The price of a whole-house generator usually ranges from $7,000 to $20,000. The cost depends on generator size, the condition of the electrical panel, the fuel source, and installation work. This price includes the generator, automatic transfer switch, wiring, fuel line setup, and permitting and inspection.
The installed cost of the whole-house generator may increase if electrical upgrades or a gas meter change are needed. Grounded Electric installs standby generators that comply with safety and electrical code requirements. This guide explains generator cost, sizing, and installation.
Key Takeaways
- The installed price of the whole-house generator ranges from $7,000 to $20,000, depending on generator size, fuel source, and installation needs.
- Total costs include the generator, automatic transfer switch, wiring, fuel connection, and permitting and inspection.
- Most homes need generators between 14 kilowatt kW and 26 kW to power air conditioners, sump pumps, and key circuits.
- Installation costs increase when the generator is far from the electrical panel or gas meter, or when upgrades are required.
- Proper installation and regular service help ensure reliable backup power during power outages.
Average whole-house generator installed price
Generator size and installation factors affecting cost
The installed price of the whole-house generator depends on the generator size and the installation work. Smaller generators cost less and power only key circuits. Larger generators cost more and power the full home. Electrical panel upgrades or fuel line work can increase the cost. Installation conditions also affect the total price.
Generators are rated in kilowatts (kW), which indicates the amount of power they provide. The right size depends on the home’s electrical load. A properly sized generator helps protect equipment. Licensed electricians check load needs before installation.
What is the average installed cost?
The average home standby generator installation cost is about $10,000 to $12,500, as explained in this guide to home generator installation cost in NJ. This includes equipment, wiring, fuel connection, permitting, and inspection. Electrical upgrades increase total costs. Proper planning helps prevent extra expenses.
Homes with newer electrical panels may need less work. Older homes may need panel upgrades. Electrical checks help ensure safe installation. This helps ensure reliable backup power.
Generac whole-house generator
Cost to install a Generac generator
The cost to install a Generac generator ranges from $12,000 to $20,000, depending on generator size and installation work, as explained in this guide on how much it costs to have a Generac generator installed.
This includes wiring, transfer switch setup, and fuel connection. Larger generators need more work. Installation conditions affect the final price.
Natural gas generators connect to a fuel source and run automatically. This allows backup power during outages. Fuel type affects installation needs. Licensed electrician Robert “Bobby” Mulholland checks system needs before installation.
Home standby generator installation cost breakdown
Generator equipment cost
Generator equipment usually costs between $4,000 and $9,000. Larger generators cost more and support more equipment. The size generator depends on power needs. Portable generators cost less but need manual use. Standby generators run automatically.
Installation cost breakdown by component
Installation includes equipment, wiring, fuel line setup, and permitting and inspection. Each part adds to the total costs. Installation work depends on the home layout and fuel source. Typical costs include:
Typical line items that affect whole house generator installation cost.
| Cost item | Typical range | What it covers |
|---|---|---|
|
Equipment
Generator unit
|
$4,000 – $9,000 | Generator price varies based on size and power output. |
|
Electrical
Automatic transfer switch
|
$1,000 – $2,500 | Transfer switch allows safe transition to backup power. |
|
Labor
Electrical installation labor
|
$3,000 – $6,500 | Includes wiring, panel work, and generator connection. |
|
Fuel
Fuel line installation
|
$500 – $2,000 | Fuel connection to natural gas or propane source. |
|
Permits
Permitting and inspection
|
$100 – $500 | Local permit fees and inspection requirements. |
Cost ranges vary based on generator size, installation complexity, and local permit requirements. These values represent typical ranges from public sources.
Project Manager and Co-Owner Barret Abramow plans installation to meet local permitting rules. Electrical work must follow the safety code. Proper planning helps prevent problems.
Generator cost by home size and power
Generator cost for a 2,000 sq ft house
Homes around 2,000 square feet usually need generators between 14 kW and 20 kW. Installation cost ranges from $9,000 to $13,000. Generator size depends on the electrical load. Correct sizing helps ensure safe operation.
Generator cost for a 3,000 sq ft house
Homes around 3,000 square feet usually need generators between 20 kW and 26 kW. Installation cost ranges from $11,000 to $16,000. Larger homes need more power. Larger generators increase total costs.
Generator sizing and power requirements
Generator size depends on electrical load and equipment needs. This guide explains what size Generac generator I need. Proper sizing ensures enough backup power. Electricians check the system load before installation.
How generator distance affects installation cost
Generator location affects installation cost. Longer distances require more wiring and fuel line work. This increases labor and material costs. Shorter distances reduce installation work.
Proper placement helps reduce costs. Planning improves installation efficiency. Location affects the total price.
Factors that affect installation cost
Electrical panel and fuel system requirements
Electrical panel condition affects installation work. Older panels may need upgrades. Fuel source connection must meet safety rules. Natural gas generators need fuel supply checks.
Installation complexity and permitting
Installation work varies by home layout. Longer wiring and fuel line runs increase costs. Permitting and inspection ensure safe installation. Permit cost depends on location.
Licensed electricians ensure code compliance. Proper planning helps ensure safe operation. Installation quality affects system reliability.
Operating and maintenance costs
Annual generator maintenance cost
Annual costs average about $425, depending on service needs such as inspections and Generac service in NJ. Maintenance helps ensure reliable operation. Regular checks help prevent problems. Maintenance supports system lifespan.
Generator lifespan and fuel cost
Standby generators last about 15 to 25 years with proper maintenance. Natural gas generators usually cost about $2 to $5 per hour to run. Most homes spend about $100 to $300 per year on fuel, depending on outage frequency. Backup power helps protect homes during power outages.
Whole-house generator installation FAQ
How much does it cost to install a whole-house generator?
Installation cost ranges from $7,000 to $20,000, depending on generator size, fuel source, and installation work. Electrical upgrades increase total cost. Fuel system work may also increase the price. Proper installation ensures safe operation.
Generac home generator cost installed by home size
The cost of installing a Generac home generator ranges from 12,000 to 20,00. It depends on the generator size and the home’s electrical load. Larger homes need larger generators. Installation complexity affects total costs. Proper sizing ensures reliable backup power.
Consult a licensed generator installation expert
A consultation helps determine the correct generator size, installation requirements, and total cost. A licensed electrician will evaluate your electrical panel, fuel source, and power needs.
This ensures safe installation and reliable backup power. Schedule a consultation with Grounded Electric to review goals, wiring, and budget.
