Is it better to repair or replace a malfunctioning generator?

• <div><p>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 <b>$300</b> on average, while <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-it-cost-install-generator.htm">installing a new whole-house generator costs</a> around <b>$5,000 </b>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.</p></div>

Can I plug my generator directly into my house?

• <div><p>No, you cannot plug a generator directly into a wall outlet in your home. Plugging in a generator without an interlocking kit, extension cord, or wall outlet receptacle is incredibly dangerous and can cause back-feeding—power from the generator back-feeds into utility lines. Also, if the main power comes back on while your generator is on, it could damage the generator and cause a house fire.</p></div>

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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: Is it better to repair or replace a malfunctioning generator?

• <div><p>It&rsquo;s usually better to repair your generator if it isn&rsquo;t working properly, as it will typically be much more affordable and should yield similar results. Generator repairs cost around <b>$300</b> on average, while <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-it-cost-install-generator.htm">installing a new whole-house generator costs</a> around <b>$5,000 </b>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.</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: Are natural gas generators worth it?

• <div><p>While natural gas generators are costly, they&rsquo;re a great option for standby power due to the reliability of natural gas as a fuel source. Unlike other fuels, natural gas is delivered through underground pipes, making outages extremely rare and less likely to be affected by the elements. As long as the area isn&rsquo;t prone to earthquakes, they offer an unlimited supply of natural gas that doesn&rsquo;t degrade over time or require storage in tanks.</p></div>

There are 5 highly-rated local generator install pros.

Verified Reviews for Generator Install pros in Gastonia, NC

*The Angi rating for Generator Install companies in Gastonia, 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 Gastonia, 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 October 04, 2025

Reviewed in April 2024
They did an amazing job. Were polite and came on time and communicated well. They will be doing all electrical jobs we have moving forward! Will always use them!
Elite Power Solutions
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Reviewed in October 2014
He came in and I wanted to put a second electrical box put in and run a wire to plug a generator in so if we lost power I could go to the one box that had the essential things I wanted to run. That was basically the service and we talked it over and at that time I was not ready to invest in...
Roby Services
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Reviewed in May 2023
The project went very smoothly. Greg and his team were on top of their game. They did what they said they were going to do it, when they were going to do it...at a fair price. By far my most favorite electrical contractor to deal with. Look forward to using them again in the future. I have...
GB Electrical Services LLC
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Reviewed in February 2014
Great service! We moved into a new house just before Christmas. We called Mike for advice and help setting up a generator. I placed the call on New Year's Day, expecting to have to leave a message. Mike answered and came by our house within the hour for our initial consultation! He was really...
Mike's Electrical Services
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Reviewed in May 2022
The team from the office to the tech all the way to the head of the company was great. They came out and knocked out the projects I had lined up. They were very professional and cleaned up once they were done. I would definitely hire again!
Gowdy Electric
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Reviewed in September 2014
They came when they said they were going to come and did the repair. When I did the check, it was working perfectly.
Premium Power Systems Inc
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Reviewed in November 2014
They did a fantastic job and I would use them again. The generator has held up fine since they came out to do the work. They were out here about 2 hours. There were no issues with scheduling and I'd recommend them!
ARC Electric Company of Indian Trail NC Inc
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Reviewed in October 2014
Scotty came out and explained the system and options very clearly. The whole process was pretty much as Scotty explained it. I was very happy with the professionalism and accommodating nature of everyone that worked on my install. If I need them to schedule around my work schedule, they were...
Mister Sparky By Wise Electric Control Inc
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