How To Determinate The Costs Of Installing A Whole House Generator
Whole house generators have now become the necessity that most homeowners crave today. However, despite the slightly high cost to install a whole house generator, many families realize the tangible perks of this system. It offers immense safety and comfort when there is a power outage.
Whole house generator costs rise with the kilowatts. But it will be a mistake to say that the price is based on just that.
Various factors affect the costs of the whole house generators. Homeowners have to envision the final costs depending on all these factors. Take a look.
Factors to Decide the Costs of Installation
Here are some of the factors that play a vital role in determining the costs of whole house generators:
- Power for the Electrical Load – Frequently, the most significant investment required for the whole house generator is the kilowatts it needs. Even the size of the generator increases with the power requirements. There are many articles that can help you to determine the size. The price varies from $3500 for an 11 kW generator to $4900 for a 20 kW generator.
- Type of Fuel – Generators run on Natural Gas or Liquid Propane. The price can vary based on the fuel type. This changes both by the cost of the purchase in terms of the initial purchase and refueling needs. Liquid Propane can have higher cost upfront but can cost you more in the long run. But both Natural Gas and Liquid Propane generators have their sets of pros and cons.
For example, Natural Gas is more affordable, and as it comes through underground pipelines, you don’t have to invest in cleaning the propane tanks. But the Liquid Propane generators are quieter, which is demanded by many homeowners.
- Quality of Unit – There are lots of choices you can get when buying whole house generators. But just like every other product, an off-brand, in this case, can be priced lucratively. But with a slightly higher investment for a reputed brand can help you get a longer warranty and a great product. This way, you can save more money in the long run.
- Installation – The installation costs depend on the distance from the house that the team needs to ensure a safe installation of exhaust, fuel, and ventilation ducting. If it requires extra electrical equipment to support the generator, it can cost extra too.
- Costs and Maintenance – Like any and every other thing, the whole generators need long-term upkeep costs. It precisely means the maintenance and service costs. This will continue till the unit lasts. So you have to consider that at the time of purchasing.
All these factors are to be considered while determining the cost to install a whole house generator. It is because of these that the costs vary from one unit to another. This guide helps you have a clear idea and know what to invest in when purchasing a whole house generator.
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