Can I plug my generator directly into my house?

• <div><p>No, you cannot plug a generator directly into a wall outlet in your home. Plugging in a generator without an interlocking kit, extension cord, or wall outlet receptacle is incredibly dangerous and can cause back-feeding—power from the generator back-feeds into utility lines. Also, if the main power comes back on while your generator is on, it could damage the generator and cause a house fire.</p></div>

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Q: How can I reduce carbon monoxide emissions from my natural gas generator?

• <div><p>Carbon monoxide emissions aren&rsquo;t only dangerous to human life, but they also harm our planet. While natural gas generators emit lower levels of CO than other fuel sources, there are still ways to reduce emission levels. For example, shop around for an eco-friendly generator that complies with current emission standards. Also, make sure your generator is serviced regularly to avoid CO buildup. </p></div>

Q: Do I need a permit to install a portable generator?

• <div><p>You may need a permit for a portable generator if you&rsquo;ll be installing a transfer switch for your primary residence or similar work. Otherwise, a permit for other uses may not be necessary. Check your local building codes or ask a local generator installer for more information about your local regulations.</p></div>

Q: How long does it take to set up utilities?

• <div><p>Setting up utilities on a vacant property usually takes at least a few months, or between 6 weeks to 16 weeks. This process requires working with the local planning and zoning department, hiring a building contractor or engineer to design the utility layout, securing permits, laying the lines, and connecting the utilities.</p></div>

Q: Can a 10,000-watt generator run a central AC unit?

• <div><p>A 10,000-watt generator can run a small to mid-sized central AC unit (typically up to 3 tons or 36,000 BTU) along with a few other appliances. However, larger AC units or additional loads will require a bigger generator. Consult a local generator installer to ensure you add the correct size generator to your home.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Generator Install pros in Gilbertville, IA

*The Angi rating for Generator Install companies in Gilbertville, 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 Gilbertville, 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 November 10, 2025

Reviewed in October 2024
As a first time home buyer, learning about home improvements, I really appreciated their patience and honesty in walking me through the process as well as choosing materials. I have had my floors done twice now due to unrelated foundation repairs. Both times, the quality of work has been...
DLR Flooring, LLC
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Reviewed in November 2023
The installer was great and got everything done in same day. I would recommend him to anyone. Pricy, but done in a day! Keep up the good work!
Bath Planet
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Reviewed in November 2023
Update, our basement flooded due to substandard practice by these electricians their wiring failed causing our pump to not work and high water alarm to stop working causing a backup and expenses to fix the issue plus all the damage. This company is nothing but hacks as outlined below. These...
WEBER ELECTRIC INC
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Reviewed in September 2023
Very friendly, personable, honest. Excellent looking floor replacement Very good install pricing..
Dinatallis floor covering llc
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Reviewed in August 2023
I had to clean up some flakes that ended up in the yard but the installation itself was great.
Garage Force of Waterloo
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Reviewed in August 2023
Very responsive and excellent work. Very knowledgeable and didnâ t try to â fixâ the problem by just installing a piece of flashing
Gutter/Siding Solutions
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Reviewed in September 2014
The installers Lowes sent out measured the rooms. After the installers left with all the measurements they needed, we were told by a relative we have solid oak flooring under the carpet in our house built in 1919. We took out the carpet and discovered beautiful solid oak flooring. So, we...
Lowe's Of Waterloo
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Reviewed in December 2013
Worked with me to select color. Best paint job I've ever seen, and she never even used masking tape! Sharp perfect edging. Brought her drop clothes, ladder, and bucket of tools. I would hire her in a heartbeat again. Also does housecleaning and general handyman work with husband. She will...
Diana Meyerhoff
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Reviewed in June 2013
They are probably the biggest residential use around here. They provide for the most part good service. I had a problem several years ago with them but they came out and corrected it right away. Their punctuality is generally good.
Dalton Plumbing, Heating, Cooling, Electric and Fireplaces, Inc.
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Reviewed in July 2012
I dismissed them. The technician, who came out, spent most of his time talking and the least amount of time doing anything and I had carpenter ants but he just did a general spraying. He sat and talked with my maid. They were expensive. I fired them because of the poor quality of service;...
Orkin Pest Control
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Find Generator install pros in Gilbertville

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

Carbon monoxide emissions aren’t only dangerous to human life, but they also harm our planet. While natural gas generators emit lower levels of CO than other fuel sources, there are still ways to reduce emission levels. For example, shop around for an eco-friendly generator that complies with current emission standards. Also, make sure your generator is serviced regularly to avoid CO buildup.

You may need a permit for a portable generator if you’ll be installing a transfer switch for your primary residence or similar work. Otherwise, a permit for other uses may not be necessary. Check your local building codes or ask a local generator installer for more information about your local regulations.

Setting up utilities on a vacant property usually takes at least a few months, or between 6 weeks to 16 weeks. This process requires working with the local planning and zoning department, hiring a building contractor or engineer to design the utility layout, securing permits, laying the lines, and connecting the utilities.

A 10,000-watt generator can run a small to mid-sized central AC unit (typically up to 3 tons or 36,000 BTU) along with a few other appliances. However, larger AC units or additional loads will require a bigger generator. Consult a local generator installer to ensure you add the correct size generator to your home.

No, you cannot plug a generator directly into a wall outlet in your home. Plugging in a generator without an interlocking kit, extension cord, or wall outlet receptacle is incredibly dangerous and can cause back-feeding—power from the generator back-feeds into utility lines. Also, if the main power comes back on while your generator is on, it could damage the generator and cause a house fire.

The Gilbertville, IA 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

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Aug 14, 2025Aug 14, 2025
How Much Does a Whole-House Generator Cost? [2025 Data]
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Whole-House Generator Sizing: Everything You Need to Know
Whole house generator sizing can be tricky to figure out if you don’t know a few key factors. Our guide can help you determine what size works best for your needs.