Real Generac Generator Costs: What Reddit Users Actually Paid in 2025
Honest breakdowns from real homeowners: $10K-$18K actual installation costs, hidden expenses, and money-saving lessons learned the hard way.
18kW Florida Install
$10,097
Complete breakdown
26kW Texas Quote
$18,000
Normal range
Cost Per Hour
$333/hr
Worth every penny
The $10,097 Reality: Complete 18kW Installation Breakdown
One Florida homeowner shared an incredibly detailed cost analysis of their 18kW Generac installation. Originally budgeting $6,000, they ended up spending $10,097.32 – and here's exactly where every dollar went:
| Item | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 18kW Generac Generator | $5,500 | Included wet cell battery, 10% discount |
| Concrete Pad | $500 | 4-inch pad, delivered and placed |
| Fascia Wrap Kit | $200 | Should have bought as bundle |
| Gas Hookup | $2,100 | Required meter upgrade |
| Easy Start (2 units) | $600 | Essential for AC units |
| Electrical Installation | $1,200 | Friend did the work |
| Total Project Cost | $10,097 | Final installed price |
Regional Price Variations: What Users Actually Paid
Reddit users from across the country shared their real installation costs, revealing significant regional variations:
$12,000-$18,000
26kW installed
$15,300
26kW with dual transfer switches
$12,000
24kW including gas plumbing
$10,485
26kW with 90ft gas run
Generator Sizing: What Size Do You Actually Need?
For 1,500 sq ft Homes
Reddit consensus: 14kW-18kW is typically sufficient
- 14kW handles most standard appliances
- 18kW provides comfortable headroom
- 26kW is usually overkill unless you have electric tankless water heater
For 2,000+ sq ft Homes
Most popular choice: 22kW
- Proven track record for whole-house power
- Best value per kilowatt
- Handles multiple AC units and appliances
Hidden Costs Every Homeowner Should Know
- Meter upgrades: $500-$2,000
- Long gas runs: $15-30/ft
- Permits: $200-500
- Transfer switch: Included in most quotes
- Load shedding: $200-400 each
- Panel upgrades: Varies by home
- Easy Start devices: $300 each
- Concrete pad: $400-600
- Battery replacement: $150-200