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>

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>

How many days can a standby generator run continuously?

• <div><p>The <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-long-can-whole-house-generator-run-continuously.htm">amount of time a standby generator can run continuously</a> is around <b>3,000 hours</b> on average. However, standby generators can generally run indefinitely as long as they have a continuous fuel supply. Generators hooked up to a home’s natural gas supply are the best option for extended usage, as these won’t rely on a finite fuel supply based on how much you have in storage. Generators running on liquid propane or diesel won’t last as long, as these require fuel storage and regular refueling to stay running.</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>

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Q: How much does portable generator installation cost?

• <div><p>Costs range from $500 to $2,500, depending on generator type and installation complexity.</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>

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Verified Reviews for Generator Install pros in Ely, MN

*The Angi rating for Generator Install companies in Ely, 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 Ely, 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 26, 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 August 2015
A+ Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Inc. did an excellent job from start to finish. They first provided a written estimate, with various options, and discussed each carefully with me. As we were without AC (in August in FL), they provided next day installation. Their staff was prompt,...
A+ Air Conditioning & Refrigeration Inc
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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 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 Ely

Brimson Electric, LLC

Brimson Electric, LLC

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

35 local quotes requested

BRIMSON ELECTRIC LLC is a locally owned and operated company that values honesty and integrity in all aspects of our business. Our dedicated team of professionals have several years of hands on experience to provide innovative ideas and suggestions tailored to your projects. Our services are customized to your individual needs, paying close attention to the details of each project that we are involved with. Please feel free to contact us today!

"Nice guy! Easy to work with"

Marcus H on June 2023

"Nice guy! Easy to work with"

Marcus H on June 2023

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

Generator Install questions, answered by experts

Costs range from $500 to $2,500, depending on generator type and installation complexity.

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.

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.

The amount of time a standby generator can run continuously is around 3,000 hours on average. However, standby generators can generally run indefinitely as long as they have a continuous fuel supply. Generators hooked up to a home’s natural gas supply are the best option for extended usage, as these won’t rely on a finite fuel supply based on how much you have in storage. Generators running on liquid propane or diesel won’t last as long, as these require fuel storage and regular refueling to stay running.

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.

The Ely, MN homeowners’ guide to generator installs

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

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