What can I run on different generator sizes?

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

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>

Get matched with top generator install pros in Hickman, NE

Q: What can I run on different generator sizes?

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

• <div><p>Setting up utilities on a vacant property usually takes at least a few months, or between 6 weeks to 16 weeks. This process requires working with the local planning and zoning department, hiring a building contractor or engineer to design the utility layout, securing permits, laying the lines, and connecting the utilities.</p></div>

Q: How do generator specifications and installation requirements impact the overall cost?

• <div><p>Costs depend on generator type, labor, and additional wiring or transfer switch requirements.</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>

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Verified Reviews for Generator Install pros in Hickman, NE

*The Angi rating for Generator Install companies in Hickman, 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 Hickman, 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 July 09, 2025

Reviewed in July 2025
The installation was completed promptly and the work and cleanup was very well done.
LeafFilter Gutter Protection
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Reviewed in June 2025
Very communicative and quick response. Got things scheduled within a week and the project done in a day. Installed fencing on the two sides of our house with a gate on one side. Very positive and helpful. Would absolutely hire you again.
Jimenez Service
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Reviewed in May 2025
Ryan has been servicing our irrigation system for about 5 years. The system was initally installed in the late 1960s. Ryan has helped us expand it and make it more useable.
McConnell Irrigation Service
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Reviewed in November 2024
Excellent!! Unit was installed in a timely manner and was checked out thoroughly before leaving. All questions were answered.
Climate Specialists
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Reviewed in October 2024
Needed a exterior door install. Previous installer messed it up. Dan and wife came over within an hour and repaired / finished installing the door in question. Excellent work and appreciate their professionalism. I definitely will keep their contact information for future jobs I am planning.
Its Just Us Painting LLC
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Reviewed in August 2024
Superior cleanup inside and outside of the house during the entire installation process. No mess left behind!!!
Jonathan Curtis Design, LLC
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Reviewed in March 2024
The Empire was professional with their work, they did everything requested super quickly and with a super clean installation. I'm very happy with the result.
Empire Electric Inc
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Reviewed in December 2023
Excellent and honest! Michael also roofed my mother's home in Omaha, Nebraska . Painted my entire home, built my backyard fence, installed a new garage floor, installed new carpeting and new tile, saved a water disaster in our basement! I donâ t know what we would have done without...
L & S All Out Contracting
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Reviewed in August 2023
The installers were hard workers, cleaned up well after old gutter removal and were even kind to my dog.
LeafGuard
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Reviewed in July 2023
We had shingles, soffit, and drain pipes installed. I feel we were quoted a fair price. The workers were here exactly when scheduled. The work was well done. All areas were cleaned up when they left. I had a feature I wanted to repaint before I had it installed on my front porch. The workers...
J-Tech Construction
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Find Generator install pros in Hickman

John Henry's Plumbing, Heating, Air and Electrical

New to Angi

Fixed Generator - InstallGenerator - Install - For BusinessPortable Generator - Install

Serving Hickman, NE and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 1996

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

When we opened our doors in 1996 we had a strong commitment to customer service with the motto of "Quality at a Reasonable Cost." \n\nJohn Henry's is dedicated to building and developing a team of outstanding individuals that provide premium quality products and services while sharing a total commitment to regularly exceeding the expectation of our customers.

4 neighbors recently requested a quote

Fixed Generator - InstallGenerator - Install - For Business

Serving Hickman, NE and surrounding areas

In business since 2004

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"JP Electric installed a Kohler generator for us and they did an excellent job! They were on time and on budget. The generator looks and works great and we could not be happier. HIGHLY RECOMMEND JP ELECTRIC!!!!!"

+22

Response time1 day

Response rate89%

Recommended by95%of homeowners

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John Henry's Plumbing, Heating, Air, and Electrical

4.5(

189

)

Fixed Generator - InstallGenerator - InstallGenerator - Install - For Business

Serving Hickman, NE and surrounding areas

In business since 1996

Emergency services offered

"John Henry's did an excellent job repairing our electrical service panel. They stayed at the home until almost midnight making sure the repairs were completed correctly."

