How Much Does a Whole-House Standby Generator Cost?

How Much Does a Standby Generator Cost?

Most standby generators cost between $8,000 and $23,000 installed. The final price depends on generator size, fuel type, home electrical setup, and local labor rates.

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Ongoing Costs to Budget For

A standby generator is a long-term system with ongoing operating costs. Planning for these expenses helps avoid surprises.

Fuel Costs

Fuel type has a major impact on long-term cost:

• Natural gas: Runs continuously as long as service is available. Cost depends on local utility rates and outage duration.
• Propane: Requires refilling tanks. Prices vary seasonally, but larger tanks allow longer runtimes.
• Example usage: A 22 kW generator at 50% load may use 2–3 gallons of propane or 250–300 cubic feet of natural gas per hour.

Maintenance Costs

• Most homeowners spend $200–$600 per year on maintenance.
• Includes oil and filter changes, spark plugs, air filters, and inspections.
• Professional service is often required to maintain warranty coverage.

» Related: Standby Generator Maintenance Costs

Repair Costs

• Common repairs involve starter motors, control boards, or fuel components.
• Minor repairs may cost $200–$400.
• Major repairs can exceed $1,500+.

Battery Replacement

• Backup batteries typically last 2–4 years.
• Replacement costs range from $100–$300 installed.

Warranty Extensions

• Optional extended warranties range from $200 to $1,000.
• Pricing depends on coverage length and system size.

How to Save Money on a Standby Generator

1. Right-size your system
   Avoid paying for unused capacity by matching generator size to essential circuits or zones. Load-shedding transfer switches can also reduce the required generator size.
2. Buy during the off-season
   Spring and fall often have lower prices and better installer availability.
3. Compare multiple quotes
   Get at least three estimates and request itemized pricing.
4. Bundle home projects
   Combining installation with electrical upgrades or HVAC replacements may reduce labor costs.
5. Check for rebates
   Some utilities and states offer incentives for standby generator installations.
6. Keep up with maintenance
   Routine service extends lifespan and reduces expensive repairs.

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What Is a Standby Generator?

A standby generator is a permanently installed backup power system that automatically powers your home during an outage. It’s connected directly to your electrical panel and fueled by natural gas or propane, allowing it to start on its own within seconds of a power loss.

Because it runs automatically and doesn’t require refueling or setup, a standby generator provides hands-free, whole-home backup power—keeping lights, appliances, HVAC systems, and critical devices running without interruption.

• Permanent installation: Mounted outside your home on a concrete pad
• Automatic operation: Starts and stops on its own during outages
• Continuous fuel supply: Runs as long as gas or propane is available

Standby generators use an automatic transfer switch, which safely disconnects your home from the utility grid during an outage. This prevents dangerous backfeeding and ensures a smooth transition when power is restored.

They’re best for homeowners who want reliable, long-term protection from power outages—especially in areas with severe weather, aging power grids, or homes that rely on electricity for medical equipment, sump pumps, or remote work.

Why Do Standby Generators Cost More?

Standby generators cost more because they’re permanent, automatic, whole-home power systems—not temporary backup solutions.

Unlike portable generators, standby systems are professionally installed, integrated into your home’s electrical infrastructure, and designed to run for extended periods. This added complexity and reliability increase upfront cost, but also deliver significantly more convenience and protection.

Key reasons standby generators cost more include:

• Professional installation with permits and electrical work
• Automatic transfer switch for seamless power transitions
• Higher power capacity for whole-home or large-load coverage
• Long lifespan compared to portable units

For homeowners in outage-prone areas, the ability to restore power automatically—without extension cords, refueling, or setup—often makes the higher cost worthwhile.

» Related: Portable vs. Whole-House Generators

Final Thoughts on Standby Generator Costs

A standby generator is a significant home investment, but it delivers unmatched reliability during power outages. While installed costs typically range from $8,000 to $23,000, the benefits—automatic operation, whole-home coverage, and long-term durability—make it a top choice for homeowners who prioritize peace of mind.

By choosing the right size, comparing quotes, and maintaining your system properly, you can maximize both the value and lifespan of your standby generator.

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