Pricing reviewed October 2026
Standby units start automatically and run on gas or propane; portables cost less but require manual setup and refueling and must never run indoors.
Not sure what size you need? Use the generator sizing calculator · Choosing a brand? Read Kohler vs. Generac.
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Generator figures marked as from the 2026 cost guide (whole-house generator $6,000–$25,000 installed, typically $10,000–$15,000; unit $3,000–$6,000; installation $3,000–$5,000; 10–14 kW $6k–$10k, 18–26 kW $10k–$15k, 26+ kW $15k–$25k) come from the HomeGeneratorCost 2026 guide. Add-on ranges, load wattages and city factors are editorial estimates. Get written quotes from licensed installers.