How Much Does a Generac Generator Cost?

Last Updated on August 21, 2024
Written by CPA Alec Pow | Content Reviewed by CFA Alexander Popinker

As a pioneering brand in residential and commercial backup power, Generac generators provide peace of mind through reliably automated electricity when utility service fails. But what should potential buyers expect to invest when purchasing the right Generac standby or portable generator matched to their needs?

This guide goes into detail about Generac’s extensive product catalog, installation considerations, operating costs, pricing negotiation tactics, and expert advice to give potential generator buyers the in-depth knowledge required to take on this major system purchase with full confidence.

How Much Does a Generac Generator Cost?

With factors like power output, fuel type, special features, installation, and home energy loads influencing costs, be prepared for total price tags ranging from $2,000 for smaller portable units up to $30,000+ for permanently installed whole house standby generator systems.

Portable Generators – $800 to $4,000 – Best suited for worksites, events, or occasional short-term outages. Limitations on continuous runtime and electrical capacity restrict roles.

Home Standby Generators – $3,000 to $15,000 – Permanently installed units automatically backup essential household circuits through extended multi-day outages. Most popular for homes.

Commercial Standby Generators – $10,000 to $30,000+ – Built to professional specifications for sizable businesses and organizations with large electrical loads.

Pricing depends extensively on power output, fuel specifics, features, and installation factors explored next.

Generac Generators’ Benefits

Founded in 1959, Generac has grown into a leading brand in standby home and commercial generators running on natural gas, diesel, or propane fuel sources, earning a reputation for reliable automated backup electricity generation during grid power outages and failures. Key advantages include:

• Smart monitoring and quiet operation reducing nuisance noise.
• Cost-efficiency balancing fuel consumption and electricity output.
• Durable, low-maintenance industrial engine designs proven by decades of real-world use.
• Broad range of models suiting varied applications from homes to large enterprises.

According to Vastola Heating, the average cost for a Generac standby generator, including installation, typically ranges from $5,500 to $15,000. The total cost largely depends on the size of the generator needed for the home and the complexity of the installation. They mention that a common average for a complete installation is around $8,500.

GSHA Services reports that the average cost for Generac generators and installation is approximately $8,700, with prices ranging from $6,500 to $10,900. This price includes various models, such as the Guardian series, which can power an entire home during outages. The installation costs can vary based on factors like the generator’s size and the specific requirements of the installation site.

On Danley Electrical, they provide a broader range for the cost of installing a Generac generator, stating that it can be anywhere from $1,500 to $5,000 for the installation alone, depending on the generator size and other factors. They also note that the total project cost, including the generator and installation, typically falls between $5,000 and $15,000. This range reflects the variability in generator sizes and the complexity of the installation process.

Nationwide Generators lists several Generac models with prices that range from $5,965 to $18,887. For example, the Generac 7291 Wi-Fi Guardian Series 26kW home standby generator is priced at $7,097. This site provides a comprehensive overview of various models and their respective costs, indicating the range of options available for consumers. Nationwide Generators

While Generac commands justified premium pricing, the wise investment provides protective peace of mind through powering through unpredictable outages and emergency events beyond owners’ control when it matters most.

Factors Impacting Generac Generator Costs

• Wattage Power Output – Higher electrical capacity means a proportionally higher price tag. Balance adequate power without dangerous overcapacity.
• Fuel Source – Propane, Natural Gas, or Diesel – Each has infrastructure implications affecting costs. Propane readily usable in rural areas while natural gas requires on-site piping installation but offers lower long-term fuel costs in urban environments with existing utility access.
• Electric Start, Smart Auto Transfer Switch, and Monitoring Systems – Convenience and safety options add expense but streamline operation.
• Aluminum Weatherproof Outdoor Enclosures – Premium cabinets protect against elements and tampering for thousands more but are recommended for permanent standby generators.
• Warranty Length – Most units have a 2-year basic warranty, but 4, 8, and 10-year extended warranty programs available for purchase offer peace of mind but add cost upfront.

You might also like our articles about the cost of generator rental, whole house generator installation, or Generlink generators.

Purchase and Installation Cost Considerations

Generator Unit Itself – Base model starts as low as $800 for portable inverter units or $3,000-$4,000 for standard home standby models and up to $20,000+ for large commercial generators.

Professional Electrical Installation Labor – Expect to budget an additional $2,500 – $5,000+ to hire certified electricians for required safe integration of generator systems. Complex installs with extensive wiring or conduit needs grow higher in cost.

Automatic Transfer Switches – Important add-on components for standby generators allowing safe transition between generator and main grid power range from $800 to $1,200 depending on amperage capacity.

Concrete Pads – While not always required, properly poured pads simplify installation and reduce vibration during operation. Around $500+ in additional site work costs if not already in place.

Weatherproof Steel Enclosures – Top of the line metal with tamper-resistant locking doors and ventilation average $1,500-$2,500 installed depending on cabinet size required for the generator model. These protect permanent outdoor standby generator assets.

Where to Purchase Generac Generators

Big Box Stores – Offer competitive retail pricing with maximum convenience but employ third party installers with mixed skill results reported once projects get complicated. Provides budget-priced options still.

Online Dealers – Allow extensive product feature research and price comparisons across websites but similarly utilize local electricians contracted for installs. Vet reviews carefully when choosing online vendors.

Local Authorized Generac Dealers – Command higher base pricing but provide end-to-end sales, certified expert installation, and long-term service access. Worth added costs for peace of mind and support for most buyers despite higher quotes.

Wherever you buy, verify experienced installers handle complex generator system integration. DIY is not safely advised.

Warranty Options and Maintenance Plans

• Basic limited warranties cover years 1-2 on portable units, 2-5 years on home standby units, and 1-2 years on commercial models depending on registration compliance.
• Optional extended limited warranty programs purchase added years of coverage such as 4, 8 or 10 years for investment protection.
• Stipulations require only authorized Generac parts, fluids, and filters be used to maintain validity of warranties. Consult dealer schedules.
• Annual scheduled maintenance plans available through local dealers help optimize performance and lifespans for $250 – $500 per year depending on number of service visits specified. Consider the benefits of these upkeep programs as well.

Final Words

While Generac generators carry a considerable upfront investment ranging from a few thousand dollars for portable models to $20,000+ for permanently installed whole house standby systems, their proven design reliably delivers automatic backup electricity to maintain normal life when the unpredictable occurs.

Taking time to properly size requirements, research retailers, and hire certified professionals reduces costs and provides confidence through power failures and emergencies. For home and business owners concerned with emergency preparedness, Generac generators bring peace of mind during life’s uncertainties.

Answers to Common Questions

How much does it cost to run a Generac generator for 24 hours?

Approximately $40-60 per day based on residential electricity rates and generator propane or natural gas consumption rates while running at full output.

How much is a generator for a 2000 sq ft house?

A 16kW Generac generator can sufficiently power essential circuits in a 2,000 sq ft home including air conditioning, furnace, and major appliances during outages.

Are Generac generators worth it?

Generac’s proven reliability, efficient engines, integrated telemetry monitoring, quiet operation, and strong local dealer support justify higher costs for most homeowners compared to generic brands.