How to Choose a Standby Generac Generator in 2025
Standby Generac generators are among the most reliable options for backup power on the market. As an electrical contractor, selecting the right model for your clients requires careful consideration. Pick the wrong generator size, and you could end up without enough power, or spending more money than you need to. At worst, it could mess up appliances or even the generator itself.
This guide will help you make informed recommendations by covering key factors such as size, power requirements, fuel options, and installation considerations.
Determining the right size Generac generator
The Generac Guardian line offers generators ranging from 10kW up to 26kW. Which leads us to the first, and perhaps, most obvious question you might find yourself asking, ‘What size generator does my client need?’ Generac offers several different models, so how do you determine which one is best suited for your job? The answer depends on the total wattage of the appliances and systems needing power.
When calculating backup power needs, contractors should consider the size of the home, how the home will be heated, if an electric vehicle will require charging during an outage, and whole home versus select circuit coverage. Correct load calculations ensure proper sizing and prevent system overloads.
“Properly sizing a generator is crucial to ensure it meets your customer’s needs. Undersized generators may fail to provide sufficient power, and oversized generators can be inefficient and costly,” said Thomas Kovalcik, national account manager at Generac.
Installation considerations for Generac generators
When it comes to installing the generator, the first step is determining the installation site. Areas that are well-drained and have ample space for generator maintenance are good considerations for choosing the installation site. Additionally, choosing a spot that is close to a natural gas line and electric meter will help with cost efficiency because it will minimize the length of piping and wiring needed.
According to Generac, after the site has been prepared with a concrete slab or pea gravel, the fuel line will be connected, and a transfer switch will be installed next to the main breaker box.
“Proper fuel supply with natural gas or liquid propane is essential in allowing the generator to react to inrush loads like AC units, water heaters, pool pumps, dryers, etc. Undersizing the fuel supply will put additional stress on the generator’s performance,” said Kovalcik.
Price range of a Generac generator
Cost is largely influenced by the generator size, which is why portable generators cost less than standby generators. While portable Generac generators range from $500 to $2,500, standby generators cost anywhere from $3,200 to $10,000 and up.
However, the price of the generator itself is not the only cost to be considered. Contractors should provide clients with transparent pricing, including installation labor, permitting, and any necessary electrical upgrades.
Understanding fuel options
Generac standby generators operate on three different fuel types. Whether the generator you choose will run on liquid propane vapor (LP), pipeline natural gas (NG), or diesel fuel is dependent on the model. In most cases, diesel is typically used for commercial applications, but for residential applications, liquid propane and natural gas will be used.
Is a generator a worthwhile investment?
For clients in coastal areas or regions prone to power outages, a standby Generac generator offers peace of mind, reliability, and protection against lost power. For contractors, installing these generators can be a profitable business opportunity while providing an essential service.
“When Hurricane Helene hit, my parents lost power for about 12 days. My mom would have to go to the barn to get water so they could flush toilets and take showers. They would even come by my house a few times since I had power from a generator. Right after that, my mom told my dad who’s an electrical contractor, ‘I want a generator installed now,’” said Branch Manager Justin Arnold, City Electric Supply (CES) Boone.
Beyond the undeniable convenience, a standby Generac generator provides protection to properties, ensuring that the investment goes above being a luxury and is — in some cases — almost essential.
“Generators provide peace of mind and help protect one of the biggest investments a person can make — a home,” said Jacob Blommel, electric general manager at A-Abel Family of Companies. “They keep the sub pumps pumping to keep basements from flooding, keep security lights and systems operating, and keep the heat on to prevent pipes from freezing.”
By no surprise, generators are on the rise in popularity. In 2023, 5.77 percent of homes in the U.S. had backup generators installed. That’s an increase of over 900 percent from the 0.63 percent of generators installed in 2002, according to Generac’s Senior Vice President of Global Product Management and Industrial Design, Randy Sandlin. From large cities to smaller communities, the need for reliable backup power is becoming more widespread than ever.
“Last year, we sold about 238 generators, and that’s just my branch. Boone, North Carolina, isn’t a big area. Generators are an easy push for contractors when wiring a house because they can easily mount a transfer switch. So, even if the customer doesn’t want a generator now, they’ll be prepared to have one later,” said Arnold.
Your perfect Generac match
Selecting the best standby Generac generator requires evaluating a project’s power needs, location, and budget. Understanding generator sizing and installation requirements will help electrical contractors make the right recommendations for their clients.
“If you’re an electrical contractor thinking about offering generator installation for the first time, do your research, partner with a good supplier like CES, and get all the training you can to avoid costly mistakes starting out,” said Blommel.
If you need further guidance, chat with a team member at your local CES branch.