Whether weather related or caused by unexpected utility issues, power outages are a pain. They can, and will, stop your household in its tracks. Refrigerators quit running. Air conditioners shut down. Medical devices lose power. Work-from-home setups come to a halt.
That’s why more homeowners are investing in whole home standby generators.
If you’re considering one for your home, here’s what you should know before making the investment.
How Much Does a Whole Home Generator Cost?
In Central Arkansas, a professionally installed whole home generator typically ranges from $9,000 to $18,000 or more, depending on your home’s needs.
Several factors affect the final price, including:
- Generator size
- Natural gas or propane fuel source
- Distance from your electrical service
- Concrete pad requirements
- Gas piping upgrades
- Electrical upgrades
- Automatic transfer switch installation
Most homeowners choose generators between 20kW and 26kW, but there’s no one-size-fits-all solution.
At Staley Electric, we perform a professional load calculation before making a recommendation. That means you’ll receive a generator that’s properly sized for your home—not one that’s too small or one that costs more than necessary.
What Size Generator Do I Need?
The right generator depends on what you want to power during an outage. As a general guideline:
- 14-18kW is often enough for essential circuits.
- 20-22kW works well for many average-sized homes.
- 24-26kW or larger may be needed for larger homes with multiple HVAC systems, electric water heaters, pools, workshops or EV chargers.
We’ll also evaluate factors like:
- Square footage
- Number of HVAC systems
- Gas versus electric appliances
- Well pumps
- Pool equipment
- Electric vehicle charging
- Desired backup coverage
Our goal is to ensure you have reliable backup power without paying for more generator than you need. If you want to go deeper, our guide on how to size a generator for your home explains the math behind these ranges.
Will It Run My Air Conditioner?
Yes, as long as the generator is properly sized.
A 20kW generator can often power one central air conditioning system along with essential household circuits. Larger 24-26kW generators can frequently support multiple HVAC systems, depending on your home’s electrical demand.
If necessary, load management modules can also help prioritize power during an outage. During your consultation, we’ll determine exactly what your generator can support.
Natural Gas or Propane?
Both fuel sources are reliable, but the best choice depends on your property.
Natural gas is the most popular option for homes with utility service because it offers:
- Continuous fuel supply
- No refilling
- Lower maintenance
- Convenient operation
Propane is an excellent option for rural properties or homes without natural gas service.
Benefits include:
- Clean-burning fuel
- Long shelf life
- Reliable backup power
Just remember that propane tanks need to be monitored and refilled after extended outages.
How Long Does a Whole Home Generator Last?
A quality standby generator is built for the long haul. With proper maintenance, most generators last 15 to 20 years and are designed to provide approximately 2,000 to 3,000 hours of operation, often more.
To maximize performance, we recommend:
- Annual preventative maintenance
- Oil and filter changes
- Battery replacement as needed
- Routine inspections
- Weekly exercise cycles
How Long Does Installation Take?
Most whole home generator installations are completed in one to three days, depending on the complexity of the project.
Professional generator installation typically includes:
- Generator placement
- Concrete pad installation (if needed)
- Gas piping
- Electrical connections
- Automatic transfer switch installation
- Startup and system testing
Do I Need a Permit?
Yes.
Most permanent standby generator installations in Arkansas require permits and inspections.
Depending on your location, this may include:
- Electrical permits
- Gas or plumbing permits
- Mechanical permits
- Local code inspections
The good news? Staley Electric handles the permitting process, inspections and code compliance from start to finish.
Invest in Peace of Mind
A whole home generator is about protecting your family, your home and your routine when unexpected outages occur.
Whether you want to power a few essential circuits or your entire home, choosing the right generator starts with choosing the right electrical contractor.
At Staley Electric, we’ll evaluate your home’s electrical needs, perform a professional load calculation and provide an honest recommendation tailored to your home and budget. Whether you’re in Little Rock or the surrounding metro, schedule your consultation today and receive a customized estimate.
