Recently, a customer asked us this question in response to our Facebook post inviting questions from the public: “is there any way to even roughly Guesstimate the cost to supply and install a 14 Kw to 22Kw Generac ?” It’s a great question, and one we’re excited to answer! For this article we will be looking at the full suite of air-cooled units from Generac, ranging from 10kW - 26kW.
Adding a Generac generator to your home or business can provide peace of mind and uninterrupted power during outages. But what does the installation process actually cost? This guide breaks down the various components of installing an air-cooled Generac generator, providing a range of expected costs. Whether you're hiring Big Tree Electrical or another qualified electrician, this article will help you understand what goes into a generator installation.
1. Design and Sizing the Generac Generator to determine the cost to install
The first step in installing a Generac generator is proper design and sizing. This involves:
Assessing what you want to power (a few circuits or the whole house).
Sizing the generator appropriately.
Creating a comprehensive quote.
The design process also includes:
Obtaining permits.
Dealing with inspectors.
Adjusting the design for specific project needs.
Cost: $750–$2,000, depending on the project size and permit costs (which increase with larger installations).
2. Preparation
Preparing your property for the generator includes:
Choosing a suitable location (e.g., pouring a concrete pad or laying a gravel base).
Trenching and underground work for power and/or gas lines if the generator isn’t close to the house.
Upgrading propane tanks or natural gas meters if the existing setup lacks capacity.
Cost: $500–$2,500 or more, depending on the complexity of the preparation.
3. Material Costs
The materials required for installation include:
The generator itself.
A transfer switch.
Cold weather kits.
Fuel pipes, wiring, junction boxes, panels, regulators, and other components.
The generator and transfer switch are the most significant contributors to material costs. This guide focuses on air-cooled generators; liquid-cooled systems involve additional costs and will be addressed in a separate article.
Cost: $8,500–$15,000 for an air-cooled generator, depending on the size and additional materials.
4. Installation Time
Labor costs depend on:
The complexity of the installation.
Travel costs for the installation team.
Total hours required (typically 16–40 hours at $100/hour).
Cost: $1,600–$4,000, depending on labor hours and travel considerations.
5. Commissioning and Programming
Once installed, the generator needs to be set up and programmed. This includes:
Testing the system.
Programming it to meet your specific needs.
Setting up remote monitoring (additional costs if Wi-Fi isn’t readily available).
Cost: $150–$300, with additional fees for remote monitoring if required.
What’s the Total?
For an air-cooled Generac generator installation, you can expect to pay anywhere from $11,500 to $24,800, depending on the scope and complexity of the project.
Why Choose Big Tree Electrical?
At Big Tree Electrical, we specialize in Generac generator installations, offering:
Expertise in sizing and designing systems tailored to your needs.
Comprehensive project management, from permitting to commissioning.
Transparent quotes and professional service.
If you're considering a Generac generator, contact us today for a consultation and detailed quote. Let us make your installation seamless and stress-free.