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Avatar for Leake Co Services LLC
Leake Co Services LLC
5.0(
4
)
Fixed Generator - InstallGenerator - Install - For BusinessGenerator - Repair - For Business

Serving Amherst, VA and surrounding areas

In business since 2020

Free estimates

Small jobs welcome

"Dillyn was extremely knowledgeable and made us feel at ease with the service here provided. His communication is top notch and kept us in the loop through the entire process. I consider Dillyn a friend at this point and will continue to support his business and refer him to others for any electrical job that needs to be done right. Thank you again!"
Generator, Service & mini split install
Generac and mini
Generac 22kw
Generac 22kw
Rough in 4280sqft

+9

Response time1 day
Recommended by50%of homeowners
Showing 1-10 of 21
Generator Install questions, answered by experts

A 1,500 square foot home will likely need a 15kW to 20kW generator. When deciding on whole-house generator size, add up the total wattage of the devices that you’d like to continue running during a power outage. That way, you can ensure you purchase a generator that can power your necessary appliances or medical equipment during an electrical emergency.

To determine the right size generator for your house, you should calculate the total wattage of the appliances and devices you want to power during an outage. List all essential items, note their start-up wattages, and add them together.

Here are some typical wattage requirements for common appliances:

  • Refrigerator: 600 watts

  • Large dehumidifier: 700 watts

  • Large window air conditioner: 1,400 watts

  • Water heater: 3,000 to 4,500 watts

  • Electric furnace: 5,000 to 25,000 watts

A 7,500-watt generator might be sufficient for essentials like a refrigerator, freezer, well pump, and lighting circuits. However, for high-demand items like a water heater or furnace, a whole-home generator is a better choice. A portable generator may be enough if you only need to power a few critical items.

While home square footage can offer a rough estimate, it is not always a reliable indicator. For reference, here are some typical generator sizes based on square footage:

  • 1,000 sq ft: 6–9 kW

  • 1,500 sq ft: 7–10 kW

  • 2,000 sq ft: 10–14 kW

  • 2,500 sq ft: 12–16 kW

  • 3,000 sq ft: 16–20 kW+

For the most accurate sizing, consult a professional who can calculate your home's peak and average power consumption and recommend the optimal generator.

Yes, natural gas generators can work without electricity. Natural gas generators are a common type of backup or whole-house generator that operates when the electrical grid isn’t working. The trick is using a transfer switch (which usually needs to be installed with the generator) that safely switches the home electrical system from the power grid to generator power when needed.

You can determine what size generator you need for a transfer switch by matching the switch to the largest outlet on your generator. Larger generators can power up to 10 circuits, while most 5,000-watt generators can provide power to six circuits. So, if your generator’s largest outlet is 30 amps, you’ll need a 30-amp transfer switch.

DIY is possible for basic setups. Professional installation ensures safe and proper electrical connections.

The Amherst, VA homeowners’ guide to generator installs

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