What Size Standby Generator Do I Need for My Home?

The right generator size depends on your home's square footage, the number of circuits you want to power, and your HVAC system requirements. Most homes need between 14kW and 26kW. A load calculation performed by a licensed electrician is the most reliable way to determine the correct size.

How Much Does It Cost to Install a Whole-House Generator?

Whole-house generator installation typically costs between $3,000 and $6,000 for labor alone, on top of the equipment cost. Total project costs vary based on generator size, fuel type, local permit requirements, and site preparation needs.

Natural Gas vs. Propane Generators: Which Fuel Type Is Better?

Natural gas generators offer unlimited fuel from your existing utility line, while propane generators work well in areas without natural gas service. The best choice depends on fuel availability at your location, local utility reliability, and your budget.

How Often Should a Standby Generator Be Serviced?

Standby generators should be professionally serviced at least once per year. Oil and filter changes are typically needed every 200 running hours or annually, whichever comes first. Regular weekly exercise cycles and visual inspections between service visits help maintain reliability.

What Are the Best Standby Generator Brands?

The leading standby generator brands in the United States include Generac, Kohler, Cummins, and Briggs & Stratton. Each brand offers distinct advantages in terms of power output, build quality, warranty coverage, and price points.

How Long Can a Standby Generator Run Continuously?

Natural gas standby generators can run indefinitely as long as the gas supply is maintained. Propane generators are limited by tank size. Most residential generators are designed for continuous operation during extended outages, with recommended maintenance intervals every 24 to 48 hours of continuous use.

Do I Need a Permit to Install a Standby Generator?

Yes. Most municipalities require both an electrical permit (for the transfer switch and wiring) and a building or mechanical permit (for the generator installation and fuel connection). Your licensed installer should handle the permit application and inspection scheduling.

How Loud Is a Standby Generator?

Most modern residential standby generators operate at 60 to 70 decibels measured from 23 feet away, comparable to a normal conversation or a central air conditioning unit. Noise levels vary by brand, model, and enclosure design. Quieter models are available from Cummins, Kohler, and other manufacturers.

Whole House Generator vs. Portable Generator: Which One Should I Buy?

A whole house standby generator starts automatically during outages, powers your entire home, and runs on natural gas or propane. A portable generator requires manual setup, powers only a few circuits, and runs on gasoline. For reliable, hands-free backup power, a standby generator is the better long-term investment.

What Is the Best Generator for Hurricane Season?

The best generators for hurricane season are permanently installed standby units that start automatically and run on natural gas or propane. Brands like Generac, Kohler, and Cummins offer weather-resistant enclosures designed to operate through severe storms without manual intervention.

Are Standby Generators Worth the Investment?

Yes. Standby generators protect your home from costly damage during outages (frozen pipes, sump pump failure, spoiled food), maintain comfort and safety for your family, and increase your property value by an estimated 3% to 5%. For homeowners who experience regular outages, the investment often pays for itself.

What Is the Best Generator for a 2,000 Square Foot House?

A 2,000 square foot home typically needs a 16kW to 22kW standby generator. A 16kW unit handles essential circuits and moderate HVAC loads. A 22kW unit provides full whole-house coverage including central air conditioning, which is the most popular choice for this home size.

Where Can I Buy a Generac Generator Online?

You can buy Generac generators online from authorized dealers like IB Lighting. As an authorized Generac dealer, we offer the full product lineup with manufacturer warranty coverage, competitive pricing, expert product support, and free nationwide shipping with freight insurance.

Generac vs. Kohler Generator: Which Brand Is Better?

Both Generac and Kohler produce excellent standby generators. Generac offers the widest product range and typically more competitive pricing. Kohler is known for premium build quality, quieter operation, and a stronger commercial heritage. The best choice depends on your priorities, budget, and specific power requirements.

What Is the Best 22kW Standby Generator?

