Whole-House Generators 101: Types, Sizes & Fuel Options

When the lights go out in Augusta, having a whole-house generator can make all the difference between a minor inconvenience and a major disruption to your family’s comfort and safety. Let’s break down what these power-saving heroes actually are before we talk dollars and cents.

A whole-house generator (also called a standby generator) works like a vigilant guardian for your home’s electrical system. Unlike those portable units you drag out during emergencies, standby generators are permanently installed outside your home—similar to your AC unit—and spring into action automatically when utility power takes a vacation.

Generator power is measured in kilowatts (kW), with each kilowatt providing 1,000 watts of electrical muscle. Most Augusta homes feel comfortable with generators in the 16-22 kW range, though larger homes with multiple AC systems might need 30 kW or more of backup power.

“One of the first things to think about when choosing the correct generator for your needs is the size of your home and the amount of energy you typically consume,” explains Kyle Raabe, executive vice president of consumer power at Generac Power Systems.

Finding your perfect generator match means calculating your electrical load—adding up the wattage of everything you want powered during an outage. Your HVAC system typically needs 5,000-7,000 watts, your refrigerator around 700-1,200 watts, and your water heater about 3,000-4,500 watts. Don’t forget lighting (400-800 watts) and, if applicable, your well pump (750-1,500 watts) or sump pump (800-1,500 watts).

Many appliances need a power “boost” to start up. Your air conditioner, for instance, might need 3-4 times more power to start than it does to keep running. This is why proper sizing by a professional electrician is so important—and exactly what our team at Dr Electric CSRA specializes in.

When it comes to fuel, you’ve got several options to power your backup system:

Natural gas connects to your existing gas line, offering unlimited runtime without the hassle of refueling. It’s the most popular choice for Augusta homes with existing gas service.

Propane stored in tanks on your property provides a reliable alternative where natural gas lines don’t reach. You’ll need to monitor levels and schedule refills, but propane delivers excellent performance.

Diesel generators typically serve larger homes and come with their own storage tanks. They’re powerful but require more maintenance attention.

Solar with battery backup systems are gaining popularity as a zero-fuel option. While the upfront investment is higher, you’ll enjoy free power generation and potential tax incentives.

Today’s generators also feature inverter technology that delivers “clean” power safe for sensitive electronics, plus smart features like remote monitoring through your smartphone—no more wondering if your generator is working while you’re away!

Why Standby Beats Portable for Full-Home Coverage

While those $500-$2,000 portable generators might tempt your wallet, they come with significant drawbacks compared to whole-house systems.

With portable generators, you’re the operator—hauling it out, fueling it up, and starting it yourself, often in terrible weather conditions. Most portables only generate 3-8 kW, barely enough to keep your refrigerator and a few lights running. You’ll need to snake extension cords through your home, refuel every 8-12 hours (sometimes during the middle of the night), and deal with the constant noise of a machine running at vacuum-cleaner volume.

Safety concerns are real too. Portable generators cause hundreds of carbon monoxide poisoning cases each year when placed too close to homes.

By contrast, whole-house standby generators offer peace of mind through:

Automatic operation that detects outages and starts within seconds—even when you’re not home.

Whole-house coverage through direct connection to your electrical panel, powering everything from your refrigerator to your Wi-Fi router.

Seamless transitions that maintain your comfort without disruption to your family’s routine.

Extended runtime with natural gas units running indefinitely or propane systems lasting for days or weeks.

Code compliance with permanent installations meeting all local building and electrical requirements.

Improved home value with potential returns of up to 150% on your investment when you sell.

“During an outage, a home standby generator can help power critical medical devices, maintain access to Wi-Fi and cellular networks, and keep residents safe and comfortable during severe weather,” notes Raabe—something we’ve seen helping Augusta families prepare for outages.

Fuel Source Showdown

Your fuel choice significantly impacts both your upfront costs and your wallet during outages:

Natural Gas offers the lowest operating expenses at roughly $90/day for a 21 kW generator. There’s no need for storage tanks, and you’ll enjoy unlimited runtime (unless gas service itself is interrupted). It’s the cleanest-burning fossil fuel option but requires existing gas service or line extension, which can cost $10-$30 per foot.

