Most Sacramento homeowners pay between $15,000 and $25,000 for a professionally installed whole-home standby generator, including the unit, automatic transfer switch, pad, and gas hookup. Smaller homes and essential-circuit setups land lower, while larger homes or long gas and electrical runs push higher. A free, upfront estimate gives you a number built around your home.
What goes into a whole-home generator installation?
A standby generator is a permanent system that turns on automatically when the power goes out. A complete install includes several parts, and each one affects the price.
The generator unit
A 22 kW unit is the most common size for a medium home and is a popular choice across the Greater Sacramento Area. Equipment alone typically runs several thousand dollars, with larger units costing more. We size the unit to what you actually want to keep running, whether that is the whole house or essential circuits.
The automatic transfer switch
The transfer switch is what makes the system automatic. It senses an outage, disconnects from the grid safely, and starts the generator. Costs vary with the amperage and whether load management is included.
The concrete pad
Standby generators sit on a stable, level pad. This is a standard part of a code-compliant install in California.
Gas line work
Standby generators usually run on natural gas or propane. A short gas run is modest. A longer run, trenching, or upsizing the gas meter adds cost, and this is often the single biggest swing factor in an estimate.
Electrical tie-in, permit, and inspection
The generator has to be wired into your electrical system, permitted, and inspected. We handle that coordination from start to finish.
Typical Price Ranges
Here are honest planning ranges for the area:
- Smaller home, essential circuits, short gas run: roughly $15,000 to $18,000
- Medium home, 22 kW unit, standard install: $18,000 to $22,000
- Larger home or long gas and electrical runs: $22,000 to $25,000 or more
Your final price depends on the unit size, where the generator sits relative to the gas meter and panel, and your home's electrical setup. That's why we always provide a free, upfront estimate.
Is a Standby Generator Worth It in Sacramento?
For many homeowners, the answer is yes. A standby system protects against:
- Heat events when losing air conditioning is a real safety issue
- Public safety power shutoffs and storm outages
- Spoiled food, sump pump failures, and lost connectivity for anyone working from home or relying on medical equipment
Unlike a portable generator, a standby unit runs automatically, so you're covered even when you're not home.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does installation take? Most installs are completed in one to a few days, depending on gas and electrical work and the inspection schedule.
Natural gas or propane? Either can work. Natural gas is convenient where a line is available. Propane is a good option where it's not. We help you choose.
Do I need a permit? Yes. Generator installs require a permit and inspection, and we manage that for you.
Can a generator power my whole house? A properly sized unit and transfer switch can, or we can prioritize essential circuits to fit a smaller budget.
Get Your Free Estimate
We'll size the right system for your home and budget and give you a clear, free, upfront estimate. Peach Electric is licensed and insured, family-owned, and we answer 24/7 across the Greater Sacramento Area. Learn more on our generator installation page.