What are the pros and cons of using a natural gas generator?

• <div><p>Potential benefits of using a natural gas generator include reducing your carbon footprint, lower likelihood of carbon monoxide exposure, budget-friendly operating costs, and low-maintenance, continuous fuel supply. Some possible drawbacks, though, include higher initial <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-it-cost-install-generator.htm">installation costs</a>, dependency on a natural gas supply, and installation complexity. Keep in mind that pros and cons will vary based on the type and brand of natural gas generator. </p></div>

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>

How close can a transfer switch be to a generator?

• <div><p>Generally, you’ll want to keep between <b>60 and 70 feet</b> between the generator and the transfer switch. There are a few reasons for this, including:</p><ul><li><p>The distance reduces the noise coming from the generator into your home.</p></li><li><p>It increases efficiency because you won’t have a voltage drop from this short of a distance.</p></li><li><p>Prevents carbon monoxide poisoning: keep at least 15 feet between your generator and an open window. </p></li></ul><p></p></div>

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: How close can a transfer switch be to a generator?

• <div><p>Generally, you&rsquo;ll want to keep between <b>60 and 70 feet</b> between the generator and the transfer switch. There are a few reasons for this, including:</p><ul><li><p>The distance reduces the noise coming from the generator into your home.</p></li><li><p>It increases efficiency because you won&rsquo;t have a voltage drop from this short of a distance.</p></li><li><p>Prevents carbon monoxide poisoning: keep at least 15 feet between your generator and an open window. </p></li></ul><p></p></div>

Q: What size generator do I need for a 2,500-square-foot house?

• <div><p>A home that is 2,500 square feet will likely need a 20kW to 25kW generator. Consult your local generator installer to confirm the generator size needed to power your home before purchasing a new one. Be sure to consider how much power your necessary devices need to run.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Generator Install pros in Northwood, IA

*The Angi rating for Generator Install companies in Northwood, 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 Northwood, 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 09, 2025

Reviewed in May 2025
Excellent job of installation - friendly, answered my questions. Cleaned up after the job. Love the windows!
Renewal by Andersen
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Reviewed in December 2024
Great customer service Fast installation Affordable service Skyline tore off and re did the asphalt roof on my house after wind and hail damage. I was so impressed I hired them to also do my garage and shed. These guys do great work.
SKYLINE RESTORATION INC
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Reviewed in June 2023
David was personable, prompt, and precise in his installing of a deadbolt and door knob. I would hire him for other work, as well! 5/5
David J. Soukup Construction, Inc.
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Reviewed in June 2022
We had a great experience from the first call to the install and then the follow up. They do a great job of communicating everything you need to know-they tell you what time they will be there, how long it will take and give you an exact quote.
Dog Guard
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Reviewed in July 2021
Timing from when I received the quote and scheduling the work was just as Mr. Skinner told me. The contractors came with the list of installation and removal of old equiptment that Mr Skinner and I put together with a smile and the attude of getter done. Thank you again BCarney
Sears Home Services - Kansas City HVAC
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Reviewed in November 2020
We had storm damage due to the Derecho. Aurelio did our estimate himself. He was very professional and explained what was needed clearly. It was immediately evident that he knew exactly what he was talking about. He got us worked into the schedule faster than expected due to material...
Affordable Roofing and Exteriors INC
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Reviewed in February 2020
Phil and his crew rearranged their current jobs to ensure that our floors were refinished in time to get the painting done before our move-in date. We also asked them to remove all the baseboards and quarter round - which was good thing because then we could see how poorly the flooring had been...
Oak Wood Floor
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Reviewed in February 2012
Kevin and Nate first pre-plumbed our drains and well runs before the concrete floor was poured and as soon as the inside was ready for the rough in they came back and worked with us on the locations of everything and talked us through what they would be doing and when. We felt totally...
City Plumbing
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Panora Auto Parts

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Panora Auto Parts

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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

Potential benefits of using a natural gas generator include reducing your carbon footprint, lower likelihood of carbon monoxide exposure, budget-friendly operating costs, and low-maintenance, continuous fuel supply. Some possible drawbacks, though, include higher initial installation costs, dependency on a natural gas supply, and installation complexity. Keep in mind that pros and cons will vary based on the type and brand of natural gas generator.

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.

Generally, you’ll want to keep between 60 and 70 feet between the generator and the transfer switch. There are a few reasons for this, including:

The distance reduces the noise coming from the generator into your home.
It increases efficiency because you won’t have a voltage drop from this short of a distance.
Prevents carbon monoxide poisoning: keep at least 15 feet between your generator and an open window.

A home that is 2,500 square feet will likely need a 20kW to 25kW generator. Consult your local generator installer to confirm the generator size needed to power your home before purchasing a new one. Be sure to consider how much power your necessary devices need to run.

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.

The Northwood, 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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Nov 25, 2025Nov 25, 2025
How Much Does a Whole-House Generator Cost? [2025 Data]
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Can a Whole-House Generator Run an Air Conditioner?
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Nov 18, 2025Nov 18, 2025
How To Connect a Generator to Your House Without a Transfer Switch
Using a generator during a power outage is a lifesaver. Our guide will show you how to connect a generator to your house without a transfer switch.
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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.