What size generator do I need to run a fridge?

• <div><p>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.</p></div>

Get matched with top generator install pros in La Crosse, WI

Q: How much energy can I expect a home wind turbine to generate?

• <div><p>Energy output depends on turbine size, average wind speed at your site, and system efficiency. A 5 kW turbine in a good wind location can generate 8,000 to 12,000 kilowatt-hours per year, which may cover a large portion of an average home&rsquo;s needs. Accurate output estimates require a professional wind assessment and a review of your household&rsquo;s energy usage patterns.</p></div>

Q: Is a home generator a tax write-off?

• <div><p>Most homeowners won't be able to claim a home generator as a tax write-off. However, a whole-house generator may be tax-deductible in certain situations depending on its purpose. For instance, if it's needed to power essential medical equipment, it may qualify as a medical expense deduction. Also, in some cases, businesses can deduct a generator as a business expense if it supports operations. Always consult a tax professional to determine eligibility based on your specific circumstances and the applicable IRS regulations.</p></div>

Q: Do diesel generators have any important downsides?

• <div><p>While diesel is relatively stable, it won&rsquo;t last nearly as long as propane and you may have to replace it if it sits unused for too long. Diesel can sometimes struggle to work efficiently or start engines during especially cold weather, so it&rsquo;s not the best choice for every climate. Compared to fuels like propane and natural gas, diesel generators tend to be noisier and create more exhaust, which isn&rsquo;t always ideal for home use. </p></div>

Q: What size generator do I need for a 2,500-square-foot house?

• <div><p>A home that is 2,500 square feet will likely need a 20kW to 25kW generator. Consult your local generator installer to confirm the generator size needed to power your home before purchasing a new one. Be sure to consider how much power your necessary devices need to run.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Generator Install pros in La Crosse, WI

*The Angi rating for Generator Install companies in La Crosse, WI 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 La Crosse, WI 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 November 2025
Very quick response and installation within a few days. Reasonable cost and overcame a few challenges with the installation.
D&D EXTERIORS LLC
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Reviewed in July 2024
Let me start with the sales pitch and followed by the installation: Sales: The person came to our house, looked at the windows and we sat down and went over several options. It took about 1 hour total which might sound a lot... but if anyone knows much about windows is that they are pricey in...
Mad City Windows & Baths
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Reviewed in May 2023
The general contractor, moving company recommended, flooring installers, painter, and plumber were all absolutely amazing. They were professional, communicated every step of the way, on time, efficient, and their work is beautiful. I recommend each of them at the highest of level. Iâ ve...
Holtzman Remodeling, LLC
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Reviewed in April 2023
I also had an outlet plug-in for a generator installed.
Oak Ridge Electric, LLC
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Reviewed in January 2023
Shawn Farr is excellent and knows everything about generator repair and upkeep. He keeps to the agreed schedule and is very reasonable in pricing. Jim Theler, Viroqua WI
Farr Services, LLC
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Reviewed in January 2023
Austin was great to work with and we are waiting the installation!
River Valley Remodelers, LLC
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Reviewed in April 2017
beyond the average call, Jeff was fantastic, and when the power company was long overdue went and got a generator and Dave to power up the house, check circuits and get our water well going -14 hours at our house He's, they are like family now.
Wettstein Brothers Electric Inc
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Reviewed in November 2016
Professional. We always use Mr. Thompson's wife Gene. She is nice with the animals, and the animals seem to really like her.
Thompson Animal Medical Center
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Reviewed in October 2015
Remodeled home to handicap/wheelchair accessible. Overall, the remodel went extremely well. It was hard for my wife and me as we were staying in a hotel while the work was being done. I am in a wheelchair recovering from a spinal cord injury and that's the reason for the remodel. Removing...
VOSS & SONS CONSTRUCTION
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Reviewed in July 2012
The general knowledge that they have, and they are pretty good about remembering that I have had some pups. They are honest and upfront about what’s going on. My overall experience has been excellent.
Bangor Veterinarian Services
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Find Generator install pros in La Crosse

Elite Electrical Contractors LLC

5.00(

)

