Can you run a natural gas generator constantly all day?

• <div><p>Natural gas generators are designed to run for extended periods of time, such as power outages during a natural disaster. Since there’s no limit to the supply of natural gas, they don’t need to stop for refills. However, generators do need maintenance, including pauses to check and add oil. Constantly running them will also cause a lot more wear and tear, leading to a shorter lifespan.</p></div>

Is it better to repair or replace a malfunctioning generator?

• <div><p>It’s usually better to repair your generator if it isn’t working properly, as it will typically be much more affordable and should yield similar results. Generator repairs cost around <b>$300</b> on average, while <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-it-cost-install-generator.htm">installing a new whole-house generator costs</a> around <b>$5,000 </b>on average. The only exception is if you know your generator is reaching the end of its useful life, usually between 30 and 40 years. If you have an older generator, you could face multiple repairs in the coming years, which might mean that a full replacement will be more cost-effective over time.</p></div>

Get matched with top generator install pros in Arbon Valley, ID

Q: How much horsepower do I need?

• <div><p>If your home already has a grinder pump and you&rsquo;re still noticing issues (like frequently clogged toilets and sinks), it could be time to upgrade your grinder pump. Start by checking your existing horsepower. If there are four or fewer people living in your home, using a 1/2-horsepower grinder pump should be sufficient. Larger households should consider investing in a 1-horsepower grinder pump to maximize wastewater removal efforts.</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>

Q: Is it better to repair or replace a malfunctioning generator?

• <div><p>It&rsquo;s usually better to repair your generator if it isn&rsquo;t working properly, as it will typically be much more affordable and should yield similar results. Generator repairs cost around <b>$300</b> on average, while <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-it-cost-install-generator.htm">installing a new whole-house generator costs</a> around <b>$5,000 </b>on average. The only exception is if you know your generator is reaching the end of its useful life, usually between 30 and 40 years. If you have an older generator, you could face multiple repairs in the coming years, which might mean that a full replacement will be more cost-effective over time.</p></div>

Q: How big of a generator do I need for a transfer switch?

• <div><p>You can determine what size generator you need for a transfer switch by matching the switch to the largest outlet on your generator. Larger generators can power up to 10 circuits, while most 5,000-watt generators can provide power to six circuits. So, if your generator&rsquo;s largest outlet is 30 amps, you&rsquo;ll need a 30-amp transfer switch.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Generator Install pros in Arbon Valley, ID

*The Angi rating for Generator Install companies in Arbon Valley, ID 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 Arbon Valley, ID 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 April 29, 2026

Reviewed in April 2026
CCX and Alex did a great job. They replaced the roof in a timely manner and worked around my schedule. Quality was great. When an issue came up at the end of the project, Alex got it taken care of and fixed right away.
CCX Roofing
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Reviewed in April 2014
He was very professional and when there was a problem getting the shingles because of delivery problems, he let us know and always kept us informed. <br />
John Holcomb Roofing
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Reviewed in January 2014
Seth is a local young man and I've known him all his life. I trust him to come into my house whether I am here or not. He came at the set time, replaced the toilet that wasn't working properly, had to break the tub faucet into pieces to get it off. Cleaned the shower head and put on a new...
Lusk Plumbing
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Reviewed in April 2013
First of all, Merlin is a class act guy and I would use him over and over if his employees were like him. He did the bid and was with the crew on the first day that they started the job. However, when he took off, it was like his crew wanted to just get the job over with. Some of the walls...
MERLIN'S INSULATION INC
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Reviewed in March 2012
Knowing the kid who comes out is a big boon to me, because I don’t like strangers coming to my house, especially since I am an elderly lady. They were prompt and they cleaned up after themselves. They did the job as quickly as they could do it. They had to make two trips out, since they did not...
SIERRA HEATING & COOLING
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Reviewed in March 2012
I can call him and he comes. He is just prompt. He has been raised here in the valley and I have known him since he was a little teeny kid. He is pleasant, and I feel safe when somebody I know is here rather than someone from another company that I don’t know. He works and does extras that he...
Evan's Pumps LLC
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Find Generator install pros in Arbon Valley

Highmark Electric of SEI, LLC

5.0(

)

Fixed Generator - InstallFixed Generator - RepairGenerator - Install - For Business

Serving Arbon Valley, ID and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2022

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"Brady did a great job installing electric componets and wiring."

Can lights for increased lighting and ambiance

Response time2 days

Response rate87%

2 neighbors recently requested a quote

Fixed Generator - InstallPortable Generator - Install

Serving Arbon Valley, ID and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2004

Free estimates

Small jobs welcome

"Wonderful experience. Was very professional and did exactly what we wanted and needed. Highly recommend"

Response time6 hrs

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Fixed Generator - InstallFixed Generator - RepairGenerator - Install+4 more

Serving Arbon Valley, ID and surrounding areas

In business since 2024

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"John happened to be in town when I placed my request. He was at my house in less than 10 minutes and in under an hour had my electrical outlets fixed. John is super personable and knew exactly what the issue was. I am so excited to put out my deck lights now! I will be contacting you for any future needs!"

