What can I run on different generator sizes?

• <div><p>Here’s what you can run with different wattages and types of generators:</p><p>Portable generator:</p><ul><li><p>2,000 watts can handle a large appliance like a freezer or refrigerator, plus a few smaller items like phones or computer chargers. </p></li><li><p>4,000 watts will keep two large appliances operating and a few smaller devices.</p></li><li><p>8,000 watts should power most essential appliances and other devices, including a sump pump, well pump, or your dishwasher.</p></li></ul><p>Partial to whole-house generator:</p><ul><li><p>20,000 watts and above will make it seem like your home’s power is still on.</p></li></ul><p></p></div>

Get matched with top generator install pros in Cottonwood, ID

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: How do I reduce AC startup power for a generator?

• <div><p>To reduce AC startup power for a whole-house generator, install a soft start kit or hard start capacitor, which lowers the initial surge by gradually ramping up the compressor. Using a smart load manager can also help by staggering startup loads, preventing a system overload and future costly repairs.</p></div>

Q: What can I run on different generator sizes?

• <div><p>Here&rsquo;s what you can run with different wattages and types of generators:</p><p>Portable generator:</p><ul><li><p>2,000 watts can handle a large appliance like a freezer or refrigerator, plus a few smaller items like phones or computer chargers. </p></li><li><p>4,000 watts will keep two large appliances operating and a few smaller devices.</p></li><li><p>8,000 watts should power most essential appliances and other devices, including a sump pump, well pump, or your dishwasher.</p></li></ul><p>Partial to whole-house generator:</p><ul><li><p>20,000 watts and above will make it seem like your home&rsquo;s power is still on.</p></li></ul><p></p></div>

Q: Can I plug a generator directly into my house?

• <div><p>No, you shouldn&rsquo;t use an extension cord to plug a generator directly into your home without using a transfer switch. That&rsquo;s because systems like pumps and HVAC fans need a steady power source that might not be available directly from your generator alone. If you bypass the circuit breaker box, you risk damaging your electrical system, creating a risk of <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-to-put-out-electrical-fire.htm">electrical fire</a> or electrical shock to you or any workers repairing lines on your local electrical grid.</p></div>

Q: Can you use biofuel in a whole-house generator?

• <div><p>In some situations, yes. Never try to put biofuel into any home generator without checking the specifics first. If a generator has the ability to run on diesel, it can also run pure biofuel (the clear kind made from seed oils, for example). But if you are using biofuel made from animal fats or vegetable oils, the generator will need significant modifications before it can handle a sludgier type of biofuel.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Generator Install pros in Cottonwood, ID

*The Angi rating for Generator Install companies in Cottonwood, 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 Cottonwood, 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 November 01, 2025

Reviewed in October 2024
Scott was a pleasure to work with. He knows just about everything. He did a full concrete pad with reinforcement for hot tub. Build a deck and gazebo for us. And generally it is a honest and super terrific guy. I couldn't recommend him more.
THE HOME REJUVENATOR LLC
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Reviewed in April 2020
Right Now team are the best. Jeremiah gave us a quote and we could have had the systems installed the next day. We had 3 installers put systems in and they were very efficient. We had a little issue with the install but Kyle came and stayed until the heating system was working 100%. Would hire...
Right Now Heating Cooling & Plumbing, LLC
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Reviewed in August 2017
new parts installed
Tuckers Appliance Parts & ServiCenter
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Reviewed in June 2015
About a year and half ago we purchased a LEATHER sofa from Blackers being told it was REAL LEATHER; we also bought the additional warranty. Now the arm of the sofa is peeling, real leather does not peel! Blackers will not doing anything to stand behind the furniture or warranty they sold...
BLACKER'S COMPLETE HOME FURN
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Reviewed in November 2013
Oil changes and tire rotations are just some of the minor things he does. He has also worked on our 99 Ford Ranger, trouble shooting a problem and doing a great job on tune ups. The great thing about Mike is that he will only fix what needs to be fixed. The true sign of an honest mechanic...
Mike's Corner Service
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Reviewed in August 2013
Installers showed up on time on the date agreed upon. They worked all day of the days they were on property. They cleaned up after themselves. The lead man willingly answered questions and explained and quot;thingsand quot;. They tested the installation to ensure it worked as intended....
Mike's Lawn Service LLC
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Reviewed in August 2013
They charged $98 for installation. Their prices beat everyone for carpet and installation, for Stainmaster carpet. I checked 6 different places. The installer did an excellent job on all the units. They took back carpet that I had special ordered when I didn't want it anymore. I am very...
LOWE'S
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Reviewed in May 2013
The Tyvarian Marble was a more expensive choice that was based on the reported durability and and overall look of the product. The information I was provided was through a website to a different company that apparently provides the raw materials for Pro Marble to make the products needed. I was...
Pro Marble
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Reviewed in April 2013
Generally, great experience. Very professional. Good response. We needed X cell's attendence at a City meeting that we were not able to get but this was due to tight scheduling. Otherwise, great support. Would recommende to others.
XCELL ENGINEERING
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Find Generator install pros in Cottonwood

Rock Solid Electric LLC

Rock Solid Electric LLC

Customers say: Quality work

Recommended by 90% of Angi customers

27 local quotes requested

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!

