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>

What size generator do I need for a 1500-square-foot house?

• <div><p>A 1,500 square foot home will likely need a 15kW to 20kW generator. When deciding on whole-house generator size, add up the <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-many-watts-house.htm">total wattage</a> of the devices that you’d like to continue running during a power outage. That way, you can ensure you purchase a generator that can power your necessary appliances or medical equipment during an electrical emergency.</p></div>

Get matched with top generator install pros in Wamac, IL

Q: How much does it cost to install a whole-house generator?

• <div><p>The <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-it-cost-install-generator.htm">cost to install a whole-house generator</a> averages at <b>$5,200</b>, but costs can range from <b>$1,500 to $8,900,</b> depending on the type and size of the generator, and the labor required to install it. To find the best deal while still ensuring the unit meets all the needs of your household, hire an electrician to calculate the electrical load of your must-have appliances and electronics beforehand so you don&rsquo;t pay for more power than you need. As always, be sure to get at least three quotes to find the ideal fit for your needs and budget.</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: Can you run a whole-house generator constantly?

• <div><p>Yes, whole-house generators run constantly for extended periods. Whole-house generators can run for longer periods of time than portable generators, but be careful. First, they may need regular applications of engine oil (as frequently as daily), depending on the engine design. Second, running constantly for several days will increase the wear and tear on the generator and shorten its lifespan.</p></div>

Q: Can a 10,000-watt generator run a central AC unit?

• <div><p>A 10,000-watt generator can run a small to mid-sized central AC unit (typically up to 3 tons or 36,000 BTU) along with a few other appliances. However, larger AC units or additional loads will require a bigger generator. Consult a local generator installer to ensure you add the correct size generator to your home.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Generator Install pros in Wamac, IL

*The Angi rating for Generator Install companies in Wamac, 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 Wamac, 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 October 27, 2025

Reviewed in October 2024
The sales rep was knowledgeable and helped to narrow down the best options for us. Measurements were accurate and once the door was available, installation was scheduled quickly. The installer did a great job and made sure every detail was attended to.
Illinois Energy Windows & Siding, Inc.
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Reviewed in February 2024
Great - got it installed in about a week. Did a great job!
Copper Sky Plumbing
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Reviewed in January 2019
Made an appointment. I was given a half hour window, told we were the first appointment of the day. ( 8:30). At 9:20, called and was told that someone was coming, but couldn't promise when. At 11:40, received a message that someone was on my way. A customers time is just as valuable as the...
Popejoy Inc
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Reviewed in August 2014
Good. Jim troubleshooted the air conditioner and found a bad capacitor. Helpful info on AC life and general maintenance.
Brian and Sons INC.
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Reviewed in June 2014
From showroom to installation it was a very pleasant experience.
Creative Carpet & Flooring - Mokena
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Reviewed in May 2014
Brian replied promptly and gave me an estimate on a weekend. The job was to replace my old wood garage door with a new one, replace rotted trim molding and install a new header. I had already ordered a door which some other installers didn't want to bother with, but it wasn't a problem for...
GARAGE DOORS & MORE LLC
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Reviewed in March 2014
They do a good job. We tried multiple times to get them to close the backyard gates (to keep our dog in), but we couldn't get it done until we posted a sign in spanish! That did the trick. The staff are VERY nice people and they do a professional job. We tried to get them to do more general...
MONTANO LANDSCAPING
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Reviewed in June 2013
On the whole their service was excellent. They were on time. They were quick. They do just a general good stuff.
EZ-AIR INC
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Reviewed in April 2013
Resounded to install call promptly /job was done quality and as promised and done well.
A C ELECTRIC SVC
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Reviewed in October 2011
Cooney Funeral Home recently handled the funeral arrangements for my mother. Her family has used Cooneys since at least the late 1950s. My mother's death was very sudden and making arrangements that day would have been much more difficult had it not been for the empathic, caring, and...
COONEY FUNERAL HOMES
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Find Generator install pros in Wamac

Accent Tel USA

3501 Bessie Coleman Blvd, Suite 25203

4.89(

)

•Approved Pro

Accent Tel USA

3501 Bessie Coleman Blvd, Suite 25203

4.89(

)

•Approved Pro

Customers say: Quick response

16 years of experience

Free onsite estimate

Our Company provides a one-stop solution for all of your voice, internet, and telecom needs. Leveraging the Cloud we provide your Office state-of-the-art telephones for little or no upfront cost striving to keep your monthly costs the same. Sound too good to be true? Give us a call and we will show you how.

"Telephone System - Install or Upgrade - For Business "

Anthony O on September 2025

"Telephone System - Install or Upgrade - For Business "

Anthony O on September 2025

ADS Electric Company LLC

215 West Gallatin St

New on AngiNew on Angi

•Approved Pro

ADS Electric Company LLC

215 West Gallatin St

New on AngiNew on Angi

•Approved Pro

26 years of experience

Free onsite estimate

We are a locally owned and operated company. We value honesty and integrity in all aspects of our business. We offer a variety of home improvement services that are customized to each individual project. We pride ourselves on the quality of our work, as well as our commitment to outstanding results. We look forward to building lasting relationships with our clients and guarantee your satisfaction!

Tri-State Water, Power & Air

Tri-State Water, Power & Air

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

46 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!

"They performed everything they said would do."

Andrew H on August 2023

"They performed everything they said would do."

Andrew H on August 2023

Tri-State Water, Power & Air

1656 HEADLAND DR

1.00(

)

Tri-State Water, Power & Air

1656 HEADLAND DR

1.00(

)

33 years of experience

We are the experts in the field of Whole Home Generator Sales and Installation, with over 20 years of experience in the game. We provide turn-key installation by licensed professionals - 24 hour emergency service - Remote Monitoring - Long term maintenance and service by factory trained technicians.

