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>

Get matched with top generator install pros in Canton, SD

Q: How long can a whole house generator run?

• <div><p>As long as they have enough fuel, whole-house generators can run for weeks at a time (400 to 500 hours) without suffering too much wear and tear. However, this type of extensive use isn&rsquo;t ideal if you want to extend the life of your generator.</p><p>Two important points. First, some generators may need you to periodically check oil levels every day or so and refill as necessary for safe operation. Second, if your generator uses a fuel tank, keep it regularly full so it doesn&rsquo;t suddenly shut off. Many backup generators can run through a full tank in a day when they are powering large portions of a home.</p></div>

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: Do installations include unit assembly?

• <div><p>Many services include assembling the unit and securing it in the window. Confirm with your provider.</p></div>

Q: Do I really need a generator transfer switch?

• <div><p>Yes, in some locations, it is required by the National Electric Code (NEC) to have a transfer switch installed for <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/what-is-an-electrical-emergency.htm">electrical emergencies</a>. In addition to following electrical code, generator transfer switches ensure your home is fully protected during a power outage. By switching the power from the main breaker to the generator breaker, you can seamlessly operate your HVAC, lights, appliances, devices, and more during an emergency. </p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Generator Install pros in Canton, SD

*The Angi rating for Generator Install companies in Canton, SD 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 Canton, SD 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 26, 2025

Reviewed in April 2025
We recently had all the windows in our house replaced through Mad City. We were so impressed with the entire experience, from sales to completion! The windows are amazing quality, and we could tell a difference in our house within an hour of getting home. And in an old, slightly off kilter...
Mad City Windows & Baths
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Reviewed in November 2022
The Koala team was a great overall experience. Sales associate was great with asking questions, & reciprocating with solutions. He was responsive through the process & wasn't pushy as I figured other details out. The installation team took pictures of space prior to installation...
Koala Insulation of Sioux Falls
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Reviewed in May 2019
h vac install went quick and easy
Rose Spray Foam
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Reviewed in September 2018
Project went as planned and was completed on time. Happy with siding installation and removal and cleanup after work was done.
Hedge Construction
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Reviewed in August 2018
The 3 men that installed the windows were very efficient and did a great job.
Your Home Improvement Company, LLC
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Reviewed in April 2018
The windows they sold arent living up to their demonstrations. I took an infrared thermometer reading of new windows vs old and there wasnt much difference in how much cold was being let in. The installation crew tracked everywhere in the house, and left a nail and screw on the floor which I...
Your Home Improvement Company
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Reviewed in November 2015
The initial consultation where an estimate was given was excellent. Great communication and explanation of what needed to be updated. Throughout the process of installation communication was not always the best, but the services performed made up for it. Everyone was very friendly, but as the...
ALL-PHASE ELECTRIC
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Reviewed in May 2014
WE called SolarX and they came the same day to give us the estimate. They scheduled the work for the following week. The estimator was prompt ,courteous and professional ,knowledgeable a and helpful in selecting the most appropriate film for our windows. The installer arrived at the scheduled...
Solar X Window Film Systems
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Reviewed in December 2012
They arrived a little late but did call to notify me. They took off their shoes without me asking. They moved all the furniture themselves, the holes cut were accurate and the speakers looked good when installed. They tested everything and had to do some minor adjustments to wires as one...
HOME DEFINITION
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Find Generator install pros in Canton

Regal Electric

5.00(

)

•Approved Pro

Regal Electric

5.00(

)

•Approved Pro

Customers say: Quick response

45 local quotes requested

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!

"Great guys, inspections took longer than expected but for the most part everything went well. We didn’t just upgrade the electric box but did a voltage increase. I’ll definitely be going back to them for any other electrical needs."

Rachael D on November 2025

"Great guys, inspections took longer than expected but for the most part everything went well. We didn’t just upgrade the electric box but did a voltage increase. I’ll definitely be going back to them for any other electrical needs."

Rachael D on November 2025

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

As long as they have enough fuel, whole-house generators can run for weeks at a time (400 to 500 hours) without suffering too much wear and tear. However, this type of extensive use isn’t ideal if you want to extend the life of your generator.

Two important points. First, some generators may need you to periodically check oil levels every day or so and refill as necessary for safe operation. Second, if your generator uses a fuel tank, keep it regularly full so it doesn’t suddenly shut off. Many backup generators can run through a full tank in a day when they are powering large portions of a home.

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.

Many services include assembling the unit and securing it in the window. Confirm with your provider.

Yes, in some locations, it is required by the National Electric Code (NEC) to have a transfer switch installed for electrical emergencies. In addition to following electrical code, generator transfer switches ensure your home is fully protected during a power outage. By switching the power from the main breaker to the generator breaker, you can seamlessly operate your HVAC, lights, appliances, devices, and more during an emergency.

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.

The Canton, SD 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
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Nov 25, 2025Nov 25, 2025
How Much Does a Whole-House Generator Cost? [2025 Data]
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How To Connect a Generator to Your House Without a Transfer Switch
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Whole-House Generator Sizing: Everything You Need to Know
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