Get matched with top generator install pros in Shafer, MN

Q: What’s the normal lifespan of a diesel generator?

• <div><p>You can expect a diesel generator to last for up to <b>30,000 hours of use</b>, which works out to 20 to 25 years with the proper maintenance, of course. That depends on how much you use it, so a diesel generator used for emergencies a couple of times a year will last a lot longer than a generator that takes over for a faulty electrical grid every month for a day or two. </p></div>

Q: Do you have to turn off the main breaker when using a generator?

• <div><p>As a safety measure, you should always turn off the main breaker while operating your generator&rsquo;s backup breaker. In addition, you should also switch off all appliance breakers so you don't have a power surge when the main breaker turns back on. And finally, turning off the main breaker prevents back-feeding, which endangers utility workers with the risk of electrocution. Back-feeding could also destroy the electrical circuits of your neighbors if they use the same power network.</p></div>

Q: How much does it cost to install a generator?

• <div><p>The typical <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-it-cost-install-generator.htm">cost of a home generator</a> is around <b>$5,000</b>, but prices range from <b>$400 up to $13,000</b>, depending on a few factors. The most significant cost factor is the generator size, as larger generators that can support more square footage usually cost more. You can install an emergency backup generator for between <b>$500 and $2,000</b> or a partial-home generator for between <b>$2,000 and $6,500</b>. Whole-home generators usually total between <b>$5,000 and $13,000</b>, with some models climbing as high as <b>$18,000</b>.</p></div>

Q: What size generator do I need for my house?

• <div><p><a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/what-size-generator-do-i-need.htm">Generator size requirements</a> vary wildly among properties, but typical generator sizes are listed below based on home square footage:</p><ul><li><p>1,000 sq ft: 6&ndash;9 kW</p></li><li><p>1,500 sq ft: 7&ndash;10 kW</p></li><li><p>2,000 sq ft: 10&ndash;14kW</p></li><li><p>2,500 sq ft: 12&ndash;16kW</p></li><li><p>3,000 sq ft: 16&ndash;20kW+</p></li></ul><p>Unfortunately, home square footage isn&rsquo;t always a good indicator of generator size requirements. Instead, you should call in a professional to discuss which items in your home you&rsquo;d like to run via your generator. They can calculate peak and average consumption for those items and then size your generator appropriately for optimal performance.</p></div>

Q: Are generators safe?

• <div><p>When installed and used correctly, generators are safe to use. The <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/power-out-3-tips-safely-operate-home-generator.htm">most critical generator safety tips</a> to keep in mind are:</p><ul><li><p>Never use a portable generator inside an enclosed space, as the carbon monoxide exhaust it creates is lethal.</p></li><li><p>Never attempt to connect your generator to your home&rsquo;s electrical panel independently; hire a professional for this dangerous job.</p></li><li><p>Never overload your generator by connecting more appliances than for which it&rsquo;s rated; you can damage your generator and appliances or even cause a fire.</p></li></ul><p></p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Generator Install pros in Shafer, MN

*The Angi rating for Generator Install companies in Shafer, 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 Shafer, 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 December 31, 2025

Reviewed in May 2024
Outstanding worker! I just recently bought a house and it needed new gutters. A friend of mine recommended Thomas so I gave him a call and in about 5 hours the job was done! Fast and easy! Will be recommending him to others!
Grulke Building & Remodeling
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Reviewed in February 2024
Techs are consistently considerate and explain everything very well.
McQuillan Home Services LLC
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Reviewed in September 2022
I am not scheduling the installation of my fence until spring but I have been given all the information I need for my decision.
Hidden Fence of the Midwest , Inc.
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Reviewed in June 2022
Everyone from sales to install was extremely nice and helpful. Price was good, install was fast, quality seems great. Install crews (drivers and panel install crew) were extremely friendly and helpful. Would definitely recommend and I’m picky.
Northland Fence Minnesota
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Reviewed in June 2022
Everything about my experience with Outdoor Solutions was positive. Jim was very easy to work with, flexible, and timely in his response to my questions. I was very appreciative that his company was willing to take on a smaller deck repair job. I had contacted at least 6 other companies over the...
Outdoor Solutions Inc
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Reviewed in July 2021
Great pricing on the windows and the product was superior to others we reviewed. Installation went well and the installers were meticulous in getting the windows installed in a timely manner. Upon completion, the installers cleaned up all debris and made sure everything was completed and working.
Builders & Remodelers Inc
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Reviewed in April 2021
Each crew that came in were friendly, very competent and cleaned up after each task was finished. From demo, plumbing, electric, cabinetry, finishing you name they were very professional and well worth every penny spent on this project. We have more project for them to do in the future. Would...
Craftsman Renovations LLC
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Reviewed in November 2020
Facia installed looked better than the original install, it was straight and not one bit uneven, Shingles install was the best install I’ve seen, every corner and angle was put together perfect. I have had 3 storm damage roof repairs in 10 years and used a different contractor on each. I wish I...
EZ Home Solutions
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Reviewed in February 2020
My salesman Chris was amazing- explained everything in detail and answered all of our questions. The install crew were very friendly and neat and went above and beyond my expectations. Would hire them again in a heartbeat!
Budget Exteriors Inc
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Reviewed in February 2020
Very good experience! Came on time and got everything installed in one day. Prompt and efficient.
Pronto Heating & Air Conditioning
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