Propane costs more to operate—approximately $220/day for a 20 kW generator—and requires installing a tank ($500-$1,800 for a 250-500 gallon model). However, a full 500-gallon tank typically powers your home for 1-2 weeks, making it reliable during natural disasters when other utilities fail.

Diesel sits in the middle for operating costs at about $175/day for a 20 kW generator. It requires a storage tank and regular fuel maintenance, but the fuel has a longer shelf life than gasoline. Diesel generators typically power larger homes (30 kW+) but produce higher emissions.

Solar with Battery Backup systems cost nothing to operate once installed, though they require the highest upfront investment ($10,000-$25,000+). While capacity is limited unless significantly oversized, these environmentally friendly systems produce zero emissions and may qualify for substantial tax incentives.

For most Augusta homeowners we work with at Dr Electric CSRA, natural gas proves the preferred choice when available, thanks to its convenience and lower operating costs. However, propane remains an excellent alternative for homes without natural gas service, especially in rural areas.

Want to learn more about ensuring your home’s electrical systems are ready for whatever comes your way? Check out our Residential Electrical services for complete information.

Whole House Generators Prices Installed – How Much Should You Budget?

Now let’s get to the heart of the matter: whole house generators prices installed in the Augusta, GA area. While national averages give you a ballpark figure, local factors like permit costs, labor rates, and your property’s unique conditions will shape your final investment.

In the generator world, there’s a simple rule of thumb many pros follow: installation costs often mirror the equipment cost. So if you’re eyeing a $6,000 generator unit, you might need to budget another $6,000 for installation, bringing your total investment to around $12,000.

“I had no idea they cost that much!” is something we hear from surprised homeowners getting their first quote. But once you understand what goes into a proper installation, those numbers start to make more sense.

For Augusta and the CSRA region, your final price tag will depend on several key factors. The size of generator you need obviously impacts cost, with larger kW units commanding higher prices. Your choice of fuel matters too – natural gas installations typically cost less than diesel setups. Then there’s brand selection, where premium names with advanced features will stretch your budget further.

The unique aspects of your property play a huge role too. How far is your gas meter from the ideal generator location? Is your yard perfectly level or sloped? Does your electrical panel need upgrades? All these questions factor into your final cost. And don’t forget local permit fees, which vary depending on exactly where you live in the CSRA.

10–20 kW Models: whole house generators prices installed snapshot

For smaller to medium-sized Augusta homes (up to about 2,500 square feet), a 10-20 kW generator typically provides ample power. These air-cooled units represent our most common residential installations.

What might this cost you? Whole house generators prices installed in this range typically break down to $6,550-$11,300 all-in. This includes the generator unit itself ($3,000-$4,500), automatic transfer switch ($800-$1,500), concrete pad ($500-$1,000), gas piping ($650-$1,500), electrical connections ($1,500-$2,500), and permits ($100-$300).

These systems can comfortably run your essential home systems – keeping your refrigerator humming, well pumps operating, sump pumps protecting your basement, heating systems working, and offering some cooling capacity. With smart load management, they can even alternate between power-hungry appliances like air conditioners and electric dryers, giving you maximum coverage without requiring a larger generator.

“That took way more work than I thought it would!” is another comment we frequently hear after completing an installation. There’s a good reason for that – a typical 14-20 kW generator installation involves approximately 27 total labor hours with multiple skilled tradespeople working in coordination.

30–48 kW+ Luxury Loads: whole house generators prices installed at scale

For larger Augusta homes (3,500+ square feet), especially those with multiple HVAC systems, pool equipment, or home theaters, generators in the 30-48 kW range often make the most sense. These units typically feature liquid cooling for better performance and longer life.

Whole house generators prices installed for these premium systems typically run $15,650-$26,900 all-inclusive. The generator unit itself ($10,000-$16,000) represents the biggest chunk, followed by electrical work ($2,500-$4,000), automatic transfer switch ($1,200-$2,500), gas piping ($1,000-$2,500), concrete pad ($800-$1,500), and permits ($150-$400).

