When the power goes out — whether from storms, grid failure, or emergencies — daily life halts. Heating, cooling, internet, and appliances all go dark. That’s why more people are investing in home standby generators to ensure their homes remain safe, comfortable, and fully powered.
In this guide, you’ll learn how standby generators work, what size you need, how to choose the right one, and why brands like Generac dominate the market. Whether you’re looking to power a few essentials or your entire home, this post has everything you need to make a smart, reliable decision.
1. How Home Standby Generators Work — And Why They’re Gaining Popularity?
A standby generator is a permanently installed system designed to automatically supply backup power when your utility service fails. Within seconds of a power outage, the generator detects a power disruption, signals the automatic transfer switch, and begins supplying power to your home’s electrical system.
These systems are directly connected to your home and run on either natural gas or propane. Unlike portable generators, you don’t have to manually operate them or worry about extension cords. The growing demand for peace of mind, combined with an increase in extreme weather, has made standby systems a go-to solution.
2. Why More Homeowners Are Investing in Backup Power?
A home standby generator provides more than just electricity — it provides confidence. Homeowners are choosing standby systems to keep essentials like refrigerators, HVAC units, internet routers, and sump pumps running.
Those who live in an area prone to outages know the disruption and danger they bring. Standby generators ensure your home appliances remain functional and your family safe. Plus, modern systems come with features like remote monitoring and noise insulation, making them even more attractive.
3. How Many Generator Watts Do You Really Need for Your Home?
The size of the generator depends on your power needs. Are you aiming to run just essential appliances, or do you want to power your whole house?
Here’s a general breakdown:
10kW–14kW: Powers lights, fridge, sump pump, and internet.
15kW–20kW: Supports most home appliances and a single HVAC unit.
22kW or more: Can handle the entire home, including multiple AC units.
Working with a Generac dealer can help you assess load requirements and determine if a 20kW or 22kW unit will be sufficient. Getting it right ensures you have enough power when you need it most.
4. Why Generac Is a Leading Choice in Standby Generators?
Generac is often the first brand people think of when it comes to home standby systems — and for good reason. They offer a wide range of models, from compact units for essentials to full whole house generators.
Top features include:
Generac standby models with Wi-Fi monitoring
Integrated automatic transfer switch (ATS)
Quiet operation and robust weatherproof enclosures
Whether you’re powering a cabin or your home’s electrical system, choosing a Generac generator gives you a trusted, efficient, and supported solution.
5. Standby vs. Portable Generators: Which Is Right for You?
A portable generator may seem like a simpler, cheaper solution, but it comes with limitations: limited wattage, manual operation, frequent refueling, and the need to run away from the house to avoid carbon monoxide risks.
On the other hand, standby generators are permanently installed, activate automatically, and can run for days with no user intervention. They’re ideal for anyone needing home backup power that protects your household even when you’re not home.
6. Fuel Source Matters: Should You Choose Propane or Natural Gas?
Most standby generators run on natural gas or propane. The best option for you depends on fuel availability and site conditions.
Natural gas: Reliable, never needs refueling, and connects directly to a natural gas line. It’s the top choice in urban or suburban areas.
Propane: Stored in a tank away from your home, suitable for rural properties without gas infrastructure.
Both fuels burn clean and are suitable for extended use. If you’re looking to run your generator for long periods during a disaster, having a reliable fuel source is key.
7. The Role of a Transfer Switch in Safe Power Delivery
The transfer switch is what makes your generator safe and efficient. It disconnects your home’s electrical system from the utility during an outage, then reconnects once power is restored.
There are two types:
Manual transfer switch: Requires manual action to activate.
Automatic transfer switch (ATS): Fully automated, included in most Generac standby systems.
Installing the correct switch is critical. It protects line workers, prevents back-feeding, and ensures your generator gives power only when safe to do so.
8. Can a Standby Generator Really Power Your Whole House?
Yes — with the right sizing and setup, a home standby generator can power everything in your entire home. These are often referred to as whole house generators.
You’ll need:
At least a 20kW–22kW generator
A matched transfer switch
Load management for home appliances with high draw
Not every household needs to power every circuit, but for those who do, generator to power full systems are absolutely achievable — with room to spare.
9. What Does a Standby Generator Cost? Full System Breakdown
Buying and installing a home standby generator is an investment. Here’s a rough cost breakdown:
| Component | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Generator (10kW–22kW) | $3,500 – $8,500 |
| Transfer Switch (ATS) | Included or $500–$1,000 |
| Installation & Permits | $2,000 – $4,000 |
| Total System | $7,000 – $12,000+ |
While upfront costs are significant, consider the home improvement value, safety benefits, and potential Section 179 tax deductions (consult your accountant).
10. Choosing the Right Generator: What to Look For?
Before buying, consider these must-know factors:
Power needs: Match the generator power output to your essentials or entire home.
Fuel source: Do you have natural gas, or do you need propane?
Installation site: Keep the unit away from the house with proper ventilation.
Noise and features: Look for low dB levels and bells and whistles like Wi-Fi and auto-diagnostics.
Dealer support: Use a certified dealer near you to ensure correct sizing, installation, and warranty.
Make sure your choice balances your budget with long-term reliability. A home backup generator is a power source you’re depending on during life’s most inconvenient moments — don’t cut corners.
11. Standalone Generators Explained: What Makes Them Different?
While home standby generators are permanently installed to automatically provide backup power to a residence, standalone generators refer to a broader category of self-contained power units that function independently from utility grids. They can be:
Portable (gasoline-powered units you move manually)
Stationary (industrial-grade diesel units mounted on skids or trailers)
Mid-size, mobile units used on construction sites or in remote areas
What defines a standalone generator is that it can operate independently of any fixed electrical infrastructure. It’s not always tied to a home’s electrical system, doesn’t always come with an automatic transfer switch, and may require manual startup.
Common use cases:
Job sites needing remote power
RV travel or outdoor events
Backup for businesses with no access to gas lines
Emergency relief in disaster zones
12. Standalone vs. Home Standby Generators: Which One Do You Need?
Now that we’ve defined both types, here’s how they compare:
| Feature | Home Standby Generator | Standalone Generator |
| Installation | Permanently installed | Portable or skid-mounted |
| Automation | Fully automatic with ATS | Often manual start |
| Use case | Residential backup | Job sites, events, off-grid power |
| Fuel source | Natural gas or propane | Gasoline, diesel, propane, or hybrid |
| Runtime | Days to weeks (connected to gas line) | Hours (depending on fuel tank) |
| Powering | Home’s electrical system | Plug-in tools or appliances |
| Price range | $7,000–$12,000+ installed | $500–$10,000 (broad range) |
| Portability | Fixed location | Often mobile or towable |
So which one should you choose?
Choose a home standby generator if you want permanent, hands-off protection for your entire house.
Choose a standalone generator if you need portable or remote power for tools, trailers, or off-grid sites.
Both types have their place — it all depends on your power needs, lifestyle, and environment.
Summary: What You Should Remember
A standby generator is a permanently installed solution that automatically provides backup power.
It can run on propane or natural gas and powers essential appliances or your whole house.
Top brands like Generac lead the market with reliable, feature-rich models.
Systems typically cost between $7,000 and $12,000, including installation.
To choose wisely, assess your power needs, fuel access, and site layout.
Standalone generators are more flexible, portable, and suited for jobsites or off-grid applications.
When the power goes, your home standby or standalone generator ensures you’ll always keep the lights on.