Category: Home Generators

Whole-home standby generator on a concrete pad beside a Fort Myers home

Generator Dealer vs. Independent Electrician: Who Should Install Your Fort Myers Standby Generator?

Posted on | by Jaron

When Fort Myers homeowners shop for a standby generator, the first fork in the road is usually this: buy from a generator dealer, or hire an independent licensed electrician? Both can put a working generator next to your house. The differences show up in timelines, service after the sale, and who owns the electrical side of the job.

What Dealers Do Well

Dealer showrooms carry inventory, which matters when supply gets tight after a named storm. They know their brand inside and out, they handle warranty registration, and the big ones have monitoring subscriptions that watch your unit remotely. If you want to see three sizes of Generac sitting on a floor before you buy, a dealer is the place to do it.

Where the Dealer Model Strains

Every install still needs an electrician — the transfer switch, the panel connection, the load calculation, and the Lee County electrical permit are electrical work no matter whose name is on the truck. Dealer networks subcontract or queue that work, which is one reason installation timelines in Southwest Florida commonly stretch 30 to 90 days once hurricane season demand hits. Service after the sale runs through the same queue: when hundreds of units in the region throw fault codes after a storm, the service department backlog gets long fast.

What an Independent Electrician Brings

An independent licensed electrical contractor starts from the electrical side. We do the load calculation, set the pad, run the wiring, install the transfer switch, pull the permit, coordinate the gas connection, and meet the inspector — one crew, one schedule. We are not locked to a single brand, so the recommendation is based on your house and budget rather than what is on the showroom floor. And when something breaks later, generator repair comes from the same people who wired it.

Costs Are Closer Than You Might Think

Equipment prices are largely set by the manufacturers, so the spread between a dealer quote and an electrician quote is usually in the labor, the electrical scope, and what is or is not included — pad, gas line, permit fees, startup. Get both quotes itemized. Our Fort Myers generator cost guide covers the real ranges homeowners pay here.

Questions to Ask Whoever You Hire

  • Who physically does the electrical work, and are they licensed and insured in Florida?
  • Who pulls the Lee County permit and meets the inspector?
  • What is the realistic install date — in writing?
  • Who do I call at 9 p.m. during an outage, and what is their response time?
  • Is annual maintenance included, and what does it cost after year one?

The Bottom Line

If you mainly want a specific brand with showroom support, a dealer works. If you want one accountable contractor who handles the whole job — and answers the phone when the power is out — that is what we do. See our whole-home generator installation page for sizing and pricing, or call 239-745-5020 for a straight answer either way.

Shopping in Collier County? Our generator installation in Naples page covers the local specifics.

Whole-home standby generator on a concrete pad beside a Fort Myers home

Whole-House Generator Cost in Fort Myers: Real Installed Prices (2026)

Posted on | by Jaron

Ask three companies what a whole-house generator costs in Fort Myers and you will get three very different answers — usually because each one is quoting a different size machine, a different fuel setup, and a different amount of electrical work. Here is how the real number comes together in Southwest Florida in 2026.

The Honest Range: $9,000 to $20,000+, Installed

For a professionally installed whole-home standby system in Lee or Collier County, the realistic all-in range is roughly $9,000 to $20,000+. The spread is wide because three variables drive the price, and they differ house to house.

1. Size (kW)

A 14kW unit that covers the essentials — refrigeration, lights, outlets, one AC — costs far less than a 22 to 26kW unit that starts and carries two air conditioning systems. Sizing is where good installers earn their keep: a proper load calculation, not a guess off your square footage. Undersized generators stall on AC startup; oversized ones waste thousands up front and burn more fuel forever.

2. Fuel Supply

If your street has natural gas, you skip the tank entirely — that is the cheapest path. Propane homes add the tank (purchase or lease), the pad, and the gas lines. Tank size matters too: we size for multi-day runtime, because after a real storm the propane truck is not coming tomorrow.

