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Avatar for North Plains Electric
North Plains Electric
5.0(
2
)
Fixed Generator - InstallFixed Generator - RepairGenerator - Install - For Business+3 more

Serving White, SD and surrounding areas

In business since 2018

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

Here at North Plains Electrical with over 15 years of experience we take great pride in our experience, expertise, quality, and customer service that we provide to meet the consumers needs. It is our mission to provide excellent workmanship and complete customer satisfaction from start to completion of a project. In order to understand the needs and expectations of our customers, we take great care to work and communicate with every customer in a professional manner. Our reputation is based on service, safety, and quality, regardless of how large or small the job. Call us today!

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Generator Install questions, answered by experts

The cost to install a whole-house generator averages $5,200, with a typical price range of $1,500 to $8,900. However, total costs can vary from $400 for a small portable unit to over $18,000 for a large-capacity system. The most significant cost factor is the generator's size and capacity, but other variables include the brand, fuel type, and labor for assembly and installation.

Generator costs can be broken down by type:

  • Portable or Emergency Backup Generators (1kW–7.5kW): $500 to $2,000

  • Partial-Home Generators (9kW–20kW): $2,000 to $6,500

  • Whole-House Generators (22kW–48kW): $5,000 to $18,000

To avoid paying for more power than you need, consider hiring an electrician to calculate the electrical load for your essential appliances. It is also recommended to get at least three quotes to find the best deal for your specific needs and budget.

While the rating will tell you how many watts the refrigerator needs at the peak of its cycle, it requires additional wattage to start. At the bare minimum, you’ll need a 1,500-watt generator to get the fridge up and running after a blackout. A 2,000-watt generator should be sufficient for most home refrigerators.

Whole-house generators can run continuously for extended periods, even for weeks at a time (around 400 to 500 hours), as long as they have a sufficient fuel supply. However, this type of extensive use will increase wear and tear and can shorten the generator's overall lifespan. During long periods of operation, it's important to check and refill the engine oil as needed, potentially as frequently as daily depending on the model. If your generator uses a fuel tank, ensure it is kept full to prevent unexpected shutdowns.

Generators are safe to use as long as they are installed and operated correctly according to the manufacturer's recommendations. The most critical safety tips are to never use a portable or fuel-powered generator inside an enclosed space due to the risk of lethal carbon monoxide poisoning; always operate it outdoors where fumes can dissipate away from your home. Additionally, never attempt to connect a generator to your home’s electrical panel yourself—hire a professional to ensure the setup meets safety standards. Finally, avoid overloading the generator by not connecting more appliances than it is rated for, as this can damage your equipment or cause a fire.

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. 

The White, SD homeowners’ guide to generator installs

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.