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 to run a fridge?

• <div><p>While the rating will tell you how many watts the refrigerator needs at the peak of its cycle, it requires additional wattage to start. At the bare minimum, you’ll need a 1,500-watt generator to get the fridge up and running after a blackout. A 2,000-watt generator should be sufficient for most home refrigerators.</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: Can a 10,000-watt generator run a central AC unit?

• <div><p>A 10,000-watt generator can run a small to mid-sized central AC unit (typically up to 3 tons or 36,000 BTU) along with a few other appliances. However, larger AC units or additional loads will require a bigger generator. Consult a local generator installer to ensure you add the correct size generator to your home.</p></div>

Q: Can I plug a generator directly into my house?

• <div><p>No, you shouldn&rsquo;t use an extension cord to plug a generator directly into your home without using a transfer switch. That&rsquo;s because systems like pumps and HVAC fans need a steady power source that might not be available directly from your generator alone. If you bypass the circuit breaker box, you risk damaging your electrical system, creating a risk of <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-to-put-out-electrical-fire.htm">electrical fire</a> or electrical shock to you or any workers repairing lines on your local electrical grid.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Generator Install pros in Miles City, MT

*The Angi rating for Generator Install companies in Miles City, MT 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 Miles City, MT 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 12, 2025

Reviewed in August 2024
Terrible customer service and product. Windows were of poor quality when they delivered them late. Installed them incorrectly and then a year later still haven't fixed the issues or even installed all the original windows. We're still waiting and no service, no apologies and no refunds. ...
Your Home Improvement Company, LLC
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Reviewed in September 2023
The crew worked hard and the install was done faster than expected. Very courteous and with wonderful care. Clean up was excellent. Very satisfiedwith the install and the windows are everything that was promised. They are beautiful.
Renewal by Andersen of Montana
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Reviewed in March 2023
Best customer service! I called Paul to repair our Monogram refrigerator because it stopped working. Paul was very knowledgeable, and he was able to identify the problem quickly. He ordered a new part and in few days he came back to installed it. The refrigerator works perfectly and we are very...
Big Horn Appliance Repair and Maintenance
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Reviewed in October 2015
First rate service, sales & installation. Not cheap but worth the extra money.
Matrix Mechanical Inc
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Reviewed in May 2015
Although we had to wait 6 months for installation we are extremely pleased with Lynnrich's quality and the professionalism of their employees. We would recommend them to anyone!
Lynnrich Seamless Siding Windows & Doors
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Reviewed in February 2014
Installed heating system. Air conditioning unit will be installed this spring. So far they have been wonderful to work with. Crew was professional and prompt. We love the heating system. Will update when we have air-conditioning unit installed.
Comfort Heating & Air Conditioning LLC
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Reviewed in February 2014
RED LODGE GLASS WINDOW AND DOOR REPLACED AN INSULATED 68x56 PICTURE WINDOW, CRACKED BECAUSE OF PREVIOUS INCORRECT INSULATION BY ANOTHER CONTRACTOR. RED LODGE GLASS REMOVED THE OLD TOO TIGHT INSTALLED GLASS, DISPOSED OF IT OFF SITE, CORRECTED THE INSULATION, INSTALLED THE NEW GLASS AND WERE VERY...
RED LODGE GLASS
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Reviewed in May 2013
Not happy with the results. Most of the treads are now bowing upward and peeling off the supporting structure. Treads were nailed instead of screwed and nails are starting to pop up. The treads are starting to split. He should have used screws and there was something grossly wrong with...
SOUTH TEXAS SIDING
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Reviewed in April 2013
They installed a new furnace for us. The price was fair, they were prompt and courteous. They did good work in a timely fashion and they cleaned up the area nicely as well as dispose of the old one. I would definitely use them again. We also called them to check out and service our central...
MIDWEST HEATING & COOLING
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Reviewed in January 2013
The initial contact and home visit went well. The Kenco rep didn't pressure us into anything we didn't need, but devised a system that works perfectly for our specific situation. It took a while to get an appointment for an installation, and while the original rep had planned to come out for the...
KENCO SECURITY & TECHNOLOGY
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Find Generator install pros in Miles City

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

A 10,000-watt generator can run a small to mid-sized central AC unit (typically up to 3 tons or 36,000 BTU) along with a few other appliances. However, larger AC units or additional loads will require a bigger generator. Consult a local generator installer to ensure you add the correct size generator to your home.

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.

No, you shouldn’t use an extension cord to plug a generator directly into your home without using a transfer switch. That’s because systems like pumps and HVAC fans need a steady power source that might not be available directly from your generator alone. If you bypass the circuit breaker box, you risk damaging your electrical system, creating a risk of electrical fire or electrical shock to you or any workers repairing lines on your local electrical grid.

While the rating will tell you how many watts the refrigerator needs at the peak of its cycle, it requires additional wattage to start. At the bare minimum, you’ll need a 1,500-watt generator to get the fridge up and running after a blackout. A 2,000-watt generator should be sufficient for most home refrigerators.

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 Miles City, MT 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

Elisa Greenberg
•
Aug 14, 2025Aug 14, 2025
How Much Does a Whole-House Generator Cost? [2025 Data]
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How Much Propane Does a Whole-House Generator Use?
When the power goes out, your whole house generator can keep your home running if it has enough propane to fuel it. Read our guide to propane use for whole house generators to determine how much you need.
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•
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What Size Generator Do I Need? A Guide to Choosing the Right Generator for Your Home
Emergency generators come in many types and sizes to suit various needs. If you’re wondering what size generator to buy, here’s what to consider.
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•
Mar 14, 2025Mar 14, 2025
Whole-House Generator Sizing: Everything You Need to Know
Whole house generator sizing can be tricky to figure out if you don’t know a few key factors. Our guide can help you determine what size works best for your needs.