3. The Electrical Work

Transfer switch type, the condition of your electrical panel, and the distances between generator, gas supply, and panel all move the number. An older panel sometimes needs attention before it can take a transfer switch — worth knowing before you commit, not after.

Anyone quoting a generator price without seeing your panel and your gas situation is guessing. We quote after a site visit, in writing, and the number does not move.

What Should Be Included (Check the Fine Print)

  • Permit and inspection, pulled and handled by the installer
  • Concrete pad or approved base, placed to code and to wind requirements
  • Automatic transfer switch, properly sized
  • Gas line work by licensed trades
  • Startup, test under load, and orientation on how the unit exercises itself weekly
  • Warranty registration — and a local company that actually services what it sells

That last line matters more than people think. A generator is a machine you will own for 10 to 15 years. The install week is the easy part; the relationship is the product. We install Generac, Kohler, and Briggs & Stratton — and because we carry three brands instead of one, we will tell you which fits your house and budget, not which one we happen to sell.

Why Fort Myers Prices Run Higher Than the National Articles Say

National cost guides average in states where a generator is a luxury. In Southwest Florida it is hurricane infrastructure, and the install has to meet Florida wind and flood requirements: anchoring, elevation in flood zones, and placement rules that a landlocked installer never deals with. Budget articles that say “$6,000 installed” are not describing a code-compliant SWFL install.

Ways to Keep the Price Down Without Cutting Corners

  • Right-size instead of max-size. Covering essentials plus one AC instead of the whole house can save $4,000 or more.
  • Install in the off-season. Schedules open up and lead times shorten outside of June through November. Waiting for a named storm to form is the most expensive possible timing. Our hurricane season guide covers what to do before the first storm.
  • Bundle electrical work. If your panel needs an upgrade anyway, doing it with the generator install saves a second round of permits and truck rolls.

Get a Real Number for Your Home

A written quote from a site visit costs you nothing and takes about an hour. Call (239) 372-9426 or request a visit online. We install and service generators across Fort Myers, Cape Coral, Bonita Springs, Estero, and Naples.

We install standby generators across Southwest Florida — see generator installation in Cape Coral, and for Collier County start with our Naples electrician page.

generator

How a Whole Home Generator Installation Can Benefit Households

Posted on | by Southwest Florida Electric Inc.

Why Get a Standby Generator Installation?

Households are dependent on electricity for many things, from keeping food fresh to powering the home’s lights, electronics, and more. A power outage can bring daily life and comfort at home to a grinding halt. Whether due to a severe storm, grid failure, or routine maintenance, losing power isn’t just an inconvenience but can be costly. 

That’s where a standby generator installation comes in, serving as the household’s reliable backup power source. Unlike portable generators that require manual setup and refueling, a standby generator automatically kicks in when the power goes out, providing seamless power for the home. This post will discuss whole-house generators and the benefits of installing them so households can maintain their quality of life during power outages.

How Whole House Generators Work

generatorA standby generator operates through a sophisticated automatic transfer switch system that monitors a home’s electrical supply continuously. When it detects a power outage, it immediately triggers the generator to start and disconnects the home from the utility power. This seamless transition typically occurs within seconds of the initial power loss, ensuring minimal disruption to the household’s electrical needs.

The generator’s operation is fully automated, eliminating the need for manual intervention during power outages, which is especially important if people are not home to ensure things like the refrigerator, sump pump, and more can continue to operate. Once activated, the unit draws fuel from a dedicated natural gas line or propane tank to power an internal combustion engine, which drives an alternator to produce electricity. This electricity is delivered directly to a home’s electrical panel at the correct voltage and frequency, powering essential systems and appliances. When utility power is restored, the automatic transfer switch system detects this change, automatically switches the home back to grid power, and shuts down the generator after a brief cool-down period.

When Is a Standby Generator Needed?

storm A standby generator automatically activates within seconds of detecting a power outage, seamlessly transitioning the home from grid power to backup power. This automatic transfer switch ensures that critical systems and appliances continue to function without manual intervention, protecting the household from unexpected disruptions in electrical service. So, a standby generator will be needed for homes that frequently experience power outages, homes with residents who rely on medical equipment that need electricity, or households who want peace of mind in the event of an outage.

