Generators come in all different shapes, sizes, and brands. The most popular home standby models are air cooled generators. An air cooled generator is usually a smaller unit ideal for residential use. They are called air cooled generators because the engine can efficiently be cooled by air alone. There are several manufacturers and kW ratings. There is also a specialty section included with these models that can be used off grid. This generator can only be used in specific applications, so, we will provide some info on those models too.
Generac is the most recognized brand when it comes to generators. They offer a huge line of home standby units that include kW ratings from 6-22, the widest range of any of their competitors. The generators are built to be outside so they are weather resistant. You have the option of fueling them with either natural gas or propane, whichever of the two is easier for your installation. These quality units are then paired with automatic transfer switches to provide you with the equipment necessary to keep your home from losing power.
Kohler Generators take all of the things you love about Kohler products and compacts them into a reliable backup power source. It would probably be difficult to find a home without an existing Kohler product. They make all kinds of indoor home improvement items like toilets, faucets, tubs, sinks, and shower heads. With a strong hold on this market it only seems natural that they have made the move to outdoor home improvement. Kohler air cooled home standby generators are the 8kw, 12kw, 14kw, and 20kw units. Some of these units even come with Kohler's Power Boost technology which allows for them to be able to start appliances with a large draw easily. The trusted name of Kohler Power Systems is a reliable name in the backup power industry.
Briggs and Stratton engines can be found in everything from lawnmowers to snow blowers. They decided to take their top notch technology and turn it into a generator that can give you the same reliability. Their units come in the 8kw, 10kw, 12kw, 16kw, and 20kw ranges. There are two very unique things that they do with their generators, the first would be how they structured their units' exhaust. On a typical unit exhaust goes from intake on the right to exhaust on the left. In a Briggs unit, exhaust enters the rear of the generator and exits through the front. The second difference is the technology in their transfer switches. The transfer switches will take control of all of your power, instead of just load shedding larger draw items.
Cummins Generators, now Cummins Power Generation, has been a leading powerhouse in the RV industry for many years. With all of their experience in keeping you mobile, it wasn't hard to also help you when you've decided to stay put. The impressive base of the 13kw and 20kw units virtually eliminates the need for a concrete pad or pea gravel base. Want to keep up with the status of your generator easily and from with your home? Sounds like you would benefit from the special display they offer. With the use of a harness (at an additional cost) you can remote locate the entire display into your home. They also give you the option of sending updates to your electrician or service provider in case there are problems.
Off grid generators aren't for everyone and you really should consult with us or your electrician before making a purchase from this section. What this is saying is that you don't have any kind of electricity coming into the home and that you use some kind of battery backup. The generator would work with your battery backup and inverter to make sure that your batteries never die. That's not the same situation as some installations that require "prime power". The last thing we want is for you to void your warranty by buying the wrong generator so speak with a representative and we'll make sure it works for you.
