Can a natural gas generator work without electricity or in a power outage?

• <div><p>Yes, natural gas generators can work without electricity. Natural gas generators are a common type of backup or whole-house generator that operates when the electrical grid isn’t working. The trick is using a <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/cost-install-generator-transfer-switch.htm?entry_point_id=33797025">transfer switch</a> (which usually needs to be installed with the generator) that safely switches the home electrical system from the power grid to generator power when needed.</p></div>

Are there tax credits for home generators?

• <div><p>In most cases, there are no tax credits available for home generators. However, that’s a general statement that applies to federal tax credits, so you might have access to state or local tax incentives. You can check the <a href="https://www.dsireusa.org">Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency (DSIRE)</a> for more information about your area. If you hire a reliable home generator installer, they should also know if there are any state or local perks you can use to reduce your installation costs, including tax breaks and rebates.</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: How much energy can I expect a home wind turbine to generate?

• <div><p>Energy output depends on turbine size, average wind speed at your site, and system efficiency. A 5 kW turbine in a good wind location can generate 8,000 to 12,000 kilowatt-hours per year, which may cover a large portion of an average home&rsquo;s needs. Accurate output estimates require a professional wind assessment and a review of your household&rsquo;s energy usage patterns.</p></div>

Q: How big of a generator do I need for a transfer switch?

• <div><p>You can determine what size generator you need for a transfer switch by matching the switch to the largest outlet on your generator. Larger generators can power up to 10 circuits, while most 5,000-watt generators can provide power to six circuits. So, if your generator&rsquo;s largest outlet is 30 amps, you&rsquo;ll need a 30-amp transfer switch.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Generator Install pros in Columbus, NE

*The Angi rating for Generator Install companies in Columbus, NE 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 Columbus, NE 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 29, 2025

Reviewed in October 2025
Walkout garage door was replaced and painted. Broken handle on glass storm door was replaced. New tv was installed on retractable mount and new soundbar was installed. Very satisfied with all repairs and installations. Workers were very professional and left the areas clean and tidy.
House Doctors Northwest Omaha
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Reviewed in February 2025
The installation was done in a day and the crew was very professional. Highly recommend their shower as they transformed our pre fabricated shower that didn’t fit the space and custom fit a new shower to our space.
Mad City Windows & Baths
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Reviewed in January 2025
I had a positive experience. Their bid was 60% less than their closest competitor. The work was done in a timely manner and the door was professionally installed. They did a nice job of cleaning up.
Bob Mcdonald Garage Door, LLC
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Reviewed in January 2024
The installers were courteous and great to work with. We had over 30 windows installed, which obviously took some time. It was obvious towards the end that they were getting pressure from the top to get done. There were some issues with our new patio door that did not get completed correctly....
J-Tech Construction
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Reviewed in March 2023
Well, so far, I am very happy installation was fast. It was done well that it appears to me and the price I thought was reasonable and the information that I was given by the installer was very helpful. He was very knowledgeable and covered all of my concernsâ ¦ I would highly recommend them!
Dog Guard
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Reviewed in January 2023
Michael installed new windows, doors, kitchen and bathroom updates, replaced our deck and various other projects when we moved into our home. He did a great job!. Finish was beyond what we expected. Answered all of our questions with options, ideas and patience. He is who we will be using for...
MWI Construction, LLC
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Reviewed in September 2012
The work was performed as scheduled and as agreed in the scope of work. I did not have them keep the outside hose bibs on unsoftened water, which was my mistake since I didn't know better at the time. They did ask me about it at the initial estimate and confirmed it before installation. Once...
Tritz Plumbing Inc
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Reviewed in August 2011
They really work hard to resolve issues. They are coming back out to reinstall the new ceiling kit because the one they installed was cracked somehow, but the are doing that all on them.
TOTAL COMFORT HEATING & AIR
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Find Generator install pros in Columbus

James Mendyk Services

5.00(

)

•Approved Pro

James Mendyk Services

5.00(

)

•Approved Pro

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

1 years of experience

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

"Hie is Very particular. Very neat. Does everything perfect."

Barb H on October 2024

"Hie is Very particular. Very neat. Does everything perfect."

Barb H on October 2024

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

LIGHTHOUSE ELECTRICAL CONTR

4.25(

)

LIGHTHOUSE ELECTRICAL CONTR

4.25(

)

Customers say: Terrific value

20 years of experience

Electrical Contracting company based out of Scottsbluff, Nebraska. We serve the Wyobraska area. We accept credit cards, check, and cash payments.

Generator Install questions, answered by experts

Yes, natural gas generators can work without electricity. Natural gas generators are a common type of backup or whole-house generator that operates when the electrical grid isn’t working. The trick is using a transfer switch (which usually needs to be installed with the generator) that safely switches the home electrical system from the power grid to generator power when needed.

In most cases, there are no tax credits available for home generators. However, that’s a general statement that applies to federal tax credits, so you might have access to state or local tax incentives. You can check the Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency (DSIRE) for more information about your area. If you hire a reliable home generator installer, they should also know if there are any state or local perks you can use to reduce your installation costs, including tax breaks and rebates.

Energy output depends on turbine size, average wind speed at your site, and system efficiency. A 5 kW turbine in a good wind location can generate 8,000 to 12,000 kilowatt-hours per year, which may cover a large portion of an average home’s needs. Accurate output estimates require a professional wind assessment and a review of your household’s energy usage patterns.

You can determine what size generator you need for a transfer switch by matching the switch to the largest outlet on your generator. Larger generators can power up to 10 circuits, while most 5,000-watt generators can provide power to six circuits. So, if your generator’s largest outlet is 30 amps, you’ll need a 30-amp transfer switch.

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 Columbus, NE 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

Taylor Freitas
•
Nov 25, 2025Nov 25, 2025
How Much Does a Whole-House Generator Cost? [2025 Data]
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•
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•
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How Much Does Whole-House Generator Maintenance Cost? [2025 Data]
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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.
Breyden Kellam
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Gas Generator vs. Natural Gas Generator: What’s the Difference?
Before deciding between a gas generator and a natural gas generator, explore the differences. Compare gas vs. natural gas generator with our informative guide.
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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.