How do I know what size generator I need?

• <div><p>When <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/what-size-generator-do-i-need.htm">choosing the right size generator</a> for your needs, consider a few items to help calculate the wattage you’ll need. Start by determining which household items and appliances you want to power, and then add the wattages together. Check out the wattage of these essential appliances:</p><ul><li><p>Refrigerator: 600 watts</p></li><li><p>Large dehumidifier: 700 watts</p></li><li><p>Large window air conditioner: 1,400 watts</p></li><li><p>Water heater: 3,000 watts</p></li></ul><p>Running home appliances like these requires a partial or whole-house generator. A portable generator may be enough to power your home if you only plan to keep a refrigerator and freezer running. </p></div>

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Q: What’s the lifespan of a natural gas generator?

• <div><p>When properly maintained, natural gas generators can last a long time, as much as <b>20 to 40 years</b>. They have relatively few needs compared to generators with other fuel types. However, the generator&rsquo;s lifespan ultimately depends on how often the generator is used and for how long it&rsquo;s left running.</p></div>

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: Do diesel generators have any important downsides?

• <div><p>While diesel is relatively stable, it won&rsquo;t last nearly as long as propane and you may have to replace it if it sits unused for too long. Diesel can sometimes struggle to work efficiently or start engines during especially cold weather, so it&rsquo;s not the best choice for every climate. Compared to fuels like propane and natural gas, diesel generators tend to be noisier and create more exhaust, which isn&rsquo;t always ideal for home use. </p></div>

Q: What is the life expectancy of a whole house generator?

• <div><p>Whole-house generators can last<b> 20 to 40 years</b> with normal operation and proper maintenance. If you look up the specifications for your generator, you may be able to find a lifespan rated in hours of operation. Life expectancy will vary depending on how often and for how long you use the generator each year. Choosing a fuel with low impact like natural gas or diesel can help generators last as long as possible.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Generator Install pros in Mercury, NV

*The Angi rating for Generator Install companies in Mercury, 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 Mercury, 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 November 23, 2025

Reviewed in October 2023
They were professional, prompt, courteous and very efficient. They installed 2 AC units completing in a few hours. I would definitely use them again
Simply Air Conditioning and Heating, LLC
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Reviewed in December 2015
Repaired issues with garage door and installed a push-button pad.
A Better Garage Door
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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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Reviewed in April 2013
installer showed up on time on the day promised, completed installation and the salesman, Danny came by to follow up with the installers and make sure that everything was done right to my liking.
Sprinkler Repair Guy
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Reviewed in January 2013
He showed up promptly at said time and had the garage door opener installed in no time. He showed me how everything worked and helped me set the code for opener on the outside.
DistribuDoors
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Reviewed in February 2011
They did an excellent job in line with cost quoted and was punctual and professional. There was a slight vibration in the Honda CR-V after I started it subsequent to the installation so I took it back for a quick look. They were fast to acknowledge my concern and quickly made the technician...
MYERS RV CENTER, INC
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Reviewed in January 2010
Michael arrived at the appointed times with all materials necessary to perform the job. He was very knowledgeble about door installation and is very plesent to work with. I highly recommend him.
Michael T Sullivan
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Reviewed in November 2009
Lu was great! She knew we were running up against the weather and time and was able to expedite the installation of the new windows. She was also able to help us with information on tax credits that were available for installing the windows. I would highly recomend her and her daughter.
WINDOW BROKERS LLC
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Find Generator install pros in Mercury

Fowler Electric

4.84(

)

•Approved Pro

Fowler Electric

4.84(

)

•Approved Pro

Customers say: Terrific value

Recommended by 96% of Angi customers

73 local quotes requested

Fowler Electric is proud to provide experienced electricians and top notch customer service to homes and businesses throughout Las Vegas and Clark Clark County.

"Great job will hire again"

David J on October 2023

Fowler Electric is proud to provide experienced electricians and top notch customer service to homes and businesses throughout Las Vegas and Clark Clark County.

"Great job will hire again"

David J on October 2023

My Classic Car Trader LLC

2.00(

)

My Classic Car Trader LLC

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

Generator Install questions, answered by experts

When properly maintained, natural gas generators can last a long time, as much as 20 to 40 years. They have relatively few needs compared to generators with other fuel types. However, the generator’s lifespan ultimately depends on how often the generator is used and for how long it’s left running.

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.

While diesel is relatively stable, it won’t last nearly as long as propane and you may have to replace it if it sits unused for too long. Diesel can sometimes struggle to work efficiently or start engines during especially cold weather, so it’s not the best choice for every climate. Compared to fuels like propane and natural gas, diesel generators tend to be noisier and create more exhaust, which isn’t always ideal for home use.

When choosing the right size generator for your needs, consider a few items to help calculate the wattage you’ll need. Start by determining which household items and appliances you want to power, and then add the wattages together. Check out the wattage of these essential appliances:

Refrigerator: 600 watts
Large dehumidifier: 700 watts
Large window air conditioner: 1,400 watts
Water heater: 3,000 watts

Running home appliances like these requires a partial or whole-house generator. A portable generator may be enough to power your home if you only plan to keep a refrigerator and freezer running.

Whole-house generators can last 20 to 40 years with normal operation and proper maintenance. If you look up the specifications for your generator, you may be able to find a lifespan rated in hours of operation. Life expectancy will vary depending on how often and for how long you use the generator each year. Choosing a fuel with low impact like natural gas or diesel can help generators last as long as possible.

The Mercury, 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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How Much Does a Natural Gas Generator Cost? [2025 Data]
Natural gas generators are whole-home standby generators that are connected to your home’s natural gas line. The average cost for a natural gas generator is $12,000.
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Feb 14, 2025Feb 14, 2025
6 Questions to Ask About Installing a Fixed Backup Generator
Before installing a fixed generator, think about your use and space. Review these backup generator questions to prepare for a talk with your contractor.
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Jul 3, 2024Jul 3, 2024
A Complete Generator Maintenance Checklist
Generator maintenance is key to keeping your appliance in good condition. Follow our checklists to make sure your generator stays up and running.