Introduction
As a homeowner, nothing is more frustrating than experiencing a power outage. Not only does this disrupt your daily routine, but it also poses a risk to your home and family’s safety. This is where whole house generators come in handy. These devices provide backup power during an outage to keep all your appliances and electronics running smoothly. In this review, we’ll be comparing two popular brands – Kohler and Generac.
Section 1: Kohler Whole House Generators
Kohler offers a range of whole house generators to cater to different needs. The Kohler 20RESCL-200SELS is their most popular model, capable of powering a 5,000 square foot home. Their generators use a patented technology called PowerBoost that allows the unit to start large loads like air conditioners without dropping power.
Kohler generators are known for their reliability and quiet operation. They come equipped with an automatic transfer switch that switches the generator on within 10 seconds of a power outage, ensuring that your home’s power supply is never disturbed.
However, Kohler generators are known to be more expensive than their competitors. They also require professional installation, which adds to the overall cost.
Pros of Kohler Generators
- Reliable and quiet operation
- PowerBoost technology allows the device to start large loads without drops in power
- Automatic transfer switch ensures prompt backup power
Cons of Kohler Generators
- Expensive compared to other brands
- Professional installation required
According to customer reviews, Kohler generators have a 4.7 out of 5-star rating, with many customers praising their reliability and ease of use.
Section 2: Generac Whole House Generators
Generac is another household name when it comes to whole house generators. One of their most popular models is the Guardian 22kW generator, which can power an entire home for days during an extended outage.
Generac generators are known for their ease of use and low maintenance. They come equipped with a digital controller that manages the power output, ensuring that all appliances run smoothly. Additionally, Generac generators offer a 5-year limited warranty, giving homeowners peace of mind.
On the downside, Generac generators are known to be noisy during operation. They also do not have PowerBoost technology like Kohler units.
Pros of Generac Generators
- Easy to use and low maintenance
- Comes with a 5-year limited warranty
- Offers a range of whole house generator models to meet different needs
Cons of Generac Generators
- Noisy during operation
- No PowerBoost technology available
Customers have given Generac generators a 4.6 out of 5-star rating, with many praising their reliability and easy installation process.
Section 3: Comparison between Kohler and Generac Whole House Generators
When comparing Kohler and Generac generators, there are some distinct differences. Kohler generators tend to be more expensive, but they come equipped with PowerBoost technology for large loads. Generac generators may be less expensive but are also more noisy during operation.
Ultimately, the brand that suits your needs depends on the size of your home and the appliances you need to power. Kohler generators are better suited for larger homes with more appliances, whereas Generac generators are ideal for smaller homes.
Key Similarities between Kohler and Generac Generators
- Automatic transfer switch technology
- Both offer a range of whole house generator models
- Reliable performance and low maintenance
Key Differences between Kohler and Generac Generators
- Kohler is more expensive but comes with PowerBoost technology
- Generac is less expensive but is noisier during operation
- Kohler is better suited for larger homes with more appliances
- Generac is ideal for smaller homes
Conclusion
In conclusion, both Kohler and Generac offer reliable whole house generators that can keep your home powered during an outage. Kohler generators are better suited for larger homes, whereas Generac generators are ideal for smaller homes. Ultimately, the decision of which brand to choose depends on your specific needs and budget.
When purchasing a whole house generator, it’s important to do your research and read customer reviews to ensure that you’re making an informed decision. Share your experiences and opinions in the comments section below!
