Buying guide · Installation
What generator installation
actually involves.
Installing a standby generator is a multi-trade project — electrical, gas or propane, permits, and concrete. This guide explains what happens, what it costs, and how we can connect you with a licensed installer in your area.
01 — Installation type
Portable vs. standby — very different projects.
Installation complexity depends almost entirely on which type of generator you have. Portables are simple. Standbys are a construction project.
Minimal setup
Most portable generators require no permanent installation. You store them, wheel them out during an outage, and run extension cords — or connect through a transfer switch.
- No permits required for basic use
- Transfer switch recommended for home circuits
- Transfer switch install: 2–4 hrs, licensed electrician
- Never run indoors or in a garage
Full installation project
Standby generators are permanently installed outside your home, wired to your electrical panel, and connected to a gas or propane fuel supply. This involves multiple licensed trades.
- Licensed electrician required
- Licensed plumber or gas fitter for fuel line
- Concrete pad or ground-level mounting
- Permit required in most jurisdictions
- Typical timeline: 1–3 days on-site
Engineered installation
Commercial and large standby units require engineering review, load calculations, utility coordination, and in many cases a dedicated fuel storage system.
- Electrical engineer review often required
- Utility notification may be required
- Automatic transfer switch (ATS) required
- Timeline varies — typically 1–2 weeks
02 — How it works
The standby installation process, step by step.
A typical residential standby installation involves these five steps, usually completed over one or two days once permits are approved.
Site assessment
The installer visits to assess placement — distance from the electrical panel, fuel source, property lines, and local setback requirements. This determines run lengths and final cost.
Permits pulled
Your installer pulls the electrical and gas permits. Most jurisdictions require them; a good installer handles this automatically. Permit approval typically takes 1–5 business days.
Pad and placement
A concrete pad is poured or a composite pad is set. The generator is positioned, anchored, and connected to the housing. This takes a few hours and must cure before the next step.
Electrical connection
The automatic transfer switch (ATS) is installed in or beside your main panel. The ATS detects a power outage and switches your home to generator power automatically — no manual action needed.
Fuel connection and commissioning
The gas or propane line is connected and pressure-tested. The installer runs a full load test, verifies automatic start, and walks you through the weekly self-test schedule.
Inspection and sign-off
A municipal inspector reviews the electrical and gas connections. Once approved, your permit is closed and the installation is complete. Most inspections are same-day or next-day.
03 — What it costs
Installation cost, by scenario.
Generator installation cost depends on run lengths, local labor rates, and how complex your electrical panel situation is. These are real-world ranges based on installer quotes — not manufacturer estimates.
Short gas run (<20 ft), simple panel, pad within 30 ft of house.
Long gas run (50+ ft), panel upgrade needed, difficult site access.
These are installation costs only — not the cost of the generator itself. Total project cost equals generator price plus installation. Want a quote specific to your property? Contact us and we will connect you with a licensed installer in your area.
04 — Permits and codes
Permits are required. Your installer handles them.
Nearly every jurisdiction requires permits for standby generator installation. A licensed installer pulls them as part of the job — you should never hire someone who skips this step.
Never skip the permit.
An unpermitted generator installation can void your homeowner's insurance, create liability if a fire or injury occurs, and require costly tear-out and rework when you sell your home. Always verify your installer pulls permits — ask to see the permit number before work begins.
05 — Finding the right person
What to look for in an installer.
Not every electrician has standby generator experience. Here is what matters when vetting someone for this job.
Licensed in your state
Electrical and gas work requires a state license. Ask for their license number and verify it — most states have an online lookup tool.
Generator-specific experience
Ask how many standby generators they have installed in the last year. Automatic transfer switch work is specialized — you want someone who does it regularly.
Pulls their own permits
Any contractor who asks you to pull your own permit or suggests skipping it is a red flag. Permits protect you, not them.
Written quote before work begins
Get a itemized written quote covering labor, materials, pad, permits, and the transfer switch. Verbal quotes lead to disputes.
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