Power outages can occur for various reasons, with severe weather conditions being a common culprit. During summer months, excessive heat can strain the power grid as air conditioning usage peaks, potentially leading to rolling blackouts or complete system failures. Lightning and thunderstorms, hurricanes, and heavy winds can also cause power outages. Additionally, grid failures can result from equipment malfunctions, vehicle accidents involving utility poles, planned maintenance by power companies, and more. Having a standby generator ensures the home remains powered regardless of the cause of the outage.

Benefits of a Whole Home Generator Installation 

A whole-home generator installation provides crucial protection for a household during power outages. Its seamless transition ensures that essential medical equipment continues to operate without interruption, potentially preventing life-threatening situations. Additionally, they help the home’s important devices and appliances, including sump pumps, lighting, water heaters, and more, remain functional, maintaining both safety and basic utilities.

One significant advantage of a standby generator is its ability to maintain comfortable living conditions by powering the home’s heating and cooling system. During summer heat waves or storms, air conditioning and heating systems can continue to operate, preventing dangerous temperature extremes within the home. Additionally, keeping the refrigerator and freezer running prevents the food from spoiling and eliminates the stress of emergency food preservation and the cost of replacing spoiled food during extended outages. This comprehensive protection of comfort and essential resources makes a standby generator a valuable investment in the home’s functionality and a family’s well-being.

About Southwest Florida Electric Inc.

Southwest Florida Electric Inc. is a family-owned electrical company serving Fort Myers, FL, and the surrounding areas. They offer upfront pricing, the latest technology, and financing options. Call them for a whole-house generator installation in Fort Myers, FL. 

generator

How Standby Generators Can Benefit Households

Posted on | by Southwest Florida Electric Inc.

Why Install a Whole-Home Generator?

Power outages are a fact of life in many areas. Yet, when it comes to places like Florida, unpredictable weather and seasonal storms can leave residents without electricity for long periods. The importance of having a backup power supply for uninterrupted electricity cannot be overstated. 

With a standby generator installation, homes can remain powered during outages and mitigate any inconvenience or potential dangers associated with losing electricity. This blog post will discuss how they work, when they are needed, and their advantages. 

Understanding How They Work

generatorA standby generator is a whole-house generator that seamlessly transitions the power supply during power outages so that household activities aren’t interrupted. Once installed, they turn on and start supplying power automatically once they sense an outage, within seconds of the outage, and with no manual intervention needed to activate it. 

It instantly detects the loss of electric current and kicks into operation within seconds, ensuring that critical systems and appliances in the home remain operational throughout the outage until the grid is restored. This immediate response gives homeowners peace of mind that their homes are protected from sudden power losses. 

When Is the Generator Needed?

outageBackup generators turn on automatically during a power outage, but there are many reasons why homes can lose power. For instance, summer heat and other times when there is an unusually high power demand can strain the local grid or cause equipment to fail, causing an outage. Storms, wind, lightning, and hurricanes are common causes of power outages that can be widespread. 

Homes can also lose power due to unforeseen circumstances, such as damage to utility poles, power lines, and electrical equipment caused by excavation and digging, vehicle collisions, animals, or trees. A standby generator takes over supplying power to the home when it loses power due to any of these unexpected situations or weather events.  

Benefits of Standby Generator Installation

Aside from supplying electricity to keep the home running during a power outage, there are several other benefits to having a whole-home generator installed. For households with residents relying on medical equipment that needs electricity, it’s crucial to have a backup power source. Also, essential home appliances like heaters and air conditioners can continue running to keep homes comfortable and prevent the risks of cold and high heat. 

Having a generator supply power to the refrigerator and freezer also prevents food spoilage, saving homeowners money they would have had to spend on replacing food after an outage. So, installing a whole-house generator is beneficial for maintaining comfort, safety, and convenience during power outages, especially in places frequently affected by power disruptions. 

