Standby Home Generators

Home standby generators, end to end

A home standby generator is a system, not an appliance: the generator, the automatic transfer switch, the fuel supply and the pad all have to be engineered together. This collection is the full range - 1,247 SKUs across Generac, Kohler and other brands, from complete generator packages down to the transfer switches and service parts that keep them running.

How to size a home standby unit

• Start with the circuits you refuse to lose. Heating, cooling, well pump, sump pump, refrigeration, medical equipment and a few lighting circuits. That list, converted to running and starting watts, sets the kW class.
• Use load management before buying a larger generator. Shedding an EV charger or an electric range lets a 14-22kW air- cooled unit carry a whole home on a reduced budget.
• Air-cooled vs liquid-cooled. Air-cooled covers roughly 10-26kW and most residential work; liquid-cooled starts where run times, ambient temperatures or commercial duty demand it.
• Fuel. Natural gas is convenient but derates the engine; LP gives full output but requires a tank sized for the outage duration you actually care about.

Installation, permitting and maintenance

Expect a permit, a concrete pad with manufacturer clearances, gas piping by a licensed fitter, electrical work by a licensed electrician, and an inspection covering grounding, the transfer switch listing and fuel piping (NEC Article 702). Generators need exercise cycles and annual service - oil, filters, plugs, battery - or they fail on the one day they matter.

Ordering

Send the circuit list, fuel available, service panel photo and location constraint to the quote desk. We return the kW class, transfer switch, freight and lead time together.

Looking specifically for the Generac range? Browse the Generac generators hub for standby units, portables and transfer switches in one place.

Comparing units by kW class? See our 14-22kW whole-home buying guide.