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The cost to install a whole-home generator will depend on the site preparation costs, installation cost, and the generator size. This article will discuss all that you need to know about the cost of installing a generator in your home.
Size of the Generator
The size of the generator is one element that will determine the installation cost. Generators are classified into three sizes: small (7.5kW), medium (10kW), and significant (over 15kW).
Smaller generators are easier to install than bigger ones but produce less power. If your home requires a lot of energy and you want to maximize efficiency by using a large generator. This will attract extra money for the installation.
Site Preparation Costs
Before installing a whole-home generator, like with any large project, up-front expenditures must be incorporated into your budget. Site preparation expenditures are one such early cost. On-site inspection by the local electrical department and a qualified electrician is required.
These inspections are performed to guarantee compliance with requirements for safe grounding, appropriate electrical installation, clearance from flammable items, and other conditions required by local rules to assure adequate safety during all installation phases.
The Cost of Professional Installation
Transfer Switch Installation Cost
If you’re installing a whole-house unit, you’ll also need to install a transfer switch. A transfer switch connects or disconnects an electrical load from its power supply.
The fundamental aim of installation transfer switches is to protect your home from catastrophic harm by separating hazardous voltages from you, your family, and your valuable belongings.
The cost of installing transfer switches for whole-house generators is affected by several factors: your home’s layout and size, whether you’re relocating or installing a panel, and whether you need to engage an electrician.
Knowing this, the average cost of installing a transfer switch is $2,300, but it may be as low as $1,800 or as high as $3,000. There should be no additional cost if your home already has a panel.
Wiring to the House
If your present wiring is in decent shape, updating it to accommodate a generator might cost between $150 and $500. If you need new wiring and employ an electrician, you should budget between $1,000 and $2,000. The required circuits and labor will drive the cost a notch higher.
However, keep in mind that all expenses fluctuate due to location, service provider fees, and supplier pricing.
Permits and Licenses
Some states require permits before starting projects like installing whole-house generators, so check into what might be needed in terms of additional licensing by local authorities if necessary before hiring a professional. Contacting your local authorities can help save time and money.
Labor Costs
If you’re hiring a professional to install your system, and their hourly rate is $80. The installation of a 10kW whole-home unit, which pays his salary, would cost $1,900-$2,400 for three days.
These costs, however, can vary widely from area to region, so it’s best to start by calling your local authorized generator installer for an accurate quotation, depending on what you want.
Maintenance Cost
After you’ve made the investment in a whole-house generator, you should think about the expenditures involved with its operation. A normal maintenance contract per year will cost between $50 and $100.
This tiny fee is well worth it to ensure that all mechanical parts are performing properly; some may even propose service appointments twice a year to avoid problems from arising.
Additional Structural Changes
A whole-house generator is often mounted on an outside wall. If your home has structural difficulties, solve them before adding a generator. If these problems are not addressed, you may wind up paying for extra repairs or incur higher installation fees.
Electrical work will also be required to ensure safe and correct wiring between your home’s electrical system and your new generator. You’ll need to hire one if you don’t already have one.
However, notify your power provider of any work or construction that may impact its delivery services or ability to examine lines flowing into your property.
The choice of the generator comes down to the budget, efficiency, and longevity you want to enjoy. Money can be a constraint, but investing in a good and a generator that meets your need is the best path.
For more information, contact Simmons Heating & Cooling located at Lambert Court Chesapeake for the best deals on premium generators for all your needs. Other services we offer include flexible financing options on approved credit for installations and maintenance agreements.
