Generator Brands

[Jsf721]

Can someone tell me what grands are good better best?

Looking for. 25k auto transfer install

Generack
kohler
GE

Anything else?

Thanks

 

[Jsf721]

Anybody. ?

 

[pattenp]

May be someone will speak up. I don't have a large auto start generator but it seems around here there are a lot of Generac units installed. I have a portable Generac GP7500E and have been very pleased with it.

 

[kbs2244]

All the sewer lift stations I have seen, and all the highway department units I see, are Kohlers.
I don’t know if they make the generator part, but I trust them to build, or buy one, as good as their engines.

 

[Stuart in MN]

Cummins/Onan is another decent brand in this size range.

 

[bjmac]

We have a 10K Generac with automatic transfer switch. It has been in service for 3 yrs + Works great. It is tied into my 500 gal propane tank which also services the house. When powers fails, about 10 seconds later the generator is powered up and providing power to our whole house. The only things we do not use under generator power is the dryer and electric range. We have wood and propane stoves for heat. All other systems are good to go. We have about 4-6 extended (3-12 hour) outages each year. The generator starts and runs 8 minutes each week for exercise. It pushes not power during these periods. We love how it works. Hope this helps

 

[brewchief]

I'm no generator expert but in a class I had through work that we had to take to be able to sell generators we were told that the Kohler put out "cleaner" power then the Generac, this class was so we could sell rebranded Kohlers so take it as you wish.

I've had several electricians tell me that they thought the Kohler was nicer but none ever had a truly solid reason.

Some electronic equipment can be pretty sensitive to "dirty" power, we have had new furnaces that would simply not run off of generator power.

 

[Fast Orange]

Just my personal opinion,based on what I've seen in the past few years-
Worst-Briggs & Stratton
Good- Generac
Better- Cummins/Onan
Best- Kohler

 

[Dick in Wisconsin]

Kohler or Generac. Both are built by some of the finest craftsman in world ... right here in Wisconsin!

 

[olytdi]

The Kohlers are higher-end than the Generacs and run at a slower RPM. They're also more expensive. What you need to evaluate is how often you need the generator to run. If it's a couple of power outages in the summer and a couple in the winter, the Generacs will perform just fine. If you think you're going to be using it for weeks at a time, I'd be thinking something more substantial like a Kohler or Onan.

Nothing wrong with the Generacs for homeowners who have occassional outages. Extensive network of parts and service.

^^^^
This from lots and lots of reading about your question.

Caution: Internet forums like this will produce little quality information. You'd do better perusing the forums that are dedicated to generators.

 

[Rob_b]

Been looking for a good unit myself. I have a Generac XL4000E at the moment but have been considering an Aurora generator check here.. http://www.auroragenerators.com/ I don't work for or have anything to do with them other than perhaps being a future customer. I was looking a an XP8000E Generac but they have since stopped producing them and replaced them with the XE/GP models. I want clean solid power and willing to spend a bit more for a decent one but I refuse to pay Honda prices regardless of how good they say they are.. just my opinion

 

[Speedy Petey]

C
Looking for. 25k auto transfer install

Why would you possibly need something so big??
A 20kW is MORE than enough for even a reasonably large home. Or is it a case of "I want to be able to run anything I want even in an emergency."

What size service do you have?
How many panels?

 

[Speedy Petey]

The Kohlers are higher-end than the Generacs and run at a slower RPM.

Who told you this?

Caution: Internet forums like this will produce little quality information. You'd do better perusing the forums that are dedicated to generators.

I agree. ^^^^

 

[Speedy Petey]

In my experience Kohler seems to be made a tiny bit better than Generac. Kohler does have a better warranty though, but you are paying more for the unit.

I like Genrac's wiring setup better. The Kohler units I have done have required special shielded data cable between the transfer switch and genset, which can be a pain, especially if you can't find it on small rolls, or even find it at all locally.

 

[Teken]

I find it ironic that the larger engines use a GM Vortec engine?? Also, most of the home Kohler models run at 3600 rpms. This is the same as the Generac air cooled units. Now both do offer 1800 rpms units as well.