The 22kW category is the most popular residential generator size in America. Generac Guardian 7043, Kohler 22RCAL, and Cummins RS22 are the top models. Each offers whole-house coverage for most homes with a 200-amp panel. The best choice depends on your budget, noise tolerance, and brand preference.

How Long Does It Take to Install a Standby Generator?

A standard residential standby generator installation takes 1 to 2 days for the actual on-site work. The total project timeline from purchase to operational system is typically 2 to 6 weeks when factoring in equipment delivery, permit processing, and scheduling the installation with a licensed electrician.

What Size Commercial Generator Does My Business Need?

Commercial generator sizing requires a detailed load analysis of your facility's electrical systems. Small businesses typically need 25kW to 60kW. Mid-size facilities may require 60kW to 150kW. Large commercial operations can need 150kW to 500kW or more. A professional load study is essential for accurate sizing.

What Generator Maintenance Kit Do I Need?

Generator maintenance kits are brand and model specific. They typically include engine oil, oil filter, air filter, and spark plugs. Generac, Kohler, and Cummins each offer factory maintenance kits designed for their specific engines. Using the correct kit ensures proper fit and maintains your warranty.

How Do I Prepare My Home for Power Outages?

The most effective way to prepare for power outages is to install a standby generator with an automatic transfer switch for uninterrupted backup power. Additional preparations include maintaining emergency supplies, protecting sensitive electronics with surge protectors, and insulating pipes against freezing in winter outages.

How Long Do Standby Generators Last?

A properly maintained standby generator lasts 15 to 30 years or 10,000 to 30,000 running hours, whichever comes first. Lifespan depends on the brand, engine type, maintenance schedule, fuel source, and how frequently the generator runs. Air-cooled engines average 10,000 to 15,000 hours. Liquid-cooled engines average 20,000 to 30,000 hours.

Can a Standby Generator Run in the Rain?

Yes. Permanent standby generators are designed to operate in all weather conditions including rain, snow, and extreme temperatures. Their weather-resistant enclosures protect the engine, alternator, and electrical components from moisture and the elements. Portable generators should never be operated in rain or wet conditions without an approved cover.

What Size Generator Do I Need to Run a Well Pump?

Most residential well pumps require a generator with at least 3,000 to 5,000 starting watts, though the pump is rarely the only load you need to power. A 1 HP well pump draws approximately 2,000 running watts with a starting surge of 4,000 to 6,000 watts. For whole-house backup including a well pump, a 16kW to 22kW standby generator provides ample capacity.

Does a Standby Generator Increase Home Value?

Yes. A permanently installed standby generator increases home value by an estimated 3% to 5%, according to real estate industry data. On a $400,000 home, that translates to $12,000 to $20,000 in added equity. Homes with generators also sell faster in areas prone to power outages and severe weather.

What Generator Do I Need to Work from Home During Power Outages?

For reliable work-from-home backup power, a standby generator of 16kW to 22kW provides whole-house coverage including your home office, internet router, HVAC, and lighting. A standby generator with an automatic transfer switch ensures zero-interruption power transitions, keeping your workstation online without manual intervention.

How Much Propane Does a Standby Generator Use?

A standby generator uses approximately 2 to 4 gallons of propane per hour at full load, depending on the generator size. A 22kW generator consumes roughly 3.5 gallons per hour at full load and 1.5 to 2 gallons per hour at half load. A 500-gallon propane tank provides approximately 5 to 7 days of continuous operation under typical residential load conditions.

What Size Generator Do I Need for a Sump Pump?

A typical residential sump pump (1/3 HP to 1/2 HP) requires 800 to 1,300 running watts with a starting surge of 1,300 to 2,700 watts. While a small portable generator can power a sump pump alone, a standby generator of 14kW or larger provides automatic protection for the sump pump along with your entire home during storm-driven outages.

Do I Need a Cold Weather Kit for My Generator?

