How long does a whole-house generator last?

• <div><p>When maintained properly, a whole-house generator can last up to <b>20 years</b>. <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-generator-repair-cost.htm">Costs to maintain and repair generators</a> vary by location and type of generator, but you can expect to pay about <b>$150 to $300 per year</b> for annual generator maintenance checks. An experienced generator service technician will inspect your generator’s engine filter, starting mechanism, fuel, lubrication, and coolant levels to keep your generator in good working condition for as long as possible. </p></div>

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>

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Q: Can a portable generator power an entire home?

• <div><p>A portable generator can supply power to selected appliances and circuits in a home, but it's generally not designed to handle the entire household's electrical needs simultaneously. Portable generators have limited wattage capacity, so they are only designed to power essential devices and electronics temporarily until local power is restored. If your power needs outweigh the capabilities of a portable generator, consider installing a <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/installing-whole-house-generator.htm">whole-home generator</a> instead. </p></div>

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: Can I plug a generator directly into my house?

• <div><p>No, you shouldn&rsquo;t use an extension cord to plug a generator directly into your home without using a transfer switch. That&rsquo;s because systems like pumps and HVAC fans need a steady power source that might not be available directly from your generator alone. If you bypass the circuit breaker box, you risk damaging your electrical system, creating a risk of <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-to-put-out-electrical-fire.htm">electrical fire</a> or electrical shock to you or any workers repairing lines on your local electrical grid.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Generator Install pros in Mitchell, SD

*The Angi rating for Generator Install companies in Mitchell, 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 Mitchell, 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 11, 2025

Reviewed in May 2024
GP Maintenance Co. did multiple projects for me around my house. I had a 6 ft privacy fence installed around my property for my dogs to have a bigger yard, he fixed a screen for me, and did some drywall and painting. His communication was prompt and the jobs were done professionally. I will use...
The Grand Rising Group
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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 January 2023
I had an amazing experience from start to finish with my new custom home build with full landscaping. The house is exactly what was planned for and is beyond our expectations. For the landscape I had a paver patio, gazebo, deck, hot tub, fire pit, stone table, outdoor kitchen, sod with...
SD Alternative Services Corp
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Reviewed in January 2022
I hired Nate to install new windows, siding, and doors as wells as build two decks with one pergola and one covered roof. His work was good when he showed up with the exception of the trim and siding around the bay window. This work was not good at all. The trim didn't follow the window and...
RiverBend Contracting, LLC
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Reviewed in December 2019
They came out in a timely manner to visit with us and show us the different guards. Once they were ordered, the gutter guards were put on quickly & the installers were very efficient. We were very pleased with their work.
Rykhus-Nelson Siding, Windows and Seamless Gutters, Inc.
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Reviewed in June 2018
REL installed our block and paver patio and outside fireplace. They did it in one week. I've seen these projects take months. Very happy with their work and would certainly recommend them. -Cindy Olson.
REL Construction
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Reviewed in March 2018
There is good and bad with every company. With Long Lines, the actual cable installer and the repair tech were really good. Now for the not so good. The back office operations is BAD. They raised their prices, without any warning multiple times in the year I was with them. I was supposed to be...
LONG LINES LTD
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Reviewed in April 2017
Very nice work! Was very helpful with suggestions for the installation. Professional, personable, and hard working.
Connelly's Flooring
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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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Find Generator install pros in Mitchell

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

TT Electric, LLC

5.00(

)

•Approved Pro

TT Electric, LLC

5.00(

)

•Approved Pro

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

12 local quotes requested

TT Electric, LLC is committed to excellence in every aspect of our business. We uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty, and personal responsibility. Our distinction is the quality of service we bring to our customers. Accurate knowledge of our trade combined with ability is what makes us true professionals. Above all, we are watchful of our customers' interests, and make their concerns the basis of our business.

"He was easy to work with, good at listening what we wanted and open to changes."

Savanna W on March 2023

"He was easy to work with, good at listening what we wanted and open to changes."

Savanna W on March 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

A portable generator can supply power to selected appliances and circuits in a home, but it's generally not designed to handle the entire household's electrical needs simultaneously. Portable generators have limited wattage capacity, so they are only designed to power essential devices and electronics temporarily until local power is restored. If your power needs outweigh the capabilities of a portable generator, consider installing a whole-home generator instead.

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.

No, you shouldn’t use an extension cord to plug a generator directly into your home without using a transfer switch. That’s because systems like pumps and HVAC fans need a steady power source that might not be available directly from your generator alone. If you bypass the circuit breaker box, you risk damaging your electrical system, creating a risk of electrical fire or electrical shock to you or any workers repairing lines on your local electrical grid.

When maintained properly, a whole-house generator can last up to 20 years. Costs to maintain and repair generators vary by location and type of generator, but you can expect to pay about $150 to $300 per year for annual generator maintenance checks. An experienced generator service technician will inspect your generator’s engine filter, starting mechanism, fuel, lubrication, and coolant levels to keep your generator in good working condition for as long as possible.

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.

The Mitchell, 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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Nov 25, 2025Nov 25, 2025
How Much Does a Whole-House Generator Cost? [2025 Data]
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Best Fuel For a Whole-House Generator: 5 Options
If you’re investing in a large power alternative for your home, it deserves the right fuel for your job. Here are the top options for a whole home generator.
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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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15 Generator Uses for Homeowners
A portable generator can serve several uses beyond its traditional purpose. If you’re looking for ways to put your generator to work, our guide can help.