Learn how to size, permit, install & maintain a home standby generator in the Puget Sound area.
A standby generator is permanently installed, connected to your natural gas or propane, and paired with an automatic transfer switch (ATS). When utility power fails, it starts automatically and restores power to your home—no extension cords, no refueling in a storm. This is different from a portable generator, which requires manual setup, limited circuits, and fuel storage.
The right size depends on your service amperage, fuel type, starting loads (HVAC, well pump), and what you want to keep on during an outage.
10–14 kW
Keeps lights, fridge, outlets, Wi‑Fi, garage, and a small HVAC zone on a managed load panel.
18–26+ kW
With smart load management or a 200–400A ATS, you can operate most or all circuits, including heat pumps and EV charging with shedding.
Devices like load‑shedding modules or smart breakers prioritize heavy loads to stay within generator capacity.
Learn About Load ManagementWe'll review your panel, large loads, and gas meter/regulator to recommend the best generator and ATS.
A code‑compliant installation in the Puget Sound typically includes:
Placement (clearances, setbacks), gas/electrical routing, noise considerations.
Electrical permit (WA L&I or city), gas permit (city/county), utility coordination (Seattle City Light, PSE, Tacoma Power as applicable).
Concrete pad or composite base and seismic consideration.
Gas line sizing, regulator checks, leak test; or propane tank sizing and trenching as needed.
ATS installation, conductors/conduit, grounding/bonding, labeling, and transfer logic testing.
Firmware/configuration, voltage/frequency check, and simulated outage test.
Maintenance schedule, weekly exercise mode, mobile app (where supported).
Licensed WA Contractor #SOUNPL840CS
Sound Power installs and services Generac and Kohler standby systems and integrates with smart panels and load‑shedding devices.
1–3 business days after walkthrough
Varies by jurisdiction; we handle submittals and inspections
Usually 1 day for pad/setting + 1 day for gas/electrical
Same day as final connections, plus owner orientation
Tip: If you're planning a panel upgrade or EV charger, bundling with the generator can reduce rework and inspection trips.
| Scenario | Typical kW | Scope Highlights | Rough Installed Range* | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Essential circuits | 10–14 kW | Composite base/pad, gas tie-in, 100–200A managed load panel or smaller ATS, labeling, commissioning | $8,500–$13,500 | Great for fridge, lights, outlets, Wi‑Fi, small HVAC zone |
| Mid-size whole‑home | 18–22 kW | 200A ATS, smart load control for HVAC/water heater, standard gas meter check | $12,500–$18,500 | Most 2–3,000 sq ft homes |
| Large/whole‑home | 24–26 kW | 200–400A service integration, advanced load shedding, longer trench runs | $17,500–$26,000+ | For larger homes or multiple HVACs |
* Ranges include typical permits, pad/base, ATS, electrical/gas connections, startup & inspection. Long trenching, hardscape restoration, propane tank installs, meter upsizing, or HOA/engineering may add cost. Model availability and fuel configuration can affect pricing.
Next step: Book a free assessment—we'll size your system precisely and deliver a fixed-scope proposal with line items and taxes included.
Final pricing depends on capacity (kW), gas/propane complexity, trenching distances, ATS type, and panel upgrades. We provide line‑item proposals that include permits, parts, labor, taxes, and inspections—no surprises.
If you already have quotes, we're happy to price‑match comparable scope and explain any differences.
Standby generators are engines—regular service preserves reliability and warranty.
Ask about our Generator Maintenance Program for scheduled service, priority support, and documentation for real‑estate transactions.
Learn About Maintenance PlansWe work across Seattle City Light (SCL), Puget Sound Energy (PSE), and Tacoma Power territories. Installations comply with NEC, WA L&I, and local fuel-gas codes. We coordinate inspections and utility notifications to keep your project smooth and compliant.
Don't see your neighborhood? We likely cover it—ask us!
Book online or call (206) 751‑9189. Licensed & insured. WA Contractor License SOUNPL840CS.