
For construction trade professionals, understanding the cost of installing a standby generator is crucial. The typical installation cost ranges from $6,800 to $16,000, depending on various factors such as generator capacity, fuel type, and site preparation. This guide provides a detailed breakdown of these costs, helping you make informed decisions and avoid overestimating expenses.
Standby generators range from 7 kW units for essential loads to 24 kW models for whole-house coverage. Smaller air-cooled units start around $2,800, while liquid-cooled systems can exceed $12,000 before installation. Accurate load calculations are essential to avoid oversizing and unnecessary costs.
Natural gas, propane, and diesel each have unique cost implications. Natural gas may require trenching, while propane involves cylinder fees. Diesel offers high energy density but requires regular maintenance. Consider lifetime operating costs when selecting a fuel source.
These tasks can cost $1,200–$4,500, influenced by distance, soil conditions, and amperage. Accurate site assessments help manage these costs effectively.
Electrical, mechanical, and fuel-gas permits typically cost $150 to $600. Efficient permit management can prevent delays and additional labor costs.
Experienced electricians and gasfitters charge $55–$110 per hour. A straightforward installation may take 12–20 hours, but complex projects can increase labor time significantly. Understanding labor productivity benchmarks is key to cost control.
In suburban markets, total costs usually range from $6,800 to $16,000. Essential-load systems average $8,900, while whole-house packages average $13,400. These figures include hardware, materials, permits, and labor.
For a precise generator installation cost, start a consultation at CountBricks.com. Upload your blueprint or use our AI tools for a detailed quote, timeline, and payment schedule.

The Ramirez family sought whole-house backup power after a prolonged outage. Initial quotes ranged from $15,000 to $18,500. By leveraging AI-driven insights, they reduced the required capacity and optimized site preparation, resulting in a final cost of $12,100.
The project was completed efficiently, with no change orders, providing seamless power and a detailed cost breakdown.
Start a consultation at CountBricks.com to receive a detailed proposal and timeline, ensuring cost-effective and efficient project execution.