A standby generator starts automatically within seconds of a power outage, runs on natural gas or propane, and powers your entire home — including central AC, which matters enormously during a Gulf Coast summer. The cost is substantial ($5,000–$15,000+ installed), but for homeowners who experienced Ida, Laura, or Zeta, it is an investment in livability and property protection.
How Standby Generators Work
A standby generator sits permanently next to your house on a concrete pad, connected to an automatic transfer switch (ATS) at your electrical panel. When utility power drops, the ATS detects the outage and signals the generator to start — typically within 10–30 seconds. When power returns, the ATS switches back to utility and the generator shuts down. The entire process is automatic with no manual intervention.
Fuel is piped from your existing natural gas line or a dedicated propane tank. Natural gas is ideal if available because the supply rarely interrupts during storms (underground pipes). Propane works everywhere but requires a tank (typically 250–500 gallons for extended runtime) that must be refilled.
Sizing Guide
| Home Size | Recommended kW | What It Powers | Installed Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small (1,200–1,800 sq ft) | 14–16 kW | Essential circuits + small AC | $5,000 – $8,000 |
| Medium (1,800–2,500 sq ft) | 20–22 kW | Full home including 3-ton AC | $7,000 – $11,000 |
| Large (2,500–4,000 sq ft) | 24–26 kW | Full home including 4–5 ton AC | $9,000 – $14,000 |
| Large + pool/shop | 30+ kW | Everything, multiple AC zones | $12,000 – $18,000+ |
Your AC compressor is the biggest single load. A 3-ton central AC unit needs about 3,500 running watts and 7,000+ starting watts. This is why a 14 kW generator with load management can handle most homes — it staggers the startup of multiple AC units to avoid overload.
Top Brands Compared
Generac Guardian Series — Most Popular
Generac dominates the residential standby market with over 70% market share. Their Guardian series spans 10–26 kW and runs on natural gas or LP. The Mobile Link app provides remote monitoring, maintenance alerts, and run-time tracking. Generac's dealer network is the largest, meaning easier installation scheduling and faster service.
The engine is Generac's own G-Force design, purpose-built for generator use (not adapted from another application). It features a pressure-lubricated engine and synthetic oil for long maintenance intervals (every 200 hours or 2 years). The aluminum enclosure is corrosion-resistant and rated for coastal environments.
Pros
- Largest dealer/service network
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent app monitoring
- Wide size range (10–26 kW)
Cons
- Proprietary engine (not universally serviceable)
- Louder than Kohler at comparable sizes
- QC concerns reported post-Ida (high demand period)
Price (unit only): $3,500–$7,500 depending on size Check price on Amazon
Kohler — Best Build Quality
Kohler generators use commercial-grade engines (their own Kohler Command PRO series) and are built to tighter tolerances than Generac. They are noticeably quieter — the 20 kW Kohler measures 66 dB at rated load compared to 67 dB for the comparable Generac, but the perceived difference is more than the numbers suggest because of better sound dampening in the enclosure.
The OnCue Plus monitoring system provides remote access and detailed diagnostics. Installation and service are handled through Kohler's authorized dealer network, which is smaller than Generac's but generally staffed by more experienced technicians. Kohler generators cost 10–20% more than equivalent Generac units.
Pros
- Superior build and noise levels
- Commercial-grade engine
- Excellent long-term reliability reputation
- Better corrosion resistance
Cons
- 10–20% price premium
- Smaller dealer network
- Fewer size options than Generac
Price (unit only): $4,200–$8,500 depending on size Check price on Amazon
Briggs & Stratton — Best Budget
Briggs offers competitive standby generators at prices below Generac and Kohler. The 20 kW Fortress unit typically runs $1,000–$1,500 less than its Generac Guardian equivalent. Build quality is acceptable but clearly a tier below Kohler. Briggs uses a Vanguard engine, which is reliable but louder.
One concern: Briggs & Stratton filed for bankruptcy in 2020 and was acquired by KPS Capital Partners. Parts availability and warranty service have normalized since then, but the brand's long-term direction remains less certain than Generac or Kohler. If budget is the primary driver, Briggs delivers adequate performance at a lower cost.
Pros
- Lowest price in the category
- Vanguard engine is capable
- Symphony II power management included
- Reasonable warranty
Cons
- Brand uncertainty post-bankruptcy
- Louder than competitors
- Smaller service network
Price (unit only): $3,000–$6,000 depending on size Check price on Amazon
Gulf Coast Installation Considerations
- Elevation: Install on a raised concrete pad (6–12 inches minimum) to protect against flooding. In flood-prone areas, consider an elevated platform.
- Setbacks: Most codes require 5 feet from windows/doors and 18 inches from the house. Check your parish or city code — Louisiana requirements vary by jurisdiction.
- Corrosion: Coastal salt air accelerates corrosion on steel components. Generac and Kohler both offer aluminum enclosures rated for coastal installation.
- Natural gas vs. propane: If you have natural gas service, use it. The supply is more reliable during hurricanes than propane delivery. If propane is your only option, size the tank for 5–7 days of runtime (a 20 kW generator uses roughly 40–50 gallons of propane per day at 50% load).
- Permits: Louisiana requires electrical and gas permits for standby generator installation. Your dealer should handle this, but verify.
Bottom Line
For most Gulf Coast homeowners, a Generac Guardian 22 kW ($4,500–$5,500 unit cost, $8,000–$11,000 installed) is the sweet spot of capacity, availability, and price. If you want the best build quality and quietest operation, step up to Kohler. If budget is tight, Briggs & Stratton gets you standby protection for less. Whatever brand you choose, have it installed by a licensed dealer before hurricane season — wait times spike to 3–6 months after a major storm.