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>

How close can a transfer switch be to a generator?

• <div><p>Generally, you’ll want to keep between <b>60 and 70 feet</b> between the generator and the transfer switch. There are a few reasons for this, including:</p><ul><li><p>The distance reduces the noise coming from the generator into your home.</p></li><li><p>It increases efficiency because you won’t have a voltage drop from this short of a distance.</p></li><li><p>Prevents carbon monoxide poisoning: keep at least 15 feet between your generator and an open window. </p></li></ul><p></p></div>

Get matched with top generator install pros in Jamestown, ND

Q: What happens with the generator when the local power goes back on?

• <div><p>If you have a transfer switch properly installed, the generator and main electrical power cannot feed the system at the same time. However, you should still shut off the power at your main circuit breaker panel before activating the generator. If you do that, you&rsquo;ll simply need to shut off the generator and reset your circuit breaker once the local power comes back on.</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: What size whole house generator do I need to run central AC?

• <div><p>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 <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/whole-house-generator-sizing.htm">generator size</a>. Consider consulting a generator installer to ensure your whole-house generator meets your electrical load needs.</p></div>

Q: What size generator do I need for a 2,500-square-foot house?

• <div><p>A home that is 2,500 square feet will likely need a 20kW to 25kW generator. Consult your local generator installer to confirm the generator size needed to power your home before purchasing a new one. Be sure to consider how much power your necessary devices need to run.</p></div>

Q: How close can a transfer switch be to a generator?

• <div><p>Generally, you&rsquo;ll want to keep between <b>60 and 70 feet</b> between the generator and the transfer switch. There are a few reasons for this, including:</p><ul><li><p>The distance reduces the noise coming from the generator into your home.</p></li><li><p>It increases efficiency because you won&rsquo;t have a voltage drop from this short of a distance.</p></li><li><p>Prevents carbon monoxide poisoning: keep at least 15 feet between your generator and an open window. </p></li></ul><p></p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Generator Install pros in Jamestown, ND

*The Angi rating for Generator Install companies in Jamestown, ND 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 Jamestown, ND 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 02, 2025

Reviewed in October 2025
We had our shower/tub replaced in our main bathroom. Mad City did an excellent job. They were very informative from start to finish. Went over everything so no unexpected or hidden costs. They had diagrams to show us also. They were prompt, hard working, clean, very professional and did the...
Mad City Windows & Baths
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Reviewed in October 2025
Great to work with gets stuff done in a timely manner ,
Rob's Contracting Services
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Reviewed in September 2025
Mitch is very friendly, knowledgeable, and is definitely a jack of ALL TRADES! He has done several projects for me the latest was replacing my fence that went down in the wind. It was previously poorly installed, now it is done right, squared up and solid! He did an amazing job. I have already...
Helping Hand Handyman
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Reviewed in September 2024
Grind Stone Tops did an absolutely incredible job with my new countertops! From the moment I met their team, I knew I was in good hands. They guided me through every step, from selecting the perfect stone slab to the final touches of the installation. The quality of the material and the...
Grind Stone Tops
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Reviewed in September 2023
It was done in 1 day! I was worried originally that it was going to take a long time to finish, but it was done very quickly. They were very courteous, everyone was.
Your Home Improvement Company, LLC
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Reviewed in January 2023
They are knowledgeable about their business and know about windows. Iâ ve installed windows myself in the past and found the quality wasnâ t up to what I needed. These windows from Your Home Improvement Company ARE up to my standards.
Your Home Improvement Company, LLC
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Reviewed in January 2021
They did a absolutely fantastic job. Very clean and professional installation of my instant water heater.
Heartland Heating and Cooling Inc.
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Reviewed in October 2013
After explaining the project several times, they still did not get the design correct - even after I painted it out. Did not slope the ground away from the foundation. We did not see eye to eye and workmanship was poor. I fired him and removed the concrete edging that they installed. It did...
Miller Landscaping
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Reviewed in July 2011
Recieved all my sensors in the mail within one week. Installed myself and only took a couple of hours from start to finish and the includes the call to activate and test the sensors. Have been with Froint Point for about 2 years now and wouldn't give it up for anything. They not only monitor...
Frontpoint
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Find Generator install pros in Jamestown

Brad's Electric, LLC

4.3(

)

Serving Jamestown, ND and surrounding areas

In business since 2019

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"He was very professional and meticulous about his job."