I have been bouncing around thinking about the two brands. I have considered buying the Generac Quiet Source Liquid Cooled 22 Kwh unit. Runs at 1800 rpms, consumed much less fuel, more power, and is quieter.

It costs a little more than the Guardian Series, but over the long haul would save me more money. The one advantage about the Kohler is the remote control and alert notification of the units status etc.

I also like the fact that you could simply replace the entire service panel and have a integrated electrical panel with a built in transfer / load shedding service panel.

Much to think about . . .

Teken . . .

 

[Jsf721]

I had 2 guys come out and size the house and they told me 20 or 25kw. This way all systems in the house can be operational. I just did 12 1/2 day during the sandy storm with out power. I want to be ready for the next outage. It will allow me to work instead of worry about the family. Last time all I did was hunt for gas cans and gas and, feed the beast (generator)

Why would you possibly need something so big??
A 20kW is MORE than enough for even a reasonably large home. Or is it a case of "I want to be able to run anything I want even in an emergency."

What size service do you have?
How many panels?

 

[Speedy Petey]

.......Now both do offer 1800 rpms units as well.

I have been bouncing around thinking about the two brands. I have considered buying the Generac Quiet Source Liquid Cooled 22 Kwh unit. Runs at 1800 rpms, consumed much less fuel, more power, and is quieter. .

If you can afford it this IS the way to go.

 

[Speedy Petey]

I had 2 guys come out and size the house and they told me 20 or 25kw. This way all systems in the house can be operational. I just did 12 1/2 day during the sandy storm with out power. I want to be ready for the next outage. It will allow me to work instead of worry about the family. Last time all I did was hunt for gas cans and gas and, feed the beast (generator)

Just curious. When was the last outage prior that was more than one day? More than even 12 hours?
And you need to be able to run full on for that time? Even in an emergency?

Don't get me wrong. A LOT of my peers are getting RICH off installing generators people want installed as a knee-jerk reaction to Sandy.
I always said, a BIG storm is going to HURT LI one of these days (I spent my first 25 years down there). I'm just not sure we'll see another one in the rest of my lifetime.

If you have that kind of disposable income (as many do down there), have at it!

 

[txst]

It's awfully hard to beat a Generac. I have several friends with their air cooled Guardian generators on their homes, and others with liquid cooled units on their businesses, and know a few people who work their - great company. Generac's core business is power generation - that is all they do, and they do it all in Wisconsin. (although they recently got into the pressure washer business, which is just another way to leverage their engine production. Check out those pressure washer reviews online - they are a very good product). Generac just launched their new Mobile Link product for remote system monitoring which is really nice - Gives you generator status via your smart phone or the internet.

 

[Jsf721]

Not looking to waste $ but I was a miserable 12 days. We typically loose power 2.5 days a year prior top that. I want a fair price on the system I want.

I have a quote for the 25K unit, with enclosure, pad, trenching electric 165', trenching Gas 120', re doing electrical service from pole to house (needs to be done regradless of generatror), install new sub pannel, install auto transfer switch, install new electrical pannel and label properly (upgrade service), install new LIPA meter to code (Larger Pan?). Contractor to handle all permits, All work done by licensed plumbers, electricians, coordinate all Inspections, trenching/Repair of exterior and pads. 6 weeks from signed contract. Mostly waiting for permits.


What would you call a fair number?

Just curious. When was the last outage prior that was more than one day? More than even 12 hours?
And you need to be able to run full on for that time? Even in an emergency?

Don't get me wrong. A LOT of my peers are getting RICH off installing generators people want installed as a knee-jerk reaction to Sandy.
I always said, a BIG storm is going to HURT LI one of these days (I spent my first 25 years down there). I'm just not sure we'll see another one in the rest of my lifetime.

If you have that kind of disposable income (as many do down there), have at it!

 

[Teken]

If you can afford it this IS the way to go.

Right now this project is on the back burner do to prioritize. I had to weigh out how many times power has been out in my location this year.

