The cost to install a generator transfer switch ranges from $1,200 to $1,600, with an average of $1,450. A pro will factor in the materials and if you change your layout for the final cost.
The cost to install a generator transfer switch ranges anywhere from $1,200 to $1,600. Most homeowners spend an average of $1,450. Your overall cost will depend on whether you purchase an automatic or manual switch, as well as size, location, labor fees, and more. Our guide will show you the ins and outs of installing a generator transfer switch.
An automatic generator switch is more expensive than a manual switch. Here’s how the costs compare.
| Type of Generator Transfer Switch | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Automatic | $600–$2,500 |
| Manual | $400–$1,300 |
You can expect to pay between $600 and $2,500 to install an automatic transfer switch. An automatic transfer switch seamlessly switches the power from the main breaker to the generator breaker during a power outage. This type of switch is best for standby generators and homeowners who live in storm-prone climates.
You can expect to pay $400 to $1,300 to install a manual transfer switch. Unlike an automatic transfer switch, you’ll need to manually flip the switch from the main breaker to the generator breaker during an emergency. A manual transfer switch works best in areas that don’t experience many power outages and for portable generators.
Depending on your chosen generator size, you’ll need a transfer switch of the same capacity and ampacity to keep your home up and running during an emergency.
| Generator Size (Watts) | Number of Circuits to Power | Average Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Small (up to 5,000 watts) | 6–10 | $200–$500 |
| Medium (5,000–10,000 watts) | 10–16 | $500–$1,000 |
| Large (10,000+ watts) | 16–24 | $1,000–$2,500 |
You’ll pay $200 to $500 for a small transfer switch to power up to a 5,000-watt generator. These are for small, portable generators, and this switch can power between six and 10 circuit breakers.
You can expect to pay $500 to $1,000 for a medium transfer switch for a 5,000 to 10,000-watt generator. These are suitable for medium-sized generators and they can service between 10 and 16 circuit breakers.
You’ll pay $1,000 to $2,500 for larger transfer switches for a whole-house generator—over 10,000 watts. A large transfer switch can power between 16 and 24 circuit breakers during an emergency, keeping your home up and running without interruption.
To install a generator transfer switch, you’ll need to hire a local electrician or a generator installer near you, and you can expect to pay between $50 and $100 per hour. An electrician should take around two to four hours or more to install a generator transfer switch, making a basic installation cost between $200 and $500 and a more complex installation costing $500 to $1,500.
Here are a few additional cost factors to consider for your generator transfer switch budget.
To ensure your electrical panel is up to code, your electrician may need to upgrade your electrical panel, subpanel, or install new circuit breakers before installing a generator transfer switch.
| Electrical Upgrades | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Electrical panel replacement | $520–$2,100 |
| Subpanel installation | $400–$1,750 |
| Circuit breaker switch installation | $100–$200 per switch |
The location of the generator transfer switch will also affect the overall cost. For example, if a generator installation pro needs to install the transfer switch in an attic, crawl space, or other hard-to-reach area, you can expect to pay more for installation costs.
The average cost for a generator transfer switch permit is between $50 and $350. While obtaining a permit for a portable generator isn’t usually necessary, installing a whole-home generator requires a permit for electrical upgrades.
Depending on the complexity of your transfer switch, you’ll typically pay between $50 and $100 per hour for maintenance service. You'll need to perform regular generator maintenance to ensure your transfer switch is working correctly. Maintenance should be performed annually by a licensed electrical technician, including:
Visual inspection
Mechanical inspection
Checking the voltage
Checking the cables
Checking for fire hazards
Properly cleaning the transfer switch
Manually testing the transfer switch
Conducting a pole-resistance test
Inspecting electrical connections
Performing tests for transfer delays
We recommend hiring an electrical pro or a generator installer near you when working with electricity. You’ll pay between $50 and $100 for labor, but you’ll have peace of mind knowing that a pro has the knowledge and experience to ensure the job is done right. In addition, a generator installation pro also knows the ins and outs of local permits and inspections, so you know your generator transfer switch installation will be up to code and installed safely and correctly.
Here are tips to help you reduce costs while installing a transfer switch:
Calculate wattage: Figure out how much power you’ll need during an outage by calculating the wattage of your appliances and HVAC system.
Consult with a pro: Before purchasing a transfer switch, consult a licensed electrician who can help you determine your electrical load needs.
Get a warranty: Choose a brand that offers limited or extended warranties if you need to repair or replace your transfer switch.
Get quotes: Get at least three quotes from licensed electricians in your area to compare prices and secure the best deal.
A generator transfer switch is an essential safety feature for your whole-house generator, and may even be required by electrical code depending on the laws in your area. Either way, it will help you get the best ROI for your generator, which can add around 3% to 5% to your home’s value.
Yes, in some locations, it is required by the National Electric Code (NEC) to have a transfer switch installed for electrical emergencies. In addition to following electrical code, generator transfer switches ensure your home is fully protected during a power outage. By switching the power from the main breaker to the generator breaker, you can seamlessly operate your HVAC, lights, appliances, devices, and more during an emergency.
Generally, you’ll want to keep between 60 and 70 feet between the generator and the transfer switch. There are a few reasons for this, including:
The distance reduces the noise coming from the generator into your home.
It increases efficiency because you won’t have a voltage drop from this short of a distance.
Prevents carbon monoxide poisoning: keep at least 15 feet between your generator and an open window.
It might seem counterintuitive, but installing a generator transfer switch will save you money in the long run. While you’ll have to pay between $400 and $2,500 to have the transfer switch installed, you’ll recoup that amount later on when you don’t have to pay for expensive repairs to your appliances, devices, and electrical system that may have burned out, overloaded, or stopped working due to a sudden loss of power or an incorrect hook up of a generator to your home.
