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The engines!

Air-cooled generators come with engines that use fans to force air across the engine for cooling, while liquid-cooled generators use enclosed radiator systems for cooling, similar to an automobile. Generally, liquid-cooled engines are used on larger kW generators due to the larger engines required for the higher power output.

How does the Generac OHVI® engine compare to air cooled engines used in other brands of standby generators?

Unlike other engines used in backup power generation, Generac OHVI engines are made specifically for generators. They are engineered to run for the long periods of time required during a severe power outage or on a job site, utilizing the same type of pressurized oil lubrication used to give automobile engines long and trouble-free lives.

A GenerX installed automatic standby generator provides a complete (or partial – your choice) backup electrical system that operates whether you are home or away. By continuously monitoring your electrical utility feed, the generator automatically starts and then supplies power to your entire home or business – all within seconds of detecting an outage!

Once the storm is passed and the utility power is restored, the generator shuts itself off and waits for the next outage. Home standby generators operate on CLEAN and economical natural gas or liquid propane gas. Commercial & Industrial customers have the option of Generac generators powered by diesel, natural gas or bi-fuel /dual fuel (diesel and natural gas) engines.

In addition to its sturdy galvanized steel enclosure with RhinoCoat, Generac is one of the few companies to offer premium aluminum enclosures for its residential standby generators. Aluminum enclosures are naturally rust and corrosion resistant. For salt air or high humidity conditions, aluminum is highly recommended to ensure decades of worry free service.

How does the Generac OHVI® engine compare to air cooled engines used in other brands of standby generators?

Unlike other engines used in backup power generation, Generac OHVI engines are made specifically for generators. They are engineered to run for the long periods of time required during a severe power outage or on a job site, utilizing the same type of pressurized oil lubrication used to give automobile engines long and trouble-free lives.

Consider this scenario. You buy a portable generator and a few weeks later, the lights go out. If you want to restore your power you’ll need to head out to the garage, start the generator, then run extension cords through your house to the appliances you want to use. Even after all that is done, you still won’t have air conditioning.

If you had a permanent standby generator, it would kick on automatically within seconds of a power outage. These generators run on your home’s natural gas or LP fuel supply. They are less expensive to operate than gasoline and do not need to be refilled. Whether you’re home or away standby generators provide protection 24/7. The generator will turn itself off when utility power returns.

Plus, when properly installed outside your home a standby generator presents less risk from carbon monoxide poisoning than running a portable generator in your garage.

No…the generator fuel costs would be much more expensive than buying power from the utility company since their cost to produce electricity is divided among thousands of customers.

The most logical way to determine your needs is to envision your home without power. Some outages may be short in duration, while others could last for days or weeks. What would your family miss during an outage?
With the broadest product line available, essential circuit coverage starts with the economically priced Generac CorePower™ Series. Other systems are available to cover virtually any application:

Essential Circuit Coverage – Generac takes the guesswork out of sizing by offering prepackaged Guardian Series generator systems. The generator is paired with a transfer switch containing a predetermined number of circuits based on the generator’s kW power rating. Each circuit is directly connected to a matched circuit on the home’s main circuit breaker panel, providing electricity to that specific appliance or area of the home. For example, ten circuits are supplied for the 8 kW generator. With this system, you could connect (1) lights and TV in the family room, (2) microwave and lights in the kitchen, (3) refrigerator, (4) power to the bathroom, (5) computer and home office, (6) garage door opener, (7) air conditioner, and (8) furnace.

Managed Whole House Coverage – You can get more coverage with less generator, up to whole house coverage, by pairing a smaller generator with one of Generac’s Nexus™ load shedding switch options. This creates a managed power solution where non-essential circuits are shed when the generator approaches maximum capacity. They are cycled back on when essential circuits no longer require power, so all circuits receive power at different times.

Complete Whole House Coverage – Easily cover every circuit in your home by pairing one of Generac’s larger kW units and the proper transfer switch to provide full coverage. No circuit is ever left uncovered, so every appliance is available every minute.

As an option, Generac offers the Guardian Series systems prepackaged and pre-wired with comprehensive installation instructions. You could perform the simpler site preparation steps and have a professional make the electrical panel and fuel connections, or you could complete the entire installation yourself. However, for safety reasons and to ensure adherence to all local, state and national electrical codes, particularly for non pre-wired or larger systems, Generac recommends you use an authorized Generac dealer or licensed contractor.

Yes, simple maintenance is required. All generators require periodic oil and filter changes to ensure maximum performance for years of reliable service. Preventative maintenance kits are available and many Generac dealers offer annual maintenance contracts for a worry-free ownership experience. Refer to the owner’s manual for routine maintenance procedures and schedules.

An SAE rated high detergent oil that meets API Service Class SF requirements for gasoline engines, similar to your car. Refer to your owner’s manual for details.

Generac generators are equipped with overload protection. In the rare event of an overload, the generator’s circuit breaker will trip, disconnecting the unit from the load. Simply correct the overload and reset the breaker in the generator.

Owner’s manuals and other technical / repair information can be downloaded from our Manual Search or call 1-888-GENERAC.