A cold weather kit is recommended for standby generators installed in climates where temperatures regularly drop below 32 degrees Fahrenheit (0 degrees Celsius). The kit typically includes a battery warmer, oil heater, and sometimes an enclosure heater that keep the generator ready to start reliably in freezing conditions. Most major brands offer cold weather kits as factory accessories.

Natural Gas vs. Propane Generator: Which Fuel Type Is Better?

Natural gas is preferred if your home has an existing gas line because it provides unlimited fuel supply with no tank to refill. Propane is the standard choice for homes without natural gas service and offers slightly higher energy output per unit of fuel. Both fuel types are reliable and supported by all major generator brands. Your fuel choice depends on what is available at your property.

When Is the Best Time to Buy a Standby Generator?

The best time to buy a standby generator is before you need it. Generator prices increase and inventory shortages occur after major storms and widespread outages when demand surges. Ordering in the off-season (late fall through early spring) typically offers the best availability and shortest installation timelines. Waiting until a storm is forecast or an outage occurs means competing with thousands of other buyers for limited inventory.

What Size Generator Do I Need for a 1,500 Square Foot House?

A 1,500 square foot house typically needs a 14kW to 22kW standby generator. A 14kW with load management covers essentials and moderate AC use. A 16kW to 20kW handles the full house comfortably with some load management. A 22kW provides complete whole-house coverage including central AC with no load management required.

Is a Whole House Generator Worth the Investment?

Yes. A whole house generator is worth the investment for most homeowners. It adds 3% to 5% to home value (often recovering most of the cost at resale), prevents thousands of dollars in potential outage damage (frozen pipes, flooded basements, spoiled food), and provides automatic protection whether you are home or away. The average installed cost of $10,000 to $15,000 is comparable to other standard home systems like HVAC.

Are Generac Generators Reliable? An Expert Review

Yes, Generac generators are reliable. Generac is the number one selling home standby generator brand in the United States with millions of installed units. Their Guardian Series offers proven performance, a 5-year warranty, the largest dealer network in the country, and Mobile Link Wi-Fi monitoring. Generac generators typically last 15 to 25+ years with proper maintenance.

Generac vs. Kohler Generator: Which Should I Buy?

Generac offers the best value, widest model selection, and largest dealer network. Kohler offers quieter operation, heavier build quality, and premium engineering. For most homeowners, a Generac 22kW provides excellent whole-house protection at the most competitive price. For homeowners who prioritize quiet operation and premium construction, Kohler justifies its higher price tag. Both brands are excellent choices backed by 5-year warranties.

How Does a Standby Generator Protect My Home During Ice Storms and Winter Weather?

A standby generator prevents the most expensive winter outage disasters: frozen and burst pipes ($5,000 to $20,000+ in damage), furnace shutdown leading to dangerous indoor temperatures, sump pump failure during snowmelt flooding, and food spoilage. The generator keeps your heating system, water supply, and all household systems running automatically through the entire winter storm.

What Generator Do I Need for Home Medical Equipment?

A standby generator of 16kW to 22kW with an automatic transfer switch is the recommended solution for homes with medical equipment. Automatic operation is critical because patients using oxygen concentrators, CPAP machines, or home dialysis equipment cannot afford any gap in power. A standby generator restores power within 10 to 30 seconds with no manual intervention required.

Can I Buy a Generator Online and Have It Installed Locally?

Yes. You can purchase your generator and transfer switch online from IB Lighting at competitive pricing with free freight shipping, then hire a local licensed electrician for installation. Many homeowners save $500 to $2,000 by purchasing equipment separately from the installation. We ship directly to your home or to your installer.

What Happens to My Home During a Week-Long Power Outage?

During a week-long outage your home faces $500 to $800 in spoiled food, potential frozen pipe damage ($5,000 to $20,000+), possible basement flooding from sump pump failure ($3,000 to $15,000+), HVAC shutdown risking dangerous temperatures for elderly and young children, loss of water if on a well, total communication loss, and inability to work from home. A standby generator prevents all of these consequences.

