The average cost of a whole-house generator falls between $5,000 and $25,000. Keep reading to learn how much you can expect to spend.
How Much Does It Cost to Run a Standby Generator?
The average cost to run a standby generator is $3 per hour, but it can range between $2 per hour and $5 per hour, depending on the generator’s size and fuel type.
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Cost Insights
Backup generator costs depend on fuel type and generator size, with natural gas and propane running your home for less than diesel.
Expect to pay $150 to $300 per year for generator maintenance and $50 to $2,000 for repairs when parts break down.
You can reduce your ongoing generator expenses by comparing fuel options, buying in bulk, and limiting power use to essential appliances during outages.
Hiring a local generator installation professional ensures safe hookup to your electrical system and natural gas supply, keeping your home protected during power outages.
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Factors Impacting the Cost to Run a Standby Generator
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These are the main factors that will play into the cost to run a standby generator.
Types
The type of generator has a key impact on the cost to run it. Natural and propane gas are the least expensive, while diesel will cost the most. Here’s how the costs break down on an hourly to daily basis.
| Generator Type | Cost to Run per Hour | Cost to Run per Day |
|---|---|---|
| Gasoline | $2–$5 | $60–$120 |
| Diesel | $6–$10 | $140–$240 |
| Natural Gas | $1–$5 | $25–$120 |
| Propane Gas | $1–$5 | $25–$120 |
Size
The size of the whole-house generator plays a significant role in the cost to run it, as larger wattage capacities require more fuel. Below are the average expenses based on the size of the generator.
| Generator Size in Kilowatts | Average Cost to Run per Day |
|---|---|
| 7.5–9 | $10–$130 |
| 10–15 | $20–$210 |
| 16–22 | $30–$220 |
| 23–36 | $50–$300 |
Location
Since fuel expenses vary across the country, location plays a significant role in how much it costs to run a standby generator. Areas with lower costs of living will see lower generator fueling and maintenance costs.
Ongoing Costs of Running a Standby Generator
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Aside from the covering fuel costs for the function of the standby generator, these are a few other expenses to budget for.
Maintenance
The cost of maintaining a whole-house generator averages between $150 and $300 per year. While it’s not a small expense, especially in the grand scheme of your generator’s lifespan, keeping up with maintenance is crucial for preventing costly breakdowns and ensuring it functions properly when you need it the most.
Repairs
If any part of your generator breaks down, repair costs can vary anywhere from $50 to $2,000, depending on the part that needs replacing. A simple carburetor swap can cost as low as $60, while a major engine replacement can cost upwards of $2,000.
Tips to Reduce Costs While Running a Standby Generator
A standby generator is an ongoing investment, but there are a few different ways to keep costs down. Here are some of the best ways to save when running a standby generator:
Always have a generator installed by a certified local generator installer to ensure it’s set up correctly and works as efficiently as possible.
Determine the right generator size beforehand by calculating your home's power needs with an electrician.
Clean air filters, fuel filters, and spark plugs regularly to keep the generator running efficiently.
Follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule to prevent breakdowns and costly repairs.
Compare fuel options and switch to a more cost-effective source (like natural gas) if available.
Buy fuel in bulk to take advantage of lower rates and long-term savings.
Limit power use during outages by running only essential appliances.
Stagger the use of high-energy devices instead of running them all at once.
Get multiple installation quotes to find the best deals on labor and equipment.
DIY Running a Standby Generator vs. Hiring a Pro
If you’re concerned about the cost to run a standby generator, the good news is that you don’t need to invest in professional labor to start your unit. Many standby generators feature an automatic transfer switch, which will automatically transfer power from the main breaker to the generator in the event of an outage. If you don’t already have one, the cost to install an automatic generator transfer switch is between $1,000 and $2,500. Otherwise, manual transfer switches are simple to use, requiring only a flip of a switch to activate them.
As for repairs and yearly maintenance visits, hiring a professional generator installer is essential. Since whole-house generators are hooked up to your home’s electrical system, as well as your natural gas supply if that’s the fuel source, they’re extremely dangerous for anyone other than a pro to work on. By hiring a pro, you can ensure your generator stays ready to go in the event of an emergency.
Frequently Asked Questions
Generator installs reviews from real Angi homeowners in Columbus, OH
Last update on January 19, 2026
- Sarah E.
Joseph did a great job with the staircase and trim. Timely and efficient, clear communication about the work, very fair pricing. For the stairs in particular, done very skillfully in an old house (1893) in a tight spiral, and very creative with how to do the handrail. Did a nice job with...
Vouis Trim Carpentry L.L.C. - Maggie M.
Jason has helped me with multiple household projects, with the most recent being new door installation. He has always showed up on time and organized and has done an incredible job! Jason is very professional and he's now my go-to for anything around my house that needs to be fixed or...
Huff Garage Rescue, LLC - Jeanann S.
Very professional, knowledgeable and helpful! Completed the install on time and as expected.
Ward's Services - Grace G.
Excellent, Prompt, Courteous Service!!! They were super friendly and quite personable. I felt very comfortable with the gentlemen that did the installation. They installed it exactly where I asked them to and they did an excellent job!! I loved their service so much.
Tether House - Lauren R.
The Mosby team went above and beyond for my project. They not only installed my light fixture; they also worked through an old, wonky, and as it turns out incorrect wiring issue from the work of prior contractors. Professional, thorough, conscientious, and kind. Five star experience. Thank you!
Mosby Electric - David E.
Window Depot did an amazing job installing the windows in my basement! The process from start to finish was by far more than what I expected. I would highly recommend Window Depot if you want professionalism from the the consultation to the installation. Dont settle for mediocre when you can...
Window Depot USA of Central Ohio - Mary O.
The guys did an outstanding job and we had a great experience with CarifaTile. I appreciated that Joe reviewed the quotes with me and set expectations prior to the install. The crews showed up as scheduled and always left the areas clean upon leaving the house. We will definitely use...
CarifaTile - Matthew L.
Called ahead and worked quickly to install keyless locks on vintage wooden doors.
Expert Lock and Key, LLC - Locke M.
We had a 20+ year old landscape lighting system that needed replacement. Midwest Lightscapes worked with us to design a much improved lighting system, lighting the exterior of the house and the back yard. Installation of the 45 light system took one and one-half days, and went very smoothly....
Midwest Lightscapes - Jake H.
Did an amazing job transforming my yard. Also installed sod in places, would recommend to everyone.
Cardinal Landscaping & Construction LLC
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