Standby generators are essentially miniature crisis power plants. They’re usually completely enclosed and change in size. Assess the measurements carefully. A standby version as much as $15,000 or more–the greater the electricity capability, the higher the price or may cost no more than $1,500.

best-home-standby-generators

A standby generator is permanently installed outside your home or commercial building and wired right into the electrical system to supply electricity during a disruption of normal utility electricity to some or all your house ‘s circuits. Liquid propane or natural gas fuels them and need professional setup, generally with a license.

Why You Need Standby Generator for Home

A home standby generator provides automatic, reliable backup power during blackouts, keeping essential systems like HVAC, refrigerators, medical equipment, and security active, preventing property damage (such as frozen pipes), and offering peace of mind.

Unlike portable units, they start automatically via natural gas/propane, protecting against extended outages caused by storms, accidents, or grid failures.

  • Automatic Operation: The system detects a power loss and activates within seconds, even if you are not home.
  • Safety and Security: Keeps security systems, alarms, and cameras active. It also ensures lighting, preventing accidents.
  • Comfort and Convenience: Powers heating/cooling systems during extreme weather.
  • Prevents Spoilage and Damage: Keeps freezers/refrigerators running, saving food. It also powers sump pumps to prevent flooding.
  • Continuity of Life: Allows you to work from home, keep internet/electronics running, and operate medical devices.
  • Increased Property Value: Installing a standby generator can boost your home’s resale value.

Standby generators offer a permanent, efficient solution to keep your household running, offering peace of mind during unpredictable, often long-lasting power outages.

Top 5 best household generators:

 

1. Generac 7043-Best Standby Generator

Generac 7043 is the industry largest air-cooled generator available, with strong, stable, and reliable Generac G-Force Engine, which provides you with the best value per kilowatt available in the market today. The only thing it lacks is the battery.

Factors to Consider:

It has the biggest capacity of 22,000 watts with liquid propane and runs with the power of 19500 watts when connected to your home’s natural gas supply. This amount of power is enough for large homes with loads of electrical appliances.

Unique to Generac is the multilingual LCD, which allows you to monitor battery status and helps you in tracking the maintenance intervals. Hence, it ensures that your generator is always in top operating conditions.

It owns a sturdy design with a Tough, durable all-weather aluminum enclosure, which offers three removable sides for easy access to service and installation.

In addition, the G-force engine combined with the automatic self-test makes Generac 7043 ready to go in a matter of seconds with the next power outage.

Pros

  • Multilingual LCD control panel
  • easy access design with weather resistance
  • best for large families

Cons

  • Excludes battery

Why should you buy this?

If you need a onetime fixed solution, install Generac 7043. It is the biggest generator available with all of the power and reliability you need for your house during a power outage. Featuring quality traits along with easy installation, we recommend this as the best onetime power investment for your home.

2. Guardian Series 11kW/10kW– Standby Generator cost

Model but with a smaller capacity. So, if you are okay with running fewer electrical appliances during a power outage or have lower power requirements up to 11,000 watts, then this smaller size generator keeps your life going without disruption.

Despite having so many specs, it excludes the feature of circuits for switches.

Factors to consider:

It comes with a smaller capacity as compared to the 7043 model, so, is more suitable for smaller homes. This version of Generac s has a maximum continuous power rating of 11,000 watts on liquid propane and 10,000 watts on natural gas.

Generac 7033 comes with five years limited warranty and features to Deliver best-in-class power quality with less than 5 percent total harmonic distortion.

Hence, providing a clean and smooth operation to sensitive electronics and appliances.

It has a purpose-built, pressure-lubricated G-force engine capable of handling the rigors of generator use, resulting in power that’s more reliable and requires less routine maintenance than any competitive engine. In addition, it features a multilingual LCD controller that allows you for easy monitoring and management of generator functions.

Pros

  • Two fuel mechanism
  • Multilingual LCD control panel
  • Good for small families

Cons

  • Excludes battery and circuit breakers

Why should you buy this?

