Fixington

Home Generator Installation

Trade: Electrician

⭐ Introduction

A home generator installation is a practical solution for UK homeowners who want reliable backup power during power cuts or in areas with frequent outages. It’s particularly useful for those working from home, running medical equipment, or living in rural locations. With increasing weather-related disruptions and pressure on the UK grid, a standby generator can keep essential appliances and heating running when the mains supply fails.

Generators vary in size and fuel type, but this article focuses on professionally installed, fixed generators connected to your home’s electrical system. These systems automatically switch on during an outage, providing peace of mind without the noise and inconvenience of portable generators.

🔧 What the job involves

Installing a home generator involves several key steps, all handled by a qualified electrician experienced in standby power systems. Here’s a plain-English overview:

  • Site survey: The electrician inspects your property to determine the best location for the generator, considering ventilation, noise, airflow, and proximity to your fuse box or consumer unit.
  • Choosing the right generator: The size and type depend on your power needs, fuel preference (typically petrol, diesel, or LPG), and local planning restrictions.
  • Electrical connection: The generator connects to your home via an automatic transfer switch (ATS), which safely switches power from the mains to the generator during outages.
  • Fuel supply setup: If your generator uses LPG or diesel, the installer sets up safe fuel storage and connections, ensuring compliance with UK safety standards.
  • Testing and commissioning: Once installed, the system is tested for correct operation and safety, including checking earthing and bonding arrangements.
  • Certification: The electrician will provide any necessary certificates and paperwork confirming the installation meets UK electrical safety standards (BS 7671) and Building Regulations.

📝 Step-by-step from booking to completion

  1. Initial enquiry: Contact a qualified electrician offering generator installations—preferably those registered with a professional body like NICEIC.
  2. Site survey and consultation: The electrician visits your home to assess your needs, discuss your power requirements, and inspect the site.
  3. Quotation: You receive a detailed quote covering materials, labour, any additional work, and estimated timescales.
  4. Scheduling the work: Agree on a convenient date for installation. Some projects may require a planning application for external fuel tanks or noise restrictions.
  5. On installation day: The electrician delivers and places the generator, installs wiring and the transfer switch, sets up fuel connections, and performs all electrical work.
  6. Testing: The system is fully tested to ensure it switches over safely and powers the selected circuits.
  7. Handover and paperwork: You receive user instructions, relevant certificates, and advice on servicing schedules.

💷 Main costs to expect

  • Labour: Electrician’s time for installation and testing, typically charged per hour or a fixed project rate.
  • Generator unit: Cost of the generator itself, which varies by power output and fuel type.
  • Automatic transfer switch: Essential for safe power transfer, usually included but sometimes separate.
  • Fuel storage: LPG or diesel tanks and associated safety fittings.
  • Additional electrical work: Upgrading consumer unit or additional wiring if required.
  • Disposal: Removal of old equipment or waste materials.
  • Certification: Some electricians include this in their fees; others itemise it.

Example costs breakdown:

Item Approximate Cost (£)
Generator (5kW standby) £2,000 – £3,500
Labour and installation £800 – £1,500
Automatic transfer switch £300 – £600
Fuel storage setup £500 – £1,000 (if needed)
Electrical upgrades £200 – £800 (optional)
Certification paperwork Included or £50 – £100

📊 What affects the price

  • Site access: Difficult or constrained access can add time and cost.
  • Size and power output: Larger generators cost more, both in unit price and installation complexity.
  • Fuel type: LPG installations require tanks and safety fittings; diesel models need proper storage and venting.
  • Electrical complexity: Older or small consumer units may require upgrades for safety and compliance.
  • Planning or building regulations: External tanks or positioning near boundaries may require permissions.
  • Need for remedial work: Fixing existing electrical faults or installing new circuits adds to cost.
  • Location: Rural or remote properties may have higher call-out charges.
  • Urgency: Expedited work can be more expensive.

⏱ How long does it take?

  • Standard installation: Typically 1 to 3 days for a straightforward generator installation with easy site access and no upgrades.
  • Complex setups: If you require new electrical circuits, fuel storage tanks installed, or planning permissions, the job may take 3 to 5 days or longer.
  • Testing and commissioning: Usually completed on the final day, adding a few hours.

🏠 Can you DIY it?

Installing a home generator is not recommended as a DIY project:

  • Safety risks: Involves complex electrical work connected directly to your mains supply, which is dangerous without appropriate training.
  • Legal requirements: UK regulations (BS 7671) require electrical work in dwellings to be safely installed and often notified under Part P of the Building Regulations.
  • Fuel handling: LPG or diesel fuel storage and connections demand specialist knowledge and compliance with safety standards.
  • Certification: Only registered electricians can provide legal certification needed for insurance and future property sales.

Always hire a qualified Electrician, ideally one registered with a competent person scheme, for home generator installations.

💰 Typical UK price range

For a standard home generator installation in the UK, you can expect prices roughly between:

  • £3,500 – £6,000 (inc. VAT)

This includes a mid-range 5kW standby generator, automatic transfer switch, installation labour, and basic fuel storage if required. More extensive setups or high-capacity generators will cost more.

Prices vary by region and installer; always request detailed quotes and clear terms.

✅ Handy tips before you start

  • Check insurance: Inform your home insurer before installing a generator to confirm coverage and any conditions.
  • Prepare paperwork: Keep all certificates, manuals, and receipts safely for future reference or property sale.
  • Plan fuel delivery: Arrange regular fuel supply or top-ups, especially with diesel or LPG systems.
  • Noise considerations: Discuss potential noise levels with your electrician and neighbours to avoid nuisance.
  • Maintenance: Arrange annual servicing with a professional to ensure reliable operation and safety.
  • Location: Choose a well-ventilated, weather-protected, and accessible spot for the generator.
  • Understand your system: Ask your electrician for a clear user guide on how to operate and test your generator.

A properly installed standby generator is a valuable investment in your home’s resilience and comfort. Taking the time to understand the process and requirements will help make the installation smooth and effective.