The Ultimate Homeowners Guide to Generac Generators

When the power goes out, your home shouldn’t be left in the dark. And unfortunately, power outages aren’t very rare. 

According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, the average American experienced more than 5 hours of power outages in 2022, primarily caused by severe weather events and grid strain. Whether you’re dealing with severe weather, rolling blackouts, or unexpected utility failures, a Generac generator offers reliable backup power to keep your household running. 

We will walk you through everything you need to know about Generac generators below, including the way they work, how much they cost, the size you need, and what to expect when an electrical contractor installs one at your home. 

If you’re a homeowner exploring backup power solutions, this guide is your starting point for making an informed, confident decision.

What Is a Generac Generator?

A Generac generator is a home backup power solution that automatically restores electricity to your home during a power outage. No matter why you lost power, a Generac standby generator ensures your essential appliances and systems continue to run without interruption.

Generac is the leading name in residential standby power, trusted by millions of homeowners across the U.S. Known for its reliability, innovation, and ease of use, Generac generators provide true peace of mind in an increasingly unpredictable energy landscape.

What Makes Generac Generators Stand Out?

Since 1959, Generac has specialized in designing and manufacturing backup power systems for residential, commercial, and industrial use. They were the first to develop affordable home standby generators, and they continue to lead the market in features, technology, and support. 

Today, Generac holds approximately 75% of the U.S. home standby generator market share, making it the most trusted brand among American homeowners.

Key benefits of Generac home standby generators include:

• Automatic Operation: The system detects outages and turns on within seconds.
  
• Permanent Installation: They’re professionally installed and integrated into your home’s electrical system.
  
• Fuel Flexibility: Generac generators run on either natural gas or liquid propane (LP).
  
• Scalable Protection: You can choose from essential circuit backup or whole-home power.
  
• Remote Monitoring: The Mobile Link™ app allows you to check your generator’s status from your phone.

Types of Generac Generators for Homeowners

Generac offers two main types of generators for residential use:

1. Standby Generators (Home Backup)

• Permanently installed outside your home, like an air conditioning unit
  
• Automatically activates during an outage
  
• Can power everything from key appliances to your entire home
  
• Runs on natural gas or propane
  
• Ideal for long-term, hands-off protection
  

2. Portable Generators

• Requires manual setup and operation
  
• Must be refueled by hand (usually with gasoline)
  
• Best for temporary or mobile power needs (camping, tailgating, etc.)
  
• Not connected to your home’s wiring
  

Key Difference: Standby generators are fully automatic and built for seamless integration with your home, while portable generators are designed for short-term, manual use.

Why Generac Is America’s #1 Home Backup Generator Brand

There are a number of reasons that Generac generators have become the leading option for millions of homeowners across the U.S., including:

• The largest nationwide network of certified installers and dealers
  
• Industry-leading warranties and service plans
  
• Offer advanced features like remote monitoring and quiet operation
  
• Backed by ongoing promotions such as free extended warranty offers

How Do Generac Generators Work?

A Generac home standby generator is designed to automatically restore power to your home during an outage—without any action required from you. It operates as a fully integrated system, connected directly to your home’s electrical panel and fueled by either natural gas or propane. Less than 30 seconds after detecting a power failure, the generator starts up and supplies power to your home.

The Generac Generator Process: Step-by-Step

Here’s how the Generac standby generator system works:

1. A Power Outage Occurs: When the utility power goes out, the system immediately detects that you’ve lost electricity.  At this point, the unit’s automatic transfer switch (ATS) engages, disconnecting your home from the utility grid and signalling the generator to start.
2. The Generator Starts and Delivers Power: Once the generator fires up, it begins supplying electricity to your home. Depending on the system size and setup, it can power your entire home or just a few critical circuits such as the refrigerator, HVAC, sump pump, and lights.
3. Utility Power Returns: Once utility power is restored, the automatic transfer switch safely reconnects your home to the grid and shuts the generator down.

Portable vs Standby Generators: What’s the Difference?

One of the first things homeowners need to decide when purchasing a generator is whether they want a portable unit or a permanently installed standby generator. We’ll highlight some of the key differences between the options, so that you can make the best choice for your situation. 

In practice, standby generators are usually the preferred choice, as they allow you to avoid having to:

• Run extension cords
• Refuel with gasoline
• Start it up manually
• Be home during an outage

This automation is especially valuable if you’re away, asleep, or unable to access your generator quickly in an emergency.

