Plenty of Houston generators went in after Ike in 2008 or right after Uri. Some are aging out. Others were never big enough for the house. If yours let you down in a real outage, you’re not alone.
Signs it’s time
Failed when it mattered
Didn’t start, or shut down under load, during a real outage.
Repairs keep coming
Controller, engine or alternator problems, one after another.
Parts are hard to find
Discontinued or backordered parts for your model.
The house outgrew it
New AC, addition, pool or EV charger it can’t handle.
Flood damage
Units that sat in floodwater usually need replacing.
Corrosion and wear
Rusted enclosure, oil burning, smoke or knocking.
Repair or replace?
If a big repair costs a large share of a new unit and the generator is getting old, replacement usually wins. Newer units also bring better load management, remote monitoring and quieter enclosures. More on repair.
What you might be able to reuse
| Part | Reusable? | Depends on |
|---|---|---|
| Pad | Sometimes | New unit’s footprint and current clearances |
| Gas line | Sometimes | Bigger generator may need bigger pipe or meter |
| Transfer switch | Sometimes | Brand compatibility and age |
| Wiring and conduit | Often | Matching the new unit’s output |
Upgrade while you’re at it
Replacement is the easiest time to move from essentials to whole-home coverage or relocate a badly placed unit. Run the calculator before you get quotes.
Cost
A like-for-like swap can land at the lower end of the typical $10,000 to $25,000 range. Upsizing with new gas and electrical work costs closer to a new install. Make sure haul-away of the old unit is on the quote.
Get a replacement estimate
We’ll match you with a local installer who handles replacements.
Common questions
When should I replace instead of repair?
When repairs are frequent or expensive, parts are scarce, the unit is undersized, or it failed during a real outage. A technician can compare the costs.
Can I keep my transfer switch and gas line?
Sometimes. If they’re compatible, in good shape and sized for the new unit, reusing them lowers cost.