Important information to help you understand the variable costs related to installing a home generator so you can be a more informed buyer.
What affects the cost of home generators?
There are four common factors that impact the total price of generator purchase and installation. For an accurate estimate, you should schedule a free, in-home assessment.
The Generator
The average cost of a generator starts at around USD $4,000 MSRP for a 13 kW and USD $5,500 MSRP for a 20kW.
Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS)
The automatic transfer switch constantly monitors the electric utility power coming into the home. If it detects a break in service, it will automatically disconnect the home from the electric utility line in a split second, and turn on the Cummins generator to power the home instead. The range of an ATS is USD $600-$1,200 depending on the size needed.
Professional Installation
Of the expenses associated with installing a home standby generator, the installation costs vary the most, ranging from USD $2,000 to $4,000. Costs can differ depending on your location, since the process includes obtaining permits, preparing the site, mounting the generator, getting a licensed plumber to connect the fuel line, and getting a licensed electrician to connect the generator to your home.
Propane Tank
If your generator is powered by propane, you need a propane storage tank. 250-gallon propane storage tanks are USD $500 to $1,500. 500-gallon tanks are USD $1,000 to $2,500. Prices vary across regions, and underground tanks cost more. Natural gas generators are connected to your home’s gas feed, so there’s no need for a tank.
The cost of running a whole house generator depends on the size of your generator, the load the generator is running and the local cost of propane or natural gas. Cummins offers different generator options running on natural gas, propane, or diesel. Costs can differ depending on your location, since the process includes obtaining permits, preparing the site, mounting the generator, getting a licensed plumber to connect the fuel line, and getting a licensed electrician to connect the generator to your home.
Estimate your whole house generator size
If you prefer to purchase a whole-home generator online and install yourself or through an electrician outside of our authorized dealer network, our sizing calculator can help give you a valid estimate and generator recommendation based on your power needs.
In order to use the calculator, you will need to know your home's square footage, what essential items in your home you will need powered like heating, cooling, garage door, and sump pumps, what appliances you will need powered like refrigerators or microwaves, and if you have recreational items requiring power like hot tubs, pools, or saunas.
Investing in a whole house generator for your family
Cummins and our network of authorized dealers are here to support and provide our customers with as much education and information as possible.
An outage without a generator could cost up to 14k+
Upfront cost for peace of mind and backup power can save you a lot more money than if you were to experience an extended outage.
Explore home generator resources
Cummins has a wealth of information for you if you'd like to learn more about how to choose a generator and safely operate a generator.
How to buy a home generator
You can purchase a home generator through a local, certified dealer or online through one of our internet retailers.
Let a local dealer help you estimate your whole house generator cost
For accurate sizing, it’s best to schedule an appointment with a Cummins authorized dealer who will come out to your home and make the calculations for you. Our dealers are a great educational source on product recommendations, pricing, and can provide financing options.
Whole House Generator FAQs
Yes, a whole house generator can enhance the value of your home. Potential buyers often see it as a valuable asset, providing security during power outages and ensuring continuous functionality of essential systems. The convenience and peace of mind offered by a whole house generator contribute to the overall appeal of the property. Additionally, in regions prone to frequent power disruptions, having a reliable backup power source becomes a sought-after feature, potentially increasing the market value of the home. Overall, a whole house generator can be considered a practical investment that adds both functional and monetary value to a property.
Generally, a home generator is not tax-deductible for personal use. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) typically considers residential generators as home improvements rather than deductible expenses. However, there are exceptions for business use or if the generator is part of a medical necessity prescribed by a doctor. To ascertain specific tax implications, it's advisable to consult a tax professional who can provide personalized advice based on individual circumstances and relevant tax laws. Keep records of any medical necessity documentation or business use to support potential deductions, but for most homeowners, the purchase and installation of a home generator are not tax-deductible.
The cost to run a generator depends on its fuel type, capacity, and local fuel prices. Portable generators and whole home generators would differ in price based on size and consumption. Factors such as load size, generator efficiency, and local fuel prices significantly impact operational expenses. It's crucial to consider fuel consumption rates, and manufacturers typically provide this information in the generator specifications to estimate running costs accurately
Of the expenses associated with installing a home standby generator, the installation costs vary the most. Costs can differ depending on your location, since the process includes obtaining permits, preparing the site, mounting the generator, getting a licensed plumber to connect the fuel line, and getting a licensed electrician to connect the generator to your home. A Cummins-authorized dealer takes care of these installation tasks on your behalf.