Bottom Line: A Generac standby generator is a set-it-and-forget-it solution for backup power. It gives you peace of mind, reliability, and protection against long or frequent outages, without the manual hassle of a portable unit.

What Size Generac Generator Do I Need?

Choosing the right generator size is one of the most important steps in protecting your home. Choose one that’s too small, and you risk overloading the system or losing coverage for critical appliances. Choose one that’s too large, and you may overspend on capacity you don’t need. The right-sized generator strikes the balance between comfort, efficiency, and budget.

Understanding Generator Sizing

Generator size is measured in kilowatts (kW), which refers to how much electrical power it can deliver at once. The more appliances, systems, and circuits you want to run during an outage, the higher the kW requirement.

General Sizing Guidelines:

A 22kW Generac generator is one of the most popular sizes, often enough to power an entire home with central air conditioning, kitchen appliances, and lighting. A 22kW Generac generator running on a 500-gallon propane tank can provide continuous backup power for 4 to 6 days, depending on the load.

What Systems and Appliances Should You Power with a Generator?

Here are common items homeowners choose to back up during an outage:

• Refrigerator and freezer
• Furnace or central AC
• Sump pump or well pump
• Internet router and home office
• Medical devices
• EV chargers
• Electric stove or microwave
• Lights and outlets
• Garage door opener
• Home surveillance and security systems

You’ll need to decide between essential circuit coverage (bare necessities) or whole-home backup. Generac offers flexible options for both.

Use a Generator Sizing Tool

Generac provides a helpful Home Standby Sizing Calculator, which walks you through your home’s requirements based on the square footage, types of appliances you have, and your desired coverage level. 

You can also work with a local Generac dealer to perform a free in-home assessment and load calculation.

Factors That Influence Generator Sizing

A few of the most important factors to consider when picking a specific generator for your home include:

• Home size and layout
• HVAC system size and number of zones
• Fuel type (propane or natural gas)
• Voltage needs (120/240V)
• Climate (colder climates may require more heating capacity)

Get Expert Help Picking Your Generac Generator

Sizing isn’t a guessing game. The best way to ensure proper coverage and efficiency is to schedule a quote with an experienced electrical contractor like Alpha Omega Electric. They’ll help calculate your home’s exact load requirements and recommend the right system for your needs and budget.

How Much Does a Generac Generator Cost?

The cost of a Generac home standby generator depends on several factors, including the size of the unit, your installation requirements, the fuel type you’d prefer, and your home’s specific needs. On average, most homeowners can expect to invest between $6,500 and $20,000 for a fully installed Generac system.

Here are some estimated ranges to help you get started.

Average Price Range by Generator Size

These estimates include the generator, transfer switch, professional installation, basic materials, and startup testing. Prices can vary by region and fuel setup complexity.

What Factors Affect the Cost of a Generac Generator?

Here are the main factors that influence the total price you’ll pay for a Generac generator system:

1. Generator Size (kW): Larger units cost more, but they also power more appliances (and potentially your entire home).
2. Transfer Switch Type: Whole-home transfer switches typically cost more than essential-circuit models.
3. Installation Complexity: Factors like trenching, gas line upgrades, electrical panel changes, and local code compliance can add to the total.
4. Fuel Source: Generators that connect to existing natural gas lines are generally less expensive to fuel over the long term. On the other hand, you may encounter higher upfront costs if you have to install a propane tank.
5. Permits & Inspections: Depending on your location, permits and required utility inspections may carry additional fees.
6. Optional Add-ons:
   • Remote monitoring with Mobile Link™
   • Extended warranties (up to 10 years)
   • Service and maintenance plans

Generac Generator Financing & Payment Options

Most Generac dealers offer financing plans to help spread out the cost of your generator system. These often include:

• 0% interest promotional periods (if paid within a set term)
• Low monthly payments
• No prepayment penalties

Some utility companies also offer rebates or incentives for installing backup power solutions, especially in areas prone to outages.

Cost vs. Value: Is a Generac Generator Worth It? While a standby generator is a significant investment, it offers long-term value in a number of ways, including

• It’ll protect against food spoilage, frozen pipes, and HVAC loss.
• It will enable remote work and school during outages.
• It’ll increase your home’s value when it comes time to sell. 
• It’ll offer added peace of mind in regions with frequent storms or outages.

