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Mitlyng Electric & Refrigeration
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Fixed Generator - InstallFixed Generator - RepairGenerator - Install - For Business+1 more

Serving Starbuck, MN and surrounding areas

In business since 1984

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

Mitlyng Electric, HVAC & Refrigeration was founded in 1984 in Montevideo, MN, where we continue to reside. We primarily serve customers in West Central Minnesota, but have worked with clients as far away as Texas. We serve both individuals and commercial entities of any size. No job is too big or small! At Mitlyng, your satisfaction is our top concern. Our roots in small town Minnesota bring with them friendliness and respect that we integrate into every interaction. Whatever your problem or concern may be, we hope to address it in a professional, respectful, and cost-effective manner. Mitlyng Electric, HVAC & Refrigeration provides a combination of customer service and quality products to make any business or homeowner comfortable and confident with their electric, heating, and cooling systems.

Completed Panel
In progress wiring
Furnace
Furnace Wires Chewed
Response time5 hrs
Generator Install questions, answered by experts

To power a central air system during a power outage, the whole-house generator will need to be at least 5,000 watts, and this number will significantly increase for larger units. Check the specific wattage requirements of your AC unit to choose the right generator size. Consider consulting a generator installer to ensure your whole-house generator meets your electrical load needs.

You may need a permit for a portable generator if you’ll be installing a transfer switch for your primary residence or similar work. Otherwise, a permit for other uses may not be necessary. Check your local building codes or ask a local generator installer for more information about your local regulations.

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.

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.

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.

The Starbuck, MN homeowners’ guide to generator installs

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