Two Storms Tulsans Remember
The December 2007 ice storm brought down limbs and lines across the city. When the June 2023 windstorm knocked out roughly 204,000 PSO customers at its peak, PSO described it as its biggest restoration job since that ice storm (KTUL). Storms like these can also tear the service mast or weatherhead off a house. Damage to that house-side equipment usually has to be repaired by an electrician before the utility can reconnect, so a generator can carry you through that wait too.
Older Houses, Different Starting Point
About 65% of Tulsa’s homes were built before 1980, and the median home dates to 1973 (U.S. Census ACS 2020–2024). In midtown bungalows and 1950s–70s ranches, an installer may find:
- 100-amp or full panels that need upgrading before a transfer switch fits.
- Gas meters on the opposite side of the house from the panel, which lengthens one run or the other.
- Tight side yards where meeting the manufacturer’s clearance from windows and the property line takes planning.
- Older wiring that the electrician may want to evaluate first.
Back Up Less, Spend Less
Many older Tulsa houses have gas furnaces and gas water heaters. If AC is not on your must-have list, an essentials-only system covering the furnace blower, refrigerator, sump, lights and internet can be smaller than a whole-house unit. See the sizing guide.
Permits in Tulsa
Tulsa issues its own building, electrical and mechanical permits. A licensed contractor normally pulls them as part of the job. Ask for the permit number on your estimate.
Historic Neighborhoods
If you live in one of Tulsa’s historic preservation zoning districts, ask the city whether placing an outdoor unit visible from the street needs review before you schedule work.
Cost
The cost guide lists sourced ranges. Expect older-home items such as panel upgrades to be the main reason a Tulsa quote is higher than a newer suburban one.
Request a Generator Installation Quote
Answer two quick questions. An independent installer that serves Broken Arrow will contact you to schedule a site visit and a written estimate.
Please note: Broken Arrow Generators connects homeowners with independent local generator installers. We are not a contractor and do not do the work.