This year: None

Last Year: None

Two years ago: 3 planned outages to allow the POCO to complete more infrastructure in our area. All of which happens during my work hours and didn't impact my home. As all the critical system were on UPS power supplies.

So, knowing we have rock solid power is making this hard for me to spend 10-15K to get this done.

Don't get me wrong its going to get done!

Its on the requirement for my home buts not the first of several priorities right now. My priority is to reduce my consumption, and also reduce my electrical bill.

All of which is being done by my solar installation!

Teken . . .

 

[HoosierBuddy]

Right now this project is on the back burner do to prioritize. I had to weigh out how many times power has been out in my location this year.

This year: None

Last Year: None

Two years ago: 3 planned outages to allow the POCO to complete more infrastructure in our area. All of which happens during my work hours and didn't impact my home. As all the critical system were on UPS power supplies.

So, knowing we have rock solid power is making this hard for me to spend 10-15K to get this done.

Don't get me wrong its going to get done!

Its on the requirement for my home buts not the first of several priorities right now. My priority is to reduce my consumption, and also reduce my electrical bill.

All of which is being done by my solar installation!

Teken . . .

My issue exactly. I want a gen set because it would help me be better prepared in an emergency, but I can't get too excited about it because (knock on wood) my current home has had really good power reliability. The few hours I'm without power per year don't justify the expense.

AND...I had another issue at my place of work (different Power Company). The power was unreliable as hell, I finally got sick of it and installed a gen set...and it was like the day I installed the gen set the Power Company changed and there has only been one full day power outage in the 3 years since it was installed.

Phil

 

[Teken]

My issue exactly. I want a gen set because it would help me be better prepared in an emergency, but I can't get too excited about it because (knock on wood) my current home has had really good power reliability. The few hours I'm without power per year don't justify the expense.

AND...I had another issue at my place of work (different Power Company). The power was unreliable as hell, I finally got sick of it and installed a gen set...and it was like the day I installed the gen set the Power Company changed and there has only been one full day power outage in the 3 years since it was installed.

Phil

Absolutely, I am literally in the same boat. There has not been a system wide power outage in our city for probably more than 100 years. In that time we have had lightning storms that have taken out the power for maybe 1-3 hours.

Having lived in Kansas, NYC, LA, and a short time in CA. I would rather not be with out power past twelve hours. If money grew on tree's all of this would be academic and would already be done.

But, since most folks are not made of money I have to balance what I do and when I do it. Now that I and you have stated this, watch out its going to be no power for weeks for the both of us!

Teken . . .

 

[JerryC]

I had 2 guys come out and size the house and they told me 20 or 25kw. This way all systems in the house can be operational. I just did 12 1/2 day during the sandy storm with out power. I want to be ready for the next outage. It will allow me to work instead of worry about the family. Last time all I did was hunt for gas cans and gas and, feed the beast (generator)

If your portable ran off NG or propane and you didn't have to chase down gas, would that have been a good solution?

Converting your gen to tri-fuel would save a lot of money vs a whole house.

I understand the desire for a whole house gen, I have the same desire and will probably do it at some point.

Until then I'll use my small portable and 4 gas cans and a 1/8th mile of extension cords

 

[bjmac]

I replied earlier with information on my 10K with auto transfer switch. Following this thread, I see a common belief that you are looking at 7-10K to purchase and install. My 10K Generac cost right at $2,100. Dug trench to tie into my propane line myself. Propane dealer provided the line, tee, and regulator to the generator free. Hired an electrician to do the hookup. $600 I built the pad myself. Approx $100. Ready to go for $2,800 Had warranty repair of the choke solenoid at about 2yr mark on 3yr warranty.

I realize you are looking at 25k gen which cost more than my 10K, but the other cost should be about the same. Hope this gives you some more useful info

 

[Rookie2]

There is no way you need a 25 kw generator ! unless you have a 30 room home with 10 kids.

I would go with Kohler or Generac. keep it simple!