"They initially contacted me via email ready to make a visit for the install. Said that they could do the project no problem. Then when they realized I wouldn’t be buying a generator from them, which I had TOLD them upfront, they canceled on me. That is not an acceptable way to do business. They should simply state that they only install generators that they sell and not waste my time."

James K on May 2025

"They initially contacted me via email ready to make a visit for the install. Said that they could do the project no problem. Then when they realized I wouldn’t be buying a generator from them, which I had TOLD them upfront, they canceled on me. That is not an acceptable way to do business. They should simply state that they only install generators that they sell and not waste my time."

James K on May 2025

Heartland Heating & Air Conditioning

511 Health Dept Rd

4.33(

)

Heartland Heating & Air Conditioning

511 Health Dept Rd

4.33(

)

Customers say: Terrific value

78 years of experience

Heartland Heating & Air is the residential arm of Heartland Mechanical Contractors. With decades of experience, a full sheet metal shop and the backing of a full commercial contractor, we can handle most any HVAC or refrigeration need.

Gatto Electric, Inc

4552 N. Sayre Avenue

No reviews yet

Gatto Electric, Inc

4552 N. Sayre Avenue

No reviews yet

14 years of experience

Licensed, bonded and insured contractors, 24/7 emergency service, paperless billing, excellent customer service, professional technicians, custom electrical design planning, custom installations, custom remodeling.

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

Lee Legler Construction & Electric Inc

181 Wolf St Unit A

4.91(

)

Lee Legler Construction & Electric Inc

181 Wolf St Unit A

4.91(

)

Customers say: Quality work

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

Generac Automatic Home Generator Dealer ,Sales and Service Home and small business electric installations, repairs and upgrades Generator Maintenance and repair Generac Home Standby Generators in stock

"Lee and his crew were very professional and did an amazing job. We now have a Generac whole house automatic standby generator ready to go if our electric service ever fails. My wife and I and our contractor all have an app that gives us the generator's status, maintenance requirements, run time, etc., etc.....if the unit fails to start (for example) we will all get an alert and they have 24/7 service so this is extremely reassuring."

Russell P on January 2023

"Lee and his crew were very professional and did an amazing job. We now have a Generac whole house automatic standby generator ready to go if our electric service ever fails. My wife and I and our contractor all have an app that gives us the generator's status, maintenance requirements, run time, etc., etc.....if the unit fails to start (for example) we will all get an alert and they have 24/7 service so this is extremely reassuring."

Russell P on January 2023

Griffin Electric Inc

340 S Schrader Ave

3.67(

)

Griffin Electric Inc

340 S Schrader Ave

3.67(

)

Customers say: Quick response

86 years of experience

We offer financing through FTL Finance for large projects such as new Furnace, Air Conditioning and Boiler Systems.

"Woke up w/o heat on a frigid January morning. After failing to get the furnace back on, we called Griffin. The owner took the call and arrived within 30 minutes. He diagnosed the problem, ran to town to get a new part, and had it installed and up-and-running in less than 2 hours, all w/o breaking the bank. He was friendly, professional, and honest."

Kurt J on January 2022

We offer financing through FTL Finance for large projects such as new Furnace, Air Conditioning and Boiler Systems.

"Woke up w/o heat on a frigid January morning. After failing to get the furnace back on, we called Griffin. The owner took the call and arrived within 30 minutes. He diagnosed the problem, ran to town to get a new part, and had it installed and up-and-running in less than 2 hours, all w/o breaking the bank. He was friendly, professional, and honest."

Kurt J on January 2022

Showing 1-10 of 11

Generator Install questions, answered by experts

The cost to install a whole-house generator averages at $5,200, but costs can range from $1,500 to $8,900, depending on the type and size of the generator, and the labor required to install it. To find the best deal while still ensuring the unit meets all the needs of your household, hire an electrician to calculate the electrical load of your must-have appliances and electronics beforehand so you don’t pay for more power than you need. As always, be sure to get at least three quotes to find the ideal fit for your needs and budget.

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.

A 1,500 square foot home will likely need a 15kW to 20kW generator. When deciding on whole-house generator size, add up the total wattage of the devices that you’d like to continue running during a power outage. That way, you can ensure you purchase a generator that can power your necessary appliances or medical equipment during an electrical emergency.

Yes, whole-house generators run constantly for extended periods. Whole-house generators can run for longer periods of time than portable generators, but be careful. First, they may need regular applications of engine oil (as frequently as daily), depending on the engine design. Second, running constantly for several days will increase the wear and tear on the generator and shorten its lifespan.

A 10,000-watt generator can run a small to mid-sized central AC unit (typically up to 3 tons or 36,000 BTU) along with a few other appliances. However, larger AC units or additional loads will require a bigger generator. Consult a local generator installer to ensure you add the correct size generator to your home.

The Wamac, 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
•
Feb 10, 2025Feb 10, 2025
How Much Does It Cost To Install a Generator Transfer Switch? [2025 Data]
The cost to install a generator transfer switch depends on several factors. Our guide will help you understand all of the costs.
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•
Aug 14, 2025Aug 14, 2025
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.
Elisa Greenberg
•
Aug 14, 2025Aug 14, 2025
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.
Heather Ayer
•
May 22, 2025May 22, 2025
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.
Kat Brancato
•
Mar 7, 2025Mar 7, 2025
Who Can I Hire to Fix a Generator?
Searching for a pro who can fix a generator? Consider hiring a generator technician or an electrician to handle the job.
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.