"Very honest., they estimated 2 hours and were spot on. Everything was clean when they left. The invoice was half of what was quoted because as Joseph said, you don't know what your getting into until you actually see the what is needed. I would highly recommend this company ð D Barry"

Douglas B on July 2023

"Very honest., they estimated 2 hours and were spot on. Everything was clean when they left. The invoice was half of what was quoted because as Joseph said, you don't know what your getting into until you actually see the what is needed. I would highly recommend this company ð D Barry"

Douglas B on July 2023

WESTSIDE ELECTRIC COMPANY LLC

Serving Backcountry Services In Secesh, Warren And Yellow Pine

No reviews yet

WESTSIDE ELECTRIC COMPANY LLC

Serving Backcountry Services In Secesh, Warren And Yellow Pine

No reviews yet

9 years of experience

Westside Electric Company, LLC is your trusted partner for all electrical needs in McCall, Idaho, and beyond. With a deep commitment to quality, we offer a full range of electrical services, ensuring your industrial and commercial operations run at peak efficiency. Since 2016, we’ve proudly served backcountry communities in Secesh, Warren, and Yellow Pine. Our team of seasoned experts provides top-notch industrial electrical work, including wiring, installation, maintenance, and repair. For businesses of all sizes, we deliver commercial electrical services, from lighting and wiring to electrical panel upgrades, ensuring compliance and operational efficiency. In addition to industrial and commercial services, we handle comprehensive electrical infrastructure construction. This includes equipment installation, surface and underground infrastructure, excavation, ductbank construction with rebar and concrete, conduit installation, and more. Westside Electric Company also offers custom, eco-friendly solar systems designed to reduce both costs and carbon footprints. We provide efficient design, installation, and maintenance to ensure optimal solar performance. For residential customers, we are here to meet all your electrical needs. Whether you require troubleshooting, repairs, new installations, or emergency services, we are just a call away. Westside Electric Company, LLC has proudly completed work for local businesses and organizations, including Little Ski Hill, Manchester Ice Rink, Alpine Automotive, North Fork Coffee Roasters, Snowdon Wildlife Sanctuary, Cafe 634, Precision Auto Detail, Sawtooth Flying Service, McCall Brewery Company, and GooseCreekHaven. Call us today at 208-484-5193 or email [email protected]. We look forward to powering your success. License #026505

My Classic Car Trader LLC

312 Prospect Ave

2.00(

)

My Classic Car Trader LLC

312 Prospect Ave

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.

To reduce AC startup power for a whole-house generator, install a soft start kit or hard start capacitor, which lowers the initial surge by gradually ramping up the compressor. Using a smart load manager can also help by staggering startup loads, preventing a system overload and future costly repairs.

Here’s what you can run with different wattages and types of generators:

Portable generator:

2,000 watts can handle a large appliance like a freezer or refrigerator, plus a few smaller items like phones or computer chargers.
4,000 watts will keep two large appliances operating and a few smaller devices.
8,000 watts should power most essential appliances and other devices, including a sump pump, well pump, or your dishwasher.

Partial to whole-house generator:

20,000 watts and above will make it seem like your home’s power is still on.

No, you shouldn’t use an extension cord to plug a generator directly into your home without using a transfer switch. That’s because systems like pumps and HVAC fans need a steady power source that might not be available directly from your generator alone. If you bypass the circuit breaker box, you risk damaging your electrical system, creating a risk of electrical fire or electrical shock to you or any workers repairing lines on your local electrical grid.

In some situations, yes. Never try to put biofuel into any home generator without checking the specifics first. If a generator has the ability to run on diesel, it can also run pure biofuel (the clear kind made from seed oils, for example). But if you are using biofuel made from animal fats or vegetable oils, the generator will need significant modifications before it can handle a sludgier type of biofuel.

The Cottonwood, ID homeowners’ guide to generator installs

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

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Aug 14, 2025Aug 14, 2025
How Much Does a Whole-House Generator Cost? [2025 Data]
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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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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.
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Choosing a Generator for Hurricane Season: A Complete Guide
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15 Generator Uses for Homeowners
A portable generator can serve several uses beyond its traditional purpose. If you’re looking for ways to put your generator to work, our guide can help.