Can a natural gas generator work without electricity or in a power outage?

• <div><p>Yes, natural gas generators can work without electricity. Natural gas generators are a common type of backup or whole-house generator that operates when the electrical grid isn’t working. The trick is using a <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/cost-install-generator-transfer-switch.htm?entry_point_id=33797025">transfer switch</a> (which usually needs to be installed with the generator) that safely switches the home electrical system from the power grid to generator power when needed.</p></div>

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>

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

Q: What’s the normal lifespan of a diesel generator?

• <div><p>You can expect a diesel generator to last for up to <b>30,000 hours of use</b>, which works out to 20 to 25 years with the proper maintenance, of course. That depends on how much you use it, so a diesel generator used for emergencies a couple of times a year will last a lot longer than a generator that takes over for a faulty electrical grid every month for a day or two. </p></div>

Q: Is a home generator a tax write-off?

• <div><p>Most homeowners won't be able to claim a home generator as a tax write-off. However, a whole-house generator may be tax-deductible in certain situations depending on its purpose. For instance, if it's needed to power essential medical equipment, it may qualify as a medical expense deduction. Also, in some cases, businesses can deduct a generator as a business expense if it supports operations. Always consult a tax professional to determine eligibility based on your specific circumstances and the applicable IRS regulations.</p></div>

Q: What happens if my whole-house generator is too small for my AC?

• <div><p>An undersized whole-house generator has the potential to overheat and shut down when you try to run a central AC system. This scenario can not only damage the whole-house generator, but can also trip your home&rsquo;s breakers or cause electrical damage. To avoid this situation, hire a local generator installer to correctly size your whole-house generator.</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

You can expect a diesel generator to last for up to 30,000 hours of use, which works out to 20 to 25 years with the proper maintenance, of course. That depends on how much you use it, so a diesel generator used for emergencies a couple of times a year will last a lot longer than a generator that takes over for a faulty electrical grid every month for a day or two.

Most homeowners won't be able to claim a home generator as a tax write-off. However, a whole-house generator may be tax-deductible in certain situations depending on its purpose. For instance, if it's needed to power essential medical equipment, it may qualify as a medical expense deduction. Also, in some cases, businesses can deduct a generator as a business expense if it supports operations. Always consult a tax professional to determine eligibility based on your specific circumstances and the applicable IRS regulations.

Yes, natural gas generators can work without electricity. Natural gas generators are a common type of backup or whole-house generator that operates when the electrical grid isn’t working. The trick is using a transfer switch (which usually needs to be installed with the generator) that safely switches the home electrical system from the power grid to generator power when needed.

An undersized whole-house generator has the potential to overheat and shut down when you try to run a central AC system. This scenario can not only damage the whole-house generator, but can also trip your home’s breakers or cause electrical damage. To avoid this situation, hire a local generator installer to correctly size your whole-house generator.

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

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.