Power outages can be a nightmare for homeowners, resulting in lost food, frozen pipes, and uncomfortable living conditions, among other things. To avoid these unwanted scenarios, many homeowners purchase a home generator to ensure an uninterrupted power supply during power outages. But how much do home generators cost? Are they worth the price?
Cost is often a major consideration when deciding on a big purchase, especially if one is not very familiar with the item being considered. In this article, we’ll explore the various factors that affect the price of a home generator and answer a few common questions.
If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to Prairie Electric. We can answer many power-related questions, whether you’re a homeowner or a commercial property owner.
From the Portland and Vancouver metro areas out to the Tri-Cities of Kennewick, Pasco, and Richland, we’re ready to serve you.
Home Generator Costs: Types, Capabilities, and Capacities
The type of generator you choose can have a significant impact on the price.
Portable generators are generally the least expensive, with prices ranging from $500 to $2,000. Backup home generators, on the other hand, are more expensive, with prices ranging from $5,000 to $20,000 or more.
Industrial generators are the most expensive, with costs ranging from $25,000 to $100,000 or more, depending on the size and capabilities of the generator. Homeowners are unlikely to be in the market for generators this massive — in both scale and costs — so let’s stay focused on home generators.
Power Capacity
The amount of power your home generator can provide plays a critical role in determining the cost. A generator’s power is measured in watts, and the amount of watts required depends on the appliances, electronics, and lights you want to run during an outage.
Generally speaking, the higher the wattage, the more it will cost you. A 5,000-watt generator will cost you anywhere from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand, depending on the manufacturer, product features, and more. A 10,000-watt generator can range in the mid to upper thousands.
Brand and Model
Brand and model play a role in determining the cost of a home generator. High-end brands and models come at a premium price, and many people think they tend to be more reliable and durable. However, they may not provide better value for money compared to affordable models.
You can find quality generators from many reputable brands, including Kohler (Prairie Electric is a Kohler installation and service dealer), Generac, Briggs & Stratton, and Champion.
Be sure to do your research when purchasing a home generator. Consider your wattage needs and your budget, and read reviews from trusted sources, whether they’re online or in your neighborhood.
Installation and Maintenance Costs
House generator installation costs can add a significant amount to the total price of a home generator. The installation usually requires the hiring of a professional — an electrician who can create an automatic transfer switch that connects your home’s electrical system to the generator when power outages occur.
Installation prices can vary based on location, labor costs, and the complexity of the installation. Additionally, larger backup generators may need a concrete pad installation, which can be costly to install. However, a professional installation of your standby generator will more than pay off in terms of certainty of function, durability, and peace of mind.
Location and Fuel Type
Your location and fuel type (natural gas generator, solar-powered generators, liquid propane, gasoline, etc.) can affect the cost of a home generator. Homes in regions with frequent power outages or extreme weather conditions may require more powerful generators that will cost more money. Likewise, homes that require propane or natural gas-powered generators will have variable price points that differ from generators powered by gasoline.
The cost to install a whole-house generator varies based on several factors, including the type of generator, power capacity, brand and model, installation costs, location, and fuel source. It’s important to choose a generator that fits your budget while also providing the necessary power to keep your home comfortable and functioning during outages.
Always look for reputable brands and models that offer good value for money. With the right generator in place, you can be prepared for power outages and avoid the inconvenience and discomfort associated with them.
Prairie Electric
As a top-rated residential electrical contractor, we specialize in new home construction, remodels, home automation, and more.
Comprehensive Electrical Services for Your Home
At Prairie Electric, we understand how important electrical services are to homeowners. We offer a wide range of services to cater to your home’s electrical needs.
Our expert electricians can handle any electrical job, from minor repairs to major installations. We specialize in new home construction, home additions and remodels, home technology, and more. If you’re looking to improve your home’s energy efficiency, we can help you find the best solutions.
Quality Workmanship and Customer Service
Our four decades of experience in the residential electrical services industry have taught us that quality workmanship and customer service are vital in our line of work. We strive to deliver the best possible service to our clients. Our electricians are licensed and insured in Oregon and Washington, ensuring that you receive top-quality services. We also make customer satisfaction a top priority, ensuring that you are fully satisfied with our services every time.
24/7 Emergency Support
Electrical outages are frustrating and inconvenient. In some cases, they can be dangerous. That’s why we offer 24/7 emergency support for our residential customers.
When you have an electrical emergency, you need a team of experts who can attend to your needs promptly. Our electricians are always on standby and ready to help you when you need it most.
Competitive Pricing and Transparency
At Prairie Electric, we pride ourselves on providing high-quality services at a competitive price. We offer transparent pricing for all our services, ensuring that there are no hidden charges or surprises. In addition, we also provide free quotes and consultations, so you can make an informed decision about your electrical needs. We believe that honesty, transparency, and fair pricing are fundamental to providing top-quality services to our customers.
Expertise and Innovation in the Residential Electrical Services Space
Our electricians are highly trained, experienced, and knowledgeable in the residential electrical services space. We stay up-to-date with the latest trends and innovations to provide our clients with the best possible services. Whether you need help with home automation, security systems, in-home theaters, and, of course, home generator advice, our electricians have the expertise and knowledge to help you.
Prairie Electric is unrivaled in the residential electrical services space. We offer comprehensive electrical services for your home, quality workmanship, 24/7 emergency support, competitive pricing and transparency, and expertise and innovation in the residential electrical services space.
Let us know if you have any questions about house generator costs — or anything else related to our residential electrical services. In fact, contact us today for all your residential electrical needs, and experience the Prairie Electric difference!