The Installation Process: How Difficult Is It to Install a Generac Generator

Homeowners often wonder how hard it is to install a new Generac generator. The good news is that installation is typically straightforward and often completed in just one day — and typically in about 6 to 10 hours — by a certified Generac installer.  

The Complete Generac Generator Installation Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

We’ll break the full process below, from site selection to final testing, so you know exactly what to expect when installing a home standby generator. 

1. Site Evaluation and Quote: One of our licensed electricians will visit your home to assess your power needs, fuel access, electrical setup, and location options. You’ll then receive a customized quote based on generator size and installation requirements.
2. Permits and Utility Coordination: Your installer handles all local permits and coordinates with your utility company if needed, so you don’t have to. This ensures your system is installed safely and in compliance with local codes.
3. Generator Delivery and Prep Work: Before installation day, your dealer may:
   • Prep the foundation pad or concrete slab
   • Arrange for trenching (if necessary)
   • Schedule gas line work (if using natural gas or installing a new propane tank)
4. Installation Day: On the day of install, the crew will:
   • Mount the generator unit outside your home (typically near the electrical panel or meter)
   • Connect it to your home’s electrical system via an automatic transfer switch
   • Connect the fuel source (natural gas or propane)
   • Run and test the system
   • Provide an overview of how the generator works and how to monitor it
5. Final Inspections and Activation: After installation, a final inspection is performed (if required by your local jurisdiction). Your installer will then activate the system and show you how to use the Mobile Link™ monitoring app, if included.

Where Should a Generac Generator Be Installed?

Your new Generac generator will typically be placed in an area that is:

• Outside your home 
• At least 18 inches away from the house
• Near the gas line and electrical panel (when possible)
• In a well-ventilated, accessible area

The installer will follow local codes and manufacturer guidelines to ensure safe, code-compliant placement.

Generac Generator Installation: What Do You Need to Do as a Homeowner?

One of the best things about having a Generac generator installed is that your installation professional will handle most aspects of the process for you. You’ll simply need to:

• Approve the proposed site and quote
• Clear access to the installation area
• Be available for questions on install day

Your installer handles everything else, including pulling permits, fuel connections, and system testing.

Generac Generator Fuel Types: Natural Gas vs. Propane 

Generac home standby generators are designed to run on either natural gas or liquid propane (LP). Both fuel types are reliable, clean-burning, and capable of supporting your home through extended outages, but there are important differences that may impact your choice.

We’ll break down the pros, cons, and key considerations for each option below, to help you decide what’s best for your home.

Natural Gas: Connected and Continuous

How it works: The generator connects directly to your home’s existing natural gas line, supplying a constant flow of fuel without the need for refueling or storage.

Pros:

• Unlimited fuel supply (no tank refills)
• Lower long-term fuel costs in many areas
• Cleaner and more efficient burning
• No storage tank needed on your property

Cons:

• Requires access to municipal gas lines
• Vulnerable to disruptions if gas service is interrupted (rare)

Best for: Homes with an existing natural gas connection and homeowners who want a true set-it-and-forget-it operation.

Propane: Flexible and Self-Contained

How it works: The generator draws fuel from a separate liquid propane tank on your property, which may be located above-ground or buried.

Pros:

• Works in rural areas without gas lines
• Stable fuel with a long shelf life
• Propane systems often run quieter
• You control your own supply

Cons:

• Requires a storage tank (which may need to be refilled during long outages)
• Higher per-gallon fuel cost in some regions
• Upfront cost for tank installation (if you don’t already have one)

Best for: Homes without natural gas access or those in rural locations.

Liquid Propane Runtimes for Different Size Generac Generators

Here’s an estimate of how long a Generac generator can run on a full propane tank during a continuous outage:

Actual runtimes will vary based on electrical load and usage patterns.

Choosing the Right Fuel for Your Home

When trying to choose the best generator fuel for your new system, you’ll want to ask yourself a few important questions, such as:

• Do I already have natural gas service?
• Is propane commonly used in my area?
• How often do we lose power, and for how long?
• Do I want complete independence from the utility grid?

Your Generac dealer will help assess your home’s setup, regional fuel availability, and long-term usage to guide the best choice.

Maintenance & Warranty for Your Generac Home Generator

Owning a Generac generator isn’t just about having backup power; it’s about making sure that power is ready when you need it most. Like any major home system, your generator requires routine maintenance to stay in peak condition. Fortunately, Generac makes this easy with durable engineering, intuitive monitoring tools, and flexible service plans.

