Installing a whole house generator keeps your home powered during outages. The average price to install a whole house generator usually falls between $5,000 and $12,500, depending on the unit size and extra electrical work.
This range covers both the generator and professional installation. When you choose AAA Electrical Services, licensed professionals handle the work with safety in mind.
They have over 40 years of experience and offer same-day service. You get a clear process and peace of mind while protecting your family.
Your installation cost might change if your home needs electrical panel upgrades or special wiring. AAA Electrical Services uses flat-rate, upfront pricing and carries fully stocked vans for fast fixes.
This helps you avoid surprises and keeps your home safe during power outages.
Average Whole House Generator Installation Cost
Generator installation costs depend on your location, home size, and the type of generator you choose. Knowing these details helps you budget and pick the right setup.
National and Regional Pricing Trends
Generator installation costs vary across the U.S. Most installations range from $5,000 to $12,500.
Your location affects the price because labor rates and permit fees differ. Cities with stricter electrical codes often have higher costs.
Local electricians who know your area’s rules, like AAA Electrical Services in Sacramento, help you get a safe, code-compliant install. Skilled labor is important since mistakes can risk your home’s electrical system.
Typical Price Ranges by Home Size
Home size impacts generator size and installation cost. Smaller homes may only need a 7kW to 10kW generator, generally costing $5,000 to $7,000 to install.
Medium to larger homes need generators from 15kW to 22kW or more. Installation for these can run $8,000 to $12,500 because bigger units need more wiring and possibly panel upgrades.
If your home needs extra electrical work or a transfer switch, expect the price to rise. Clear upfront pricing helps you avoid surprises.
Cost Comparison: Whole House vs. Partial Generators
Whole house generators power your entire home during outages and cost more upfront. Typical installation is $5,000 to $12,500 including unit and labor.
Partial generators cost less and may power only essential systems. They usually range from $3,000 to $7,000 installed.
Your choice depends on your power needs and budget. Reliable electricians match your choice to your home’s needs.
Key Factors Influencing Installation Costs
Several elements affect how much you’ll pay to install a whole house generator. These include the generator’s size, fuel type, and your home’s electrical system complexity.
Generator Capacity and Power Output
Your home’s power requirements determine the generator size you need. Larger generators cost more to buy and install.
A 20-kilowatt unit powers most homes but costs more than a smaller 10-kilowatt model. Your choice depends on what you want to keep running during an outage.
Whole house generators typically range from 7 kW to 22 kW. Larger units need heavier wiring and bigger transfer switches, which increase labor and material costs.
AAA Electrical Services helps you pick the right size so you don’t pay for more power than you need.
Fuel Type Considerations
Fuel type affects installation complexity and cost. Common options include natural gas, propane, and diesel.
Natural gas generators connect to your home’s gas line, making refueling easy but sometimes requiring extra plumbing. Propane units need a storage tank, which adds to the cost and requires space.
Diesel generators are pricier and less common for homes due to noise and storage needs. Each fuel type also affects maintenance and run time.
For Sacramento and nearby areas, natural gas is often preferred for convenience and safety.
Home Electrical System Complexity
Your current electrical system affects installation ease. Older homes or those with outdated wiring may need upgrades before adding a generator.
This could include new circuit breakers, panel upgrades, or rewiring. A transfer switch is needed to safely switch from grid to generator power.
If your setup is complicated by multiple panels or hard-to-reach areas, labor costs rise. AAA Electrical Services performs thorough electrical inspections before installation to ensure your system is ready.
Generator Types and Their Pricing Impact
The type of generator you choose affects your overall cost. Size, fuel type, and installation needs all play a role.
Standby Generators
Standby generators are permanent systems that turn on automatically during outages. They connect directly to your home’s electrical panel and run on natural gas or propane.
Installing one usually costs between $5,000 and $12,500, depending on size and complexity. These generators offer reliable power for your whole house without manual setup.
A licensed electrician ensures safety and code compliance. AAA Electrical Services uses licensed pros for safe installation.
Portable Generators for Whole House Use
Portable generators cost less upfront but require manual setup and fuel management. Using a large, high-capacity portable generator for your whole house depends on your wattage needs.
These units usually cost less, but you must connect them safely with a transfer switch. Portable generators need regular refueling and maintenance during outages.
They can be a temporary solution but lack the convenience of standby units. Proper installation by a professional is important to avoid safety risks.
