What types of fuel do generators take?

• <div><p>Generators run on a variety of fuel types, ranging from natural gas to solar power. Keep in mind that fuel costs varying by type:</p><ul><li><p>Natural gas: $2,000–$21,000 per year </p></li><li><p>Liquid propane: $2,000–$21,000 per year</p></li><li><p>Diesel: $3,000–$20,000 per year</p></li><li><p>Gasoline: $500–$3,000 per year</p></li><li><p>Solar generator: $2,000–$25,000 per unit</p></li><li><p>Battery backup: $10,000–$25,000 per unit</p></li></ul><p></p></div>

Can I plug my generator directly into my house?

• <div><p>No, you cannot plug a generator directly into a wall outlet in your home. Plugging in a generator without an interlocking kit, extension cord, or wall outlet receptacle is incredibly dangerous and can cause back-feeding—power from the generator back-feeds into utility lines. Also, if the main power comes back on while your generator is on, it could damage the generator and cause a house fire.</p></div>

Get matched with top generator install pros in Kearneysville, WV

Q: Is a natural gas generator less expensive than using electricity?

• <div><p>Natural gas and electricity rates vary significantly based on location, and pricing can change over time, too. It&rsquo;s possible that in locations where natural gas is particularly inexpensive, it will cost less than grid-based electricity will. However, you should also factor in the generator&rsquo;s initial costs and maintenance needs, as well as its noise level and if it can comfortably power all your home appliances.</p></div>

Q: What is the life expectancy of a whole house generator?

• <div><p>Whole-house generators can last<b> 20 to 40 years</b> with normal operation and proper maintenance. If you look up the specifications for your generator, you may be able to find a lifespan rated in hours of operation. Life expectancy will vary depending on how often and for how long you use the generator each year. Choosing a fuel with low impact like natural gas or diesel can help generators last as long as possible.</p></div>

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>

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Find Generator install pros in Kearneysville

Varco Electric

Varco Electric

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

62 local quotes requested

We take great pleasure in the quality, customer service, experience, and knowledge we offer to satisfy the demands of the company. From the very beginning of a project to its successful conclusion, it is our goal to deliver top-notch craftsmanship and total customer satisfaction. We take great effort to work and communicate with every customer in a professional manner in order to understand their needs and expectations. Regardless of how big or little the task is, our reputation is built on service, safety, and quality. We offer a variety of services, such as installing ceiling fans and lights and wiring new homes. replacing outdated wiring, circuits, and panels putting in/replacing smoke/carbon monoxide detectors, remodeling, and updating the electrical system installation of transfer switches, post light replacement fixtures, and outdoor lighting installs of electric vehicle chargers.

"They did a fabulous job and I would recommend them to anyone!! The crew was professional and definitely knew what they were doing. Even from the beginning when I was looking to upgrade my old electric panel, they showed me different options and didn’t try to sell me anything I didn’t need. 10 out of 10 would highly recommend!"

Maxwell G on June 2025

"They did a fabulous job and I would recommend them to anyone!! The crew was professional and definitely knew what they were doing. Even from the beginning when I was looking to upgrade my old electric panel, they showed me different options and didn’t try to sell me anything I didn’t need. 10 out of 10 would highly recommend!"

Maxwell G on June 2025

Lou's Electrical Contractor & Installation LLC

Lou's Electrical Contractor & Installation LLC

Customers say: Quality work

38 local quotes requested

19 years of experience

I establish the company in 2006, I been providing electrical service to residential and commercial facilities, I am looking forward to providing any electrical service to the community for years to come, we have over 14 years' experience in electrical services.

"Fast and Completed what we needed & will call him back for more!😊👍"

Curtis G on March 2025

"Fast and Completed what we needed & will call him back for more!😊👍"

Curtis G on March 2025

Kline Electrical Services

Kline Electrical Services

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

87 local quotes requested

The Kline family has been serving customers in Hagerstown, Frederick, Martinsburg, Chambersburg, and Winchester for over 30 years. We are excited to continue our legacy of providing quality electrical services to you and your family into the future. If you are in need of electrical repairs or installations, contact us today. The Kline team consists of some of the most professional and knowledgeable electricians in the four state region. There is nothing that we can't handle. We are a full service company offering comprehensive repair and installation services, and we are ready to take on your project. Below are just a few of the services we offer at Kline: -Surge protection -Electrical panel maintenance and repair -New electrical panel installation -Electrical service upgrades -Meter base install, maintenance, and repair -Electric vehicle (EV) charging stations -Lighting upgrades (LED) -Outlet repair and installations -Generator installs and services -Whole home or partial rewiring services -Full electrical system installs

"Simply amazing from start to finish! I can't say enough nice things about this company or the people that I dealt with. They were all professional, friendly and they did great work. They called me just minutes after I clicked their name on Angi's List and had someone out to give me an estimate and had my appointment date set in record time from most companies that I have dealt with for home improvement. I hate having people in my house working but I felt totally comfortable with them. The work they did was exceptional. We got a new power box (breaker box - whatever it's call) and a new meter and a couple of new outlets put in. We also got new smoke detectors throughout the house. They had to work around some issues and relocate a bit of pipe from out water filter system that was in their way. And they just took care of it without any complaints. I didn't have to do anything. They took care of it all and had the inspector come out and get it approved. I feel safe in my home now. I highly recommend this company and I will be calling them for any future electrical work that I need done."