Since it comes with a lower capacity, it offers you all of its trusted features at a more affordable price. So, if you have low power requirements, this smaller size generator is friendlier for your wallet.

3. Champion Power Equipment -Standby Generator sizing

Champion power equipment 100294 home standby generator Control your power, Control your life, all with Champion Power 100294. It provides 24/7 power for your entire home and never needs refueling. This fully automatic item is the quietest-in-class and is designed to operate in weather extremities.

This unit has a 10-year limited warranty. Somehow, it comes with an automatic start issue.

Factors to Consider:

Have worries about the fuel consumption of large standby generators! Not to worry, and just take a look at the more efficient Champion 100294 model. This generator with 14,000-watt power has an average fuel consumption of only 2.6 gallons per hour at a 100% load and 1.6 gallons per hour at a 50% load.

Its ATS200 Service Entry Rated Automatic Transfer Switch with Demand Control is The Simple Solution to a power outage. Hence, enjoy inner peace while ensuring security and comfort for your family during an emergency .Best home emergency generator.

This generator has a midsize capacity, which should be enough for most small and medium-sized homes. In addition, it offers an automatic 24-volt starting system that operates without a warming kit for temperatures between -22° F – 104° F. It’s transfer switch has eight available circuits. This unit also performs weekly self-diagnostic tests.

Pros

  • No warming kit required
  • Ten years long warranty period
  • Best for medium-sized families

Cons

  • Sometimes automatic start issue

Why should you buy this?

Champion 100294 is probably the best investment if you have a medium-sized family. It will save you a lot of money by powering on lower watts. In addition, it has the best security to protect you from power overloads. Thus, it is the best safe and powerful generator for medium units.

4. Kohler 20RESCL-100LC16 Air– Standby Generator reviews

Backed by Kohler’s extraordinary reliability & performance, kohler 20rescl-100lc16 RESCL is trusted by hospitals, airports, and the National Weather Services. This model of Kohler’s restores power in as little as 10 seconds and protects sophisticated electronics with low distortion all by its pure and clean energy production. However, they provide poor customer services. kohler 20rescl-100lc16 air-cooled standby generator

Factors to consider:

It has 100% Corrosion-Proof heavy-duty, commercial-grade engine that can withstand any kind of extreme weather conditions. Furthermore, it has an exclusive polymer base, so there is no need to install a concrete pad. In addition, it possesses a two-way fuel mechanism for natural gas and liquid propane.

It’s New Silencer Reduces Sound Levels & Provides Quiet Operation. Hence, Maintains neighborhood solitude.

This Kohler generator has Great motor-starting ability for large electrical loads with fully automatic operation. Hence, it serves best for commercial purposes. It also features an RDC2 Controller with an advanced online monitoring control system, which will send you text alerts for maintenance reminders.

It possesses a 2-Line Backlit LCD Digital Display & Real-Time Clock to Set Weekly Exercise. This tool also puts the users at ease to read local data access in all lighting conditions with no coding and can manage the entire best backup generator for house system. Furthermore, it comes with five years warranty with a 2,000-hour protection mechanism.

Pros

  • 10 seconds response time
  • Best for commercial purposes
  • Corrosion proof casing

Cons

  • Poor quality customer services

Why should you buy this?

If you need a good generator with all the best features for commercial purposes, this generator is best for you. It meets all the needs of the best startup generator. What makes this model so dependable is its commercial-grade engine that is specifically designed for long operation hours and so can run for days. Furthermore, it frees you from the hassles of manual operations.

5. Briggs & Stratton 40396– Standby Generator installation cost

Last but not least comes another heavy pick of our list. This one is 40396 from Briggs and Stratton. This time Briggs and Stratton are here with their best standby generator for heavy use of around 20,000 watts and guess what? It’s still enough quiet! However, its setup requires a professional.

