Whole House Generator Cost Calculator
Estimate a residential standby generator from kW class, transfer switch, and install difficulty — including pad and fuel-hookup allowances. Click any i for detail.
Your generator project
Generator size
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Generator size
Sized to the loads you want to cover. 14–18 kW is a common whole-house air-cooled class; larger homes or wells may need 20 kW+. |
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Transfer switch
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Transfer switch
Manual switches are cheaper but need you on-site. Automatic panels start the generator when utility power fails. |
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Install complexity
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Install complexity
Short runs near the meter are cheaper. Long gas lines, trenching, or panel upgrades raise labor. |
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Your state
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Your state
Scales midpoints for typical state-level labor and material costs versus the U.S. average — not an on-site bid. |
Options
How to use this calculator
- Pick a kW size class for the loads you want covered.
- Choose manual or automatic transfer switch.
- Set install difficulty and pad/gas options.
- Select your state and review unit vs labor lines.
Results explained
The estimate itemizes the generator unit, transfer switch, install labor, and optional pad and fuel hookup. Install complexity multiplies labor and gas lines.
Quick reference: standby generator midpoints
U.S.-average equipment midpoints before state scaling (air-cooled residential).
| Size class | Unit midpoint | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 10–12 kW | $3,200 | Essential circuits |
| 14–18 kW | $4,800 | Common whole-house |
| 20–24 kW | $6,500 | Larger homes |
| Auto 8–10 circuit switch | $1,800 | Partial-home auto |
| Whole-house ATS | $3,200 | Full panel transfer |
Install labor baseline ≈ $2,200 before complexity. Propane vs natural gas plumbing varies by site.
How the estimate is built
Total ≈ unit + transfer switch + ($2,200 × install mult) + pad + gas allowance, × state. Band ≈ 85%–130%.
Example scenario
A 14–18 kW unit with an 8–10 circuit ATS, typical install, pad, and gas at U.S. average is about $4,800 + $1,800 + $2,200 + $650 + $1,400 ≈ $10,850.
FAQ
Does this include a load calculation?
No. An electrician should size the generator to your panel and priority loads.
Permits and HOA?
Often required and not fully covered by the midpoint — confirm locally.
Battery backup instead?
Whole-home batteries are a different product; this model is for fueled standby generators.