Top-rated generator install pros.

Get matched with top generator install pros in Atwater, MN

Enter your zip and get matched with up to 5 pros

Need a pro for your generator install project in Atwater, MN?

Select your specific project to find the pro for you.

Find Generator install pros in Atwater

Avatar for WM Electric, LLC
WM Electric, LLC
4.2(
5
)
Fixed Generator - InstallGenerator - Install - For BusinessPortable Generator - Install

Serving Atwater, MN and surrounding areas

In business since 2017

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"William is likeable, easy going, professional and courteous. Went above and beyond the normal. He brought electrical from street to tiny house. Included house, two travel trailers, etc. Worked with city for permits etc. I put all my faith in him and am happy to say I picked the right guy and company WM Electric LLC"
Response time10 mins
Recommended by100%of homeowners
Mitlyng Electric & Refrigeration
3.0(
2
)
Fixed Generator - InstallFixed Generator - RepairGenerator - Install - For Business+1 more

Serving Atwater, MN and surrounding areas

In business since 1984

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"I had two sets of LED lights that were working, but not to their full power. Cameron came over, tested the wattage, tested everything that he could, and basically explain that I needed new fixtures. In that same period of time, he also checked on another fixture upstairs that we wanted replaced, but were unsure of how long it would take or what the cost would be. He was extremely kind in explaining all of his work and that the consult for this visit would be included in the billing of the next visit as he unable to resolve the problem in the first trip. The next time Cameron came, it took him hardly anytime to get all three fixtures put in. I am extremely impressed with his efficiency, communication, and attention to detail in his work. He is a meticulous and mindful person, and is very skilled in his craft. I will definitely be recommending this electrical company to friends and family, as I feel very confident in their work."
Completed Panel
In progress wiring
Furnace
Furnace Wires Chewed
Response time5 hrs
Generator Install questions, answered by experts

To determine the right size generator for your house, you should calculate the total wattage of the appliances and devices you want to power during an outage. List all essential items, note their start-up wattages, and add them together.

Here are some typical wattage requirements for common appliances:

  • Refrigerator: 600 watts

  • Large dehumidifier: 700 watts

  • Large window air conditioner: 1,400 watts

  • Water heater: 3,000 to 4,500 watts

  • Electric furnace: 5,000 to 25,000 watts

A 7,500-watt generator might be sufficient for essentials like a refrigerator, freezer, well pump, and lighting circuits. However, for high-demand items like a water heater or furnace, a whole-home generator is a better choice. A portable generator may be enough if you only need to power a few critical items.

While home square footage can offer a rough estimate, it is not always a reliable indicator. For reference, here are some typical generator sizes based on square footage:

  • 1,000 sq ft: 6–9 kW

  • 1,500 sq ft: 7–10 kW

  • 2,000 sq ft: 10–14 kW

  • 2,500 sq ft: 12–16 kW

  • 3,000 sq ft: 16–20 kW+

For the most accurate sizing, consult a professional who can calculate your home's peak and average power consumption and recommend the optimal generator.

Sizing a generator is a careful process that requires calculating the electrical load of your entire house. You have to take into account every device you want to use and their wattage requirements, plus the wattage needed to start them, and look for a generator that can safely run all that at around 80% capacity.

In more practical terms, a small home can run on a 10,000-watt generator (and if you only want to power a few key appliances, much less than that). A mid-sized home may need something between 15,000 and 22,000 watts. Larger homes require 25,000 watts or more. 

In many cases, yes. There are models called dual-fuel generators and fuel switches, but only between certain types of fuel. For example, with the right setup you can convert a generator from natural gas to propane. Some allow switching between diesel and gasoline. There are even tri-fuel generators available in some cases, which adds a large layer of security if you are worried about fuel availability in times of crisis. Always check your generator capabilities and manual instructions before trying to switch fuels. Some generators can use another fuel but may need a fuel conversion kit to prep them first.

It is safe to run a generator continuously, but you must follow safety protocols to ensure personal and home safety. Read the manufacturer’s instructions for specific recommendations, but the general recommendation is to turn generators off overnight or when you’re away from the house. Overworked generators can pose a fire hazard and if your generator is not in a well-ventilated area, running it continuously could lead to carbon monoxide poisoning.

Costs depend on generator type, labor, and additional wiring or transfer switch requirements.

The Atwater, MN homeowners’ guide to generator installs

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