Below, we’ll explain what’s involved in maintaining your generator, what’s covered under warranty, and how to keep your investment protected for the long haul.

Routine Maintenance: What’s Required?

Generac standby generators are designed to be low-maintenance, but they still require regular service to ensure reliable performance. Here’s what you can expect:

Typical maintenance includes:

• Oil and filter changes (every 100 to 200 hours or annually)
• Air filter replacement
• Spark plug inspection or replacement
• Battery checks and terminal cleaning
• System diagnostics and firmware updates
• Load testing (recommended annually)

You can perform basic maintenance yourself (especially if you’re mechanically inclined), but many homeowners opt for a Generac-certified technician to handle regular service and inspections.

Mobile Link™ Remote Monitoring

Generac’s Mobile Link™ is a remote monitoring app that lets you track your generator’s status from your phone or tablet. It provides:

• Real-time status updates
• Maintenance reminders
• Dealer notifications if something goes wrong
• Weekly self-test reporting

With Mobile Link™ and a maintenance plan, you can essentially “set it and forget it,” while remaining confident that your system is always being monitored and maintained.

Warranty Coverage

Generac standby generators come with industry-leading warranty protection:

The standard 5-year limited warranty is included with most models. You can often extend this to 7 or 10 years by registering your unit early or bundling it with a certified installation package.

Choosing the Right Generac Model for Your Home

Generac offers a wide range of home standby generators, from compact models for essential coverage to powerful whole-home solutions. Choosing the right model depends on your home size, lifestyle, and which systems or appliances you want to protect during a power outage.

Popular Generac Models by Home Size

Some of the most common model sizes selected for different homes include:

Note: These are general recommendations. A certified dealer will help you fine-tune your generator selection based on actual electrical load and specific needs.

Whole-Home vs Essential-Circuit Coverage

One of the most important things you’ll need to decide when selecting a Generac generator is the amount of power you want it to provide. Specifically, you’ll need to determine whether you want it to power your entire home or just a few key circuits and appliances. 

• Whole-home generators power everything: HVAC, kitchen, appliances, lights, outlets, and more. These models pair with a smart transfer switch that automatically balances the load and adjusts as needed.
• Essential-circuit generators power only select appliances or systems (such as your fridge, sump pump, or furnace): These systems use a smaller transfer switch configured for critical circuits only.

If you want to live comfortably during extended outages and continue to enjoy your AC, cook normal dinners, and connect to your Wi-Fi, go with whole-home coverage.

Key Features to Consider When Choosing a Generac Generator

There are a few different features available with different Generac models. A few of the most important ones you may wish to consider include: 

• True Power™ Technology: Delivers clean power for sensitive electronics
• Mobile Link™ Remote Monitoring: Lets you track your generator’s status and performance from anywhere
• Quiet-Test™ Mode: Weekly self-tests that run more quietly than standard operation
• Aluminum Enclosure: Rust-resistant for wet or coastal climates
• Wi-Fi Connectivity: Built-in to most Guardian series models

Generac Guardian Series: The Gold Standard

If you’d like to be confident that you’ve selected one of the best home generators available, you may just want to opt for the Guardian Series —Generac’s most popular residential line. Among other things, it offers:

• Power ranges from 10kW to 26kW
• Air-cooled engines
• Quiet operation and compact footprint
• Seamless integration with smart home devices and load management

It’s the go-to option for most homeowners who want reliable, long-term whole-home backup.

Let Alpha Omega Electric Install Your New Generac Generator!

If you’re ready to enjoy the benefits of stable, reliable, worry-free backup power, contact the team at Alpha Omega Electric. We’ll be glad to discuss your preferences, assess your electricity needs, and recommend the best model for your situation. Then, we’ll install it for you and explain everything you need to know for proper operation.

Contact us today to get started!

Sources & References

Generac Holdings Inc. – Investor Overview
Generac is the market leader in U.S. residential standby power with an estimated 75% market share.
Source: Generac Investor Relations – 2023 Investor Presentation

U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA)
The average U.S. electricity customer experienced over 8 hours of power interruptions in 2022.
Source: EIA Today in Energy – Power Outage Trends

Generac Buyer’s Guide (PDF)
Detailed information on how Generac generators work, runtime estimates, sizing, fuel options, maintenance, warranty, and installation steps.
Source: Homeowners Guide to Generac Generators (Internal PDF Reference)