What type of generator are you interested in?

A whole-house standby generator costs $6,000–$15,000 installed. Units range from $3,000–$8,000 for the generator and $3,000–$7,000 for installation (concrete pad, transfer switch, gas line, electrical). A 22kW unit covers most homes. Larger homes may need 30–48kW ($12,000–$25,000+).

Calculate your essential circuit load: AC (3–5kW), electric range (3–4kW), water heater (4.5kW), well pump (1–2kW), lights/outlets (2–3kW). Most homes need 14–22kW for essential coverage. To run everything simultaneously, size up to 22–36kW.

Natural gas generators can run indefinitely (as long as gas utility is operational). Propane generators run until the tank empties — a 500-gallon tank powers a typical home for 5–7 days at moderate load. Diesel generators need refueling every 24–72 hours depending on tank size and load.

Yes. A standby generator adds an estimated 3–5% to home value, or $5,000–$15,000 depending on the market. They’re especially valued in areas prone to power outages from hurricanes, ice storms, or grid instability. Realtors increasingly list them as a selling feature.