What is the lifespan of a whole-house generator?

<div>When maintained properly, a whole-house generator can last up to 20 years. <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-generator-repair-cost.htm">Costs to maintain and repair generators</a> vary by location and type of generator, but you can expect to pay about $150 to $300 per year for annual generator maintenance checks. An experienced generator service technician will inspect your generator’s engine filter, starting mechanism, fuel, lubrication, and coolant levels to keep your generator in good working condition for as long as possible. </div>

How do I know what size generator I need?

<div>When <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/what-size-generator-do-i-need.htm">choosing the right size generator</a> for your needs, consider a few items to help calculate the wattage you’ll need. Start by determining which household items and appliances you want to power, and then add the wattages together. Check out the wattage of these essential appliances:<ul><li>Refrigerator: 600 watts</li><li>Large dehumidifier: 700 watts</li><li>Large window air conditioner: 1,400 watts</li><li>Water heater: 3,000 watts</li></ul>Running home appliances like these requires a partial or whole-house generator. A portable generator may be enough to power your home if you only plan to keep a refrigerator and freezer running. </div>

What can I run on different generator sizes?

<div>Here’s what you can run with different wattages and types of generators:Portable generator:<ul><li>2,000 watts can handle a large appliance like a freezer or refrigerator, plus a few smaller items like phones or computer chargers. </li><li>4,000 watts will keep two large appliances operating and a few smaller devices.</li><li>8,000 watts should power most essential appliances and other devices, including a sump pump, well pump, or your dishwasher.</li></ul>Partial to whole-house generator:<ul><li>20,000 watts and above will make it seem like your home’s power is still on.</li></ul></div>

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Q: How much does a whole-house generator cost?

<div><a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-it-cost-install-generator.htm">Installing a whole-house generator costs</a> about $5,000 on average. Prices range from $1,550 to $8,500, depending on size, brand, fuel type, and assembly. The size of your whole-house generator is the most significant cost factor, with large homes with high energy demands costing the most to power. Types of whole-home generators include:<ul><li>Portable generators with 1kW&ndash;7.5kW capacity: $500&ndash;$2,000</li><li>Partial generators with 9kW&ndash;20kW capacity: $2,000&ndash;$6,300</li><li>Whole-house generators with 22kW&ndash;48kW: $5,000&ndash;$18,000</li></ul></div>

Q: What can I run on different generator sizes?

<div>Here&rsquo;s what you can run with different wattages and types of generators:Portable generator:<ul><li>2,000 watts can handle a large appliance like a freezer or refrigerator, plus a few smaller items like phones or computer chargers. </li><li>4,000 watts will keep two large appliances operating and a few smaller devices.</li><li>8,000 watts should power most essential appliances and other devices, including a sump pump, well pump, or your dishwasher.</li></ul>Partial to whole-house generator:<ul><li>20,000 watts and above will make it seem like your home&rsquo;s power is still on.</li></ul></div>

There are 2 highly-rated local generator install pros.

Verified Reviews for Generator Install pros in Danbury, NC

*The Angi rating for Generator Install companies in Danbury, NC 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 Danbury, NC 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 August 06, 2025

Reviewed in April 2015
Aaron Noblitt came out and gave us a quote after we received a quote from another company. We felt more comfortable with Aaron than the other company. Before deciding on Roby Electric, we checked with Angie's List and discovered their "A" rating. We also found a coupon for $100 off. Aaron...
Roby Services
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Reviewed in March 2018
Custom cabinets and complete rewiring of area. Replaced my dated Service box to the pole and added up to code wiring. Feel much safer. I was able to update to gas hotwater heater and Chris and his guys took care of everything. Even added a Generator hookup onto the back of the house and provided...
Custom Electric & Plumbing Inc
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Reviewed in October 2021
Very well, these guys came in and were very polite, professional, and clean in working. They have done several jobs for me and they are who I always recommend. Top quality work at a great fair price.
Triad Electric Solutions
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Reviewed in February 2021
Overall it was an excellent experience very sharp knowledgeable professional gentleman I had 100% confidence and they service repair that and he performed I was 110% pleased with the outcome. If anyone out there needs repair service like this guaranteed they will be pleased definitely will call...
Andys Lawn Care and small engine repair
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Reviewed in February 2021
Great job. We had a power outage today due to ice storm. Generator is working great! Even better - Willie called to ask if our power was out and, if so, did the generator work ok? 👏👏👏
Chazown Media and Electrical, Inc.
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Reviewed in October 2020
Robert did an excellent job, was very thorough and completed the service work on time. I highly recommend this company. Wayne Newkirk
Cardinal Electric & Communications Inc
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Reviewed in June 2017
They pretty much are the only ones in the area to have the expertise to work on this generator of this size.
BECO INC
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Reviewed in April 2012
They check the generator to make sure it has oil and that it is clean and running properly. I am really happy with it. The generator runs most of my house. It was totally worthwhile. It will automatically turn on, and it won't allow electricity to run up the line, in case someone one is working...
Power Solutions
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