concerns and excellent attention to detail. We...
C & R Specialties LLC
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Reviewed in January 2015
professional, courteous, good quality product. Came out to check A/C. Offered to put in temporary window A/C if needed until new one could get installed.
Bergen Plumbing Heating Cooling Inc
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Reviewed in July 2014
Iowa Wall Sawing installed two egress windows in our 40 year old basement in a timely manner in spite of weather delays. They took pains to preserve the lawn, cut the opening and installed the new window and well, cleaned up the minimal mess inside and out, and hauled away the dirt to be dumped...
Iowa Wall Sawing
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Reviewed in March 2014
This project consisted of installing a solar domestic hot water system in an old house, essentially a remodeling project. The contractor did a great job.
Al Gordon Plumbing & Heating
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Reviewed in December 2013
Matthias was the contractor's choice when we built our new home in 2012. The original plan called to have the lawn seeded and landscaping done by October 1st. Mathias was several weeks late getting even a site plan to us, and not finishing with the seeding until just before Thanksgiving, after...
Matthias Landscaping Co
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Find Generator install pros in Elk Run Heights

Motor Winding Inc.

No reviews yet

Motor Winding Inc.

No reviews yet

59 years of experience

Providing Sale and Service on electric Motors, Portable Generators, Power Tools, Submersible Pumps. Also Repair antique table/desk top fans. Repar and Sales on Starters, Alternators & Generators for Cars, Trucks And Tractors. Do Not Work On Vehicles.

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

Generator Install questions, answered by experts

Yes. You can connect your home back-up battery to a generator with its designated charger. Be sure that the output of the generator matches the input requirements for the battery for best results.

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.

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.

Many services include assembling the unit and securing it in the window. Confirm with your provider.

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.

The Elk Run Heights, IA homeowners’ guide to generator installs

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