Get matched with top generator install pros in Downs, KS

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: Can you plug a generator directly into your house?

• <div><p>No, this is extremely dangerous, often illegal, and you should never attempt it. If you connect your generator to your home without a transfer switch, the generated power can backfeed, essentially flowing back into the utility lines. Backfeeding exposes a significant threat of fatalities or harm to you and utility personnel, in addition to jeopardizing the structural integrity of your home.</p></div>

Q: Can you use your electric car as a backup battery?

• <div><p>If you&rsquo;re wondering <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/using-electric-car-as-home-generator.htm">if you can use your electric vehicle as a backup battery</a>, it depends on whether your EV is compatible with bidirectional charging. This technology allows energy to flow both ways, enabling vehicle-to-home (V2H) backup power, vehicle-to-load (V2L) for appliances and camping, and vehicle-to-grid (V2G) to support the power grid. Compatible EVs convert stored DC energy into usable AC power, helping reduce energy costs and enhance grid stability while providing emergency backup power.</p></div>

Q: Is a natural gas generator less expensive than using electricity?

• <div><p>Natural gas and electricity rates vary significantly based on location, and pricing can change over time, too. It&rsquo;s possible that in locations where natural gas is particularly inexpensive, it will cost less than grid-based electricity will. However, you should also factor in the generator&rsquo;s initial costs and maintenance needs, as well as its noise level and if it can comfortably power all your home appliances.</p></div>

Q: Do you have to turn off the main breaker when using a generator?

• <div><p>As a safety measure, you should always turn off the main breaker while operating your generator&rsquo;s backup breaker. In addition, you should also switch off all appliance breakers so you don't have a power surge when the main breaker turns back on. And finally, turning off the main breaker prevents back-feeding, which endangers utility workers with the risk of electrocution. Back-feeding could also destroy the electrical circuits of your neighbors if they use the same power network.</p></div>

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Find Generator install pros in Downs

Donohue's Lightning Rods

4.89(

)

•Approved Pro

Donohue's Lightning Rods

4.89(

)

•Approved Pro

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 96% of Angi customers

54 years of experience

The modern suburban and small town home of today has become an ideal lightning target. The home owner would do well to recognize lightning for the destructive force that it is and protect against this major life and fire hazard. Donohue's Lightning Rods is based in Missouri, near the factory where most of the residential and commercial lightning rod supplies are manufactured. Jim travels regularly to Texas, Louisiana, Arkansas, Missouri, Kansas, Montana, Wyoming, Colorado, and New York. Call today to find out when Jim will be in your area. For installations outside Missouri, Kansas, or Texas, Jim waits until there are a few customers lined up, thus being able to provide the same quality services at affordable prices. **WE DO NOT DO ELECTRICAL SERVICES.** (ONLY LIGHTNING RODS)

"The job was beautifully and professionally done. I have a zero scape yard and the gentleman was concerned about disturbing the gravel when putting the rod into the ground. WOW!!!!"

Debra D on June 2025

"The job was beautifully and professionally done. I have a zero scape yard and the gentleman was concerned about disturbing the gravel when putting the rod into the ground. WOW!!!!"

Debra D on June 2025

Isaac Zimmerman

New on AngiNew on Angi

•Approved Pro

Isaac Zimmerman

New on AngiNew on Angi

•Approved Pro

3 years of experience

Free onsite estimate

I offer friendly service that works with both our schedules to make sure you get what you want, when you need it. My specialties are painting and flooring installation. I have experience with all residential construction and am ready to tackle any project.