Response time3 hrs

Response rate85%

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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TNT handyman and remodelers

New to Angi

Serving Jamestown, ND and surrounding areas

In business since 2018

Free estimates

We bring over thirty years of experience to the construction industry. We take great pride in the quality of our work and guarantee customer satisfaction. We specialize in home repair and maintenance for both residential and commercial properties, and no job is too big or too small.

Response time3 hrs

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ElectroGuys LLC

New to Angi

Serving Jamestown, ND and surrounding areas

In business since 2024

Free estimates

Offers commercial services

We pride our company on reliability, great communication,\nintegrity, and quality work. We are experts in our trade and will do our best\nto keep you as educated as we can on your particular task or project. We look\nforward to earning your business!\n

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ASAP Electric

New to Angi

Serving Jamestown, ND and surrounding areas

In business since 2022

Free estimates

Offers commercial services

ASAP Electric is committed to excellence in every aspect of our business. We uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty, and personal responsibility. Our distinction is the quality of service we bring to our customers. Accurate knowledge of our trade combined with ability is what makes us true professionals. Above all, we are watchful of our customers interests and make their concerns the basis of our business.

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JMS Electric

New to Angi

Serving Jamestown, ND and surrounding areas

In business since 2012

Free estimates

Offers commercial services

JMS Electric is a locally owned and operated company that values honesty and integrity in all aspects of our business. Our dedicated team of professionals have years of hands on experience, to provide innovative ideas and suggestions tailored to your projects. Our services are customized to your individual needs, paying close attention to the details of each project that we are involved with. Please feel free to contact us today!

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Joey Walz

New to Angi

Serving Jamestown, ND and surrounding areas

Emergency services offered

Warranties offered

Small jobs welcome

Im 38 and have been in the construction industry since I was 10. I've worked for Redlin Johnson for 5 years as well as Western Products for 5 year, also All New Gutter for 2 years. I wont tackle a job I cannot do and Im very honest and transparent about everything and warranty my work.

+27

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Generator Install questions, answered by experts

If you have a transfer switch properly installed, the generator and main electrical power cannot feed the system at the same time. However, you should still shut off the power at your main circuit breaker panel before activating the generator. If you do that, you’ll simply need to shut off the generator and reset your circuit breaker once the local power comes back on.

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 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.

A home that is 2,500 square feet will likely need a 20kW to 25kW generator. Consult your local generator installer to confirm the generator size needed to power your home before purchasing a new one. Be sure to consider how much power your necessary devices need to run.

Generally, you’ll want to keep between 60 and 70 feet between the generator and the transfer switch. There are a few reasons for this, including:

The distance reduces the noise coming from the generator into your home.
It increases efficiency because you won’t have a voltage drop from this short of a distance.
Prevents carbon monoxide poisoning: keep at least 15 feet between your generator and an open window.

The Jamestown, ND 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

Alison Kasch
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Apr 4, 2026Apr 4, 2026
How Much Does It Cost to Install a Generator Transfer Switch? [2026 Data]
The cost to install a generator transfer switch depends on several factors. Our guide will help you understand all of the costs.
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•
Apr 6, 2026Apr 6, 2026
How Much Does a Whole-House Generator Cost? [2026 Data]
The average cost of a whole-house generator falls between $5,000 and $25,000. Keep reading to learn how much you can expect to spend.
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How Much Does a Natural Gas Generator Cost? [2026 Data]
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May 21, 2026May 21, 2026
How to Hire a Generator Installer
Generators should give you peace of mind, but you’ll only get that if your installer knows what they’re doing. Learn how to hire a pro and what red flags to look for.
Heather Ayer
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May 3, 2026May 3, 2026
Whole-House Generator Installation: A Complete Guide
Whole home generator installations require a professional hand. Read this guide to help you decide which generator is best for your home.
Becca Lewis
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Apr 5, 2026Apr 5, 2026
Who Installs Generators? A Complete Guide
Wondering who to hire to install a generator? Consult this guide to learn who to hire to install a generator or a transfer switch.