List of 10 kohler vs generac whole house generator
- Scheduled maintenance kit is for standby home generators
- For use with the 20kW and 22kW air cooled standby generators from 2013 or later (999cc engine)
- Maintenance is recommended every 200-hours or 2-years
- Includes a pre-cleaner, air filter, oil filter, oil funnel, (2) spark plugs, blue cloth, instruction manual and maintenance sticker
- Oil must be purchased separately
- FOR OPTIMAL PERFORMANCE: Spark plug that fits a variety of 4-cycle engines, designed to increase power, reduce fuel consumption, and improve hydrocarbon emissions
- PATENTED TECHNOLOGY: DiamondFIRE features a unique design with an edge-to-edge spark path, which allows replenishment of the spark zone with a fresh fuel/air charge
- INCREASED DURABILITY: Near elimination of performance inhibiting carbon deposits, which dramatically extends the life of the spark plug
- REPLACES: Champion RC12YC, RC14YC; NGK BCP4ES-11, BKR4E, BKR4E-11, BKR5E, BKR5E-11, BKRES, BKR6EKB-11, FR4, FR5
- Compatible with vehicle type: lawn and garden applications
- All-new control center with a digital multimeter, push-button start, and a front-facing fuel interface allowing you to change your fuel type in seconds! The digital multimeter displays voltage, frequency, total hours run, and hours until the recommended maintenance
- This generator runs on gasoline or propane, giving you the freedom and flexibility of fuel choice
- Equipped with DuroMax “CO Alert Technology” that will automatically shut down the generator if an unsafe level of carbon monoxide is detected
- Built using a powerful 500cc OHV DuroMax engine and features ALL COPPER WINDINGS designed to make your generator last for years
- The fully loaded power panel includes four 120V GFCI household outlets, one 120V 30AMP outlet, one 120/240V 30AMP twist-lock outlet, and a heavy-duty 120/240V 50AMP outlet making it transfer switch ready!
- POWERFUL DUROMAX ENGINE: The XP13000EH is powered by a 500cc OHV Duromax Engine. Engine Speed-3600 RPM. Wheel Diameter-10-Inches .With Gasoline : Peak Wattage - 13,000., Running Wattage - 10,500., Running Amperage at 120V - 87.5., Running Amperage at 240V - 43.75., Runtime at 25% Load - 17., Runtime at 50% Load - 8With Propane : Peak Wattage - 12,350., Running Wattage - 9,975., Running Amperage at 120V - 83.13., Running Amperage at 240V - 41.56., Runtime at 25% Load - 13., Runtime at 50% Load - 6Please read the detailed safety instructions in the manual before operating.
- DUAL FUEL TECHNOLOGY: The ability to run on Propane or Gasoline allows the Freedom and Flexibility of Fuel Choice.
- PLENTY OF POWER: With 13,000 starting watts and 10,500 watts, this unit can handle heavy loads from lights, refrigerators, home conditioners and high amperage power tools.
- MAXIMUM POWER: The power panel includes a wide selection of outlets for maximum compatibility in your applications including: 1 120/240V 50A heavy duty outlet, 1 120/240V 30A twist lock outlet, 1 120V 30A twist lock outlet, and 2 120V 20A household outlets.
- POWERING EVERYONE ANYWHERE: Like all DuroMax generators, the XP13000EH is EPA and CARB approved for use in all 50 states.
- Clean and Unlimited Solar Energy: 100% green energy with smart MPPT controller for optimal charging efficiency. The power station can be fully charged with 2 Jackery SolarSaga 100W solar panels (Should be bought separately) within 6 hrs or only 5.5 hrs via AC wall outlet charging. Ideal for your camping or family emergency storage.
- Easy to Use: The ergonomic shape of the handle grants an ease grip. And use in one touch with simple and speedy setup within 60s to enjoy outstanding charging efficiency.
- Safe & Reliable for Outdoor Camping: Features industry-leading cylindrical batteries (popular with manufacturers of Electric Vehicles) that meet UL safety standards. Certified with Impact-Resistance Class 9, passing the UL drop test (withstanding 3 drops from 0.9m height on any surface). The pure sine wave inverter delivers constant voltage that protects equipment from damage.
- Power Pretty Much Anything: Power 90% home appliances with 1002Wh (1000W AC output power) and 8 outlets (3*AC outlet, 1*USB-A , 1*USB-A quick charge 3.0, 2*USB-C PD, 1*Car outlet). Ideal for outdoor off-grid activities and home backup power to power refrigerator, TV, mini cooler, electric grill, fan, and more for your outdoor and home needs.