While this represents a significant investment, these systems provide complete peace of mind with enough capacity to run virtually everything in your home simultaneously during extended outages. No compromises necessary.

It’s worth noting that liquid-cooled generators typically outlast their air-cooled cousins and run more quietly too, making them a better long-term investment for larger properties where the generator will see frequent use during Georgia’s increasingly unpredictable weather patterns.

For more information about upgrading your electrical system to accommodate a whole-house generator, check out our Upgrade Electrical services.

Line-Item Installation Costs & Process

The installation process is where many homeowners experience sticker shock. However, proper installation is crucial for safety, reliability, and code compliance. Here’s what goes into a professional generator installation by Dr Electric CSRA:

Breakdown of a Typical Invoice

Let’s examine what makes up that 40-50% of your total cost that goes toward installation:

1. Site Preparation and Concrete Pad: $500-$1,500
   • Level ground, remove obstacles
   • Form and pour a concrete pad (typically 3′ x 6′)
   • Allow proper drainage and clearances

2. Transfer Switch Installation: $800-$2,500
   • Supply and install automatic transfer switch
   • Connect to main electrical panel
   • Program load management features

3. Gas Piping: $650-$2,500
   • Run appropriate size gas line from meter
   • Install shutoff valves and regulators
   • Pressure test system for leaks

4. Electrical Work: $1,500-$4,000
   • Run power lines from generator to transfer switch
   • Install control wiring
   • Ground system properly
   • Connect battery starter

5. Permits and Inspections: $100-$400
   • Electrical permits
   • Gas/plumbing permits
   • Final inspections

6. Labor: (included in above costs)
   • Licensed electrician: $75-$125/hour
   • Licensed plumber/gas fitter: $75-$125/hour
   • General labor: $50-$75/hour

“On average, the cost for a whole-home standby generator installation is between $800-$1,000 per kilowatt of power,” according to industry data. This aligns with what we typically see in Augusta installations.

The placement of your generator significantly impacts installation costs. Ideally, your generator should be:

• Within 10-15 feet of your gas meter to minimize gas piping costs
• Near your electrical panel to reduce electrical wiring costs
• At least 5 feet from doors, windows, and vents for safety
• Away from bedroom windows to minimize noise disturbance
• On level ground with good drainage
• Accessible for maintenance and service

Choosing a location that minimizes these distances can save thousands in installation costs.

Timeline From Quote to Commissioning

A typical whole-house generator installation follows this timeline:

1. Initial Consultation and Site Survey: 1-2 hours
   • Assess electrical needs and calculate load requirements
   • Evaluate potential installation locations
   • Discuss fuel options and preferences

2. Proposal and Contract: 1-3 days
   • Detailed quote with all components itemized
   • Explanation of generator size recommendation
   • Contract signing and deposit

3. Permitting: 3-14 days
   • Submit electrical and gas permits to local jurisdiction
   • Coordinate with utility companies if needed

4. Equipment Ordering: 1-14 days
   • Order generator unit and transfer switch
   • Schedule delivery

5. Site Preparation: 1 day
   • Pour concrete pad or prepare mounting surface
   • Allow concrete to cure if applicable

6. Installation: 1-2 days
   • Set generator in place
   • Install transfer switch
   • Run gas and electrical connections
   • Complete all wiring

7. Inspection and Testing: 1-2 days
   • Local code inspections
   • System testing and commissioning
   • Customer training on operation

From initial quote to a fully operational system typically takes 2-4 weeks, though this can vary based on permitting timelines, equipment availability, and weather conditions.

Beyond Upfront Price: Operating, Maintenance & Added Value

When you invest in a whole-house generator, the price tag doesn’t tell the complete story. Just like owning a car, there are ongoing costs that smart homeowners should factor into their decision – along with some surprising benefits that might make the investment even more worthwhile than you expected.

What Will It Cost When the Lights Go Out?

