Getting a whole house genny installed...

[Looking4new]

We just had a 20KW put in recently and it is nice - REAL simple install. They pulled the meter head, snaped the transfer switch right over the old meter base then reinstall the head and hook up about 4 wires. Guess this box is a dealer only install and they had to get permission from our utility company but it works great. Also had two load shedding switches installed on the electric backup/emer heat and hot water tank in case we are pulling more than the Generator can put out.
Now I am almost looking forward to a power outage.....

You need to move to northern Ontario. You will have all the power outages you can handle.

 

[s219]

It's amazing, we used to have all sorts of outages, but after spending money and time to install a diesel generator, we've gone three years with no major outages. I am grateful, but I'd at least like to use the thing once and a while!

 

[gsganzer]

Interesting reading this. I just bought an engine driven welder that has 10Kw available as a generator. I called an electrician this week to get a manual transfer switch added.

 

[edgarrian]

how much are whole house gens like this. Im assuming around 10k but unsure. We have thought about it but have not done it

 

[RoyJackson]

how much are whole house gens like this. Im assuming around 10k but unsure. We have thought about it but have not done it

I investigated a Generac...15kW, I believe. The estimate was about $8K installed (including the automatic transfer switch), not including the propane tank and installation.

 

[murphy1244]

how much are whole house gens like this. Im assuming around 10k but unsure. We have thought about it but have not done it

I had a 17k briggs installed for 7500.

 

[Looking4new]

The estimate I got for a diesel whole house (22 k) automatic standby was $20,000.oo But remember this is Canukistan where prices are through the roof.

 

[coobie]

how much are whole house gens like this. Im assuming around 10k but unsure. We have thought about it but have not done it

My propane 17kw generac installed about 5 years ago was $4850.

 

[nikdfish]

how much are whole house gens like this. Im assuming around 10k but unsure. We have thought about it but have not done it

Since we did ours through Costco & have the executive membership & CC, there were various cash back elements plus a 10% cash card promotion. After figuring all those components in, our total net cost was about $8500. That includes the propane company costs (line install + 3 regulators) which we handled directly rather than going through the installer (better rate).

Nick

 

[coldsteelva]

It's amazing, we used to have all sorts of outages, but after spending money and time to install a diesel generator, we've gone three years with no major outages. I am grateful, but I'd at least like to use the thing once and a while!

There's nothing wrong with exercising your generator by killing the main breaker and simulating an outage. If it gives you peace of mind or if you learn something along the way, all the better.