Is it better to repair or replace a malfunctioning generator?

• <div><p>It’s usually better to repair your generator if it isn’t working properly, as it will typically be much more affordable and should yield similar results. Generator repairs cost around <b>$300</b> on average, while <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-it-cost-install-generator.htm">installing a new whole-house generator costs</a> around <b>$5,000 </b>on average. The only exception is if you know your generator is reaching the end of its useful life, usually between 30 and 40 years. If you have an older generator, you could face multiple repairs in the coming years, which might mean that a full replacement will be more cost-effective over time.</p></div>

How close can a transfer switch be to a generator?

• <div><p>Generally, you’ll want to keep between <b>60 and 70 feet</b> between the generator and the transfer switch. There are a few reasons for this, including:</p><ul><li><p>The distance reduces the noise coming from the generator into your home.</p></li><li><p>It increases efficiency because you won’t have a voltage drop from this short of a distance.</p></li><li><p>Prevents carbon monoxide poisoning: keep at least 15 feet between your generator and an open window. </p></li></ul><p></p></div>

Get matched with top generator install pros in Vershire, VT

Q: Is it better to repair or replace a malfunctioning generator?

• <div><p>It&rsquo;s usually better to repair your generator if it isn&rsquo;t working properly, as it will typically be much more affordable and should yield similar results. Generator repairs cost around <b>$300</b> on average, while <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-it-cost-install-generator.htm">installing a new whole-house generator costs</a> around <b>$5,000 </b>on average. The only exception is if you know your generator is reaching the end of its useful life, usually between 30 and 40 years. If you have an older generator, you could face multiple repairs in the coming years, which might mean that a full replacement will be more cost-effective over time.</p></div>

Q: How much horsepower do I need?

• <div><p>If your home already has a grinder pump and you&rsquo;re still noticing issues (like frequently clogged toilets and sinks), it could be time to upgrade your grinder pump. Start by checking your existing horsepower. If there are four or fewer people living in your home, using a 1/2-horsepower grinder pump should be sufficient. Larger households should consider investing in a 1-horsepower grinder pump to maximize wastewater removal efforts.</p></div>

Q: How close can a transfer switch be to a generator?

• <div><p>Generally, you&rsquo;ll want to keep between <b>60 and 70 feet</b> between the generator and the transfer switch. There are a few reasons for this, including:</p><ul><li><p>The distance reduces the noise coming from the generator into your home.</p></li><li><p>It increases efficiency because you won&rsquo;t have a voltage drop from this short of a distance.</p></li><li><p>Prevents carbon monoxide poisoning: keep at least 15 feet between your generator and an open window. </p></li></ul><p></p></div>

Q: What’s the lifespan of a natural gas generator?

• <div><p>When properly maintained, natural gas generators can last a long time, as much as <b>20 to 40 years</b>. They have relatively few needs compared to generators with other fuel types. However, the generator&rsquo;s lifespan ultimately depends on how often the generator is used and for how long it&rsquo;s left running.</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 Vershire, VT

*The Angi rating for Generator Install companies in Vershire, VT 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 Vershire, VT 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 17, 2025

Reviewed in August 2024
Mark was personable, punctual for visits, very knowledgeable, communicated with us every step of the way, and installed the generator as promised. He also followed up with us afterward. We highly recommend him! Ellen and Gardner
Fralick and Sons Electrical Services, LLC
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Reviewed in August 2024
Great quality installation with reasonably priced
Your Local Floor Pro LLC
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Reviewed in February 2024
Excellent job with hard working and respectful employees - cleaned the basement of 200+ year old home littered with generations of junk as well as mold; it now looks fantastic. Shoveled out drive way as a bonus.
Silver Environmental
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Reviewed in November 2022
Had a gutter system installed this fall. The customer service reps were friendly and knowledgeable. After install, saw a small concern in which they immediately came out and addressed. Problem was more the roof than the gutter system actually.
Clear Choice Home Improvements, LLC
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Reviewed in October 2022
Very professional and after installation I had questions and they responded right away. I highly recommend them.
Maine's Best Water Treatment
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Reviewed in April 2019
they did a great job and showed both of us how to the generator. we have some things to do other jobs when the snow is gone.
Rowell's Services, LLC
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Reviewed in January 2019
Adams Energy is a very professional & responsive business. Roger came to do the original assessment & explained what needed to be done. He also made a follow up call to confirm his assessment & schedule an appointment. Derek & Tim installed the portable generator & performed...
Adams Energy
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Reviewed in February 2016
Our project (remove existing blacktop walkway and install new walkway pavers) was completed on time, within budget and with 'awesome' results! Communication was great! Leonardo is professional and personable.
Awesome Landscape Design, Inc.
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Reviewed in January 2014
We had to install everything and had to order other parts that we were not told we needed and took a lot of time.
SimpliSafe Home Security
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Reviewed in April 2013
I would definitely call him again in the future. Unfortunately, he doesn't install sprinkler systems - otherwise he would be the first one I'd call to get that done.
Toms Sprinklers
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Find Generator install pros in Vershire

Vertex Contracting Inc.

5.00(

)

Vertex Contracting Inc.

