Energy and Systems
Generators: costs by job
Install, replace, repair and maintain costs for every generators job we track, with the trade required and how DIY-friendly each one is.
Verified August 2026
Cost comparison
Typical national figures for a standard single-family home.
| Standby Generator InstallationTypical $12,000 · Generator dealer · DIY 1/5 | $6,000 – $24,000 |
|---|---|
| Standby Generator ReplacementTypical $12,000 · Generator dealer · DIY 1/5 | $6,000 – $24,000 |
| Standby Generator MaintenanceTypical $1,440 · Generator dealer · DIY 1/5 | $720 – $2,880 |
| Portable Generator InstallationTypical $1,200 · Electrician · DIY 4/5 | $500 – $3,200 |
| Transfer Switch InstallationTypical $1,300 · Electrician · DIY 2/5 | $500 – $3,200 |
Standby Generator
Standby Generator InstallationTypical $12,000 · Tier 1Standby Generator ReplacementTypical $12,000 · Tier 1Standby Generator MaintenanceTypical $1,440 · Tier 2
Variants: Air cooled · Liquid cooled · Natural gas · Propane · 22kW