- Quiet & Strong: At a such large capacity, this Explorer will leave you with VERY LITTLE to NO noise, giving you the peace and power all at once. Extra bonus for the built - unlike most other portable generators, this supports pass-through charging while its battery life is protected.
- 7500 Running Watts and 9500 Peak Watts; Remote Start With Included Key Fob, Electric and Recoil Start; Up to 11 Hours of Run Time on a 6.6 Gallon Fuel Tank With Fuel Gauge. Grounding System-Bonded Neutral
- Features Two GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) 5-20R 120V Household Duplex Receptacle and One L14-30R 120/240V Twist-Lock Receptacle; All Outlets Have Rubber Covers for Added Safety
- Plug-and-Play: Comes with a Remote Start Key Fob, 12V Battery Charger, Oil, an Oil Funnel, a Tool Kit, and a User's Manual to Get You Started Right Out of the Box (Minimal Assembly Required)
- Powered by a 420cc Westinghouse 4-Stroke OHV Engine Featuring a Long-Lasting Cast Iron Sleeve with Automatic Low Oil Shutdown and Digital Hour Meter
- All Westinghouse Portable Generators are Functionally Tested in the Factory and May Contain Minimum Residual Oil and/or Fuel Odor; EPA and CARB Compliant; Backed by 3-Year Limited Service, Labor, and Parts Coverage with Nationwide Customer Service Network
- 7 X Faster Charging. 0-80% in just 50 mins and 0-100% in 80 mins with AC input. That's ideal when you need home backup power and a quick charge using your wall outlet.
- Expandable Capacity from 1-3kWh. With the standalone portable power station sporting 1kWh, you can add on extra batteries to reach up to 3kWh. Ideal for camping, RVs or off-grid living.and a quick charge using your wall outlet.
- Power Almost Anything. Portable batteries have come a long way. Power all your appliances with 1800W output, that's on par with outdoor generators without the fumes or noise. With 15 outlets and its huge output, you can power 90% of your appliances.
- Clean, Green Charging. With up to 500W of solar panel input, DELTA 2 is a solar generator that can be charged while camping, on an RV trip or off-grid.
- Built to Last 6x Longer. Its LFP(LiFePO4) battery chemistry makes for a portable power station with a 3000+ cycle life. Enough for years on end of use. With a sophisticated BMS, you can go easy knowing its auto-regulating to keep you safe.
- Scheduled maintenance kit is for standby home generators
- Kit for 12-18-Kilowatt 760cc - 990cc Engines
- Maintenance is recommended every 200-hours or 2-years
- Includes a pre-cleaner, air filter, oil filter, oil funnel, (2) spark plugs, chamois, instruction manual and preventative maintenance reminder sticker
- Oil must be purchased separately
- [3 x AC OUTLETS AND 720Wh CAPACITY]: The RIVER Pro as a generator can power up to 10 devices simultaneously with multiple outlet options, including 3 pure sine wave AC outlets. Note that the total rated wattage of the AC outlets should be under 600W (surge 1200W). It offers up to 720Wh power and it weighs just 15.9lbs, which makes it a portable power station for adventure on the go.
- [RECHARGE FROM 0-80% WITHIN 1 HOUR]: The patented EcoFlow X-Stream technology enables you to charge the RIVER Pro from 0%-80% within one hour and offers a full charge in just 1.6 hours.
- [POWER A WIDE RANGE OF APPLIANCES]: With a built-in 600W inverter, the RIVER Pro can power some devices up to 1800W with the X-Boost mode on, which lets you power about 80% of essential devices like kitchen appliances and DIY tools. Please conduct full test on a case-by-case basis to see if the X-Boost feature can work with your appliances. Use devices below 1200W for the best product use.
- [DOUBLE CAPACITY FROM 720Wh to 1440Wh]: Add a RIVER Pro Extra Battery to double the capacity from 720Wh to 1440Wh. This is ideal for situations like traveling, camping, or group outdoor activities where you need more power for more devices. RIVER Pro Extra Battery is sold separately.
