32 kW generator
The Generac XG03245, a 32 kW standby generator, outputs 32,000 W using propane and about 28,480 W using natural gas. Ratings vary somewhat for other models. On natural gas, it covers houses up to 5,000 sq ft that have 3-ton central air.
Natural gas installations for the 32 kW begin at $20,400 in Arkansas, with Oregon reaching $23,500. State labor figures come from BLS wages, May 2025.
Does 32 kW provide enough power for your house? Use three questions to size it, including the AC or well pump start.
What a 32 kW generator runs
| Loads running together | Running | Peak at a motor start | Natural gas | Propane |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Essentials | 4.5 kW | 5.6 kW | runs | runs |
| Essentials and a 1 hp well pump | 6.5 kW | 8.5 kW | runs | runs |
| Essentials and a 2-ton central AC | 7.0 kW | 9.0 kW | runs | runs |
| Essentials and a 3-ton central AC | 8.0 kW | 10.5 kW | runs | runs |
| Essentials and a 4-ton central AC | 9.5 kW | 12.5 kW | runs | runs |
Essential loads include a fridge, freezer, 1/2 hp sump pump, microwave, lights, TV, router and furnace blower. The "runs" figure means your running load stays below 80% of the rating, with the largest motor start covered in addition.
| Whole house load | Natural gas or propane |
|---|---|
| No central air | up to 5,000 sq ft |
| Central AC, 3 ton | up to 5,000 sq ft |
| Central AC, 4 ton | up to 5,000 sq ft |
The whole house rows use NEC 220.83. Lighting and outlets account for 3 VA per sq ft, with kitchen and laundry circuits and gas heat also included. No electric range, dryer or water heater is included. Check your own house.
Hourly fuel use
| Load | Natural gas | Gas cost | Propane | Propane cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 25% | 179 cu ft | $3.91 | 2.60 gal | $7.10 |
| 50% | 258 cu ft | $5.66 | 3.40 gal | $9.28 |
| 75% | 338 cu ft | $7.40 | 4.20 gal | $11.47 |
| 100% | 417 cu ft | $9.14 | 5.00 gal | $13.65 |
Generac's fuel table for the XG03245 gives half and full load. Readings for 25% and 75% fall between those figures. Cost estimates use EIA US average prices.
Propane tank runtime
| Tank | 25% load | 50% load | Full load |
|---|---|---|---|
| 120 gal | 37 h | 28 h | 19 h |
| 250 gal | 77 h | 59 h | 40 h |
| 500 gal | 154 h | 118 h | 80 h |
| 1,000 gal | 308 h | 235 h | 160 h |
Tanks fill to 80%.
Cost after installation
| Line, 32 kW | Natural gas | Propane | Basis |
|---|---|---|---|
| Generator and transfer switch | $16,600 | $16,600 | estimate, sold through dealers |
| Electrician: switch, wiring, start-up | $4,200 to $7,700 | $4,200 to $7,700 | published install ranges, calculated with BLS wages averaging $34.37 an hour in the US |
| Fuel line | $500 to $2,000 | $800 to $2,500 | from the meter for gas; from the tank for propane |
| Pad and permit | $300 to $1,200 | $300 to $1,200 | composite pad or slab, local fees |
| Installed | $21,600 to $27,500 | $21,900 to $28,000 | propane leaves out the tank |
See whole house generator cost broken down by state.
View the 26 kW generator and 38 kW generator, or see All sizes