Generator advice

[a***nc83]

Soo once again, i enter the hall of garage knowledge seeking some advice from the great ones...lolol...i need a 5000w (or more) generator, i need something reliable, and long lasting. My knowledge and experience with generators is absolutely zero...soo i am wondering what's a good brand, which type is more reliable, crank or electric start?

This generator is to act as a standby power source for one of our properties in Guyana, where power outages are somewhat common. Also since this particular property is used as a bit of a vacation place, I need something that i can depend on working even if it hasn't been started in a while.

Any help?

Thanks

 

[Outlawmws]

Nothing specific on generators, but fuel may be an issue as fuel these days goes bad FAST.

Think propane conversion for whatever you take there, or consider using Aviation gas (no crappy additives), or at a minimum, use a good fuel stabilizer and pay attention to how long it is good for...

 

[Virgil Cain]

What is the most available/cheapest fuel in your area (diesel, gasoline, propane, butane?). Do you need electric auto start? How often do you expect it to run and on average how long will it be running? Do you have any critical systems that must be powered (medical or communications equipment for example)?

 

[a***nc83]

What is the most available/cheapest fuel in your area (diesel, gasoline, propane, butane?). Do you need electric auto start? How often do you expect it to run and on average how long will it be running? Do you have any critical systems that must be powered (medical or communications equipment for example)?

No critical systems, just lights...fridge, pressure pump for water,and a few other household things. Wouldn't/ shouldn't be running for more than 12 hrs at any given time, and maybe 3 times a week.

In terms of fuel availability, all of the above is available, gasoline is quite pricey though, so ideally propane, in terms of cost, but gasoline and diesel are possible as well.

In terms of electric auto start...that would be nice, as it's a convenient switch over, but if it would mean a sacrifice in reliability/dependability, it would not be worth it...a manual switch over or pull start would be fine as well.

 

[Virgil Cain]

As far as maintenance and fuel storage goes, propane is by far your best bet. Do you have or can you get a decent sized propane tank on your site? I'd want nothing below 125 gallon, and ideally 400 gallon or larger. Gasoline can go bad in months in a hot humid climate, diesel can last a year easily, but as long as your tank doesn't leak down propane will last forever, and it is significantly cleaner burning and will therefore encourage longer engine life. Your usage is actually pretty heavy. How much are you prepared to spend?

 

[a***nc83]

As far as maintenance and fuel storage goes, propane is by far your best bet. Do you have or can you get a decent sized propane tank on your site? I'd want nothing below 125 gallon, and ideally 400 gallon or larger. Gasoline can go bad in months in a hot humid climate, diesel can last a year easily, but as long as your tank doesn't leak down propane will last forever, and it is significantly cleaner burning and will therefore encourage longer engine life. Your usage is actually pretty heavy. How much are you prepared to spend?

I am looking to spend between $500-$1000....i am getting the feeling, that's not enough?

Oh and yes, getting a propane tank on the premise, won't be difficult at all, my family owns a share of DOCOL (gas company in guyana)

 

[Virgil Cain]

I am looking to spend between $500-$1000....i am getting the feeling, that's not enough?

Oh and yes, getting a propane tank on the premise, won't be difficult at all, my family owns a share of DOCOL (gas company in guyana)

Ah! You're set up for propane then!

I think you might get something at the top end of that range. If this was occasional backup like what you'd see in North America ( a few days at most a year) you could get something sub $500 that would work fine, but if you're going to run it 12 - 36 hrs a week you really need a decent unit. Personally I'd look at something like a Generac Guardian 8kW. I've seen them for $2300 with the transfer switch and autostart. They are quiet and are designed for long service. If you wanted something much cheaper you could look at a portable generator. Champion makes a 4kW propane generator that should go for around $450. You'd be using it more heavily than I'd personally want to run that generator through. For any of the portable units, look at the noise numbers, some of them can be quite loud, especially generators designed for job sites.

Take a look at the Generac website for other options.

 

[GoodoleBoy]

I am looking to spend between $500-$1000....i am getting the feeling, that's not enough?

