The next power outage won't even slow you down.
Compare a free quote from vetted local generator installers and keep your home powered - automatically, every time.
Are you the homeowner?
Pick one to get matched with the right local pros.
What is a standby generator?
A standby generator is a permanently installed backup power system that automatically turns on when your home loses power - usually within seconds of an outage. Unlike a portable generator that you drag out of the garage and manually connect, a standby generator sits outside your home, runs on natural gas or propane, and kicks in automatically without you doing a thing.
They're increasingly popular as power outages become more frequent and longer-lasting. If you work from home, have medical equipment, or just don't want to lose everything in your freezer during a storm, a standby generator is one of the most practical home investments you can make.
Types of standby generators
The most common residential option - powers essential circuits or the whole home (7-20 kW)
Larger, more powerful units for whole-home coverage in larger homes (22-150 kW)
Runs on your home's existing gas line - no fuel storage required
Ideal for homes without natural gas - requires a propane tank
For homes that already have a generator - adds automatic transfer capability
Key benefits
Automatic - turns on within seconds of a power outage, no action required
Runs on natural gas or propane - no refueling, no running out of fuel
Powers your entire home or essential circuits depending on the size
Protects food, medical equipment, HVAC, and home security systems
Increases home value - buyers in outage-prone areas actively seek this feature
Runs weekly self-tests to ensure it's always ready when you need it
Top providers compared
| Provider | Best for | Starting price | Standout feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Generac | Most popular residential brand | $5,000 installed | Widest range of residential models |
| Kohler | Premium quality and reliability | $7,000 installed | Exceptional build quality |
| Briggs & Stratton | Value-focused option | $4,500 installed | Good warranty for the price |
| Cummins | Commercial-grade reliability | $8,000 installed | Extremely quiet operation |
| Champion | Budget-friendly option | $4,000 installed | Good entry-level choice |
When was the last time your power went out? It'll happen again.
Get a free quote from vetted local generator installers in your area.
How it works
Tell us about your home
Share your home's square footage, fuel type (gas or propane), and what you need to power.
Get matched with installers
We connect you with a vetted local generator installation specialists.
Choose your installer
Review your quote, check the pro's reviews, and decide if they fit your budget and needs.
Helpful tools
The 9-step journey
- 01
Assess your power needs
Decide whether you want to power essential circuits only or your entire home.
- 02
Choose your fuel type
Natural gas is the most convenient if you have a gas line. Propane is the alternative for homes without gas.
- 03
Choose your generator size
A licensed electrician will calculate the right kilowatt capacity for your needs.
- 04
Choose a location
The generator needs to be placed outside, away from windows and doors, on a concrete pad.
- 05
Get a free quote
Submit your project on QuackQuack and connect with local installers.
- 06
Compare your options
Review each quote for the generator brand, size, installation scope, and warranty.
- 07
Book your installation
Confirm your chosen installer and agree on a date.
- 08
Installation
Most standby generator installations take 1-2 days. Permits are typically required.
- 09
Never worry about a power outage again
It runs a weekly self-test. You'll barely know it's there - until you need it.
Cost calculator
Get a rough estimate of your standby generator cost based on your home size and coverage needs.
Product guide
Tips for choosing a generator installer
Standby generator installation involves electrical work - your installer must be a licensed electrician.
Your installer should pull all necessary permits - electrical, gas, and building permits may all be required.
Generac, Kohler, and other manufacturers have certified dealer networks - certified installers are trained on the specific product.
An automatic transfer switch (ATS) is essential for a standby generator - confirm it's included in the quote.
Annual maintenance keeps your generator ready - ask if your installer offers a maintenance plan.
Look for at least a 5-year warranty on the generator and a 1-year warranty on the installation.
A standby generator turns on automatically. You don't have to do anything.
Get matched with a vetted local local installers - no obligation.
Expert guides
Standby Generator Buyer's Guide 2026
Everything you need to know before installing a standby generator - sizing, brands, and what to ask.
What Size Generator Do I Need?
A practical guide to calculating the right kilowatt capacity for your home.
How Much Does a Standby Generator Cost in 2026?
Real price ranges by generator size, brand, and state.
Generac vs. Kohler vs. Cummins: Which Brand Is Best?
An honest comparison of the three most popular standby generator brands.
How to Prepare Your Home for a Power Outage
Beyond the generator - what every homeowner should have ready before the next storm.
What homeowners say
"After Hurricane Harvey, we swore we'd never be without power again. QuackQuack connected us with a Generac installer who had us up and running in two days. We've been through two major storms since and haven't lost power for a second."
"My husband is on medical equipment that requires power. Getting a standby generator was non-negotiable for us. QuackQuack made finding a qualified installer easy and the whole process was smooth from start to finish."
"I got a quote through QuackQuack and the installer I chose was the most thorough - he sized the generator correctly for our home and handled all the permits. The generator has already kicked in twice during storms. Best investment we've made."
Standby generators start at $4,000 installed. Find out what yours will cost.
Free, no-pressure quote from a vetted local pro.
Ready to never worry about a power outage again?
Get matched with the best generator installers in your state - free, no obligation.
Get a Free Quote →Frequently asked questions
Signs you need it
- You've lost power more than once in the past year and it lasted more than a few hours
- You work from home and a power outage costs you real money
- You have medical equipment or a family member who depends on powered devices
- You have a sump pump - and you've thought about what happens if it loses power during a flood
- You're tired of throwing away spoiled food after every storm
What to ask your pro
- 1
What size generator are you recommending and how did you calculate that?
- 2
Are you a certified dealer/installer for the brand you're quoting?
- 3
Does the quote include the automatic transfer switch, concrete pad, and permit fees?
- 4
What is the warranty on the generator and on your installation?
- 5
Do you offer an annual maintenance plan?
Disclaimer: QuackQuack is a matching service and does not provide installation services directly. Pricing varies by location, scope, and contractor.