Get matched with top generator install pros in Makanda, IL

Q: 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&rsquo;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>

Q: Are there tax credits for home generators?

• <div><p>In most cases, there are no tax credits available for home generators. However, that&rsquo;s a general statement that applies to federal tax credits, so you might have access to state or local tax incentives. You can check the <a href="https://www.dsireusa.org">Database of State Incentives for Renewables &amp; Efficiency (DSIRE)</a> for more information about your area. If you hire a reliable home generator installer, they should also know if there are any state or local perks you can use to reduce your installation costs, including tax breaks and rebates.</p></div>

Q: Do diesel generators have any important downsides?

• <div><p>While diesel is relatively stable, it won&rsquo;t last nearly as long as propane and you may have to replace it if it sits unused for too long. Diesel can sometimes struggle to work efficiently or start engines during especially cold weather, so it&rsquo;s not the best choice for every climate. Compared to fuels like propane and natural gas, diesel generators tend to be noisier and create more exhaust, which isn&rsquo;t always ideal for home use. </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>

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 Makanda, IL

*The Angi rating for Generator Install companies in Makanda, IL 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 Makanda, IL 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 February 24, 2026

Reviewed in February 2026
Josiah did an excellent job with the drywall! He was always on time and very attentive to detail. He did such a great job, I had him come back to add rock panels to my exterior patio walls and install a new dishwasher as well!
Cornerstone Operations
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Reviewed in May 2025
They did a wonderful and beautiful job on reframing and installing the tile I would highly recommend this company for all future projects
AAA Flooring Specialist
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Reviewed in July 2023
Bill and his crew were timely and very good. Did the job and cleaned up everything the way that it was. Have had other installers leave a mess but not them. Very happy with the work and knowledge. Would recommend for others to call them first.
Pick 6 Carpentry
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Reviewed in April 2023
Leon quoted me less than half of what other landscaping companies were. He had great communication about when he was coming to do the work. We had him clear out flower beds to install rock, mulch and some plants, take down a small tree and remove rocks that were around the tree. Everything...
TrueCare Landscaping, LLC
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Reviewed in November 2022
Great product and the installers were very professional and did a great job. Clean-up was a little lite. I found a jelly jar full of nails and parts that could puncture a vehicle or mower tire, but to be fair, they worked past dark, and had a long drive home. Overall I was, and am very pleased...
LeafGuard
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Reviewed in October 2022
Ron was very professional and was available when I called! He kept me informed on every step of the progress! The prices were great, and the quality of the windows was exceptional! The install team was great as well! They were efficient, professional and completely replaced the windows in...
AmeriSide Exteriors
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Reviewed in July 2022
Hunter installed a new kitchen vent hood, fixed my basement door, and painted my fireplace. He did a great job. He is a great communicator and worked very hard. He is reliable and trustworthy. I highly recommend him! Hunter, thank you very much!
Good English
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Reviewed in September 2021
Ayres provided me prompt service when we had wind damage to our roof, and found an economical solution. With a the doorway install, the company finished sooner than expected, well under budget. Will surely use their services again.
Ayres Building & Roofing, Inc.
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Reviewed in September 2021
Dave knew his business and engineered the entire installation including new boiler, radiators and two ac systems.
Deboer Mechanical Systems
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Reviewed in August 2020
Few months ago, we hired Eli at SES builders to do a major renovation at our house that included the kitchen, bathrooms, installation of new wood floor for the entire house on top of energy efficient double glass windows and all the doors (inside and out). We were very happy with the whole...
SES Builders inc
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Find Generator install pros in Makanda

Holtzclaw Electric

4.9(

)

Fixed Generator - InstallGenerator - Install - For BusinessGenerator - Repair - For Business+1 more

Serving Makanda, IL and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2009

Credit card accepted

Offers commercial services

"Brandon and team wired our new build and did an exceptional job. They showed up when they said they would and we couldnâ t have asked for better service."

Response time2 hrs

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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

Serving Makanda, IL and surrounding areas

Approved

Super Service Award Winner

In business since 2024

Free estimates

Warranties offered

"Very pleased with the quality of the kitchen cabinet installation. Company we contacted with for counter tops also commented on the quality of their work. Customer service was excellent. They arrived as scheduled and quickly responded to messages. Work was done well and on time."

Response time2 days

Response rate90%

68 neighbors recently requested a quote

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Enderle electrical

New to Angi

Fixed Generator - InstallFixed Generator - RepairPortable Generator - Install+1 more

Serving Makanda, IL and surrounding areas

Approved

We are a small company that offers big rewards. I hire employees that have been going to a trade school and college. We offer very competitive estimate and work around your schedule.

5 neighbors recently requested a quote

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

Serving Makanda, IL and surrounding areas

In business since 2017

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Very professional and did everything that he said he was going to do. Great prices too!"

Response time8 hrs

4 neighbors recently requested a quote

Recommended by75%of homeowners

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Electrical Detectives

4.1(

)

Fixed Generator - InstallFixed Generator - RepairPortable Generator - Install+1 more

Serving Makanda, IL and surrounding areas

In business since 1968

Warranties offered

Credit card accepted

"Very personal, knowledgeable, and friendly"

Response time1 day

Recommended by85%of homeowners

Portable Generator - Install

Serving Makanda, IL and surrounding areas

In business since 2019

Free estimates

Offers commercial services

"John installed an outdoor generator connection and a lockout on the main panel. A very fair price, good communication and a very professional, quality installation."

Response time1 day

Response rate99%

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Generator - Install - For BusinessGenerator - Repair - For Business

Serving Makanda, IL and surrounding areas

In business since 2020

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"Satisfaction guarantee and I highly recommend."

Response time1 day

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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West KY Home Power, LLC

0.0(

)

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

Serving Makanda, IL and surrounding areas

In business since 2007

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

West KY Home Power, LLC, has been doing generator installations and service work for over 15 years. Call us today and never be without power again!

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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SOILES

New to Angi

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

Serving Makanda, IL and surrounding areas

SO.IL.E.S. in short stands for Southern Illinois Electric Services. We provide customers with a straightforward service. 15+ years of experience. Anything from Solar, Generators, to just replacing switches and outlets.

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Jm electrical

New to Angi

Fixed Generator - Install

Serving Makanda, IL and surrounding areas

I am a qualified electrician trying to get side jobs to eventually branch out on my own fair prices and quality work

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Showing 1-10 of 13

Generator Install questions, answered by experts

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.

In most cases, there are no tax credits available for home generators. However, that’s a general statement that applies to federal tax credits, so you might have access to state or local tax incentives. You can check the Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency (DSIRE) for more information about your area. If you hire a reliable home generator installer, they should also know if there are any state or local perks you can use to reduce your installation costs, including tax breaks and rebates.

While diesel is relatively stable, it won’t last nearly as long as propane and you may have to replace it if it sits unused for too long. Diesel can sometimes struggle to work efficiently or start engines during especially cold weather, so it’s not the best choice for every climate. Compared to fuels like propane and natural gas, diesel generators tend to be noisier and create more exhaust, which isn’t always ideal for home use.

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.

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 Makanda, IL 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.