Alexander Technical Resources

4.74(

1,889

)

Alexander Technical Resources

4.74(

1,889

)

Customers say: Super punctual

Recommended by 90% of Angi customers

Free Phone Consultation. Not sure if we can help? Give us a call, it's on us! We are more than happy to talk with you and discuss your computer problems. Fast service. In some cases we can help you right now! If not, we will schedule an appointment that fits your schedule. If you receive our answering service, please leave us a message. We will call you back as soon as possible. Domestic Based Support. Our company is based right here in the United States and all of our technicians speak clear, fluent English. Safe Interaction. By using our online support center, no one has to come out to your home to fix your computer. That means no strangers in your home and you don’t even have to get dressed, if you don’t want to. Extremely Affordable & Convenient. Unhooking your computer, dragging it out to the car, then driving to the store and dragging in there and waiting for weeks to get it back and then pay hundreds of dollars for such fantastic service. That’s the typical experience for most users. Most Issues are software based. In our experience. 85% of user’s problems are either software or operating system problems due to bugs, worms, virus’, Trojans, malware, grayware or spyware related. As long as your computer turns on and has an internet connection, we can probably solve your issue. If we find that your issue is a hardware issue, we will recommend a trusted, local support company to help you further, if possible.

"Online repair. He has helped me in the past and I cannot say enough nice things about him. The next day I had a tiny issue and he responded immediately. Thorough. Thank you!"

Jan C on February 2019

"Online repair. He has helped me in the past and I cannot say enough nice things about him. The next day I had a tiny issue and he responded immediately. Thorough. Thank you!"

Jan C on February 2019

Affordable Fans - The Fan Doctor

4.92(

)

Affordable Fans - The Fan Doctor

4.92(

)

Customers say: True professional

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

Owner operated. Additional DBA: The Fan Doctor. Licensed electrician in New Hampshire & Massachusetts. Over 30 years experience.

"Excellent parts. Fast delivery."

William W on April 2021

Owner operated. Additional DBA: The Fan Doctor. Licensed electrician in New Hampshire & Massachusetts. Over 30 years experience.

"Excellent parts. Fast delivery."

William W on April 2021

iResQ

4.84(

)

iResQ

)

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

Payment option - paypal, credit card (visa, mastercard, american express, discover) cash or local check. Additional Email - [email protected]

Showing 1-10 of 40

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.

No, this is extremely dangerous, often illegal, and you should never attempt it. If you connect your generator to your home without a transfer switch, the generated power can backfeed, essentially flowing back into the utility lines. Backfeeding exposes a significant threat of fatalities or harm to you and utility personnel, in addition to jeopardizing the structural integrity of your home.

If you’re wondering if you can use your electric vehicle as a backup battery, it depends on whether your EV is compatible with bidirectional charging. This technology allows energy to flow both ways, enabling vehicle-to-home (V2H) backup power, vehicle-to-load (V2L) for appliances and camping, and vehicle-to-grid (V2G) to support the power grid. Compatible EVs convert stored DC energy into usable AC power, helping reduce energy costs and enhance grid stability while providing emergency backup power.

Natural gas and electricity rates vary significantly based on location, and pricing can change over time, too. It’s possible that in locations where natural gas is particularly inexpensive, it will cost less than grid-based electricity will. However, you should also factor in the generator’s initial costs and maintenance needs, as well as its noise level and if it can comfortably power all your home appliances.

As a safety measure, you should always turn off the main breaker while operating your generator’s backup breaker. In addition, you should also switch off all appliance breakers so you don't have a power surge when the main breaker turns back on. And finally, turning off the main breaker prevents back-feeding, which endangers utility workers with the risk of electrocution. Back-feeding could also destroy the electrical circuits of your neighbors if they use the same power network.

The Downs, KS 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

Taylor Freitas
•
Nov 25, 2025Nov 25, 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.
Angi
•
Dec 23, 2025Dec 23, 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.
Breyden Kellam
•
Oct 30, 2025Oct 30, 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.
Alison Kasch
•
Apr 4, 2025Apr 4, 2025
How Much Does It Cost to Run a Standby Generator?
How much does it cost to run a standby generator? The answer varies based on the type and size of the generator. Find out more.
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.
Michelle Nati
•
Apr 1, 2025Apr 1, 2025
Can a Whole-House Generator Run an Air Conditioner?
A whole house generator can keep your home running during a power outage, but can it handle the energy demands of an air conditioner? Here’s what to consider.