Free planning tool Updated August 2026
Get an itemized installation range in under two minutes. Size the system, account for site work, and see where the budget actually goes.
01 Live planning estimate
Adjust eight project controls. Every change updates the recommended size, range, and itemized costs—no email required.
Built for planning before contractor bids
02 Installed-cost benchmarks
These planning bands use the same model as the calculator: automatic transfer, natural gas, a 30 ft fuel run, standard site work, and the Texas location factor.
| Rated size | Common planning use | Equipment allowance | Typical installed | Installed range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10kW | Critical circuits | $2,900–$4,800 | $11,850 | $7,480–$15,890 |
| 14kW | Essentials + selected loads | $3,520–$5,800 | $12,880 | $8,210–$17,120 |
| 18kW | Managed home coverage | $4,140–$6,800 | $13,910 | $8,950–$18,350 |
| 22kW | Common whole-home planning band | $4,760–$7,800 | $14,940 | $9,680–$19,570 |
| 26kW | Larger loads or added headroom | $5,380–$8,800 | $15,970 | $10,420–$20,800 |
| 38kW | Large-home / liquid-cooled band | $7,240–$11,800 | $19,060 | $12,620–$24,490 |
Capacity is not determined by square footage alone. Use these rows to frame a budget, then confirm size with an on-site electrical load calculation.
03 Read the number
A useful estimate separates the equipment from the work required to make it operate safely at your home.
04 Compare bids fairly
Print this list with your current estimate and mark the same inclusions on every bid.
05 How it works
The model sizes a planning system from home area and coverage, then adds each project component. Labor-sensitive lines receive a broad state factor; equipment remains visible and unchanged.
Square footage and coverage produce an indicative kW band—not an electrical design.
Equipment, switch, electrical, fuel, pad, permits, and optional panel work are priced separately.
A state factor adjusts labor-sensitive lines before low, typical, and high totals are summed.
Public model notes
Calibration references
Review prices quarterly and whenever equipment, material, or labor markets change materially.
06 Before you request bids
A common planning range is roughly $8,000 to $16,000, but larger units, long fuel runs, difficult sites, and panel work can push the total higher. The calculator itemizes those variables instead of applying one national average to every house.
Square footage is only a starting point. Many projects fall around 14–22 kW depending on HVAC, wells, electric appliances, and which circuits must run together. A licensed installer should complete an electrical load calculation before equipment is selected.
Yes. The calculator includes either a manual or automatic transfer-switch allowance as its own visible line item. The final switch type and amperage must match the electrical design and local requirements.
Longer runs can require more pipe, larger pipe sizing, trenching, regulators, utility coordination, and labor. The calculator uses distance as a planning signal; it does not determine pipe size or fuel pressure.
Most installations involve electrical permits and inspections, and many also need fuel, mechanical, zoning, or HOA approval. Requirements and fees are local, so the estimate includes a range rather than a single fee.
Know what this number is—and is not. This is a budgeting model, not a bid, load calculation, fuel-system design, or code review. Ask a licensed local installer to verify equipment sizing and every site requirement.