- [24-MONTH PRODUCT GUARANTEE]: The RIVER Pro portable power station comes with a 24-month product guarantee, and EcoFlow offers a 24x7 specialist customer service. In the box: 1x RIVER Pro, 1x AC Charging Cable, 1x Car Charging Cable, 1x DC5521-DC5525 Cable, 1x RIVER Pro User Manual, 1x RIVER Pro GUARANTEE Card.
- 【Powerful Engine and Safe For Sensitive electronics 】The GENMAX 2200 Starting Watts Inverter Generator is powered by a 79.7cc 4- stroke OHV gas engine,with inverter technology produce 2200 Starting Watts/ 1800 Running Watts clean power (less than 3% THD), confidently connect your sensitive electronics such as TV, lights, fans, small power tools and more on camping trips, etc.
- 【Ultralight and Small Size】At only 41.8pounds, Light weight and compact , The sturdy handle makes it easy to carry for long distance.
- 【Extremely Quiet,Fuel Efficient】As Low as 58 dBA Noise Output and Up to 6 Hours of Run Time at 50% load on a 1 Gallon Gas Tank – Features “Economy Mode” for Maximum Fuel Efficiency.
- 【Power Panel】Includes low oil alarm, overload alarm,Co warning light and output indicator features “Eco mode” for conserving energy and maximum fuel efficiency ，two 120V/20A outlets, one 120V/30A outlets，Parallel ready.
- 【CO Detect Shutdown】 Includes CO Detect shutdown sensor for Prevention of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning.
People also ask
What is the difference between Kohler and Generac whole house generator?
Kohler and Generac are two leading brands of whole house generators. While they both provide reliable backup power during an outage, there are some differences between the two brands. Kohler generators are known for their quality engineering, durability, and low sound levels. Generac generators, on the other hand, are known for their affordability and ease of maintenance.
What are the benefits of a whole house generator?
A whole house generator is a backup power source that can provide electricity to your entire home during an outage. It can help keep your family safe and comfortable, prevent food spoilage, and protect your home from damage caused by power surges. It can also help you avoid the inconvenience and expense of having to stay in a hotel or rent a generator.
Which is better, Kohler or Generac?
The choice between Kohler and Generac depends on your specific needs and preferences. Kohler generators are known for their quality engineering and durability, which makes them a great choice for homeowners who value reliability and longevity. Generac generators, on the other hand, are known for their affordability and ease of maintenance, which makes them a great choice for homeowners who are on a budget or want a generator that is easy to service.
What size whole house generator do I need?
The size of the whole house generator you need depends on the size of your home and the appliances you want to power during an outage. A typical 2000 sq. ft. home will require a 20-22 kW generator to power all of the essentials. However, if you have a larger home or a lot of high wattage appliances, you may need a larger generator. It’s best to consult with a professional to determine the right size generator for your specific situation.
Do whole house generators require maintenance?
Yes, whole house generators require regular maintenance to ensure they are in proper working order. This may include changing the oil and filter, cleaning the air filter, checking the spark plugs, and inspecting the battery. It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule to keep your generator running smoothly and prevent unexpected issues during an outage.
How long do whole house generators last?
The lifespan of a whole house generator depends on several factors, including the quality of the generator, how often it is used, and how well it is maintained. A well-maintained generator from a reputable brand such as Kohler or Generac can last up to 20-30 years or more.
Can I install a whole house generator myself?
It is recommended that you hire a professional to install a whole house generator. Installing a generator involves working with electrical wiring and gas lines, which can be dangerous if not done properly. A licensed electrician and plumber will ensure that the installation is up to code and that the generator is installed safely and correctly.
How loud are Kohler and Generac whole house generators?
Kohler generators are known for their low sound levels, with some models producing as little as 58 decibels (about the same as a normal conversation). Generac generators are generally a bit louder, with most models producing between 60-70 decibels (about the same as a vacuum cleaner). However, both brands offer models with sound-dampening features that can reduce noise levels even further.