Dual-Fuel and Hybrid Systems
Dual-fuel and hybrid generators use two fuel types, usually gas and propane. This gives you flexibility if one source is low or unavailable.
These systems might cost more at first but offer savings and backup options long term. Installation can take more time and needs specialized expertise.
They are a good choice if you want a system that adapts to fuel availability.
Breakdown of Installation Expenses
Installing a whole house generator involves several key costs. These include equipment, labor, and extra electrical or plumbing work.
Equipment and Materials
The generator itself is the largest part of your cost. Whole house generators come in different sizes, usually rated by kilowatts (kW).
Most homes need around 20 to 22 kW for essential appliances and systems. You’ll also need a transfer switch to safely switch power from the utility to your generator.
Other materials include wiring, conduits, mounting pads, and weatherproof enclosures. These parts can add several hundred to over a thousand dollars depending on the setup.
AAA Electrical Services uses high-quality parts and offers transparent pricing.
Labor Fees
Licensed electricians are necessary for safe installation. Labor costs depend on experience, job hours, and permit fees.
Typical installs take one to three days, depending on your home’s wiring and setup. You’ll pay for site prep, wiring, transfer switch installation, and system testing.
A professional team ensures the work meets safety standards. AAA Electrical Services provides flat-rate pricing and same-day service.
Electrical and Plumbing Work
Electrical work includes grounding the system and integrating the transfer switch with your panel. This prevents dangerous back-feeding electricity.
Plumbing work may be needed if your generator runs on natural gas or propane. This requires certified gas line installation and pressure testing.
Proper ventilation is also important for safety. All work must meet local codes.
Hidden or Additional Costs
The initial price is just part of the total cost for a whole house generator. Extra fees can come up during or after installation.
Permits and Inspections
You’ll likely need permits from your city or county before installation. These ensure the work meets local safety and electrical codes.
Permit costs in the Sacramento area can range from $100 to $500. Inspections are required after installation to check for safety and proper setup.
If anything doesn’t pass, you might need extra work. Skipping permits and inspections can lead to fines and insurance issues.
Upgrading Electrical Panels
Your electrical panel might not handle the extra power from a whole house generator. If needed, you’ll have to upgrade or replace it.
Upgrades can cost between $1,000 and $3,000, depending on panel size and installation complexity. Upgrading prevents overloads or breaker trips during outages.
AAA Electrical Services provides expert panel upgrades with flat-rate pricing.
Landscaping and Site Preparation
You need a suitable, level spot outside your home for the generator. You may need to clear bushes, trees, or uneven ground.
This work can add several hundred dollars to your total cost. You might also need a concrete pad for stability.
Taking care of site prep ahead of time avoids delays and protects your investment.
Ongoing Maintenance Expenses
Your generator needs regular maintenance to run safely and reliably. This includes oil changes, filter replacements, and battery checks.
Annual maintenance costs usually range from $200 to $400. Skipping maintenance can lead to costly repairs or failures during outages.
AAA Electrical Services offers maintenance plans to keep your generator ready year-round.
Ways to Save on Whole House Generator Installation
You can lower your generator installation costs by choosing the right generator size, bundling services, and using rebates.
Choosing the Right-Sized Generator
Pick the right-sized generator to avoid paying for extra power you don’t need. A generator that’s too big costs more to buy, install, and run.
If it’s too small, it won’t cover your essential needs during an outage. List what you need powered—like lights, fridge, and HVAC—and discuss this with your installer.
This avoids overspending on unnecessary capacity. Smaller or mid-sized units often have lower installation fees.
Get a licensed electrician to assess your home and recommend the best size.
Bundling Installation Services
Bundle your generator installation with other electrical services to save money. If you need circuit breaker upgrades or panel repairs, combining jobs can reduce labor costs.
AAA Electrical Services offers flat-rate pricing and same-day service, so you pay a clear price upfront. Their stocked vans help get multiple jobs done in one visit.
Scheduling multiple services during one visit saves on travel and setup fees. Look for coupons or member discounts for bundled work to lower your expenses.
Exploring Rebates and Incentives
Local utilities and government programs sometimes offer rebates or incentives for installing energy-efficient backup generators. These discounts can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars, depending on your area and the type of generator you choose.
Check with your city or utility provider in Sacramento, Roseville, or nearby areas to find out what’s available. Propane or natural gas generators often qualify for more rebates than diesel models.
