Getting a whole house generator installed can be a significant investment. That’s why it’s important to know how much to expect.
Costs depend on how large the generator is, its fuel source, its distance from your gas meter and electrical panel, and the amount of wiring and piping it requires.
Cost of the Generator
The cost of having a whole house generator installed varies by home size, electrical needs, and generator type. In addition to the generator, you’ll have to consider a number of other things, including site preparation and permits, concrete pad installation, transfer switch purchase and installation, electrical wiring, and maintenance fees.
The best way to get an estimate on the cost of having a generator installed is by speaking with a professional. He or she will visit your home to assess power consumption and size up a generator that meets your requirements.
The generator’s fuel source is also an important consideration. Natural gas is a popular choice for whole-house generators, as it doesn’t require fuel storage like propane. Diesel is another fuel option, but it’s a bit more expensive than gas or liquid propane.
Cost of the Installation
Whole house generators are a great way to protect your home and essential appliances from power outages. They come in a range of sizes and fuel types.
To determine the right size for your home, consider its size and what equipment you need to run during a power outage. You might also want to consult a licensed electrician.
You’ll need a transfer switch to connect your generator to your electrical panel. This takes up about $1,200 of the installation cost.
Having a pro install this part of your whole house generator project can save you money down the line.
Another upgrade your local electrician might recommend is to add a circuit or bury a line to accommodate your new generator.
The costs to add these are generally small, but can add up if you want your entire home to run on the generator. You’ll also have to factor in permits and a concrete pad.
Permits
Whole house generators are an excellent investment for homeowners who want to be prepared for power outages. They can also add value to your home if you decide to sell it.
However, there are several things you need to consider before installing a whole house generator. You need to ensure that it is installed properly and is safe for your family.
The first thing you need to do is determine the type of generator that best suits your needs. It is important to choose one that meets all of your electrical needs, including supplying enough power for your appliances and lights.
Next, you need to determine where it should be located in your house. This is an important step because it will affect safety, noise, and exhaust.
Most municipalities require permits to install a whole house generator, and these can be very costly. It is important to factor in these costs when planning a budget for the project.
Concrete Pad
Generators are heavy and require a concrete pad to stand on. They also need to be placed on a level surface and away from mud and dirt.
To prepare the ground for a concrete pad, contractors will typically remove grass and 3-inches of topsoil. They may then add compacted gravel to stabilize the site and provide good drainage.
Once the soil is prepped, a professional will use a wooden frame to hold the concrete mix. The professional will then pour the concrete and let it cure.
The thickness of the pad is determined by the amount of weight it must support. This is based on the mixture and density of the concrete.
Before constructing the concrete pad, it is important to consider where the electrical conduits will need to go through. These conduits need to be positioned so that they will connect to the load leads on the generator and its control terminal connections.