Key Takeaways:
| Key Point | Summary |
|---|---|
| Installation Costs | Installation alone costs between $3,000 and $5,000. |
| Total Costs | Including unit and labor, the total cost ranges from $6,000 to $11,000. |
| Cost by Size | Larger homes or higher power demands increase costs significantly. |
| Fuel Type Differences | Costs vary significantly between natural gas, liquid propane, and diesel units. |
Average Installation Costs:
- $3,000 – $5,000: Average cost to install (labor only)
- $6,000 – $11,000: Average total cost installed (unit & labor)
Whole House Generator Cost
Understanding the expenses involved in purchasing and installing a whole house generator is crucial for homeowners considering this investment. Installation includes both labor and the unit itself.
Whole House Generator Cost Breakdown:
| Item | Average Cost | For Long Distances or > 20 kW |
|---|---|---|
| Whole House Generator | $3,000 – $6,000 | $4,500 – $12,000+ |
| Installation | $3,000 – $5,000 | $5,000 – $12,000+ |
| Total Cost Installed | $6,000 – $11,000 | $9,500 – $24,000 |
Home Generator Costs by Size
The cost of home generators varies based on size and power output.
Generator Cost by Size:
| Size | Unit Price Range | Typical Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| 2 – 5 kW | $250 – $1,400 | Portable: One appliance and a few lights. |
| 7 – 10 kW | $2,000 – $3,000 | Portable: 10 lights, refrigerator, sump pump, well pump, microwave, TV, laptop, coffee maker, and furnace fan. |
| 13 – 16 kW | $3,000 – $4,500 | Full home under 1,500 square feet. |
| 17 – 20 kW | $4,000 – $6,000 | Full 1,500 to 3,000 square foot home. |
| 22 – 25 kW | $4,500 – $12,000 | Full 3,000 to 5,000 square foot home. |
| 30 – 48 kW | $10,000 – $16,000 | Large luxury home or commercial applications. |
Whole House Generator Costs Installed by Type
The type of fuel used by the generator greatly affects its initial cost.
Whole House Generator Costs by Fuel Type:
| Fuel Type | Unit Price Range | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Natural Gas | $2,000 – $6,000 | Installs to a home’s existing gas line and requires no fuel storage. |
| Liquid Propane | $2,000 – $6,000 | Lasts longer and burns cleaner but is more expensive and requires a storage tank. |
| Diesel | $5,000 – $18,000 | More efficient and reliable but costs more and requires manual refueling. |
Cost Factors of Whole House Standby Generator
Several factors impact the cost of installing a whole house standby generator.
Standby Generator Installation Cost Factors:
| Factor | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Home Energy Assessment | Free With Installation |
| Labor Charges For Electrician | $40 – $100 per hour |
| Automatic Transfer Switch Installation | $600 – $2,500 |
| Electrical Wiring | $6 – $8 per foot |
| Gas Line Installation | $12 – $25 per foot |
| Concrete Pad | $150 – $400 |
| Propane Tank Installation | $400 – $1,800 |
| Permits | $80 – $450 |
Generator Transfer Switch or Interlock Installation
Installing a transfer switch or interlock is essential for ensuring your generator can effectively power your home during outages.
Home Generator Accessories & Prices
For optimal performance and safety, several accessories may be necessary.
Home Generator Accessories & Prices:
| Accessory | Price | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Generator Battery | $70 – $300 | Starts the generator when the electricity goes out. |
| Cold-Weather Kit | $130 – $500 | Ensures the generator starts in regions where temperatures drop below freezing. |
| Wireless Monitor | $200 – $210 | Provides access to generator status from inside the home. |
| Smart Load Manager | $130 – $250 | Allows smaller generators to power more appliances by balancing the load. |
| Fascia Kit | $65 – $130 | Protects the generator’s base from rodents and insects. |
Generac Generator Costs vs. Other Brands
Generac is a popular brand among homeowners, but how does it compare to other brands?
