Power outages can be frustrating, especially when they happen unexpectedly. Investing in a generator can be an excellent solution to keep your home or business running when the power is out. However, with so many generator brands and models on the market, it can be challenging to choose the right one. In this article, we will compare two of the most popular generator brands, Kohler and Generac, to help you make an informed decision.
Introduction to Kohler and Generac
Kohler and Generac are two of the most reputable brands in the generator industry. Kohler, founded in 1873, has been producing high-quality engines and generators for over a century. Generac, founded in 1959, is a relatively new brand but has quickly become one of the leading manufacturers of standby generators in the US.
Generator Types Offered by Kohler and Generac
Kohler and Generac offer different types of generators to suit different needs. Kohler produces standby generators, portable generators, and industrial generators. Standby generators are permanently installed and are ideal for homes or businesses that require a continuous power supply. Portable generators, on the other hand, are designed for outdoor use and are perfect for camping or outdoor events. Industrial generators are designed for heavy-duty use in construction sites or other industrial settings.
Generac, on the other hand, focuses on standby generators and portable generators. Generac’s standby generators are available in different sizes and are designed for homes, businesses, and industrial use. Portable generators are ideal for outdoor activities, camping, and job sites.
Generator Power Output
The power output of a generator is an important consideration when choosing a generator. Kohler’s standby generators range from 8kW to 150kW, while its portable generators range from 1kW to 12kW. Kohler’s industrial generators can produce up to 4MW of power.
Generac’s standby generators range from 7kW to 150kW, while its portable generators range from 800W to 17.5kW. Generac’s industrial generators can produce up to 2MW of power.
Fuel Type
Another important factor to consider when choosing a generator is fuel type. Kohler and Generac both offer generators that run on propane, natural gas, and diesel.
Kohler’s residential and commercial generators use natural gas or propane, while its industrial generators run on diesel. Kohler’s portable generators run on gasoline.
Generac’s residential and commercial generators can use natural gas or propane, while its industrial generators can use diesel. Generac’s portable generators run on gasoline.
Generator Features and Accessories
Kohler and Generac both offer generators with various features and accessories. Kohler’s standby generators come with a transfer switch, which automatically switches the power source from the grid to the generator during a power outage. Kohler’s portable generators come with an automatic shutdown feature, which turns off the engine when the oil level is low.
Generac’s standby generators come with a transfer switch and a Mobile Link feature, which allows you to monitor your generator’s status from your smartphone. Generac’s portable generators come with a fuel gauge, which displays the amount of fuel remaining in the tank.
Maintenance
Generator maintenance is crucial to ensure it operates optimally when needed. Kohler and Generac both offer generator maintenance services.
Kohler’s generators require maintenance every 200 hours of operation. Kohler’s maintenance services include oil changes, air filter replacements, and battery replacements.
Generac’s standby generators require maintenance every 200 hours of operation or once a year. Generac’s maintenance services include oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug replacements.
Warranty
The warranty is an important consideration when choosing a generator. Kohler and Generac both offer warranties on their generators.
Kohler’s residential generators come with a 5-year limited warranty, while its commercial and industrial generators come with a 2-year limited warranty. Kohler’s portable generators come with a 3-year limited warranty.
Generac’s residential and commercial generators come with a 5-year limited warranty. Generac’s industrial generators come with a 2-year limited warranty, and its portable generators come with a 3-year limited warranty.
Price
Price is an important consideration when choosing a generator. Kohler and Generac both offer generators at different price points.
Kohler’s standby generators range in price from $2,800 to $13,000, while its portable generators range from $330 to $4,200. Kohler’s industrial generators range in price from $20,000 to $250,000.
Generac’s standby generators range in price from $2,000 to $5,500, while its portable generators range from $250 to $5,000. Generac’s industrial generators range in price from $10,000 to $500,000.
Kohler vs Generac: Pros and Cons
Kohler Pros:
High-quality generators with a long history of manufacturing
Offers a range of generator types and sizes
Uses reliable fuel sources for its generators
Comes with a transfer switch for its standby generators
Offers maintenance services for its generators
Kohler Cons:
More expensive than Generac
Shorter warranty periods for its commercial and industrial generators
Generac Pros:
More affordable than Kohler
Offers a range of generator types and sizes
Uses reliable fuel sources for its generators
Comes with a transfer switch for its standby generators
Offers maintenance services for its generators
Offers a Mobile Link feature to monitor generator status
Generac Cons:
Relatively new to the generator industry compared to Kohler
Shorter warranty period for its industrial generators
Conclusion
Kohler and Generac are both excellent generator brands that offer high-quality generators. Kohler has been in the generator industry for over a century and offers a wide range of generator types and sizes. Generac, on the other hand, is a newer brand but has quickly become a leading manufacturer of standby generators in the US. When choosing between Kohler and Generac, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and individual needs. Consider factors such as power output, fuel type, features, maintenance, warranty, and price before making your decision.
FAQs
Can Kohler and Generac generators run on natural gas?
Yes, both Kohler and Generac offer generators that can run on natural gas.
Do Kohler and Generac offer maintenance services for their generators?
Yes, both Kohler and Generac offer maintenance services for their generators.
What is the warranty period for Kohler’s standby generators?
Kohler’s residential standby generators come with a 5-year limited warranty, while its commercial and industrial standby generators come with a 2-year limited warranty.
What is the warranty period for Generac’s portable generators?
Generac’s portable generators come with a 3-year limited warranty.
Are Kohler generators more expensive than Generac generators?
Yes, Kohler generators are generally more expensive than Generac generators.