About Southwest Florida Electric Inc.

Southwest Florida Electric Inc. has over ten years of experience serving the Fort Myers area. They offer upfront pricing, the latest technology, and financing options. Call them for whole house generator installation in Fort Myers, FL. 

generator

Does a Home Need a Standby Generator?

Posted on | by Southwest Florida Electric Inc.

Every Home Benefits From Having a Generator

Homeowners are no strangers to sudden power outages. Sometimes, all it takes is a mild thunderstorm to knock the power out. This can spell disaster for people who work from home, have family dependent on medical equipment, or otherwise don’t feel like sitting in a dark and uncomfortable home for hours.

Thankfully, there’s a solution: whole-home generators. These supplementary devices can keep the electricity and appliances running even when the electrical grid is down. Here, one can learn if their home would benefit from having a generator installed and how it helps the entire household.

rainGenerators Benefit Homes in Areas With Heavy Rain or Storms

Here’s a scenario Florida homeowners know all too well. A storm or hurricane brews outside, knocking out the power. Soon, the house gets drafty, humid, and plain uncomfortable. With a generator, homeowners can avoid the uncomfortable inconveniences of power outages, as they can keep the electricity and appliances like water heaters and heating and air conditioning systems on.

HVAC systems not only heat and cool homes but also help maintain good indoor air quality by controlling humidity. When they cannot be used due to an outage, the home can deal with uncomfortable temperatures and a humid and muggy feeling indoors. A standby generator also allows for the continued use of the water heater, so nobody is stuck taking cold showers.

power outageGenerators Benefit Houses That Frequently Lose Power

Some homes and areas, like Florida, are more likely to experience power outages than others. This is also an issue with older homes, residences by the beach, and mobile homes. If a house loses power more than a few times a year, it can benefit significantly from a whole-house generator installation. When the power goes out without a backup generator, homeowners risk:

  • Food spoiling: Meat, dairy products, and other food can spoil in hours if the refrigerator and freezer lose power. A backup generator prevents this by supplying power, helping homeowners save money on replacing spoiled food.
  • Having medical equipment fail: Some individuals rely on breathing machines and medical devices that must remain plugged in. When a home loses power, a generator can help keep these devices working and residents safe.

Generators Benefit Homes That Lose Power During the Summer Heat

Some electrical systems can’t take the heat––literally. When it gets too hot outside, the heat can strain the power lines, and the electrical system may cease operations until the heat dies down to prevent fires and other scares. There’s no controlling the heat, and when power outages strike. However, homeowners can control what happens when they lose power.

A whole-home generator keeps the power on, including the air conditioning, so the summer heat doesn’t become dangerous to residents, keeps them cool and comfortable, and ensures that homeowners don’t have to risk losing access to their appliances, electronics and other necessities.

About Southwest Florida Electric Inc.

Southwest Florida Electric Inc. is a local, family-owned and operated company serving Fort Myers and the surrounding areas. They offer upfront pricing, the latest technology, and financing options. Call them today for whole house generator installation in Fort Myers, FL.

Generators

Posted on | by Southwest Florida Electric Inc.

Factory Trained & Certified Dealers & Installers

Need Help Choosing the right generator?

When it comes to choosing a home standby generator, you have a ton of options. In our Battle of the Standby Generator Guide, we’re taking a look at three of the top brands of home generators, comparing similar models side-by-side to help you find a partial or full-home generator for your needs.

No More Lights Out

BREAKING NEWS: Another hurricane. As a Florida resident, this comes as no surprise.

Even if it’s not a full blown hurricane, storms touch down on our coastline state quite often. Fallen branches cut power lines, speedy drivers hydroplane into poles— and suddenly— your power’s out. Again.

Regardless of if it’s your home or your business, as a SWFL resident, you need a generator for everyday reassurance.

What’s unclear is fine details. You’re unsure of how much voltage your space requires, if you should get a generator that runs on natural gas or propane or what the best brands are for the best price.