What Is Generac Mobile Link and How Does It Work?

Generac Mobile Link is a WiFi-enabled remote monitoring system that lets you check your generator status from a smartphone app. It reports real-time operating status, utility power status, maintenance reminders, and fault alerts. Mobile Link is included on most current Guardian series models and is available as an add-on module for older units.

Generac Guardian vs. Protector Series: What Is the Difference?

The Generac Guardian series is designed for residential whole-house backup from 10kW to 26kW with air-cooled engines. The Generac Protector series is built for commercial and large residential applications from 25kW to 60kW with liquid-cooled engines. Guardian is the right choice for most homes. Protector is for large homes, businesses, and facilities with higher power demands.

What Accessories Do I Need for My Generac Generator?

Essential Generac accessories include a maintenance kit matched to your model, a cold weather kit (for climates below 32F), a whole-house surge protector, a composite or concrete mounting pad, and the Mobile Link WiFi monitoring module (if not built in). Optional accessories include a generator base wrap for cosmetic coverage and a 4G LTE cellular monitor for properties without WiFi.

Standby Generators - Frequently Asked Questions

Expert answers about whole-house and commercial standby generators, including sizing, installation, fuel types, maintenance, and top brands like Generac, Kohler, Cummins, and Briggs & Stratton.

All Topics Electrical Wires & Cables (77) Luxury Chandeliers & Lighting (14) Ordering & Shipping (6) Standby Generators (108) Transfer Switches (9) Warranty & Support (8)

Standby Generators

What Is the Generac Generator Weekly Exercise Cycle?

The Generac exercise cycle is an automatic weekly self-test that runs the generator for 12 minutes (or 20 minutes with the transfer option) to keep the engine lubricated, the battery...

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Standby Generators

Why Do More Homeowners Choose Generac Than Any Other Generator Brand?

Generac holds the dominant market share in U.S. residential standby generators because it invented the category, offers the widest product range from 10kW to 26kW+, maintains the largest dealer and...

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Standby Generators

Generac 22kW vs. 26kW: Which Generator Size Is Right for My Home?

The Generac 22kW is ideal for homes up to 2,500 square feet with a single central AC system. The Generac 26kW covers homes up to 3,500 square feet, all-electric homes,...

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Standby Generators

Can a Generac 22kW Generator Run My Central Air Conditioning?

Yes. A Generac 22kW generator can run central air conditioning systems up to 5 tons along with the rest of your home. A 3-ton AC unit draws approximately 3,500 running...

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Standby Generators

Should I Buy a Generac Generator With or Without a Transfer Switch?

If you do not already have a compatible transfer switch installed, buy the generator with the included 200A automatic transfer switch (ATS) kit. It guarantees compatibility, simplifies installation, and typically...

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Standby Generators

Generac Generator Model Numbers Explained: 7325, 7327, 7328, 7329

Generac model numbers identify the generator output and whether a transfer switch is included. Model 7260 is 22kW generator only. Model 7325 is 22kW with 200A ATS. Model 7261 is...

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Standby Generators

How Much Fuel Does a Generac 22kW to 28kW Generator Use?

A Generac 22kW uses approximately 3.5 gallons of propane per hour at full load or 245 cubic feet of natural gas per hour. A 26kW uses approximately 4.1 gallons of...

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Standby Generators

Is a 28kW Generator Overkill for My Home?

A 28kW generator is not overkill for homes over 3,500 square feet, all-electric homes, properties with multiple HVAC zones, or homeowners who want maximum capacity for future additions like EV...

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Standby Generators

What Is the Best Generator for a 3,000 to 5,000 Square Foot Home?

For homes between 3,000 and 5,000 square feet, a 24kW to 28kW standby generator provides proper whole-house coverage. A 3,000 sq ft home with standard loads needs 24kW to 26kW....

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Standby Generators

What Is Generac True Power Technology?

Generac True Power Technology is an advanced voltage regulation system that delivers clean, stable electricity with less than 5% total harmonic distortion (THD). This is comparable to utility-grade power and...

