How To Buy A
Standby Generator

How To Buy A Standby Generator

Buying a standby generator system to keep your home safe during a power outage is a big decision. We’re glad you’ve decided to allow us to help you through that process. Here’s a list of items that will ensure you’re ultimately paired with the best standby generator system for your home:

  1. Determine the best generator size for your home.
  2. Locate your nearest certified Briggs & Stratton dealer or call 1-800-663-9700 to schedule your free in-home consultation to determine the generator installation site and any other onsite needs your home may require, such as local building permits.
  3. Review financing options for your backup power system.
  4. Finally, purchase and schedule the installation with your local dealer

Installation

Right Arrow

At Briggs & Stratton, we understand that no two homes require the same backup power solution. From the layout of the property and location of the service panel, to the lights and appliances requiring backup power, installing a standby generator system different for every home. That’s why we’re dedicated to making installation seamless and stress-free for you.

Select one of our certified Briggs & Stratton dealers from a network of more than 1,000 to be your guide through all of the steps in the installation process. Learn why working with a generator dealer helps make the buying process easy.

Start With An In-Home Consultation

  • Determine standby generator size, installation & permit requirements
  • Discuss fuel options: propane vs. natural gas generators

To start the home generator installation process, your local dealer will conduct an on-site visit to determine your home’s specific installation needs and what local permits are required before starting.

Your dealer will locate your electrical meter, gas lines and circuit breaker panel to help scout the best placement option for your generator unit and determine the wiring specifications your home will need.

Finally, the dealer will also discuss which fuel option will work best for your home’s generator system (natural gas or liquid propane).

Standby Generator & Installation Price Estimate

  • Dealer will recommend best standby generator & module placement
  • Pricing estimates will be based on
    • Standby generator cost
    • Required transfer switch and modules
    • Generator installation cost – largely dependent on home electrical and fuel configuration
    • Permit costs, labor and other incidental requirements

Your dealer will discuss the physical installation process, any home generator accessories available for purchase, and the available financing options.

Standby Generator Installation: Prep & Installing

  • Dealer will obtain necessary permits
  • Dealer will finalize installation requirements (concrete slab vs. underground wiring) and order necessary materials
  • Schedule standby installation date
    • Note: Generators cannot be installed when ground is frozen to plan accordingly
    • Late spring, summer and early fall are ideal times for cold climate residents

The dealer will also use the visit to decide which local permits you will need to legally install a standby generator system on your property. They will also note if your generator will require special placement on concrete slab or if any wiring will need to be buried underground from the home to the generator unit.

Call for a Free In-Home Estimate: 1-800-663-9700

Consult With A Pro

Right Arrow

Purchasing the best standby generator for your home is a very involved process. There are many details to work through and steps to follow. That’s why our network of more than 1,000 certified Briggs & Stratton dealers nationwide are trained to act as your guide through every step of the process, from purchase to installation.

Get Expert Guidance To Choose The Right Generator

Once you’ve made contact with the generator dealer in your area, the dealer will conduct an on-site visit to determine your home’s specific installation needs. The dealer will help determine the generator’s placement on your property and whether you’ll need any custom installation work done, including burying wires underground or adding a concrete pad for the standby generator to be installed on.

Get started with our Standby Generator Sizing Calculator.

Trust A Professional For Generator Installation

Because standby generators need to be professionally installed, your dealer will handle the heavy lifting once installation day arrives. In addition to installing the actual generator unit, your dealer will also handle the transfer switch installation and wiring needs.

Learn more about home standby generator installation.

Rely On Your Dealer For Ongoing Generator Service And Maintenance

Your installation dealer will also stay in contact with you throughout the lifespan of the generator to follow up on any ongoing needs the unit may require. Routine servicing or unexpected generator maintenance can be handled by your local Briggs & Stratton dealer to help ensure your home generator system is always operating efficiently.

Find the nearest dealer in your area.

Call for a Free In-Home Estimate: 1-800-663-9700

Questions? Contact Us now!