Generac Generator Prices:
| Power Capacity | Average Price |
|---|---|
| 7 kW | $2,000 |
| 10 kW | $3,000 |
| 16 kW | $3,800 |
| 17 kW | $4,000 |
| 20 kW | $4,500 |
| 22 kW | $5,000 |
| 30+ kW | $12,000 |
Kohler Generator Cost
Kohler generators are another reliable option. Typically known for their quality, they are often priced similarly to Generac generators.
Briggs & Stratton Generator Cost
Briggs & Stratton offers a range of home generators that often come at a competitive price point, appealing to budget-conscious consumers.
Cummins Generator Cost
Cummins generators are generally higher-end, offering strong performance and durability but often at a higher price.
Home Backup Generator FAQs
Does A Whole House Generator Add Value To Your Home?
A whole house generator can significantly increase your home’s resale value by offering peace of mind during power outages.
What Size Generator is Needed for a Whole House?
Selecting the right generator size is critical for ensuring it meets your home’s power demands.
Generator Size Calculator for House:
| Type of Load | Wattage | 7 kW | 20 kW | 48 kW |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Two Lighting Circuits | 200 W | ✔ | ||
| Four Lighting Circuits | 400 W | ✔ | ||
| 10 Lighting Circuits | 1000 W | ✔ | ||
| Refrigerator / Freezer | 1200 W | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Sump Pump | 1000 W | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Well Pump | 1000 W | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Furnace Fan | 500 W | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Garage Door Opener | 850 W | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Microwave Oven | 1000 W | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Electric Oven | 2000 W | ✔ | ✔ | |
| Radio | 150 W | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Television | 300 W | ✔ | ✔ | |
| Laptop | 50 W | ✔ | ✔ | |
| Desktop Computer | 200 W | ✔ | ✔ | |
| 4-Ton Central Air Conditioner | 8500 W | ✔ | ✔ | |
| Washing Machine | 1200 W | ✔ | ✔ | |
| Electric Clothes Dryer | 3000 W | ✔ | ||
| Coffee Maker | 900 W | ✔ | ✔ | |
| Gaming Console | 100 W | ✔ | ✔ | |
| Jacuzzi Bathtub | 1500 W | ✔ | ||
| Hot Tub | 6000 W | ✔ | ||
| EV Charging Station | 7200 W | ✔ |
How Much Does a Whole House Generator Cost to Run?
Running costs vary based on the fuel type and the generator’s size.
Cost to Run a Generator Per Day:
| Fuel Source | 7 kW | 15 kW | 20 kW |
|---|---|---|---|
| Natural Gas | $10 – $20 | $22 – $32 | $30 – $40 |
| Liquid Propane | $60 – $70 | $145 – $165 | $150 – $170 |
| Diesel | $32 – $40 | $90 – $110 | $100 – $120 |
| Gasoline | $55 – $70 | — | — |
How Long Can a Whole House Generator Run Continuously?
The continuous runtime of a whole house generator depends on the fuel supply and the unit’s maintenance requirements.
How Long Does a Whole House Generator Last?
A well-maintained whole house generator can last between 10 to 30 years.
Who Installs Whole House Generators?
Generally, licensed electricians or certified installers should perform the installation to ensure safety and compliance with local codes.
Where Should a Whole House Generator Be Installed?
Generators should be placed in well-ventilated areas, away from doors, windows, and air intakes to prevent carbon monoxide buildup.
Getting Estimates from Whole House Generator Installers
Securing quotes from multiple installers can help ensure competitive pricing and quality service.
Questions to Ask Installers
- Are you licensed and insured?
- Do you offer a free home energy assessment?
- What is the warranty on the installation and the generator?
- How long will the installation take?
By understanding the full scope of costs and considerations, homeowners can make informed decisions about investing in a whole house generator to ensure uninterrupted power supply during outages.
