Whole-Home Generator Cost Calculator

Buying a whole-home generator is a considerable but worthwhile investment. Reliable Power Systems specializes in whole-home generator installation, maintenance, and repairs. The cost of a residential generator depends on several factors, and every home is unique.

This generator cost calculator provides you with a helpful starting point for estimating generator installation costs. Schedule a professional consultation for the most accurate pricing.

What Impacts Generator Installation Cost?

Generator installation cost is influenced by a variety of factors ranging from size to site conditions. Here’s a brief rundown of the factors that impact generator installation costs.

• Generator size: Whole-home generators typically range in size from 10 to 26 kW, depending on the size of your home. In general, the bigger the generator’s capacity, the higher the cost.
• Home electrical load: Generator technicians will conduct thorough load calculations to determine the size of the generator you need. The number of heavy-draw systems you have at home will significantly influence your electrical load.
• Fuel source: Whether you use natural gas, liquid propane (LP), or diesel will also impact the cost of generator installation and long-term operation. For instance, if you choose an LP generator, you’ll need to buy or lease an exterior tank to hold the fuel.
• Transfer switch requirements: An automatic transfer switch for a whole-home generator requires a high amperage rating and service entrance rating. If your electrical panel isn’t up to par with what’s needed, you may need to upgrade it.
• Installation complexity: The installation complexity also influences the total upfront costs. If your property's topography is particularly difficult, or you need to bury an LP tank on the premises, costs will go up.
• Permits and inspections: Local municipalities dictate safety and building codes. Electrical permits, structural inspections, and pouring a concrete pad for the generator all cost extra.
• Site conditions: Your home site conditions can sometimes make generator installation harder than expected and add to labor and material costs.

Use Our Generator Cost Calculator

Reliable Power Systems’ generator cost calculator makes it simple to get a preliminary estimate. To use the calculator, select the approximate size of your home, essential systems, appliances, and extras you want to run.

The generator cost calculator will then give you a recommended unit size and cost estimate for your home. A professional assessment is still recommended as a generator technician can provide a more accurate estimate.

Why Generator Prices Can Vary

If you heard that your neighbor got their generator for “X price,” it doesn’t mean that your estimate will be the same. Each home is unique in shape, size, and power demands. You may receive different estimates than neighbors because you want to power more heavy-draw appliances or have extras like a hot tub or heated pool.

Fuel availability, local code requirements, and installation challenges can all impact the final cost of generator installation. For example, if your home electrical panel is maxed out on amperage and physical space, you may need to add a dedicated subpanel for the generator.

Additionally, it’s important to consider annual generator maintenance costs when thinking about your long-term investment. We recommend routine maintenance visits annually or after every 100 to 200 hours of runtime, whichever comes first.

Why Professional Generator Installation Matters

Professional installation is critical for residential generators because it ensures proper sizing, code compliance, and safe electrical connections. Since a generator is connected to your home electrical panel, it is extremely important that a licensed electrician completes the install.

Most manufacturers also require professional generator installation for the warranty to remain valid. DIY installation is dangerous and can cause many code violations. Always work with a licensed electrician for long-term reliability and proper installation. DIY installation leads to costly generator repairs and safety issues such as back feeding.

Financing Your Generator Investment

A standby generator is a long-term investment that protects your comfort, safety, and property during power outages. Whole-home generators can also increase your home’s value by 2% to 3%.

Reliable Power Systems is proud to offer flexible financing options through Upgrade and Synchrony Bank to help make your generator investment more comfortable.

Learn more about our financing options today!

Request a Personalized Generator Estimate

We encourage you to complete the generator cost calculator and schedule an in-home consultation for an accurate quote. We can conduct load calculations and assess your property to provide a detailed cost estimate. Whether you’re looking for a Generac generator or one from another top brand, we’ve got you covered!

Contact us to schedule a free consultation!