Factors to consider:

The Briggs & Stratton 40396 20kW Air-Cooled best standby generator provides reliable backup power for homeowners during a power outage. This generator makes sure your appliances stay on, so you and your house aren’t left in the dark.

It includes outdoor/indoor NEMA 3r rated automatic power transfer switch to provide flexible installation.

This model is so safe for the use that the National Fire Protection Agency approves its placement as close as 18 inches from your house. But don’t you worry about the exhaust fumes possibly entering your house. Briggs & Stratton minimizes the risks of carbon monoxide poisoning with front air ventilation that sends the fumes away from your building.

Another useful feature of this home standby generator is that Briggs & Stratton gives you a choice of the type of transfer switch, which is cost-effective and hence gives a cleaner looking installation.

Pros

  • Highly reliable engine and design
  • Close placement to the house
  • Remote monitoring and automatic start

Cons

  • Engine starter may need regular replacement

Why should you buy this?

If you do not own a big lawn and still wants a standby generator, then Briggs & Stratton 40396 suits you best because it can be placed at 18 inches from your house. It is a heavy 20 kW air-cooled generator that is enough to tackle your household power needs.

6. CUMMINS RS20AC 20KW– Standby generator installers

It’s nice to know cummins rs20ac spec sheet AC, Standby generator best residential generator that enables you to feel the cool breeze of an air conditioner or the warmth of a furnace; or helps you to prepare meals despite having a power outage. cummins rs20ac specs provides enough power so you can continue to enjoy life even when a power loss brings the world around you to a still-stand. Sometimes, it is unable to power the whole house.

Factors to consider:

The RS20AC is a home standby generator that connects to your house permanently by an automatic transfer switch. The generator operates on your home’s existing natural gas (18kW) or LP Gas (20kW) supply.24/7. It monitors the power company distribution lines, then automatically starts, and runs when it detects an outage and continues to run until the utility restores power.

It is designed to operate in cold weather with performance down to -18 °C. Cold Weather accessories allow for even colder. The generator can control up to 4 loads and continuously monitors how much power is required independently for each load. It has a powerful motor starting ability and can easily start and run a 5 ton AC under full load.

Also, exercise modes can be set for time, date, and frequency that suits you. Its ‘Crank only’ exercise mode reduces wear and tear on the engine, fuel costs, and further reduces the sound of an already quiet generator. It is remotely monitored like other standby generators.

Pros

  • It’s a quiet connection.
  • Can be installed near the home
  • Reduced fuel cost

Cons

  • Sometimes can’t power the whole house

Why should you buy this?

Its flexible exercise mode suits your preference to reduce unnecessary fuel consumption, emissions, and noise. It can be installed as close as 18inches from your home. Hence, if you want the best standby generator for your home, this is going to be your best choice.

7. The Briggs & Stratton Power -standby generator for home

Whole house generator reviews .The Briggs & Stratton Power Products 40555 is a whole-house power supply that can power high-demand appliances, such as your central air conditioner or an electric oven, as well as lower-demand items. However, the battery is not included in the purchase.

Features to consider:

The generator offers a power capacity of 15,300 watts on natural gas and 17,000 watts on liquid propane. Included with the generator is a Symphony II automatic transfer switch that is rated at 200 amps and enables the generator to power all circuits without a sub-panel.

The transfer switch has a NEMA 3R enclosure that allows for both indoor and outdoor installation. Like its 20-kW model, this generator features a

Symphony II Power Management System for computers to customize power delivery to your home’s needs.

This generator’s control panel features a user-friendly digital display and an hour meter for continuity tracking and easy programming. To protect the generator, there is an automotive-grade Galvan Neal steel enclosure that is powder-coated to protect it from rust, corrosion, moisture, and other elements that harms.

This generator covers the safety standards that are set out by the National Fire Protection Agency, which allows you to place it as close as 18 inches from your house.

Pros

  • High capacity
  • Automatic transfer switch
  • Can be placed near homes

Cons

  • the battery is not included with the purchase

Why should you buy this?

