Can you run a natural gas generator constantly all day?

• <div><p>Natural gas generators are designed to run for extended periods of time, such as power outages during a natural disaster. Since there’s no limit to the supply of natural gas, they don’t need to stop for refills. However, generators do need maintenance, including pauses to check and add oil. Constantly running them will also cause a lot more wear and tear, leading to a shorter lifespan.</p></div>

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Q: Do I really need a generator transfer switch?

• <div><p>Yes, in some locations, it is required by the National Electric Code (NEC) to have a transfer switch installed for <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/what-is-an-electrical-emergency.htm">electrical emergencies</a>. In addition to following electrical code, generator transfer switches ensure your home is fully protected during a power outage. By switching the power from the main breaker to the generator breaker, you can seamlessly operate your HVAC, lights, appliances, devices, and more during an emergency. </p></div>

Q: Do I need a permit to install a generator?

• <div><p>In most municipalities, you will need a permit to install a permanent home generator, including emergency backup, partial-home, and whole-home generators. A permit for a generator usually costs between <b>$50 and $250</b>, depending on where you live. Your electrician or certified generator installer will usually pull the permit for you&mdash;and might be required to do so by your building department&mdash;but you&rsquo;ll be on the hook for the cost of the permit. You should ask your installer before agreeing to any work if they will pull the necessary permits for your project.</p></div>

Q: Should I buy a solar battery or a generator?

• <div><p>If you&rsquo;re deciding between a <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/solar-batteries-vs-generators.htm">solar battery versus a generator</a> for the best backup power solution, you can take a few factors into consideration. Solar batteries are quiet while generators can be quite loud. Generators have a lower up-front cost, but they require fuel and ongoing maintenance while solar batteries are more expensive but don&rsquo;t have many ongoing costs. </p></div>

Q: Do installations include unit assembly?

• <div><p>Many services include assembling the unit and securing it in the window. Confirm with your provider.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Generator Install pros in Windom, MN

*The Angi rating for Generator Install companies in Windom, 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 Windom, 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 10, 2025

Reviewed in September 2025
I honestly can’t say enough about the crew that came out to my home. I have had nothing but water issues, draining issues, damage to gardens and foundation to my home with the prior gutters installed when I purchased this home. After the crew left my location had a massive rain storm with RED...
Schmidt Seamless Gutters, LLC
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Reviewed in May 2025
The estimate was fair &reasonable. The project was scheduled within a week. The installers worked quickly and professionally. I was very happy with RC Seamless Gutters!
RC Seamless Gutters
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Reviewed in May 2025
I hired Dustin to come install my air conditioner. He has done work for me a few times. I have known him and trusted him with my equipment for years. I highly recommend him.
Ellendale Heating & Cooling, LLC
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Reviewed in November 2019
Very happy with Great Lakes and our choice for our doors. Thomas was amazing helping us with the selection process. Joe the did such a great job on the installation, we could not be happier. Thank you
Great Lakes Home Renovations
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Reviewed in July 2018
The buying process was very easy. Holly really knows her stuff! Installation guy Chuck was excellent. They color matched the house and the gutters and downspouts disappeared and were hard to see. The colors matched that well! We got these HUGE downspouts that should handle anything. Other vinyl...
Gutter Helmet of Northern Minnesota
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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 January 2014
Contacted Conners Plumbing & Heating to come out and inspect our 12 year old leaking hot water heater to determine whether a replacement was needed. Dave was quickly able to determine that a replacement was necessary. Pricing was discussed, we obtained additional quotes, and ultimately decided...
Connors Plumbing & Heating Inc
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Reviewed in February 2012
They came out the same day and installed it the way I requested it. They seemed frustrated because my wife could not provide them with the information they needed on the phone. We were not given any options and the service tech was not very courteous or friendly. Our floor was left a mess and...
Wencl Plumbing
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Find Generator install pros in Windom

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

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

Yes, in some locations, it is required by the National Electric Code (NEC) to have a transfer switch installed for electrical emergencies. In addition to following electrical code, generator transfer switches ensure your home is fully protected during a power outage. By switching the power from the main breaker to the generator breaker, you can seamlessly operate your HVAC, lights, appliances, devices, and more during an emergency.

In most municipalities, you will need a permit to install a permanent home generator, including emergency backup, partial-home, and whole-home generators. A permit for a generator usually costs between $50 and $250, depending on where you live. Your electrician or certified generator installer will usually pull the permit for you—and might be required to do so by your building department—but you’ll be on the hook for the cost of the permit. You should ask your installer before agreeing to any work if they will pull the necessary permits for your project.

Natural gas generators are designed to run for extended periods of time, such as power outages during a natural disaster. Since there’s no limit to the supply of natural gas, they don’t need to stop for refills. However, generators do need maintenance, including pauses to check and add oil. Constantly running them will also cause a lot more wear and tear, leading to a shorter lifespan.

If you’re deciding between a solar battery versus a generator for the best backup power solution, you can take a few factors into consideration. Solar batteries are quiet while generators can be quite loud. Generators have a lower up-front cost, but they require fuel and ongoing maintenance while solar batteries are more expensive but don’t have many ongoing costs.

Many services include assembling the unit and securing it in the window. Confirm with your provider.

The Windom, 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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