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Standby Generators

What Is the Generac Next Generation Series?

The Generac Next Generation series is the current production line of Guardian home standby generators. It features an updated G-Force engine platform, the Evolution controller with enhanced diagnostics and WiFi,...

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Standby Generators

How Do I Order and Plan Installation for a Generac 22kW to 28kW Generator?

Step 1: Call IB Lighting at (800) 674-9019 or order online to purchase your Generac generator with free nationwide shipping and freight insurance. Step 2: Hire a local licensed electrician...

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Standby Generators

What Makes Kohler Generators Different from Other Brands?

Kohler generators are known for three key advantages: quieter operation (typically 60 to 66 dB at 23 feet), heavier and more corrosion-resistant enclosures, and PowerBoost technology that handles large motor...

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Standby Generators

Kohler vs. Cummins Generator: Which Premium Brand Should I Choose?

Kohler offers a wider residential model range (10kW to 26kW), PowerBoost for motor loads, and a comprehensive parts-and-labor warranty. Cummins Quiet Connect offers the quietest operation, industrial-grade build quality from...

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Standby Generators

What Is the Best Portable Generator for Home Emergency Backup?

For home emergency backup, a dual-fuel portable generator with 7,500 to 12,500 watts and electric start provides the best balance of power, convenience, and fuel flexibility. Top brands include Champion,...

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Standby Generators

What Is the Cummins Quiet Connect Generator Series?

The Cummins Quiet Connect series is a residential standby generator line from Cummins, a global leader in commercial and industrial power generation. Quiet Connect models operate at some of the...

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Standby Generators

What Size Kohler Generator Do I Need for My Home?

For homes under 1,500 sq ft, a Kohler 10kW or 12kW covers essential circuits. For homes 1,500 to 2,000 sq ft, a Kohler 14kW provides whole-house backup. For homes 2,000...

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Standby Generators

What Is a Dual Fuel Generator and Is It Worth It?

A dual fuel generator can run on two different fuel types, typically natural gas and propane for standby units, or gasoline and propane for portable units. Dual fuel is worth...

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Standby Generators

Are Briggs and Stratton Generators a Good Choice for Home Backup?

Yes. Briggs and Stratton PowerProtect generators are a solid mid-range option offering reliable home backup at competitive pricing. Available from 13kW to 26kW with Symphony II power management, Briggs and...

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Standby Generators

What Maintenance Does a Standby Generator Need?

A standby generator needs an oil and filter change every 200 hours of operation or once per year (whichever comes first), spark plug replacement every 400 hours or 2 years,...

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Standby Generators - Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Generac Generator Weekly Exercise Cycle?

Why Do More Homeowners Choose Generac Than Any Other Generator Brand?

Generac 22kW vs. 26kW: Which Generator Size Is Right for My Home?

Can a Generac 22kW Generator Run My Central Air Conditioning?

Should I Buy a Generac Generator With or Without a Transfer Switch?

Generac Generator Model Numbers Explained: 7325, 7327, 7328, 7329

How Much Fuel Does a Generac 22kW to 28kW Generator Use?

Is a 28kW Generator Overkill for My Home?

What Is the Best Generator for a 3,000 to 5,000 Square Foot Home?

What Is Generac True Power Technology?

What Is the Generac Next Generation Series?

How Do I Order and Plan Installation for a Generac 22kW to 28kW Generator?

What Makes Kohler Generators Different from Other Brands?

Kohler vs. Cummins Generator: Which Premium Brand Should I Choose?

What Is the Best Portable Generator for Home Emergency Backup?

What Is the Cummins Quiet Connect Generator Series?

What Size Kohler Generator Do I Need for My Home?

What Is a Dual Fuel Generator and Is It Worth It?

Are Briggs and Stratton Generators a Good Choice for Home Backup?

What Maintenance Does a Standby Generator Need?

Still Have Questions?