Whole House Generator

A whole house generator is a permanently installed backup power system that automatically kicks on during outages, keeping your lights, HVAC, refrigerator, and essential appliances running seamlessly. These units run on natural gas or propane and require proper sizing, electrical work, and local permits for safe installation. Angi helps you connect with pros who can guide you through selection, installation, and maintenance.
Whole House Generator Service Articles and Advice
Angi  •  May 5, 2026
How to Hire a Generator Repair Pro
Learn how to find and hire a qualified generator repair pro. Get expert tips on vetting credentials, asking the right questions, and choosing the best technician.
Becca Lewis  •  May 3, 2026
How to Use a Generator to Power Your House
Having a back-up power source in case of emergency is important. Here’s how to use a generator to power your house.
Alison Kasch  •  May 3, 2026
How Much Does a Natural Gas Generator Cost? [2026 Data]
Natural gas generators are whole-home standby generators that are connected to your home’s natural gas line. The average cost for a natural gas generator is $12,000.
Heather Ayer  •  May 3, 2026
Whole-House Generator Installation: A Complete Guide
Whole home generator installations require a professional hand. Read this guide to help you decide which generator is best for your home.
Michelle Nati  •  May 3, 2026
Can a Whole-House Generator Run an Air Conditioner?
A whole house generator can keep your home running during a power outage, but can it handle the energy demands of an air conditioner? Here’s what to consider.
Tyler Lacoma  •  May 3, 2026
How Do Natural Gas Generators Work?
Natural gas generators can tap into existing gas lines so they never run out of fuel. Here’s how they work and how they’re used.
Alison Kasch  •  May 3, 2026
How Much Does It Cost to Run a Standby Generator?
How much does it cost to run a standby generator? The answer varies based on the type and size of the generator. Find out more.
Alison Kasch  •  May 3, 2026
Is a Whole-House Generator Worth It? What to Know Before You Invest
Is a whole-house generator worth it? Discover the key factors influencing ROI and whether it's the right choice for your home.
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Common Whole House Generator Service Questions

Whole-house generators need to be installed on level ground several feet away from walls and other objects. Because they tap into the electrical system directly, they usually need to be close to your home electrical panel for a transfer switch installation. It also helps with installation if they are near to a gas line or propane tank installation.

It’s a bad idea to refuel a whole-house generator while it’s running. Trying to fill a running generator is difficult and increases the risk of a fire or explosion. Instead, the recommended procedure is shutting down the generator, switching off your electrical system, then refilling it before turning it all back on. For whole-house generators, that means picking the right time when no household activities will be interrupted.

An undersized whole-house generator has the potential to overheat and shut down when you try to run a central AC system. This scenario can not only damage the whole-house generator, but can also trip your home’s breakers or cause electrical damage. To avoid this situation, hire a local generator installer to correctly size your whole-house generator.

To power a central air system during a power outage, the whole-house generator will need to be at least 5,000 watts, and this number will significantly increase for larger units. Check the specific wattage requirements of your AC unit to choose the right generator size. Consider consulting a generator installer to ensure your whole-house generator meets your electrical load needs.

In some cases, yes. You can get dual or triple-fuel capable generators, although you may need a conversion kit to switch between fuels, so it’s not as easy as flipping a switch. For example, many manufacturers offer whole-house generators that work with natural gas or propane with the right preparation.