AAA Electrical Services can help you with the paperwork and timing to make sure you get eligible rebates. Using these incentives lowers your upfront costs.
Estimating Your Total Project Budget
When planning your whole house generator installation, it's important to know what costs to expect. The total budget usually falls between $5,000 and $12,500, depending on the generator size and installation complexity.
Here are the main expenses to consider:
- Generator unit price: Portable models cost less, while whole-house standby generators are pricier.
- Labor costs: Skilled electricians handle installation, affecting your price.
- Permits and inspections: Local rules might require these, adding fees.
- Additional parts: Transfer switches, wiring, and mounting equipment may be needed.
Cost ComponentEstimated Range Generator Unit$3,000 - $8,000Labor & Installation$1,500 - $4,000Permits & Inspections$200 - $500Additional Materials$300 - $1,000
Experienced electricians like AAA Electrical Services in Sacramento and nearby areas provide safe, code-compliant work. Their approach focuses on your family’s safety and clear, upfront pricing.
If you want same-day service or need help preparing your home, their team is ready to assist. Include a little extra in your budget for unexpected needs during installation.
How to Select a Qualified Installer
Choosing the right installer for your whole house generator is very important for your home’s safety. Look for licensed and insured electricians who understand local codes and proper wiring.
Ask about experience with whole house generators specifically. Skilled installers know the right size for your home and can handle any electrical upgrades.
Check for clear, upfront pricing. You want a company that offers flat-rate pricing with no hidden fees.
Look for same-day service options if you need it quickly. Having stocked vans, like AAA Electrical Services offers, means many repairs or installations can be done in just one visit.
Read reviews from local customers. People often praise technicians who arrive on time, explain the process clearly, and treat your home with respect.
Consider companies like AAA Electrical Services, trusted in Sacramento and nearby areas for more than 40 years. Their technicians are Nexstar-trained and background-checked, with a family-safety-first approach.
You can expect honest communication and a clean, careful work ethic. Before booking, ask about any discounts or membership programs.
You might find savings that make your installation more affordable.
Timeline for Whole House Generator Installation
Installing a whole house generator usually takes 2 to 4 days from start to finish. The exact time depends on your home’s electrical setup and any special permits needed.
First, a licensed electrician from AAA Electrical Services will assess your home. This visit helps identify what type of generator suits your power needs and if any upgrades are required.
Next, the team will handle permits and order equipment. This step can take a few days depending on local rules in Sacramento and nearby areas.
Installation begins with placing the generator and connecting it to your electrical panel. Your electrician will also install an automatic transfer switch that safely switches power during an outage.
Once all wiring is done, they perform thorough testing. This ensures your system works smoothly and meets safety codes.
You can expect clear communication throughout. With AAA Electrical Services, the process is designed with your family’s safety in mind.
StepTypical Duration Home assessment1 dayPermits and ordering2-5 daysPhysical installation1-2 daysTesting & final checks0.5-1 day
Frequently Asked Questions
Installing a whole house generator involves several cost factors, including the unit size, installation needs, and ongoing expenses. Knowing these details helps you plan better and choose the right setup for your home.
How much will I spend on installing a new whole house generator?
You can expect to spend between $5,000 and $12,500 for a whole house generator installation. This price covers the generator unit, labor, and any necessary electrical upgrades.
What is the price range for a 22kw whole house generator, including installation?
A 22kw whole house generator with installation usually costs around $7,000 to $11,000. The exact price depends on your home's wiring, permits, and site-specific requirements.
Can you compare the costs of generators based on house size?
Smaller homes often need generators in the 7kw to 14kw range, costing less to buy and install—typically $3,000 to $7,000. Larger homes may require models over 20kw, with installation costs rising due to bigger units and more complex wiring.
Where can I find a reliable cost calculator for whole house generator installation?
Several online tools offer cost estimates, but for the most accurate and local pricing, contact AAA Electrical Services. They provide clear, flat-rate pricing and help you understand your exact needs in the Sacramento and surrounding areas.
What are the ongoing expenses after installing a whole house generator?
You will have regular maintenance costs, including oil changes, filter replacements, and annual safety checks. Fuel costs also apply, especially if your generator runs on propane or natural gas.
Are there any budget-friendly options for whole house generators available at large retailers?
Some retailers offer less expensive portable or standby generators. These models often do not provide full home coverage.
You may need professional installation, which can add to the total cost. Licensed technicians like those at AAA Electrical Services can install your generator safely and reliably.