Oh and yes, getting a propane tank on the premise, won't be difficult at all, my family owns a share of DOCOL (gas company in guyana)

$500-$600 is plenty..Coleman, husky, ect all make good ones and you be abke to choose from a briggs,honda,Generac or subaru engine at that price..

I have two of one 6200w starting,5000w running coleman with a briggs engine it starts very easily after it sat for 4 years and had over 300hrs on it(fuel drained prior to storage) n the 2nd pull and ran for 12 hurs until it neeeded a refuel..It cost me $600 during the biggest ice storm in the region 5 years back.

I purchased a second one at the time because we were estimated from the power company we were to be out for 2 months in our neighborhood because it blew some major part, but we were only out one month.. We didnt want to run the single generator 24/7 so got the second..Its a Generac 12,500start , 8000 running has a generac engine with pull and electric start, it cost $1300 during the storm when generators were still hard to get.

Both can run the entire house no problems..

Ideally I would have one large 5000W + Generator to run things like washer, 220v dryer, mocrowave, heat furnance ect..
Then a smaller 2000W to run just a TV /satellite or computer, and a box fan for sleeping at night & save gas when big power is not needed..

Be sure no matter what to read up on how to "re-flash" the generator and buy a cheap corded electric drill to be able to do it if its going to sit for over a few months without running just in case.

 

[theoldwizard1]

No critical systems, just lights...fridge, pressure pump for water,and a few other household things.

IMHO, 5 KW is over kill. 3KW or possibly even 2 KW (continuous), if you manage your loads, should be adequate. Buying an oversized generator just means you will have an oversized fuel bill.

What is the standard voltage there, 120V/60Hz (US) or 240V/50Hz (EU) ?

What is the voltage/current requirements for the water pump ?

 

[theoldwizard1]

I am looking to spend between $500-$1000....i am getting the feeling, that's not enough?

Better double the top number !

 

[theoldwizard1]

$500-$600 is plenty..Coleman, husky, ect all make good ones and you be abke to choose from a briggs,honda,Generac or subaru engine at that price..

That is without the propane conversion and the shipping !

 

[a***nc83]

Yeah, $500 - $1000 i was thinking for the cost of the generator. I would get the propane conversion done there.

Shipping isn't much of an issue, a 40 ft. container is being shipped out with two vehicles, so i was planning on just throwing the generator into the bed of one of the pick ups, that is being shipping in the container.

It's 120v, as in the US.

So does Generac make good quality generators?

In terms of engines, which company should i go for...the usual honda and Briggs or Stratton? or is the engine of choice different from those two in terms of generators?

 

[theoldwizard1]

This generator is to act as a standby power source for one of our properties in Guyana, where power outages are somewhat common. Also since this particular property is used as a bit of a vacation place, I need something that i can depend on working even if it hasn't been started in a while.

First, I would agree with Virgil. Stick with propane for all of the reasons he has mentioned.

I think most would agree, Honda makes some very reliable generators. Second behind them are Briggs & Stratton/Generac (I believe all portable Generac generators are made by Briggs & Stratton now a days.)

I'm certain you can get a propane conversion (not from the factory) more both.

Honda also makes a "special" (well, not so special any more) that uses "inverter technology". This allows the generator to slow down when not under a full load. Generators without inverter technology must run at a constant RPM.

The fuel savings for an inverter generator is significant and will make up for the significant increase in price over time. I just don't know if the Honda Inverter Generators can be converted to run on propane.

Check out the Honda EU3000is. It is over your budget and you would have to pay even more if you could find some place to do the propane conversion.

The flip side is, you can buy a Briggs and Stratton, propane ready, auto start/transfer "permanent" installation 7KW generator for less than the Honda EU3000is without the propane conversion !

 

[theoldwizard1]

Yeah, $500 - $1000 i was thinking for the cost of the generator. I would get the propane conversion done there.

I found a lightly used Craftsman 5000 KW generator with a B&S engine (likely manufactured by B&S) for under $400. New, something that size might break your budget.

Propane conversion kits can be purchased online.