When that inevitable power outage hits Augusta, your generator will spring to life – and start consuming fuel. How much will this actually cost you?

For a typical 21 kW generator running on natural gas, you’re looking at about $3-$4 per hour or roughly $70-$100 per day at current Augusta rates. That’s about the cost of a nice dinner out to keep your entire home powered for a full day.

If you’re using propane instead, the same generator will burn through about 2.3 gallons per hour, which translates to around $110-$150 daily with today’s propane prices. A bit more expensive, but still reasonable when you consider the alternative.

Diesel generators run at approximately $150-$175 per day for a 20 kW unit – the highest fuel cost of the traditional options, but they can be more efficient for very large homes.

And if you’ve gone the solar/battery route? Your “fuel” is free sunshine, though your runtime will depend entirely on your battery capacity and how much sun you get for recharging.

To put these costs in perspective, think about a typical ice storm outage in Augusta that might last 3-5 days. Even at $100 per day for natural gas, that’s $300-$500 total – significantly less than hotel stays for your family, replacing a freezer full of spoiled food, or repairing water damage from frozen pipes that burst during your powerless absence.

Keeping Your Investment Alive

Your generator is like any other mechanical system – it needs regular care to perform reliably when you need it most. As more outages are becoming common, this maintenance becomes even more crucial.

Most homeowners spend between $200-$500 annually on generator maintenance, which typically includes:

• Oil and filter changes (every 200 hours of operation or annually)
• Air filter inspection and replacement when needed
• Spark plug checks and occasional replacement
• Battery testing (the most common failure point)
• Coolant checks for liquid-cooled models
• Full system testing and transfer switch inspection

“I completely forgot about my generator until the power went out!” is something we hear often. Thankfully, modern standby generators run weekly self-tests, usually for about 5-10 minutes. These brief check-ups consume minimal fuel while ensuring everything’s in working order – and they’ll alert you if something needs attention.

Dr Electric CSRA offers maintenance plans that take the guesswork out of keeping your generator ready. Think of it as insurance for your insurance policy – a small price to pay for guaranteed reliability.

Beyond the pure operational costs, your generator adds value in ways you might not have considered:

Home value boost: A professionally installed whole house generator prices installed by certified electricians can increase your home’s resale value by 3-5%. Many Augusta realtors report that homes with standby generators sell faster and often recoup 150% or more of the initial investment.

Insurance benefits: Some homeowners insurance providers offer discounts for homes with standby generators since they reduce claims from power outage damage like frozen pipes, food spoilage, and mold from non-functioning sump pumps.

Smart technology: Today’s generators include remote monitoring through smartphone apps, letting you check status, receive maintenance alerts, and even control your generator while you’re away. This is particularly valuable for second homes or when traveling during storm season.

Peace of mind: While harder to quantify, there’s real value in knowing your family will remain comfortable and safe during the next outage. For homes with medical equipment or elderly residents, this peace of mind is truly priceless.

As one of our customers recently told us after a three-day outage: “My neighbors were scrambling to find hotel rooms while we were inviting friends over to charge their phones and take hot showers. Best money I ever spent.”

For more information about protecting your electronics during outages and power surges, check out our Surge Protection services that complement your generator installation perfectly.

Frequently Asked Questions about Whole-House Generators

How do I pick the right size without overpaying?

One of the most common questions we hear from Augusta homeowners is about generator sizing. This is where working with a professional like Dr Electric CSRA truly makes a difference in your experience (and your wallet).

When we visit your home, we don’t just eyeball your square footage and recommend the biggest unit we can sell you. Instead, we perform a detailed load calculation that looks at real-world factors like:

• Your home’s actual square footage and layout
• The number and size of your air conditioning units
• Whether you have electric or gas appliances
• If you rely on a well pump or city water
• Any medical equipment that requires continuous power
• Home office needs for those who work remotely

Many homeowners are surprised to learn that “whole house” actually refers to the transfer switch coverage, not necessarily the generator capacity. For many Augusta homes, a properly sized 16-22 kW generator with smart load management can provide excellent coverage without the expense of a much larger unit. The system can be programmed to alternate between high-demand appliances, giving you the comfort you need without unnecessary expense.