5.00(

)

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

Recommended by 100% of HomeAdvisor customers

3rd generation electrician. We specialize in re-wiring historical sites, electrical services, repairs, installs, troubleshooting, lighting, panel upgrades, ceiling fans, EV/Electric Charging Stations, and more! We guarantee your satisfaction, and we won’t leave until the job is done right. We pride ourselves on the quality work we provide, while delivering great customer service! Check out all the services we offer below and call -or- click to schedule a free estimate today!

"They are outstanding!"

Jake V on August 2023

"They are outstanding!"

Jake V on August 2023

Northstar Electric LLC

4.94(

)

Northstar Electric LLC

4.94(

)

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

Northstar Electric is a responsive and reliable provider of electrical services for both residential and commercial clients. Our team of experienced professionals is dedicated to providing the highest quality of electrical services, ensuring that each job is completed to the highest standard. We are proud to be your trusted and dependable source for all your electrical needs. Our commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction is unmatched in the industry. We are confident that you will be pleased with the quality of services and results that we deliver. Have you worked with us before? We'd love your feedback. Consider leaving a review on the Testimonials page or on Google.

"Incredible. They were so responsive and came same day, even earlier than they originally thought. Installer was superb. Would hire them with no reservations!"

Rich B on March 2021

"Incredible. They were so responsive and came same day, even earlier than they originally thought. Installer was superb. Would hire them with no reservations!"

Rich B on March 2021

Schaal Electric PC

4.00(

)

Schaal Electric PC

4.00(

)

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

Schaal Electric PC is a family ownwed and operated business located in Wilder Vt since 1972. We are a full service electrical contractor and are regions Distributor for Gillette Generators. Offering to dealers,contractors and retail sales installation and service on all models.We offer a fully installed turn key system.

RICHARD ELECTRIC INC

4.15(

)

RICHARD ELECTRIC INC

4.15(

)

Customers say: Quality work

65 years of experience

Established in 1960. We have 24 hr. emergency service available. Work is completed by Licensed Electricians and Registered Apprentices per the National Electrical Code.

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

BT Morin Electric

5.00(

)

BT Morin Electric

5.00(

)

Customers say: Quality work

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

Residential & light commercial electrical contractor

Powers Generator Service

4.25(

)

Powers Generator Service

4.25(

)

Customers say: Super punctual

31 years of experience

Additional address - PO Box 10005, Swanzey, NH 03446. Additional contact name - Sheena Royce. Number of Employees: 45. We offer Financing.

Generator Install questions, answered by experts

It’s usually better to repair your generator if it isn’t working properly, as it will typically be much more affordable and should yield similar results. Generator repairs cost around $300 on average, while installing a new whole-house generator costs around $5,000 on average. The only exception is if you know your generator is reaching the end of its useful life, usually between 30 and 40 years. If you have an older generator, you could face multiple repairs in the coming years, which might mean that a full replacement will be more cost-effective over time.

If your home already has a grinder pump and you’re still noticing issues (like frequently clogged toilets and sinks), it could be time to upgrade your grinder pump. Start by checking your existing horsepower. If there are four or fewer people living in your home, using a 1/2-horsepower grinder pump should be sufficient. Larger households should consider investing in a 1-horsepower grinder pump to maximize wastewater removal efforts.

Generally, you’ll want to keep between 60 and 70 feet between the generator and the transfer switch. There are a few reasons for this, including:

The distance reduces the noise coming from the generator into your home.
It increases efficiency because you won’t have a voltage drop from this short of a distance.
Prevents carbon monoxide poisoning: keep at least 15 feet between your generator and an open window.

When properly maintained, natural gas generators can last a long time, as much as 20 to 40 years. They have relatively few needs compared to generators with other fuel types. However, the generator’s lifespan ultimately depends on how often the generator is used and for how long it’s left running.

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.

The Vershire, VT 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

Alison Kasch
•
Oct 29, 2025Oct 29, 2025
How Much Does It Cost To Install a Generator Transfer Switch? [2025 Data]
The cost to install a generator transfer switch depends on several factors. Our guide will help you understand all of the costs.
Elisa Greenberg
•
Aug 14, 2025Aug 14, 2025
How Much Does a Whole-House Generator Cost? [2025 Data]
The average cost of a whole-house generator falls between $5,000 and $25,000. Keep reading to learn how much you can expect to spend.
Breyden Kellam
•
Oct 30, 2025Oct 30, 2025
How Much Does Whole-House Generator Maintenance Cost? [2025 Data]
Keeping on top of generator maintenance and repairs gives you extra peace of mind as a homeowner. Find out how much regular generator maintenance costs.
Becca Lewis
•
Feb 26, 2025Feb 26, 2025
Who Installs Generators? A Complete Guide
Wondering who to hire to install a generator? Consult this guide to learn who to hire to install a generator or a transfer switch.
Alison Kasch
•
Jul 23, 2024Jul 23, 2024
Can a Generator Get Wet? What You Need to Know
Can a generator get wet? Protective covers are necessary for using a portable generator in the rain, and they shouldn’t be used in extreme weather.
Tyler Lacoma
•
Mar 26, 2025Mar 26, 2025
Pros and Cons of a Whole-House Generator
Whole house generators can power homes when electric problems hit, but they aren’t for everyone. Here’s what you should know when you’re thinking about buying.