How long does a whole-house generator last?

<div>When maintained properly, a whole-house generator can last up to 20 years. <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-generator-repair-cost.htm">Costs to maintain and repair generators</a> vary by location and type of generator, but you can expect to pay about $150 to $300 per year for annual generator maintenance checks. An experienced generator service technician will inspect your generator’s engine filter, starting mechanism, fuel, lubrication, and coolant levels to keep your generator in good working condition for as long as possible. </div>

How do I know what size generator I need?

<div>When <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/what-size-generator-do-i-need.htm">choosing the right size generator</a> for your needs, consider a few items to help calculate the wattage you’ll need. Start by determining which household items and appliances you want to power, and then add the wattages together. Check out the wattage of these essential appliances:<ul><li>Refrigerator: 600 watts</li><li>Large dehumidifier: 700 watts</li><li>Large window air conditioner: 1,400 watts</li><li>Water heater: 3,000 watts</li></ul>Running home appliances like these requires a partial or whole-house generator. A portable generator may be enough to power your home if you only plan to keep a refrigerator and freezer running. </div>

What can I run on different generator sizes?

<div>Here’s what you can run with different wattages and types of generators:Portable generator:<ul><li>2,000 watts can handle a large appliance like a freezer or refrigerator, plus a few smaller items like phones or computer chargers. </li><li>4,000 watts will keep two large appliances operating and a few smaller devices.</li><li>8,000 watts should power most essential appliances and other devices, including a sump pump, well pump, or your dishwasher.</li></ul>Partial to whole-house generator:<ul><li>20,000 watts and above will make it seem like your home’s power is still on.</li></ul></div>

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Q: How much does a whole-house generator cost?

<div><a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-it-cost-install-generator.htm">Installing a whole-house generator costs</a> about $5,000 on average. Prices range from $1,550 to $8,500, depending on size, brand, fuel type, and assembly. The size of your whole-house generator is the most significant cost factor, with large homes with high energy demands costing the most to power. Types of whole-home generators include:<ul><li>Portable generators with 1kW&ndash;7.5kW capacity: $500&ndash;$2,000</li><li>Partial generators with 9kW&ndash;20kW capacity: $2,000&ndash;$6,300</li><li>Whole-house generators with 22kW&ndash;48kW: $5,000&ndash;$18,000</li></ul></div>

Q: What can I run on different generator sizes?

<div>Here&rsquo;s what you can run with different wattages and types of generators:Portable generator:<ul><li>2,000 watts can handle a large appliance like a freezer or refrigerator, plus a few smaller items like phones or computer chargers. </li><li>4,000 watts will keep two large appliances operating and a few smaller devices.</li><li>8,000 watts should power most essential appliances and other devices, including a sump pump, well pump, or your dishwasher.</li></ul>Partial to whole-house generator:<ul><li>20,000 watts and above will make it seem like your home&rsquo;s power is still on.</li></ul></div>

There are 4 highly-rated local generator installers.

Verified Reviews for Generator Installation pros in Clayton, IN

*The Angi rating for Generator Installation companies in Clayton, IN is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Generator Installation needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Generator Installation companies in Clayton, IN is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Generator Installation needs.

Last update on April 27, 2025

Reviewed in February 2017
They came out soon after I called. We had a flood light that kept going out. I wanted him to come and look at the wiring to make sure I did not have a problem. Once he got here he told me to change to an LED light bulb and I have not had a problem since. Turned out to be an easy fix. Good...
Efficient Systems-Heat|Cool|Electrical|Plumbing
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Reviewed in May 2020
Tommy Gidman was my sales/quote person. He was great to work with. Very friendly and patient. He did a terrific job explaining to me how the system would be installed and how it would work once it was complete. He was upfront about when they could do the work since they were experiencing parts...
ASHPAUGH ELECTRIC INC
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Reviewed in November 2016
I had purchased a special offer. Mr. Hammon responded promptly and arrived for the appointment on time. He removed old gasoline from the mower and from my gas can, changed a sparkplug, cleaned the mower and folded it up for storage. He was friendly and efficient. Having him come to my house for...
Indy Mower Repair
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Reviewed in August 2022
The owners were easy to deal with and very knowledgeable. They were happy to answer all of my questions in a timely manner. I would recommend.
Generator Supercenter of Indianapolis
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Reviewed in January 2013
Owner operator arrived on schedule, was professional, careful to respect property (had shoe covers etc.). Explained his work clearly, particularly the genset connectivity. Completed the job in timely manner. After two months, I remain completely satisfied with work.
RU Electrical Service, Inc.
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