So does Generac make good quality generators?

As stated before, I think their portable generators are made by B&S. Generac is probably the most popular brand of "permanently installed" home standby generator. Not because they are cheap, but because they work.

In terms of engines, which company should i go for...the usual Honda and Briggs & Stratton?

I would stick with those 2. They are by far the most popular brands (means parts are easy to get).

 

[theoldwizard1]

This could be the deal for you !

Briggs & Stratton Standby Propane 7kw Home Generator (manufacturer refurbished)

 

[clark_nicholas]

Better double the top number !

HE's right Unless you want a portable gasoline one and If you go that route you cant beat honda for fuel economy and noise. But if your willing to spend 3500 or so kohler makes really nice standby gen I have 4 at my work.

 

[a***nc83]

This could be the deal for you !

Briggs & Stratton Standby Propane 7kw Home Generator (manufacturer refurbished)

Should i be concerned about it being refurbished? Or is this one of those things, where you get a better bang for your buck (like toolboxes), if you buy one used/refurbished?

 

[rlitman]

I just don't know if the Honda Inverter Generators can be converted to run on propane.

Yes. There are kits, and if you buy a new one, you can get your carb swapped for a tri-fuel modified one.

 

[wait4me]

Yamaha also makes inverter generators that can be modded to run propane. This company even sells them pre modded and advertises that the warranty remains intact. http://www.propane-generators.com/

I don't have one, but I have used one of their kits to mod a briggs generator that works great.

 

[theoldwizard1]

Should i be concerned about it being refurbished? Or is this one of those things, where you get a better bang for your buck (like toolboxes), if you buy one used/refurbished?

Used is always a **** shoot.

I have always had good luck with factory refurb equipment and you save a ton of money !

Propane (LP) is not that popular in the US because of the wide availability of natural gas.

 

[a***nc83]

Used is always a **** shoot.

I have always had good luck with factory refurb equipment and you save a ton of money !

Propane (LP) is not that popular in the US because of the wide availability of natural gas.

Thanks for all the help guys.

Alright sounds good, i'll stick to refurbished or brand new.


I came across a few Briggs and Stratton at what seems to be a good price, 7500w for $749.99. The only set back is that it's crank/pull start. However they told me Briggs and Stratton sells electric starts for around $80, and it can be converted to an electric start. So i'll look into that.

Are these propane conversion DIY? Or is it recommended a professional do it?

 

[PowerGenGuy]

Also I would recommend having a backup controller, just in case. My experience in this is that a genset becomes really valuable when it cannot run until parts can be located and replaced, no matter what brand. IMHO do not use generac, however if you do, buy and keep spare controller. Do not get a single cylinder at 3600 RPM, (at 60hz). If you do electric start, spare starter. My recommendation if your demand is high enough, find a Kabota engine, if diesel is an option.

 

[theoldwizard1]

I came across a few Briggs and Stratton at what seems to be a good price, 7500w for $749.99.

Re-read my original post ! Bigger (than what your requirements are) is not better !! It just means you will use more fuel. The only high current device you have is your well pump and you have not told us the voltage or current.

IMHO, you do not need more than 3500-4000 peak watts. Without the pump, you probably only need 2000-3000 peak watts.

The only set back is that it's crank/pull start. However they told me Briggs and Stratton sells electric starts for around $80, and it can be converted to an electric start. So i'll look into that.

That number seems awful low. With a battery, cables, switches, etc I would guess it would be closer to $200.

I have an 11hp Briggs & Stratton powered, 5000 watt unit. Turn the fuel on, pull the cord slowly through 2 full pulls withe the switch off. Turn the switch on and it starts on less than 1/2 pull.

Are these propane conversion DIY? Or is it recommended a professional do it?

If you are mechanically inclined, and buy a complete kit, I would say you probably could do it.

 

[a***nc83]

Re-read my original post ! Bigger (than what your requirements are) is not better !! It just means you will use more fuel. The only high current device you have is your well pump and you have not told us the voltage or current.