•Approved Pro

Elite Electrical Contractors LLC

5.00(

)

•Approved Pro

Customers say: Quality work

Recommended by 94% of Angi customers

143 local quotes requested

Commercial or Residential....No job too big or too small...We do it all! We are a licensed, bonded and insured company. We offer quality electrical services at affordable prices! Your work will be completed by a State Licensed Master Electrician. Call Today For Your Free Estimate 262-514-2965

"Tim was great at communicating with me throughout the discussion of what we were looking to achieve & when the project was able to be scheduled. Kevin arrived for the job just as planned & he communicated about the project terrifically, just as Tim had, all throughout the project progression throughout the morning. He had the job completed in three hours & it turned out beautifully!! We are extremely pleased with our new wafer lights that have replaced our old fluorescent kitchen light! We highly recommend Elite Electrical! "

Susan S on November 2025

"Tim was great at communicating with me throughout the discussion of what we were looking to achieve & when the project was able to be scheduled. Kevin arrived for the job just as planned & he communicated about the project terrifically, just as Tim had, all throughout the project progression throughout the morning. He had the job completed in three hours & it turned out beautifully!! We are extremely pleased with our new wafer lights that have replaced our old fluorescent kitchen light! We highly recommend Elite Electrical! "

Susan S on November 2025

Brightside Electric LLC

5.00(

)

Brightside Electric LLC

5.00(

)

Customers say: Quality work

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

I am a Wisconsin licensed Master Electrician with 20 years of experience in residential, commercial, AG, industrial, service work and trouble shooting. I also offer free estimates.

"Job was done timely and on our time schedule. Cleaned up after themselves daily. Made suggestions that was affordable and looks great."

Dawn W on November 2020

I am a Wisconsin licensed Master Electrician with 20 years of experience in residential, commercial, AG, industrial, service work and trouble shooting. I also offer free estimates.

"Job was done timely and on our time schedule. Cleaned up after themselves daily. Made suggestions that was affordable and looks great."

Dawn W on November 2020

Wettstein Brothers Electric Inc

4.88(

)

Wettstein Brothers Electric Inc

4.88(

)

Customers say: Quality work

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

3rd Generation locally owned electrical contractor with 60+ years of experience. On call 24/7 for emergencies - dial number and press 1.

"Job went very well. Workers were prompt and did a great job. Job cost was in line with the estimate & the office people were also easy to work with. Would hire them again and will definitely recommend them."

Nancy Y on October 2018

3rd Generation locally owned electrical contractor with 60+ years of experience. On call 24/7 for emergencies - dial number and press 1.

"Job went very well. Workers were prompt and did a great job. Job cost was in line with the estimate & the office people were also easy to work with. Would hire them again and will definitely recommend them."

Nancy Y on October 2018

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

Energy output depends on turbine size, average wind speed at your site, and system efficiency. A 5 kW turbine in a good wind location can generate 8,000 to 12,000 kilowatt-hours per year, which may cover a large portion of an average home’s needs. Accurate output estimates require a professional wind assessment and a review of your household’s energy usage patterns.

Most homeowners won't be able to claim a home generator as a tax write-off. However, a whole-house generator may be tax-deductible in certain situations depending on its purpose. For instance, if it's needed to power essential medical equipment, it may qualify as a medical expense deduction. Also, in some cases, businesses can deduct a generator as a business expense if it supports operations. Always consult a tax professional to determine eligibility based on your specific circumstances and the applicable IRS regulations.

While diesel is relatively stable, it won’t last nearly as long as propane and you may have to replace it if it sits unused for too long. Diesel can sometimes struggle to work efficiently or start engines during especially cold weather, so it’s not the best choice for every climate. Compared to fuels like propane and natural gas, diesel generators tend to be noisier and create more exhaust, which isn’t always ideal for home use.

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.

A home that is 2,500 square feet will likely need a 20kW to 25kW generator. Consult your local generator installer to confirm the generator size needed to power your home before purchasing a new one. Be sure to consider how much power your necessary devices need to run.

The La Crosse, WI 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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