What do you really need if the power goes off, make a list A/C ? Heat ? Cooking/Frige ? Well pump ?

Do you need a fully automatic transfer switch ? At what cost ?

If you want NG then you should have a dual fuel option for backup on propane.

If your power has been off for 4 hours right now and a neighbor said that you can plug into his generator ...... What is your first few items you power up ?

 

[malibu101]

Just wanted to throw this in ......
Where I work there were just 6 Kohler generators installed. Each on a seperate building to keep the whole building powered.
They range in size from 50 to 250 KW.

All the sizes have John Deere diesel engines.
Don't know if Deere is a Kohler standard of if it's just what we got.

 

[Speedy Petey]

What do you really need if the power goes off, make a list A/C ? Heat ? Cooking/Frige ? Well pump ?

Well, it seems there are plenty of people who feel they need to able to lead a fully normal life, even running off a generator.

 

[Speedy Petey]

Just wanted to throw this in ......
Where I work there were just 6 Kohler generators installed. Each on a seperate building to keep the whole building powered.
They range in size from 50 to 250 KW.

All the sizes have John Deere diesel engines.
Don't know if Deere is a Kohler standard of if it's just what we got.

Comparing this to a typical residential generator is like comparing your family car to a semi truck. Not much is the same.

 

[jethrodawg]

I could not justify the cost of a permanent install. You never get the money back. I bought the Generac 8kW (12kW surge) that powers everything I need.

It hooks up directly to my panel via the cord (code legal) and interlock so I can use any house circuit I need. Paid ~$1400 for the generator. Now 4 years later I am selling my current house and can take the generator to me new house.

Heat/boiler, refrigerator, well, and lights is all I need to survive a power outage. Worst we had was in 2009 lost power for 2 days due to ice storm and generator got us through it with no issues.

My next house will have city water so no well means even less big loads to run.

I'm shocked at how much some of you are willing to pay for standby power.

 

[70R]

I just finished installing a Generac 5875 20/18kw unit with a 200A SE rated transfer switch with 3 load shed modules. I'm very happy with the quality and operation of this unit.

Many details to keep in mind.

At 200+ cu ft / hour natural gas comsumption rate at full power, I had to upgrade my gas service to 2lb and regulate the house down, and use a regulator at the generator.

This unit runs at 3600 rpm at full power, 2400 rpm during weekly testing. This is 66 dBA and 60 dBA at 23ft. Mine sounds like a neighbor is mowing the lawn when running in weekly test mode. I considered the liquid cooled models that run at 1800 rpm, but their sound levels weren't any better.

I did an NEC Article 220 load calculation to be sure the generator's output (75A on natural gas) would cover everything. Hot tub, electric dryer and electric range are shed using DLM modules as required. With these loads shed, the calculated load is 71 amps.

Our water table is very high, and if the power goes out, we have about one hour before the water comes up in the basement. The previous owner left us a pull start 5000 watt generator with a manual, 6 position transfer switch.

The decision to go this route was easy for me and it had nothing to do with economics. I travel almost every week, many times internationally. Nothing like getting a call at 3pm in Japan (2am at home) from the wife telling me she's following all of the written steps, but still cannot get the generator started! Using only a battery powered lantern, she had to open the overhead door manually, wheel the generator outside, plug in the cable, start the generator, go down int he basement and switch the 6 switches on the transfer switch. This would power the well, refrigerator, furnace, sump pump and the kitchen lights only. She is happy, so I am happy.

HTH,
Joe

 

[jethrodawg]

Joe, I also travel and live overseas and if my wife can start a generator and plug it in, anyone can.

I just made sure to buy an electric start generator and they battery lives on a trickle charger. You just need to hope you don't lose the gas supply....

If it was frequent I could understand, but the couple times a year we lose power just makes if very hard to fork out big bucks.

 

[hh76]

Just wanted to throw this in ......
Where I work there were just 6 Kohler generators installed. Each on a seperate building to keep the whole building powered.
They range in size from 50 to 250 KW.

All the sizes have John Deere diesel engines.
Don't know if Deere is a Kohler standard of if it's just what we got.

