The Cost of a Generac Generator
The storm knocked your power out for 6 hours last night.
It costs you a whole refrigerator full of groceries, not to mention the deep freezer in your garage.
You’re ready to sleep through storms and wake up to a home just the way you left it—chilled food in the fridge, a charged phone, functional light switches, and no potential flood in the basement.
You’re ready for a Generac whole home generator.
So what’s it going to cost? Is it worth it?
Understanding the Price Tag & the Savings
The Cost of a Generac Whole Home Generator
Investing in a Generac whole home generator is a decision that involves understanding the initial costs, including the purchase price and installation fees, as well as ongoing maintenance expenses, and answers to other questions you may have.
Here’s a cost summary of what we’ll break down below…
Purchase $3,000-$15,000
Installation: $500-$3,000
Permits/Inspections: $50-$200
Maintenance: $285-$585 per year
Purchase Price
The cost of a Generac whole home generator varies depending on whether it’s air- or liquid-cooled, the size, and the model.
Generators are typically sized based on the wattage they can provide. Prices range from $3,000 for a smaller, basic model and up to $10,000+ ($15,000+ for liquid-cooled) for a larger unit capable of powering your entire home.
To determine the right size for your home, we consider your specific power needs, focusing on critical systems and appliances you want to keep running during an outage.
10kW Generators: suitable for homes between 2,500 sq ft and 3,000 sq ft.
18kW Generators: ideal for homes between 3,000 and 5,000 sq. ft.
24 kW Generators: suitable for homes 5,000 sq. ft. and bigger.
Here are some notable differences between air- and liquid-cooled generators.
Air-Cooled: smaller, lighter, more flexible in the installation location, quicker install, higher fuel efficiency, come prepackaged with an automatic transfer switch, 2 fuel options (propane or natural gas)
Liquid-Cooled: 3-phase power options, higher power capacity, superior cooling, 3 fuel options (liquid propane, natural gas, diesel), quieter
Installation Costs
Installation is a critical component of your generator investment. Costs range from $500 to $3,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the installation, local building codes, and the need for any additional components like…
concrete pad
transfer switches
gas lines
When getting a Generac generator installed, work with a Generac Certified Installer to ensure proper installation and warranty compliance.
Permits & Inspections
Depending on your location in suburban Pennsylvania or Northern Delaware, permits and inspections may be required to install a whole-home generator.
These costs can vary but typically range from $50 to $200.
Work with an electrician who will gather all necessary paperwork and coordinate with local authorities, ensuring your installation complies with all local codes and regulations.
Maintenance
To ensure your Generac generator remains reliable and ready when you need it, regular maintenance is essential.
Annual maintenance contracts typically range from $300 to $600, covering routine inspections, oil changes, and any necessary adjustments to keep your generator in top condition.
Our plans at NLE range from $285-$585 for air-cooled Generac generators, as you can see in the chart below…
For liquid-cooled Generac generators, prices increase by $100 for each plan.
The Cost of Power Outages
Whole home generators are an investment in your home—one you hope not to need but pay off when you do.
So let's weigh the cost of not having a whole home generator during an outage. Without a whole home generator, power outages can lead to…
Food Waste
The average family refrigerator is full of perishable goods that can spoil within 4 hours without power, according to the USDA.
Replacing spoiled food can cost $100 to $250 or more, depending on the outage's duration and your stockpile.
Lost Productivity
For those working from home, a power outage doesn't just mean a pause in electricity—it means a halt in work. The loss of productivity can have tangible financial impacts, especially for freelancers or those running a home-based business.
The cost can vary widely but can easily reach hundreds of dollars per day.
Flooding
Homes with sump pumps rely on constant power to prevent basement flooding during heavy rains.
Without power, the risk of flooding increases significantly, potentially causing thousands of dollars in damage, not to mention the invaluable loss of personal items stored in basement areas.
Hotel Stays
Extended power outages might force you to seek alternative accommodations.
The cost of a hotel stay for a family can range from $100 to $200 per night, adding up quickly over several days.
Damage to Electronics
When power returns after an outage, the surge can damage sensitive electronics like computers, televisions, and appliances.
Repairing or replacing these items can cost anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars.
Emotional Stress & Discomfort
While not as easily quantifiable, the stress, anxiety, and discomfort of being without power, heating, or air conditioning during extreme weather cannot be overlooked.
The peace of mind knowing your home is protected is invaluable.
The Value of a Generac-Certified Dealer
Choosing a Generac-certified dealer from the start ensures you receive expert advice, professional installation, and maintenance services tailored to your specific needs.
Certified dealers are trained directly by Generac, ensuring they are up-to-date on the latest technology and installation techniques.
This partnership guarantees…
Expert Installation: As certified professionals, we adhere to the highest standards, ensuring your generator is installed with precision for optimal performance and safety.
Tailored Solutions: We assess your home's unique needs, recommending the perfect Generac model to ensure seamless power during outages.
Ongoing Support: Our commitment extends beyond installation. As a Generac-certified dealer, we offer comprehensive maintenance plans, ensuring your generator operates flawlessly for years to come.
Keep the Light On, Partner with NLE.
Investing in a Generac whole home generator is more than a purchase—it's a commitment to your family's safety, comfort, and uninterrupted lifestyle.
Partner with your local Generac Certified Dealer to not only support a family business but guarantee proper installation of your generator.
We’ll keep your home’s lights on.
FAQs
How much does a Generac whole home generator cost?
The purchase price of a Generac whole home generator varies depending on the model and size you need for your home.
Prices range from $3,000 for basic, smaller models up to $10,000+ for larger units capable of powering your entire home, with liquid-cooled models potentially exceeding $15,000.
To accurately determine the best size for your home, we consider your specific power needs, focusing on critical systems and appliances you wish to keep running during an outage.
What are the installation costs for a Generac generator?
Installation costs for a Generac generator can range from $500 to $3,000 or more.
This variance depends on several factors, including the complexity of the installation, compliance with local building codes, and the necessity for additional components like concrete pads, transfer switches, gas lines, and new electrical panels
Choosing a Generac Certified Installer ensures your installation complies with all warranty and safety standards.
Are permits and inspections required for installing a Generac generator?
Yes, depending on your location, installing a whole-home generator may require obtaining permits and undergoing inspections, with costs ranging from $50 to $200.
Working with a knowledgeable electrician who can navigate local codes and coordinate with authorities ensures your installation meets all regulatory requirements without hassle.
What does maintenance for a Generac generator involve, and what are the costs?
Regular maintenance is crucial to keep your Generac generator reliable and ready for use.
Annual maintenance contracts typically range from $285 to $585 for air-cooled models, covering routine inspections, oil changes, and necessary adjustments.
Liquid-cooled models may incur an additional $100 for each maintenance plan.
This proactive approach ensures your generator remains in peak condition, ready to provide uninterrupted power during outages.