As one customer told us after their installation, “I was all set to buy the 30 kW model until you showed me how the 20 kW would handle everything we really needed during an outage. That saved us thousands!”

Is DIY installation legal or safe in Georgia?

While the DIY spirit runs strong in Georgia, generator installation is one project that’s best left to the professionals – and in most cases, it’s not just safer but legally required.

In Georgia, proper generator installations require:

1. Electrical permits and inspections from your local building department
2. Gas permits and inspections for natural gas or propane connections
3. Licensed electricians for all electrical connections
4. Licensed plumbers or gas fitters for fuel line work
5. Compliance with local noise ordinances and setback requirements

I’ve seen the aftermath of DIY generator installations gone wrong, and the consequences can be serious. Attempting to install a generator without proper permits and licensed professionals often leads to voided manufacturer warranties, denied insurance claims, and potential fines from local building departments.

The most dangerous risk, however, is improper installation that creates backfeed into the power grid – a situation that can seriously injure or kill utility workers trying to restore power during an outage. As one local code inspector put it, “A generator isn’t just another appliance – it’s a complex power system that interacts with your home’s electrical system and potentially the public utility grid.”

Bottom line: save the DIY projects for less dangerous home improvements, and trust the professionals with your backup power system.

Will a standby generator really boost my home’s resale value?

The short answer is yes – and the numbers back this up. According to real estate professionals, homes with standby generators can command a premium of 3-5% at resale, often providing around 150% return on your initial investment.

This value increase is particularly significant in our Augusta and CSRA region, where ice storms, hurricanes, and severe thunderstorms regularly knock out power. As climate change increases the frequency of extreme weather events (as noted in recent research on power outages), backup power systems have shifted from luxury items to practical necessities for many homebuyers.

Beyond the financial return, I’ve had countless conversations with local real estate agents who tell me that generators have become a major selling point, especially for:

Families with young children or elderly members who can’t safely manage temperature extremes during outages

Homeowners with medical needs who rely on powered equipment

Remote workers who simply can’t afford connectivity disruptions

Buyers who’ve previously experienced extended power outages and never want to repeat that experience

As one Augusta realtor recently shared, “When I list a home with a whole-house generator, I make sure it’s featured prominently in the listing. It’s one of those upgrades that makes buyers’ eyes light up – they immediately start calculating what they won’t have to spend.”

A properly installed, well-maintained generator becomes a significant selling point that sets your home apart when it’s time to sell – while providing years of security and comfort while you live there.

Conclusion

When you’re thinking about whole house generators prices installed, remember you’re not just buying another appliance—you’re investing in security and comfort during those increasingly common power outages.

For Augusta homeowners, the question has shifted from “Can I afford a generator?” to “Can I afford to be without one?” When ice storms knock out power for days or summer thunderstorms leave your neighborhood in the dark during sweltering Georgia heat, a standby generator quickly transforms from luxury to necessity.

At Dr Electric CSRA, we understand that purchasing a generator is a significant decision for your family. That’s why we approach each installation with care and transparency:

• We provide clear, itemized quotes with absolutely no hidden costs
• We recommend proper sizing based on your actual needs, not upselling to the biggest unit
• Our in-house team of licensed professionals handles every aspect of installation
• We manage all permitting and inspection requirements so you don’t have to
• We offer ongoing maintenance support to protect your investment
• Financing options are available to make backup power affordable for your budget

The true value of your whole-house generator becomes crystal clear not when you purchase it, but during that first major outage—when the lights go out everywhere else and your home remains a safe, comfortable haven. As one customer told us after last year’s extended outage: “I would have paid twice as much knowing what I know now.”

Ready to explore whole-house generator options for your Augusta-area home? Contact Dr Electric CSRA today for a free, no-obligation consultation and quote. We’ll help you steer the options, understand the real costs involved, and find the perfect backup power solution that fits both your needs and budget.