Or, maybe you’re here for maintenance. If your generator is huffing, rattling or not firing up come storm time, you’re in the dark. Both literally and figuratively!

You’ve got questions, our electricians have solutions.

Your Friendly Neighborhood KOHLER, Generac, & Cummins Dealers

Don’t waste your time researching dozens of brands of generators. Some big names stand apart for their superior reviews and performance— such as our favorite manufacturers: Generac and KOHLER.

These brands are our preferred providers for their years of reliability and praise, and we’re ready to turn you into a believer.

Here at Southwest Florida Electric, we’re proud to be fully authorized Generac and KOHLER service dealers. Meaning, we not only sell these trusted brands, but we are certified to assist you with servicing them— from replacing an old part to a routine check-up.

You get a generator from us, we’re going to make sure it’s ready when you need the most. That’s a promise.

 

Our Generator Services

We serve the greater Fort Myers and Naples areas and all of Lee County— and no job is too big or too small.

Our certified electricians specialize in all things generator, including installation and repair of both residential and commercial power supplies.

Standby or portable. Partial-home or office-wide power. Electric or gas. You name it, we’ve got you covered.

Still not convinced? Explore what makes our team at SWFL Electric different than any other generator supplier or fixer-upper in southwest Florida.

Need help choosing or fixing a generator? Fill out the form below or give us a call at (239) 745-5020. We’ll make sure your power stays on, for 24/7 preparation.

Specialized in all forms of generator installation, including:

  • Electric Generators
  • Gas Generators
  • Home Generators
  • Standby Generators
  • Automatic Power Generators
  • Emergency Back-Up Batteries
  • Whole-Home Generators
  • Partial Home Generators
  • Commercial Generators

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What brand is best?

A: Sometimes, the brand of generator you choose just comes down to a personal preference based on the engine, the appearance of the generator itself, what size you need based on your housing situation, and ultimately, your familiarity with the brand. We are factory authorized for Generac, Kohler, and Cummins, all of which have their own merits.

 

Q: How long does installation take?

A: Every installation is different. There are so many factors involved, such as HOA approval, permitting, utility company availability. Right now, in particular, product availability is a large factor. 

 

Q: Do you offer maintenance contracts?

A: Absolutely!

 

Q: For propane generators, how long will a tank of gas last? How long will my generator run after a storm?

A: This depends on size, but on average, an air-cooled generator will run for 5 days or so on a full 500-gallon tank.

 

Q: Can you turn your generator off during a storm?

A: Yes, but you need to follow this specific procedure to ensure this is completed safely:

  • Go to the main electrical panel and shut off all individual breakers to reduce the load on the generator. Let it run for 3-5 minutes to allow the motor to cool off. 
  • Once the motor is cool, open the generator and locate the Auto / On / Off button and switch the generator to Off.
  • Check fluids and gas to see if you’d like to make any adjustments.
  • Turn generator back On and close all compartments you had opened. Turn the Auto / On / Off button back to Auto. If you still do not have utility power, your generator will turn on.
  • Once generator is running, go back to your main electrical panel and switch all individual breakers back on.

    •  

    Q: How do you add oil to your generator during an outage?

    A: Follow this specific procedure to ensure this is completed safely: 

    • Go to the main electrical panel and shut off all individual breakers to reduce the load on the generator. Let it run for 3-5 minutes to allow the motor to cool off. 
    • Once the motor is cool, open the generator and locate the Auto / On / Off button and switch the generator to Off.
    • Locate the oil dipstick and pull it out to wipe it off with a clean towel.
    • Put the dipstick back into the oil for 2-3 seconds and pull it back out, keeping the end towards the ground, to locate the oil level. 
    • With the generator manufacturer’s recommended oil brand, add oil as needed. Once full, place dipstick back in. 
    • Close all compartments you had opened. Turn the Auto / On / Off button back to Auto. If you still do not have utility power, your generator will turn on.
    • Once generator is running, go back to your main electrical panel and switch all individual breakers back on.