The Briggs & Stratton Power Products 40555 unit is the best standby generator if you value high performance, reliability, and quality. This goes best with your middle-sized house.

Recommendations:

  • Generac 7043 as the most powerful standby generator.
  • Champion Power Equipment 100294 is the best generator for a medium family.
  • Kohler 20RESCL w. Commercial Grade Engineis most powerful for commercial usage.

How Much Does a Home Standby Generator Cost?

One of the most common questions homeowners ask is: How much does a home standby generator cost?

The total investment goes beyond just the price of the unit. You’ll need to factor in equipment, professional installation, and ongoing maintenance to understand the true cost of ownership.

Here’s a full breakdown.

Generator Unit Price

The price of a standby generator depends primarily on power output (kW), brand reputation, and included features like an automatic transfer switch (ATS).

Typical price ranges:

  • 10–14 kW generators (small to mid-size homes): $3,000 – $5,000
  • 18–22 kW generators (average 2,000–3,000 sq ft homes): $4,500 – $6,500
  • 24–26+ kW generators (large homes or whole-house coverage): $6,000 – $8,500+

Higher-capacity units cost more, but they allow you to power more appliances simultaneously — including central air conditioning, well pumps, and electric water heaters.

Premium models with smart monitoring, Wi-Fi connectivity, and quieter operation may increase the price slightly.

Keep in mind: The generator itself is only part of the total investment.

Installation Costs

Unlike portable generators, standby generators require professional installation. This is where a significant portion of the total cost comes in.

Average installation costs typically range from:

$2,000 to $5,000

However, the final price depends on:

  • Electrical panel upgrades
  • Distance from gas line connection
  • Concrete pad preparation
  • Trenching or wiring complexity
  • Permit fees and inspections
  • Local labor rates

If your home needs electrical upgrades or a larger gas meter, costs can increase further.

When combining equipment and installation, most homeowners spend:

$7,000 to $15,000 total for a fully installed home standby generator system.

While that may seem like a large investment, it provides automatic, whole-home backup power for 15–20 years or more.

Annual Maintenance Costs

Like any engine-driven equipment, standby generators require routine maintenance to stay reliable.

Typical yearly maintenance includes:

  • Oil and filter changes
  • Air filter replacement
  • Spark plug inspection
  • Battery testing
  • Full system inspection

Average annual maintenance costs:

  • DIY basic maintenance: $100 – $250 per year
  • Professional service plan: $200 – $500 per year

Many homeowners choose a service contract to ensure the generator is always ready during hurricane season or winter storms.

Long-Term Cost Considerations

Beyond upfront and annual costs, consider:

  • Fuel costs (natural gas or propane)
  • Lifespan (typically 15–20 years)
  • Increased home resale value
  • Potential insurance benefits in some areas

For homeowners in storm-prone or outage-prone regions, the investment often pays for itself in avoided food spoilage, hotel stays, lost workdays, and property damage.

Final Cost Summary: When budgeting for a home standby generator, expect to pay $3,000–$8,500+ for the unit, $2,000–$5,000 for professional installation, and around $200–$500 per year for maintenance. In total, most homeowners invest between $7,000 and $15,000 for a fully installed system. Understanding these costs upfront helps you plan realistically and choose a generator that matches both your power needs and long-term budget.

How to Choose the Right Standby Generator

Choosing the right home standby generator isn’t just about buying the biggest unit available. The key is matching the generator’s capacity, fuel type, and installation requirements to your home’s actual needs. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you make the right decision.

1. Calculate Your Power Needs

Before comparing brands or prices, determine how much power your home actually requires during an outage.

Add Up the Wattage of Essential Appliances

Start by listing the appliances and systems you want to run when the power goes out, such as:

  • Central air conditioning
  • Refrigerator and freezer
  • Sump pump
  • Lights and outlets
  • Microwave
  • Water heater
  • Well pump
  • WiFi router and electronics

Each appliance has a running wattage (rated watts) listed on its label or in the owner’s manual. Add together the running watts of the devices you plan to operate at the same time.

