What is the average cost of installing a standby generator?

The national average is roughly $5,163 according to HomeAdvisor (April 2025), but that number skews low because it includes small portable-to-standby conversions. For a true whole-house standby unit, Generac puts the national installed range at $8,000 to $16,000. In Blue Ridge and Fannin County, expect $8,000 to $18,000 depending on unit size and site conditions.

How much is a Generac generator for a 2,000 square foot house?

A 20kW Generac covers most 2,000-square-foot homes and installs for $11,400 to $14,900 in the Blue Ridge area. The unit itself runs $5,200 to $6,500; the rest covers the transfer switch, pad, propane setup, permit, and labor. If your home has multiple HVAC systems or electric heat, a load calculation may push you to a 24kW or 26kW.

What is the 80% rule for generators?

The 80% rule means a standby generator should not run at more than 80% of its rated capacity for sustained periods. A 20kW unit, for example, should carry no more than 16kW of continuous load. Running above 80% accelerates wear and can trip the overload protection. Proper load calculation by your installer ensures you're sized correctly.

Is a whole house generator a tax write-off?

For a primary residence, a standby generator is not typically deductible as a standard home improvement. However, if you use the property as a rental (such as an AirBNB), the generator may qualify as a deductible business expense or be depreciated over its useful life. If the generator is medically necessary, a portion may qualify as a medical expense. Consult a tax professional for your specific situation.

Where should you not put a standby generator?

Do not place a standby generator under windows, near air intakes, in enclosed spaces, or within 5 feet of doors and operable windows. It must also sit at least 10 feet from a propane tank and 2-5 feet from combustible materials. On mountain properties with tight footprints, compliant placement often requires working with your contractor to find a location that meets all setback requirements simultaneously.

How big of a generator do I need for 200-amp service?

A 200-amp service panel can draw up to 48kW at full load, but no home runs every circuit simultaneously. A 22kW to 26kW standby generator with an automatic transfer switch and load management handles most 200-amp homes. Per Norwall PowerSystems, the 22-26kW range covers typical residential 200-amp panels when paired with smart load shedding. Disclaimer: This guide provides general cost estimates based on publicly available industry data and our experience in the Blue Ridge, GA area. Actual costs vary based on site conditions, equipment selection, and current material pricing. All electrical and gas work should be performed by licensed professionals and permitted through the appropriate local authority. FTH Construction is a general contractor; consult a licensed electrician for code-specific questions and a tax professional for deductibility questions.

Standby Generator Cost in Blue Ridge GA (2026)