I'm assuming when you are dealing with that size, they build to customer specs. If the customer wants Deere, they get it. Your company probably had someone on staff more comfortable with Deere engines, so that's what they wanted all around.

Well, it seems there are plenty of people who feel they need to able to lead a fully normal life, even running off a generator.

I don't want to make assumptions about the OP's home, but you'd be surprised at how little power a typical home needs at one time. A few lights on, the furnace blower, a few other odds and ends?

To the OP, one thing to look at is local service. Does one brand have more people around to work on the unit?

 

[70R]

Joe, I also travel and live overseas and if my wife can start a generator and plug it in, anyone can.

I just made sure to buy an electric start generator and they battery lives on a trickle charger. You just need to hope you don't lose the gas supply....

If it was frequent I could understand, but the couple times a year we lose power just makes if very hard to fork out big bucks.

I agree each of us has to weigh the cost vs. value. With a high water table, I determined I needed an automatic start/transfer setup. With that in mind, my only question was the size. I did all the work myself, so I weighed the unit cost vs. convenience.

For the OP - some jurisdictions (not here) mandate a load calc and load shedding if required for any residential whole-house automatic transfer units. Selective circuit setups are exempt from this requirement.

 

[StRacerDuke]

For home use: Kohler /end

 

[Karl Fields]

Not quite what the OP was asking, but my experience with a 17kW propane Generac trying to run off grid. Warranty. Without external power to the unit, the warranty is void. 400 hours useage and the rotor gave out. $1200 later and I guess I can expect the same in another 400 hours.

Using the damn 6Kw gasolines genset much to often trying to keep the 400 hour threshold at bay.

Live and learn I guess.

 

[Rob_b]

I've been looking for solid gensets as well but the more I read, the more apprehensive I become. The standard gas powered portable generator is only rated for 2000 hrs life cycle. The larger diesel gensets are rated a bit higher. Gasoline has a 1-6 month shelf life, diesel about 2 years, propane ..10 yrs+ Now I know I will rarely if ever need to run a generator for 3 months straight or in stages so I want something that I can roll out, fire up, connect my house to and stop worrying until my power comes back on. Having a permanently mounted whole house generator is out of the question and just not worth it for me since I am in a city where power failures are rare but do happen. Buying a used (someone elses problem) isn't an option. I won't go there. I want a new diesel quiet and powerful generator. I don't want to have to have a 1000 gal propane tank or have to need to redo my natural gas feed just to feed a generator that's rarely used. Exploring options keeps us all looking for the best personal fit. Installing a transfer panel isn't an option, its a requirement! Keep yourselves safe as well as the utility workers upstream from your home/business if you run power to your home from a generator.

 

[koditten]

Uhm, my 16k Gaurdian, made by Generac is powered by a Kohler. I belive it is called the Command series. Other than that, I forget I own the thing. It got used once this year. It is kinda strange having the only house in the neighborhood with inside and outside lighting.

Runs the entire house, including the central air.

 

[Teken]

Not quite what the OP was asking, but my experience with a 17kW propane Generac trying to run off grid. Warranty. Without external power to the unit, the warranty is void. 400 hours useage and the rotor gave out. $1200 later and I guess I can expect the same in another 400 hours.

Using the damn 6Kw gasolines genset much to often trying to keep the 400 hour threshold at bay.

Live and learn I guess.

I'm sorry I don't even know what this means? Can you explain the part about the *without external power to the unit, the warranty is void*

Wouldn't that defeat the purpose of the back up generator? There is no power, hence why you have an alternate power source!

Insight

Teken . . .

 

[JerryC]

I'm sorry I don't even know what this means? Can you explain the part about the *without external power to the unit, the warranty is void*

Wouldn't that defeat the purpose of the back up generator? There is no power, hence why you have an alternate power source!

I'm going to guess it's so the gen can do it's routine maintenance run time to cook moisture out of the oil for example.You need power to run the timer so that it will know to fire up once a week and for how long and to keep a charge on the battery.