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Freedom Renovations and Handyman Services

4.7(

)

Portable Generator - Repair

Serving Arbon Valley, ID and surrounding areas

In business since 2018

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"We had an excellent experience with David and Kevin. They were courteous, knowledgeable, and hard-working-- we have found our handyman service!"

Response time10 hrs

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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True Power Electric - Facebook

New to Angi

Fixed Generator - InstallGenerator - Install - For Business

Serving Arbon Valley, ID and surrounding areas

In business since 2020

Free estimates

Offers commercial services

We pride our company on reliability, great communication, integrity, and quality work. We are experts in our trade and will do our best to keep you as educated as we can on your particular task or project. We look forward to earning your business!

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D & T Electric Heating, & Cooling

1.0(

)

Fixed Generator - InstallFixed Generator - RepairGenerator - Install - For Business+3 more

Serving Arbon Valley, ID and surrounding areas

In business since 1986

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

D & T Electric Heating, & Cooling, Inc., is Idaho and Utah's premier electric, heating and cooling company. Our expertise makes us the best in the business. We provide the highest quality service for all our residential and commercial customers. Call today and speak with the owner directly

Recommended by66%of homeowners

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Dagger Electric LLC

New to Angi

Fixed Generator - InstallFixed Generator - RepairGenerator - Install - For Business+3 more

Serving Arbon Valley, ID and surrounding areas

In business since 2025

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

Dagger Electric is a new company that focuses on pride in their work and offering a great installation for a great price!\nWe specialize in many different types of work and are very confident in our ability to make our customers happy!\nRemodels, New Construction, New Homes, Troubleshooting, Commercial and residential Maintenance, Access Controls, Electrical Panel Upgrades, LED lighting upgrades are just a few examples of the work we offer! If its Electrical, we can fix it!\nWe offer emergency 24-hour services and Free Estimates. We are happy to assist in any of your electrical needs!\n

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Generator Install questions, answered by experts

If your home already has a grinder pump and you’re still noticing issues (like frequently clogged toilets and sinks), it could be time to upgrade your grinder pump. Start by checking your existing horsepower. If there are four or fewer people living in your home, using a 1/2-horsepower grinder pump should be sufficient. Larger households should consider investing in a 1-horsepower grinder pump to maximize wastewater removal efforts.

Natural gas generators are designed to run for extended periods of time, such as power outages during a natural disaster. Since there’s no limit to the supply of natural gas, they don’t need to stop for refills. However, generators do need maintenance, including pauses to check and add oil. Constantly running them will also cause a lot more wear and tear, leading to a shorter lifespan.

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.

It’s usually better to repair your generator if it isn’t working properly, as it will typically be much more affordable and should yield similar results. Generator repairs cost around $300 on average, while installing a new whole-house generator costs around $5,000 on average. The only exception is if you know your generator is reaching the end of its useful life, usually between 30 and 40 years. If you have an older generator, you could face multiple repairs in the coming years, which might mean that a full replacement will be more cost-effective over time.

You can determine what size generator you need for a transfer switch by matching the switch to the largest outlet on your generator. Larger generators can power up to 10 circuits, while most 5,000-watt generators can provide power to six circuits. So, if your generator’s largest outlet is 30 amps, you’ll need a 30-amp transfer switch.

The Arbon Valley, ID 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
•
Jul 10, 2026Jul 10, 2026
How Much Does It Cost to Install a Generator Transfer Switch? [2026 Data]
The cost to install a generator transfer switch depends on several factors. Our guide will help you understand all of the costs.
Taylor Freitas
•
Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 2026
How Much Does a Whole-House Generator Cost? [2026 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.
Alison Kasch
•
Jul 8, 2026Jul 8, 2026
How Much Does a Natural Gas Generator Cost? [2026 Data]
Natural gas generators are whole-home standby generators that are connected to your home’s natural gas line. The average cost for a natural gas generator is $12,000.
Dan Simms
•
May 21, 2026May 21, 2026
How to Hire a Generator Installer
Generators should give you peace of mind, but you’ll only get that if your installer knows what they’re doing. Learn how to hire a pro and what red flags to look for.
Heather Ayer
•
Jul 8, 2026Jul 8, 2026
Whole-House Generator Installation: A Complete Guide
Whole home generator installations require a professional hand. Read this guide to help you decide which generator is best for your home.
Becca Lewis
•
Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 2026
Who Installs Generators? A Complete Guide
Wondering who to hire to install a generator? Consult this guide to learn who to hire to install a generator or a transfer switch.