IMHO, you do not need more than 3500-4000 peak watts. Without the pump, you probably only need 2000-3000 peak watts.


That number seems awful low. With a battery, cables, switches, etc I would guess it would be closer to $200.

I have an 11hp Briggs & Stratton powered, 5000 watt unit. Turn the fuel on, pull the cord slowly through 2 full pulls withe the switch off. Turn the switch on and it starts on less than 1/2 pull.


If you are mechanically inclined, and buy a complete kit, I would say you probably could do it.

The reason i am looking for an electric start, is because i may not always be there, and there is a possibility, only my mom or fiance would be there, and would need to start...my fiance, might be able to manage it, however i doubt my mom would. Also i was hoping to have it wired for automatic switch over.

In terms of the usage, the place is quite large, about 25 acres, with a really long driveway, so that has to be lit, the house has currently has 4 large air conditioner(can't remember the size), washer, dryer, hot water tank, pressure tank, and pressure pump. Also more air conditioners might be added, so i wanted to ensure i had a bit of a buffer in terms of the generator. But i doubt in a power outage, everything needs to be used, i was just surprised at the deal, thought i would go and check the legitimacy .

In terms of these engines, do you guys usually do an overhaul on it, like do they sell "rebuild" kits, and you can sort of "freshen" up the engines?

 

[theoldwizard1]

The reason i am looking for an electric start, is because i may not always be there, and there is a possibility, only my mom or fiance would be there, and would need to start...my fiance, might be able to manage it, however i doubt my mom would. Also i was hoping to have it wired for automatic switch over.

SIGH ! You are changing the requirements !

Don't mess around with a portable unit. The women won't like it even with an electric start. Spend the money and get a permanently installed one with an automatic transfer switch. If you don't, I promise you, you will be sorry ! (fiance ... not married yet ... figures )

the place is quite large, about 25 acres, with a really long driveway, so that has to be lit, the house has currently has 4 large air conditioner(can't remember the size), washer, dryer, hot water tank, pressure tank, and pressure pump. Also more air conditioners might be added,

Whoa, WHOA WHOA ! Hang on there cowboy. You just changed everything.

What you said before was

No critical systems, just lights...fridge, pressure pump for water,and a few other household things.

now you are saying

but i doubt in a power outage, everything needs to be used, ...

Until you decide what must be powered and what the voltage and CURRENTS
are of all of the equipment, you are just wasting everyone's time !

You want 4 A/C units blowing cold, you may be talking 2 large (> 15,000 watts) generators ! Actually 2 is a good idea anyway. If one dies, it could take week to get fixed.

In terms of these engines, do you guys usually do an overhaul on it, like do they sell "rebuild" kits, and you can sort of "freshen" up the engines?

At 36 hours per week (almost 2000 hour/year), you should budget for engine overhaul. I doubt anyone puts that many hours per year on a generator here in the states. Talk to a pro and they can give idea home long between overhauls.

More critical is changing the oil, oil filter, air filter and spark plugs on schedule. (Most bigger units will not run with low oil.) If you want to live in a third world country in the lap of luxury, you need to stock all of those, with more than 1 or 2 spares.

 

[airbatica]

If you're going to rely on a generator for 12-36 hours per week, you need to rethink your requirements. A 3600RPM, air cooled, splash lubricated screamer isn't going to cut it, regardless of who makes it. They simply aren't designed for that kind of use. You need to seriously look at a liquid cooled, 1800RPM unit if you want any sort of longevity out of it. Second, forget Generac. You will inevitably get screwed on parts availability, and their control systems are unreliable at best. You really only have a couple of choices with a good worldwide parts network. Cummins (Onan) and Kohler. Both have natural gas/LP and diesel sets, but they are not cheap. As far as which fuel, diesels use less fuel at light loads than NG/LP/Gas, but you'll have to crunch the numbers to see which is more cost effective for you.

 

[ishiboo]

I'm kicking myself... a guy around here sold a bunch of nearly new LP 4kw RV generators (with electric start, sound enclosure, etc!) for $350 each!.

Propane is definitely the way to go for long-term storage.