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>

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Q: Do you need a permit to install a whole-house generator?

• <div><p>In many cases, you&rsquo;ll need a permit or basic inspection to install one of these large generators. Since they include significant alterations to your home electrical system and many produce exhaust fumes, local governments often require jumping through a few hoops for general safety purposes. Your installer may be able to help you with these permits.</p></div>

Q: How can I reduce carbon monoxide emissions from my natural gas generator?

• <div><p>Carbon monoxide emissions aren&rsquo;t only dangerous to human life, but they also harm our planet. While natural gas generators emit lower levels of CO than other fuel sources, there are still ways to reduce emission levels. For example, shop around for an eco-friendly generator that complies with current emission standards. Also, make sure your generator is serviced regularly to avoid CO buildup. </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: Can you plug a generator directly into your house?

• <div><p>No, this is extremely dangerous, often illegal, and you should never attempt it. If you connect your generator to your home without a transfer switch, the generated power can backfeed, essentially flowing back into the utility lines. Backfeeding exposes a significant threat of fatalities or harm to you and utility personnel, in addition to jeopardizing the structural integrity of your home.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Generator Install pros in Alamo, NV

*The Angi rating for Generator Install companies in Alamo, NV 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 Alamo, NV 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 28, 2025

Reviewed in September 2023
We had our windows replaced by RBA earlier this year. Everyone did an amazing job! The salesman was great and the crew did amazing work was was very professional and clean throughout the install.
Renewal by Andersen of Wyoming
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Reviewed in November 2019
Controlled Comfort stayed in touch and on top of my project...Install will be 12/14/19. I will keep you abreast of developments!
Controlled Comfort, Inc.
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Reviewed in February 2018
Moved into our new home out in Indian Springs. Found these guys on Home Advisor so I could weed out those that would not travel out here. I made contact with several different companies, but Sid at H20 to Go, cut through the BS and gave me a legit price on a complete install for a system to...
H2O to Go
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Reviewed in June 2015
Response following purchase was prompt but it took some time due to scheduling conflicts for initial visit. Electrical wiring work is being done on attic and insulation will be installed once that work is completed.
Superior Insulation
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Reviewed in May 2013
I've used Jim's Plumbing of Reedley at three different Reedley-area locations on numerous occasions for general plumbing and water heater repair, as well as specialty work such as installing and testing/certifying a water backflow device and repairing propane piping on a manufactured home. He...
Jim's Plumbing of Reedley
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Reviewed in May 2013
For this particular service call, the washer in one of my apartments was not draining after the wash & rinse cycles. It was confirmed that the pump needed replacement, with the cost of parts & labor being almost as much as a new washer, so the decision was made to replace the 6 year old...
DOERKSEN APPLIANCE SVC
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Find Generator install pros in Alamo

Gruber Power Services

21613 N 2nd Ave

No reviews yet

Gruber Power Services

21613 N 2nd Ave

No reviews yet

41 years of experience

Gruber Power Services has been providing power protection solutions since 1984! Our expertise ranges from small PC based power protection products, to the largest of UPS/Power Conditioning and Distribution Systems, and encompasses all the technologies available from solid-state products, to rotary and engine generator design systems. Our corporate headquarters is located in the "Valley of the Sun" or better known as Phoenix, Arizona. The wonderful weather nearly year-round helps us attract and retain a very talented labor force. We enjoy visitors and welcome you to experience our hospitality.

My Classic Car Trader LLC

312 Prospect Ave

2.00(

)

My Classic Car Trader LLC

312 Prospect Ave

2.00(

)

53 years of experience

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

Bighorn Energy Services

1885 S. Arlington St.

5.00(

)

Bighorn Energy Services

1885 S. Arlington St.

5.00(

)

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

Licensed Nevada Electrical Contractor. No job too big or too small. New customers receive a 10% discount on labor on their first service call.

Generator Install questions, answered by experts

In many cases, you’ll need a permit or basic inspection to install one of these large generators. Since they include significant alterations to your home electrical system and many produce exhaust fumes, local governments often require jumping through a few hoops for general safety purposes. Your installer may be able to help you with these permits.

Carbon monoxide emissions aren’t only dangerous to human life, but they also harm our planet. While natural gas generators emit lower levels of CO than other fuel sources, there are still ways to reduce emission levels. For example, shop around for an eco-friendly generator that complies with current emission standards. Also, make sure your generator is serviced regularly to avoid CO buildup.

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.

No, this is extremely dangerous, often illegal, and you should never attempt it. If you connect your generator to your home without a transfer switch, the generated power can backfeed, essentially flowing back into the utility lines. Backfeeding exposes a significant threat of fatalities or harm to you and utility personnel, in addition to jeopardizing the structural integrity of your home.

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.

The Alamo, NV 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

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•
Feb 10, 2025Feb 10, 2025
How Much Does It Cost To Install a Generator Transfer Switch? [2025 Data]
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May 22, 2025May 22, 2025
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.
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A Complete Generator Maintenance Checklist
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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.