For example:

  • Refrigerator: 700 watts
  • Central AC: 3,500 watts
  • Lights: 600 watts
  • Microwave: 1,000 watts
  • Total running watts: 5,800 watts

This gives you a baseline for the minimum generator capacity you’ll need.

Understand Surge Watts vs. Running Watts

2. Understand Surge Watts vs. Running Watts

Many appliances require extra power when they first start up. This is called surge wattage (starting watts).

For example:

  • Refrigerator running watts: 700W
  • Refrigerator surge watts: 2,200W

Your generator must handle the highest surge demand at startup, not just the continuous load. If it can’t, it may overload and shut down.

Pro Tip: Choose a standby generator with at least 20–30% more capacity than your calculated running watts to ensure safe operation and future flexibility.

3. Noise Level & Local Regulations

While home standby generators are typically quieter than portable units, noise should never be overlooked — especially in residential neighborhoods. Even though these systems are designed for permanent outdoor installation with sound-dampening enclosures, improper placement or ignoring local regulations can lead to complaints, fines, or mandatory relocation.

Understanding both sound levels and local code requirements before installation can save you significant time and money.

Generator noise is measured in decibels (dB). Most residential standby generators operate between 60–70 dB at 23 feet, which is roughly equivalent to:

  • 60 dB – Normal conversation
  • 65 dB – Dishwasher
  • 70 dB – Vacuum cleaner

Although this may not sound extremely loud, keep in mind:

  • Sound travels further at night
  • Continuous operation during extended outages can amplify disturbance
  • Reflective surfaces (walls, fences) can increase perceived noise

Higher-capacity units (20kW–26kW and above) may produce slightly more noise than smaller 14kW–18kW models. Always check the manufacturer’s official dB rating under load, not just at idle.

Conclusion

When you are buying the best standby generator, you need to make sure it meets your needs. You have to consider the weight of the item, power wattage, automatic control, weather resistance, and price.

To make it easy for you, we reviewed the best generators in their respective classes. We recommended three of them that rule their category. However, if you need the best overall model, we will recommend Generac 7043. It is a powerful, reliable, and dual fuel generator that is best for your needs.

FAQs About Home Standby Generators

1. What size generator do I need for a 2,000 sq ft house?

For a 2,000 square foot home, most homeowners need a 18kW to 22kW standby generator to power essential systems like central air conditioning, refrigerator, lights, outlets, and water heater.

If you only plan to run essential circuits (not the entire home), a 14kW–18kW unit may be sufficient. However, for whole-house coverage — especially with central AC or electric appliances — a 20kW+ generator is typically recommended.

The exact size depends on:

  • Number of AC units
  • Electric vs. gas appliances
  • Well pump or sump pump usage
  • Total running and surge wattage

Calculating your actual load is always more accurate than choosing based on square footage alone.

2. Can a standby generator run central AC?

Yes, a properly sized standby generator can run central air conditioning.

Central AC systems require high starting (surge) watts, which means the generator must handle both startup and continuous operation. Most central air systems require at least:

  • 3,000–5,000 running watts
  • Higher surge watts at startup

For homes with central AC, a 20kW or larger generator is commonly recommended to avoid overload during startup.

If you have multiple AC units, you may need an even higher-capacity system.

3. How long can a standby generator run continuously?

Standby generators can generally run continuously for 300 to 500 hours (about two to three weeks), depending on maintenance and fuel type. While units connected to natural gas can technically run indefinitely, they require oil checks and potential oil changes every 72 to 100 hours of continuous operation to prevent engine damage.

4. Do I need a permit to install a standby generator?

Yes, you almost certainly need permits to install a permanent standby generator, as it involves significant electrical, fuel, and safety regulations.

You will likely require electrical permits, fuel permits (natural gas or propane), and potentially building or zoning permits for placement. After installation, a local inspector must verify compliance.