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’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>

How long does a whole-house generator last?

• <div><p>When maintained properly, a whole-house generator can last up to <b>20 years</b>. <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 <b>$150 to $300 per year</b> 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. </p></div>

Get matched with top generator install pros in Dent, MN

Q: What size generator does my house need?

• <div><p>You can determine what size generator you need by listing the various appliances it will power during an outage. Write down the start-up watt usage, and then add them all together. </p><p>A 7,500-watt generator will run your refrigerator, freezer, well pump, and lighting circuits without a problem. However, you&rsquo;ll need an extra 3,000 to 4,500 watts to run your water heater and another 5,000 to 25,000 watts to run your electric furnace. In these instances, a whole-home generator is your best bet for running your critical equipment.</p></div>

Q: How much horsepower do I need?

• <div><p>If your home already has a grinder pump and you&rsquo;re still noticing issues (like frequently clogged toilets and sinks), it could be time to upgrade your grinder pump. Start by checking your existing horsepower. If there are four or fewer people living in your home, using a 1/2-horsepower grinder pump should be sufficient. Larger households should consider investing in a 1-horsepower grinder pump to maximize wastewater removal efforts.</p></div>

Q: How do I reduce AC startup power for a generator?

• <div><p>To reduce AC startup power for a whole-house generator, install a soft start kit or hard start capacitor, which lowers the initial surge by gradually ramping up the compressor. Using a smart load manager can also help by staggering startup loads, preventing a system overload and future costly repairs.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Generator Install pros in Dent, MN

*The Angi rating for Generator Install companies in Dent, MN 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 Dent, MN 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 28, 2025

Reviewed in May 2025
Dustin did a great job. He's done alot of installs for us as well as service. Highly recommend!
Ellendale Heating & Cooling, LLC
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Reviewed in May 2024
Steve and Dean were our installers and they were fantastic! Finished in less than a day and exactly what we wanted.
Mad City Windows & Baths
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Reviewed in May 2023
Isaiah Swanson, Austin F and Tyler D were out today to install a sump pump and dehumidifier in my crawl space. The guys were courteous, punctual and did a great job with the install and keeping the mess to a minimum. Very pleased with the work they performed.
Groundworks
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Reviewed in August 2022
I would recommend Preston and Mallard Mechanical to anybody in the area looking to buy a new furnace/AC, or even just general HVAC maintenance. We closed on our house on a Friday with the AC not working and the furnace on its way out. We called Mallard Mechanical that morning and the...
Mallard Mechanical
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Reviewed in March 2021
Installation went well.
Window Concepts of Minnesota Inc
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Reviewed in April 2020
Beware, they do not refund even when COVID19 stay home orders issued by the governor are in effect on your service date. Do not use Renee’s Limo! If they’ve done this to you too, file a complaint with the MN Attorney General.
Renee's Limousines
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Reviewed in June 2015
Installers were great, professional, courteous. They went above and beyond. Did a great job. Hard-workers.
Egress Window Guy Inc
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Reviewed in August 2014
The contractor arrived on time and performed all the work promptly. He came back twice in order to allow us time to paint woodwork before installation. Went above and beyond in many areas.
Dennis Silvers Carpentry
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Reviewed in July 2013
When contracting for the installation of a new central air system we asked for Four Seasons Electric as we had used them in the past with favorable results. Coordination was pre-arranged by the installer and Ryan came out shortly after being called and wired the system and thermostat in short...
FOUR SEASONS ELECTRIC
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Reviewed in July 2013
Dean initially came out and did a thorough work up of what would be required to install drain tile, poly sheeting, seal a crawl space and install a radon mitigation system to lower radon levels that we had tested at 6.5 pCi/L to below 4.0. Included in the bid was to install a new sump pump...
Kirchner Siding and Window Inc
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Find Generator install pros in Dent

Summerville Electric, Inc.

Summerville Electric, Inc.

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

40 years of experience

Summerville Electric, Inc. has been in business serving the Breckenridge area since 1985 and we specialize in all your electrical needs. We also provide great customer service .Please give us a call today!

"Very honest"

Daniel T on December 2020

"Very honest"

Daniel T on December 2020

Automotive, Marine, Trailer, Welding, anything mechanical and will travel to repair site. All boat repair from minor to major overhauls.

My Classic Car Trader LLC

312 Prospect Ave

2.00(

)

My Classic Car Trader LLC

312 Prospect Ave

2.00(

)

53 years of experience

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

TODD'S ALIGNMENT & REPAIR

2911 16TH ST S

5.00(

)

TODD'S ALIGNMENT & REPAIR

2911 16TH ST S

5.00(

)

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

Full Auto Repair Domestic & Import Vehicles Diesel Repair

Generator Install questions, answered by experts

You can determine what size generator you need by listing the various appliances it will power during an outage. Write down the start-up watt usage, and then add them all together.

A 7,500-watt generator will run your refrigerator, freezer, well pump, and lighting circuits without a problem. However, you’ll need an extra 3,000 to 4,500 watts to run your water heater and another 5,000 to 25,000 watts to run your electric furnace. In these instances, a whole-home generator is your best bet for running your critical equipment.

If your home already has a grinder pump and you’re still noticing issues (like frequently clogged toilets and sinks), it could be time to upgrade your grinder pump. Start by checking your existing horsepower. If there are four or fewer people living in your home, using a 1/2-horsepower grinder pump should be sufficient. Larger households should consider investing in a 1-horsepower grinder pump to maximize wastewater removal efforts.

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.

To reduce AC startup power for a whole-house generator, install a soft start kit or hard start capacitor, which lowers the initial surge by gradually ramping up the compressor. Using a smart load manager can also help by staggering startup loads, preventing a system overload and future costly repairs.

When maintained properly, a whole-house generator can last up to 20 years. Costs to maintain and repair generators 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.

The Dent, MN 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.
Breyden Kellam
•
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.
Jenna Jonaitis
•
Feb 14, 2025Feb 14, 2025
6 Questions to Ask About Installing a Fixed Backup Generator
Before installing a fixed generator, think about your use and space. Review these backup generator questions to prepare for a talk with your contractor.
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.
Tyler Lacoma
•
Mar 10, 2025Mar 10, 2025
How Do Whole-House Generators Work?
Whole house generators are a power alternative that can deal with frequent blackouts and other problems. Here’s how they function.