How do I know what size of whole house generator to choose?

• <div><p>Generators are usually sized by running watts and starting watts. Ideally, you’ll want a generator that can offer both the necessary running watts and starting watts for everything you need to power without going beyond 90% of its capacity. <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/electrical-load-calculation.htm">Calculate your home’s electrical load</a> based on the breakers in your home or adding up the appliance and lighting needs of connected rooms.</p></div>

Can I plug my generator directly into my house?

• <div><p>No, you cannot plug a generator directly into a wall outlet in your home. Plugging in a generator without an interlocking kit, extension cord, or wall outlet receptacle is incredibly dangerous and can cause back-feeding—power from the generator back-feeds into utility lines. Also, if the main power comes back on while your generator is on, it could damage the generator and cause a house fire.</p></div>

Get matched with top generator install pros in De Smet, SD

Q: Should I buy a solar battery or a generator?

• <div><p>If you&rsquo;re deciding between a <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/solar-batteries-vs-generators.htm">solar battery versus a generator</a> for the best backup power solution, you can take a few factors into consideration. Solar batteries are quiet while generators can be quite loud. Generators have a lower up-front cost, but they require fuel and ongoing maintenance while solar batteries are more expensive but don&rsquo;t have many ongoing costs. </p></div>

Q: What happens if my whole-house generator is too small for my AC?

• <div><p>An undersized whole-house generator has the potential to overheat and shut down when you try to run a central AC system. This scenario can not only damage the whole-house generator, but can also trip your home&rsquo;s breakers or cause electrical damage. To avoid this situation, hire a local generator installer to correctly size your whole-house generator.</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 De Smet, SD

*The Angi rating for Generator Install companies in De Smet, 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 De Smet, 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 December 04, 2025

Reviewed in November 2023
Excellent job on a custom cabinet installation. Great quality product and craftsmanship!
Kitchen Design Guys TN
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Reviewed in June 2023
We could not be more pleased! Ironclad install new siding, window, and a steel roof. A complete transformation. It’s like a new home. Thank you so much!
Ironclad Construction
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Reviewed in May 2021
They did a great job repairing our window. He was easy to work with, the price was right, and this was a generally pleasant experience. Everything you'd want when hiring someone to come into your home.
FG Glass
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Reviewed in July 2016
Installed carpet in basement and on stairs and did a great job in a short time.
Hawkeye Carpet Co
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Reviewed in June 2016
The company was very professional. We knew exactly what we were getting and were left with no questions after ordering and installment. The installment crew was wonderful and very great with my children running around!
Your Home Improvement Company
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Reviewed in August 2014
We live on an acreage on the top of a bluff. In late winter we had a lot of cement board siding get blown off our house on the west side. (We would later learn from Tim Knoblach that it wasn't installed correctly which lead to the failure) We were planning on replacing the windows on that side...
KNOBLOCH CONSTRUCTION
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Reviewed in June 2014
These builders were contracted to install new bathrooms in a previously completed building. Their crews completed the job on time and under budget. They had to overcome obstacles and come up with creative ideas on how to run the plumbing. They completed the job and left the place cleaner...
Able Home Builders
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Reviewed in September 2013
took it in the first time, they cleaned up all the broken glass, went to install the window & they were sent the wrong window. So they put a temporary plastic over the door & got the right window the next day & installed it that afternoon.
SAARIE AUTO BODY REPAIR
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Reviewed in July 2013
They were so prompt, they wanted to come a day early. The water heater was installed perfectly by noon.
Courtesy plumbing
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Find Generator install pros in De Smet

Eie Electric

4.93(

)

•Approved Pro

Eie Electric

4.93(

)

•Approved Pro

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 93% of Angi customers

4 years of experience

I pride myself on my professionalism, as well as my ability to complete every job to the homeowner's total satisfaction. I never leave a job unfinished, or a homeowner not 100% satisfied with my level of service - Call today!

"Did an excellent job. I'm very happy."

Scott C on May 2022

"Did an excellent job. I'm very happy."

Scott C on May 2022

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

If you’re deciding between a solar battery versus a generator for the best backup power solution, you can take a few factors into consideration. Solar batteries are quiet while generators can be quite loud. Generators have a lower up-front cost, but they require fuel and ongoing maintenance while solar batteries are more expensive but don’t have many ongoing costs.

Generators are usually sized by running watts and starting watts. Ideally, you’ll want a generator that can offer both the necessary running watts and starting watts for everything you need to power without going beyond 90% of its capacity. Calculate your home’s electrical load based on the breakers in your home or adding up the appliance and lighting needs of connected rooms.

No, you cannot plug a generator directly into a wall outlet in your home. Plugging in a generator without an interlocking kit, extension cord, or wall outlet receptacle is incredibly dangerous and can cause back-feeding—power from the generator back-feeds into utility lines. Also, if the main power comes back on while your generator is on, it could damage the generator and cause a house fire.

An undersized whole-house generator has the potential to overheat and shut down when you try to run a central AC system. This scenario can not only damage the whole-house generator, but can also trip your home’s breakers or cause electrical damage. To avoid this situation, hire a local generator installer to correctly size your whole-house generator.

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 De Smet, 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

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