What types of fuel do generators take?

• <div><p>Generators run on a variety of fuel types, ranging from natural gas to solar power. Keep in mind that fuel costs varying by type:</p><ul><li><p>Natural gas: $2,000–$21,000 per year </p></li><li><p>Liquid propane: $2,000–$21,000 per year</p></li><li><p>Diesel: $3,000–$20,000 per year</p></li><li><p>Gasoline: $500–$3,000 per year</p></li><li><p>Solar generator: $2,000–$25,000 per unit</p></li><li><p>Battery backup: $10,000–$25,000 per unit</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>

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 much does it cost to install a generator?

• <div><p>The typical <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-it-cost-install-generator.htm">cost of a home generator</a> is around <b>$5,000</b>, but prices range from <b>$400 up to $13,000</b>, depending on a few factors. The most significant cost factor is the generator size, as larger generators that can support more square footage usually cost more. You can install an emergency backup generator for between <b>$500 and $2,000</b> or a partial-home generator for between <b>$2,000 and $6,500</b>. Whole-home generators usually total between <b>$5,000 and $13,000</b>, with some models climbing as high as <b>$18,000</b>.</p></div>

Q: Are natural gas generators worth it?

• <div><p>While natural gas generators are costly, they&rsquo;re a great option for standby power due to the reliability of natural gas as a fuel source. Unlike other fuels, natural gas is delivered through underground pipes, making outages extremely rare and less likely to be affected by the elements. As long as the area isn&rsquo;t prone to earthquakes, they offer an unlimited supply of natural gas that doesn&rsquo;t degrade over time or require storage in tanks.</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 November 19, 2025

Reviewed in May 2025
Installed new LVP flooring, along with new trim. Completed when he said he would, work looked great! Also installed a front door!
Savage Renovations, LLC
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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 December 2023
Jon, Ler and Emanuel L were the crew who installed 5 piers on the corner of my house. They were very efficient, and left things looking exactly as before they did the job. I received updates as their work progressed.
Groundworks
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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 September 2022
The installer did a very good job. The only hang up was the bracket for my shower seat. The package was labeled for a right side bracket, but a left side bracket was inside the page. It was mislabeled at the warehouse. Certainly not the installers fault. Bath Planet scheduled a time to come...
Bath Planet
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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 May 2017
Everything went well. Installation and adaptation to my existing ducts was exactly as I wanted it. The price seemed high, but they were actually the lowest of 3 local bids.
C AND K Heating, Cooling & Plumbing
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Reviewed in August 2016
I decided to make the purchase though I did not need all of the equipment. The TRITON 9000 RS Generator/Compressor/Welder machine was what I really had my eye on. I had never seen a machine with so many functions before. The 10,000 gas generator is the machine I needed the most, but the other...
AMP-American Multi-Products
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Reviewed in May 2014
Our first interaction with our point of contact went well. We were given lots of information in both oral and written form. Sales person was not pushy and was very prompt with his estimates. We accepted the proposal, scheduled an installation date, andproceeded to have the system installed. The...
Neighbors Heating Cooling Plumbing & Geothermal
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Find Generator install pros in Northwood

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

The typical cost of a home generator is around $5,000, but prices range from $400 up to $13,000, depending on a few factors. The most significant cost factor is the generator size, as larger generators that can support more square footage usually cost more. You can install an emergency backup generator for between $500 and $2,000 or a partial-home generator for between $2,000 and $6,500. Whole-home generators usually total between $5,000 and $13,000, with some models climbing as high as $18,000.

Generators run on a variety of fuel types, ranging from natural gas to solar power. Keep in mind that fuel costs varying by type:

Natural gas: $2,000–$21,000 per year
Liquid propane: $2,000–$21,000 per year
Diesel: $3,000–$20,000 per year
Gasoline: $500–$3,000 per year
Solar generator: $2,000–$25,000 per unit
Battery backup: $10,000–$25,000 per unit

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.

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.

While natural gas generators are costly, they’re a great option for standby power due to the reliability of natural gas as a fuel source. Unlike other fuels, natural gas is delivered through underground pipes, making outages extremely rare and less likely to be affected by the elements. As long as the area isn’t prone to earthquakes, they offer an unlimited supply of natural gas that doesn’t degrade over time or require storage in tanks.

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

Alison Kasch
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Oct 29, 2025Oct 29, 2025
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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.
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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.
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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.
Michelle Nati
•
Mar 14, 2025Mar 14, 2025
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.
Alison Kasch
•
Jul 23, 2024Jul 23, 2024
Can a Generator Get Wet? What You Need to Know
Can a generator get wet? Protective covers are necessary for using a portable generator in the rain, and they shouldn’t be used in extreme weather.