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Generator Install questions, answered by experts

The cost to install a whole-house generator averages $5,200, with a typical price range of $1,500 to $8,900. However, total costs can vary from $400 for a small portable unit to over $18,000 for a large-capacity system. The most significant cost factor is the generator's size and capacity, but other variables include the brand, fuel type, and labor for assembly and installation.

Generator costs can be broken down by type:

  • Portable or Emergency Backup Generators (1kW–7.5kW): $500 to $2,000

  • Partial-Home Generators (9kW–20kW): $2,000 to $6,500

  • Whole-House Generators (22kW–48kW): $5,000 to $18,000

To avoid paying for more power than you need, consider hiring an electrician to calculate the electrical load for your essential appliances. It is also recommended to get at least three quotes to find the best deal for your specific needs and budget.

As a safety measure, you should always turn off the main breaker while operating your generator’s backup breaker. In addition, you should also switch off all appliance breakers so you don't have a power surge when the main breaker turns back on. And finally, turning off the main breaker prevents back-feeding, which endangers utility workers with the risk of electrocution. Back-feeding could also destroy the electrical circuits of your neighbors if they use the same power network.

Yes, in most municipalities, you will need a permit to install a permanent home generator, including emergency backup, partial-home, and whole-home models. Because these installations involve significant alterations to your home's electrical system and produce exhaust fumes, local governments often require a permit or inspection for safety purposes. A generator permit typically costs between $50 and $250, depending on your location. Your electrician or certified installer can usually handle the permitting process for you, but you will be responsible for the cost. It's a good practice to confirm with your installer that they will pull all necessary permits before work begins.

It might seem counterintuitive, but installing a generator transfer switch will save you money in the long run. While you’ll have to pay between $400 and $2,500 to have the transfer switch installed, you’ll recoup that amount later on when you don’t have to pay for expensive repairs to your appliances, devices, and electrical system that may have burned out, overloaded, or stopped working due to a sudden loss of power or an incorrect hook up of a generator to your home

The amount of time a standby generator can run continuously is around 3,000 hours on average. However, standby generators can generally run indefinitely as long as they have a continuous fuel supply. Generators hooked up to a home’s natural gas supply are the best option for extended usage, as these won’t rely on a finite fuel supply based on how much you have in storage. Generators running on liquid propane or diesel won’t last as long, as these require fuel storage and regular refueling to stay running.

The Fairfax, MN homeowners’ guide to generator installs

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.