Recommended by87%of homeowners

Fixed Generator - InstallFixed Generator - RepairGenerator - Install+4 more

Serving Hickman, NE and surrounding areas

In business since 2007

Free estimates

Warranties offered

"The Empire was professional with their work, they did everything requested super quickly and with a super clean installation. I'm very happy with the result."

+11

Response time2 days

Response rate100%

Recommended by77%of homeowners

Fixed Generator - InstallGenerator - Install - For Business

Serving Hickman, NE and surrounding areas

In business since 2021

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"Was very polite and helped with planning the layout. Did a very nice job installing a new breaker box for the addition and running wiring and installing switches and outlets and indoor and out door lighting. Very satisfied and would definitely recommend Marcus!"

Response time10 mins

Response rate100%

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Fixed Generator - InstallFixed Generator - RepairGenerator - Install+4 more

Serving Hickman, NE and surrounding areas

In business since 2020

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Summit Electric does quality work. Great attention to detail. Owner is knowledgeable and was very good at explaining our options."

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Sendgraff Enterprises, LLC

5.0(

)

Fixed Generator - InstallFixed Generator - RepairPortable Generator - Install

Serving Hickman, NE and surrounding areas

In business since 2014

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

We take great pride in our experience, expertise, quality, and customer service that we provide to meet the consumer's needs. It is our mission to provide excellent workmanship and complete customer satisfaction from start to completion of a project. In order to understand the needs and expectations of our customers, we take great care to work and communicate with every customer in a professional manner. Our reputation is based on service, safety, and quality, regardless of how large or small the job.

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Fixed Generator - InstallFixed Generator - RepairGenerator - Install - For Business+3 more

Serving Hickman, NE and surrounding areas

In business since 2014

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

Welcome to Scheer Electric, LLC, the leading electrical specialists serving Lincoln and the surrounding areas. With over 10 of experience in projects ranging from panel upgrades to outlet repairs, we look forward to earning your business. Call today for a free estimate!

Response time4 hrs

Response rate100%

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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River Valley Electric

5.0(

)

Fixed Generator - InstallFixed Generator - RepairGenerator - Install - For Business+2 more

Serving Hickman, NE and surrounding areas

In business since 2017

Free estimates

"Good quality timely and affordable."

Response time2 days

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Echo Group, Inc.

New to Angi

Fixed Generator - RepairGenerator - Repair - For BusinessPortable Generator - Repair

Serving Hickman, NE and surrounding areas

In business since 2000

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

When it comes to standby generator sales and service, Echo Group Inc. has the power! With generators by Generac, Siemens, Winco, Kubota, Winpower, Tiger-power, Milbank and many others, we provide professional and affordable generator service for residential, commercial, and industrial standby, mobil, and portable units for homeowners and business owners needing the piece of mind that the convenience a generator provides. No matter what your application is, Echo Group Inc. can help. Call us today!

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Showing 1-10 of 16

Generator Install questions, answered by experts

Here’s what you can run with different wattages and types of generators:

Portable generator:

2,000 watts can handle a large appliance like a freezer or refrigerator, plus a few smaller items like phones or computer chargers.
4,000 watts will keep two large appliances operating and a few smaller devices.
8,000 watts should power most essential appliances and other devices, including a sump pump, well pump, or your dishwasher.

Partial to whole-house generator:

20,000 watts and above will make it seem like your home’s power is still 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.

Setting up utilities on a vacant property usually takes at least a few months, or between 6 weeks to 16 weeks. This process requires working with the local planning and zoning department, hiring a building contractor or engineer to design the utility layout, securing permits, laying the lines, and connecting the utilities.

Costs depend on generator type, labor, and additional wiring or transfer switch requirements.

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.

The Hickman, NE homeowners’ guide to generator installs

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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.
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Who Installs Generators? A Complete Guide
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