Linda H on June 2025

"Simply amazing from start to finish! I can't say enough nice things about this company or the people that I dealt with. They were all professional, friendly and they did great work. They called me just minutes after I clicked their name on Angi's List and had someone out to give me an estimate and had my appointment date set in record time from most companies that I have dealt with for home improvement. I hate having people in my house working but I felt totally comfortable with them. The work they did was exceptional. We got a new power box (breaker box - whatever it's call) and a new meter and a couple of new outlets put in. We also got new smoke detectors throughout the house. They had to work around some issues and relocate a bit of pipe from out water filter system that was in their way. And they just took care of it without any complaints. I didn't have to do anything. They took care of it all and had the inspector come out and get it approved. I feel safe in my home now. I highly recommend this company and I will be calling them for any future electrical work that I need done."

Linda H on June 2025

KM Electrical Solutions

178 Hidden Valley Cir

New on AngiNew on Angi

•Approved Pro

KM Electrical Solutions

178 Hidden Valley Cir

New on AngiNew on Angi

•Approved Pro

6 years of experience

Free onsite estimate

KM Electrical Solutions, is THE standard for electric work in your area. Master electrician who is available to do any of your household electrical need, or commercial wiring for your newest addition to your home or business. This team is always professional and thriving to show you why you made the right choice choosing KM Electrical Solutions, they aren't looking to complete just 1 job but all of your electric needs. Available every weekday Monday through Friday and are ready to complete any electric work that you and your family needs done!

Dead Rock Contractor Services, LLC

465 Shipley School Rd

5.00(

)

•Approved Pro

Dead Rock Contractor Services, LLC

465 Shipley School Rd

5.00(

)

•Approved Pro

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

17 local quotes requested

With over 30 years of experience, Dead Rock Contractor Services provides trusted residential and commercial electrical, HVAC and plumbing services across Jefferson County and the Tri-State area. Our licensed and insured team delivers expert workmanship, honest pricing, and exceptional customer care on every job. Whether you need an electrical panel upgrade, generator installation, EV charger, HVAC or plumbing repair, we’re your local one-call solution. 🏆 A Solid Reputation Built on Solid Relationships.

"Great Company"

Derek G on May 2022

"Great Company"

Derek G on May 2022

Residential Electric Solutions is a family owned and operated residential electric service company. With over 25 years of electrical experience, Alec Receveur (Master Electrician), his wife and son (Suzanne and Jesse) would like to help you with your electrical projects. For all of your residential electrical issues, we are here for you. We will listen to your needs and provide you with an affordable solution. Call us today to set up an appointment for any of your electrical projects/repairs. What We Are About: Clean Work Habits, Dependable Service, Evening Hours Available, Family Owned & Operated, Full Service Master Electrician, Residential Wiring and Heavy Up Specialists, Satisfaction Guaranteed. Where We Serve: In Maryland: Carroll County, Frederick County, Howard County, Montgomery County, and Washington County. In West WV: Morgan and Jefferson Counties.

"Alec did a great job. He followed through on our concerns, especially installing the chandelier at a lower level so it's easier to maintain and clean. He had to install a scaffold to install it in our two-story foyer. A great family-owned business."

Joe P on December 2019

"Alec did a great job. He followed through on our concerns, especially installing the chandelier at a lower level so it's easier to maintain and clean. He had to install a scaffold to install it in our two-story foyer. A great family-owned business."

Joe P on December 2019

Frank's Auto Body & Auto Repairs

46 Bell Rd

No reviews yet

Frank's Auto Body & Auto Repairs

46 Bell Rd

No reviews yet

37 years of experience

Frank's Auto Body Collision has been in business for over 25 years right here in WV.

Total Green Care

61 Trumpet Lane

No reviews yet

Total Green Care

61 Trumpet Lane

No reviews yet

13 years of experience

Handyman services, Licensed Electrician and HVAC certified.

Showing 1-10 of 13

Generator Install questions, answered by experts

Generators run on a variety of fuel types, ranging from natural gas to solar power. Keep in mind that fuel costs varying by type:

Natural gas: $2,000–$21,000 per year
Liquid propane: $2,000–$21,000 per year
Diesel: $3,000–$20,000 per year
Gasoline: $500–$3,000 per year
Solar generator: $2,000–$25,000 per unit
Battery backup: $10,000–$25,000 per unit

Natural gas and electricity rates vary significantly based on location, and pricing can change over time, too. It’s possible that in locations where natural gas is particularly inexpensive, it will cost less than grid-based electricity will. However, you should also factor in the generator’s initial costs and maintenance needs, as well as its noise level and if it can comfortably power all your home appliances.

No, you cannot plug a generator directly into a wall outlet in your home. Plugging in a generator without an interlocking kit, extension cord, or wall outlet receptacle is incredibly dangerous and can cause back-feeding—power from the generator back-feeds into utility lines. Also, if the main power comes back on while your generator is on, it could damage the generator and cause a house fire.

Whole-house generators can last 20 to 40 years with normal operation and proper maintenance. If you look up the specifications for your generator, you may be able to find a lifespan rated in hours of operation. Life expectancy will vary depending on how often and for how long you use the generator each year. Choosing a fuel with low impact like natural gas or diesel can help generators last as long as possible.

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.

The Kearneysville, WV homeowners’ guide to generator installs

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

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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.
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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.
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•
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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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Mar 14, 2025Mar 14, 2025
Propane vs. Natural Gas Generator: What’s the Difference?
Struggling to choose the best generator for your electricity needs? Compare propane vs. natural gas generators to help you make the right choice.
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.