How long does a whole-house generator last?

<div>When maintained properly, a whole-house generator can last up to 20 years. <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-generator-repair-cost.htm">Costs to maintain and repair generators</a> vary by location and type of generator, but you can expect to pay about $150 to $300 per year for annual generator maintenance checks. An experienced generator service technician will inspect your generator’s engine filter, starting mechanism, fuel, lubrication, and coolant levels to keep your generator in good working condition for as long as possible. </div>

How do I know what size generator I need?

<div>When <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/what-size-generator-do-i-need.htm">choosing the right size generator</a> for your needs, consider a few items to help calculate the wattage you’ll need. Start by determining which household items and appliances you want to power, and then add the wattages together. Check out the wattage of these essential appliances:<ul><li>Refrigerator: 600 watts</li><li>Large dehumidifier: 700 watts</li><li>Large window air conditioner: 1,400 watts</li><li>Water heater: 3,000 watts</li></ul>Running home appliances like these requires a partial or whole-house generator. A portable generator may be enough to power your home if you only plan to keep a refrigerator and freezer running. </div>

What can I run on different generator sizes?

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

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

<div><a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-it-cost-install-generator.htm">Installing a whole-house generator costs</a> about $5,000 on average. Prices range from $1,550 to $8,500, depending on size, brand, fuel type, and assembly. The size of your whole-house generator is the most significant cost factor, with large homes with high energy demands costing the most to power. Types of whole-home generators include:<ul><li>Portable generators with 1kW&ndash;7.5kW capacity: $500&ndash;$2,000</li><li>Partial generators with 9kW&ndash;20kW capacity: $2,000&ndash;$6,300</li><li>Whole-house generators with 22kW&ndash;48kW: $5,000&ndash;$18,000</li></ul></div>

Q: What can I run on different generator sizes?

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

There are 2 highly-rated local generator installers.

Verified Reviews for Generator Installation pros in Adrian, MI

*The Angi rating for Generator Installation companies in Adrian, MI is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Generator Installation needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Generator Installation companies in Adrian, MI is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Generator Installation needs.

Last update on June 12, 2025

Reviewed in April 2022
Excellent!! Even with the delays caused by shortage of materials and slowed transportation of the generator and chip, Shawn came through with his very good crew and got the job done. Everything was put back and cleaned up. We couldn’t be happier. We recommend Gen Pro wholeheartedly!!
Gen Pro LLC
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Reviewed in April 2012
Untangled questions by speaking directly to retailer from whom it was purchased several years ago. Very professional and helpful. Would use again.
Macson Electric LLC
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Reviewed in July 2022
Everything went smoothly they was here in a timely manner at the time they said they would be here when the work was done they were very good at walking you through and explaining how everything works and double checking all their work I would definitely recommend them
Richards Electrical
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Reviewed in November 2017
Extensive repairs were done. Took three hours with new parts needed. Workman was prompt and kept me informed of what he was doing through the process. Several weeks later it didn't start for its test run again. Workman came out promptly and made adjustment. Told me to keep an eye on it and call...
Stein Electric Co Inc
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Reviewed in March 2017
Job went very good, their technician Nathan was great to work with, explained everything. I don't want to forget and not mention Brenda and Tim, they were great.
T.M.A. Electric LLC
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Reviewed in March 2014
Jeff and crew rewired my entire house and installed a Gererac generator for my wife and I. They did all work on time and did a professional job. We also threw many changes at him during the job and he never complained. He had a lot of ideas on lighting that we would not have thought of. He is...
JN Electrical Services
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Reviewed in August 2012
Dennis and his installation team performed timely and professionally and delivered as promised! I highly recommend B & T Electric!
B & T Electric Inc
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Reviewed in October 2017
It can be summed up with the words of the city inspector who signed off on the job ..... " This is some of the best work I have seen..." Beyond superior work quality, Steve too the time to explain the pros and cons of the various installation options and system add-ons that were available and...
Cornerstone Power Solutions
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