What are the pros and cons of using a natural gas generator?

• <div><p>Potential benefits of using a natural gas generator include reducing your carbon footprint, lower likelihood of carbon monoxide exposure, budget-friendly operating costs, and low-maintenance, continuous fuel supply. Some possible drawbacks, though, include higher initial <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-it-cost-install-generator.htm">installation costs</a>, dependency on a natural gas supply, and installation complexity. Keep in mind that pros and cons will vary based on the type and brand of natural gas generator. </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>

Get matched with top generator install pros in Lake Crystal, MN

Q: Is using a generator safe?

• <div><p>As long as your generator is used as recommended by the manufacturer, it&rsquo;s safe to use for auxiliary power. Make sure that fuel powered generators are used outdoors and that the fumes dissipate away from your home. A professional generator installer will ensure your generator&rsquo;s placement and set-up meets safety standards when installing or repairing your back-up power source.</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>

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>

Q: What are the disadvantages of a standby generator?

• <div><p>While standby generators provide essential backup power, they can fail when you need them most due to lack of maintenance, fuel supply issues, dead batteries, electrical problems, or improper installation. To avoid costly failures, professional installation and regular maintenance are crucial. Licensed technicians ensure safety, uphold warranty requirements, comply with regulations, and provide expert servicing.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Generator Install pros in Lake Crystal, MN

*The Angi rating for Generator Install companies in Lake Crystal, 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 Lake Crystal, 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 November 15, 2025

Reviewed in June 2025
The salesperson was great. The installers were kind and polite. Most important, the windows are fantastic!
Window Concepts of Minnesota Inc
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Reviewed in March 2024
The installer was prompt, courteous, got the job done efficiently & quietly with excellent results. I was impressed with the service.
Mad City Windows & Baths
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Reviewed in January 2017
It went well. Although we have not seen the new system in action as we are in winter, but the install staff was awesome, efficient and clean.
Complete Basement Systems
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Reviewed in October 2016
We recently had some very heavy rains and as a result of a shoddy installation, we had a considerable amount of water in our basement. The water was about 3 inches deep and ruined the composite flooring and a section of the wall. It was not the window itself that leaked but the result of the...
Your Home Improvement Company, LLC
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Reviewed in May 2014
Very professional, took time to check everything as an update. Willing to meet to discuss new equipment needs and installation. Very impressed with their plumbing work. Will certainly continue to contact for future needs.
McGowan Water Conditioning Inc
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Reviewed in December 2013
Gene's has been doing all of our Audi repair for the last 6 years. This past July they replaced the window regulator in our S4. This is a common issues after a few years. The middle of December the window failed again, even though the normal warranty on repair parts is 90 days, Kip provided...
GENE'S REPAIR
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Reviewed in May 2013
Service was for apartment we own. When I call Roger and Steve, I give them phone numbers for our tenants. They contact tenants to set up service time, and take care of any problems we incur. Then, they send us a bill. Their services are very reasonable, and they can generally take care of...
Jerry's Plumbing Service
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Reviewed in February 2013
My wife and I hired Andrew @ Green Level Construction to install hardwood floors in our upsatairs living room. Andrew showed up on Saterday and the Job was done on Monday. In 3 days the carpet was removed and and hardwood was installed. Andrew is insightful and gives great ideas but also...
Green Level Construction
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Reviewed in November 2012
After months of prodding they finallyagreed to replace our faucet as prescribed in the original warranty with "only" an installation fee. Our installation fee was $380.67. Buyer beware!
Paul's Plumbing And Heating
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Reviewed in October 2012
Over the past eight years, Schwickerts has installed various plumbing fixtures in kitchen and bath, re-worked our old radiator system, and installed our central air conditioning unit. In each case, they always arrived on time and treated my home as if it were their own. They clean up...
Schwickert's a Tecta America Co
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Find Generator install pros in Lake Crystal

Jay's Outdoor Equipment and Repair

4.50(

)

Jay's Outdoor Equipment and Repair

4.50(

)

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

We accept cash, check, and major credit cards.

My Classic Car Trader LLC

2.00(

)

My Classic Car Trader LLC

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

Potential benefits of using a natural gas generator include reducing your carbon footprint, lower likelihood of carbon monoxide exposure, budget-friendly operating costs, and low-maintenance, continuous fuel supply. Some possible drawbacks, though, include higher initial installation costs, dependency on a natural gas supply, and installation complexity. Keep in mind that pros and cons will vary based on the type and brand of natural gas generator.

As long as your generator is used as recommended by the manufacturer, it’s safe to use for auxiliary power. Make sure that fuel powered generators are used outdoors and that the fumes dissipate away from your home. A professional generator installer will ensure your generator’s placement and set-up meets safety standards when installing or repairing your back-up power source.

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.

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.

While standby generators provide essential backup power, they can fail when you need them most due to lack of maintenance, fuel supply issues, dead batteries, electrical problems, or improper installation. To avoid costly failures, professional installation and regular maintenance are crucial. Licensed technicians ensure safety, uphold warranty requirements, comply with regulations, and provide expert servicing.

The Lake Crystal, 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

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Pros and Cons of a Whole-House Generator
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