Expert Tips for Installing a Whole House Generator

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Choosing the Right Generator
3. Comparing Generac and Kohler Generators
4. The Importance of Load Management
5. The Benefits of Integrated Management Capability
6. Cost Considerations: Kohler vs. Generac
7. Locating the Generator and Propane Tanks
8. Factors to Consider for Propane Usage
9. Purchasing vs. Renting Propane Tanks
10. Conclusion

Article

Introduction

Hi everyone, Mark Donovan from Home Edition plus com here. In this article, I want to share my recent experience with installing a whole house generator in my home. It was an interesting process, and I learned a lot of valuable information about choosing the right generator, load management, cost considerations, and more. So, let's dive right in!

Choosing the Right Generator

When it comes to choosing a whole house generator, there are several factors to consider. One of the main decisions I had to make was between Generac and Kohler generators. Both brands are reputable and offer reliable products, but they have some differences in features and capabilities.

Comparing Generac and Kohler Generators

Generac and Kohler are two popular brands in the generator market. Generac generators are known for their high power output and the ability to run the entire house without load shedding. On the other hand, Kohler generators offer integrated management capabilities and load sharing, allowing you to prioritize essential appliances and save on generator size.

The Importance of Load Management

Load management is a crucial consideration when selecting a whole house generator. With load management capabilities, you can prioritize and manage the power usage of different appliances in your home. This feature is particularly important if you want to avoid overloading the generator and optimize its efficiency.

The Benefits of Integrated Management Capability

Integrated management capability, like what Kohler generators offer, allows you to control and prioritize the power usage of specific appliances directly from the generator's control panel. This eliminates the need for separate load management boxes and provides a more convenient and streamlined solution.

Cost Considerations: Kohler vs. Generac

Cost is always a significant factor when purchasing a generator. In my case, I found that the cost of a 14 kilowatt Kohler generator with integrated management capability was about 40% less than a comparable Generac generator with separate load management boxes. It's essential to carefully evaluate the features and costs before making a decision.

Locating the Generator and Propane Tanks

The location of your generator and propane tanks is another crucial consideration. The distance between the generator and the tanks should be minimized to avoid excessive trenching costs. I was advised to keep the generator and tanks within a 15 to 20-foot span to keep trenching costs at a minimum.

Factors to Consider for Propane Usage

If you're using propane as a fuel source for your generator, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. Firstly, you need to decide whether to buy or rent the propane tanks. Buying the tanks outright can save you a significant amount of money in the long run, especially when considering the price per gallon of propane.

Purchasing vs. Renting Propane Tanks

Based on my experience, I decided to purchase 220-gallon propane tanks instead of renting them. I found that buying the tanks outright cost about $1.50 to $2.70 per gallon, while renting them would have been more expensive in the long term. Additionally, there was an additional cost for the gas fitting and piping between the generator and the tanks.

Conclusion

In conclusion, installing a whole house generator requires careful consideration of various factors such as the choice between Generac and Kohler generators, load management capabilities, cost considerations, and the location of the generator and propane tanks. It's essential to research and compare different options to make an informed decision that suits your needs and budget.

Highlights

• Choosing the right whole house generator is crucial for uninterrupted power supply.
• Kohler generators offer integrated management capabilities, allowing for load sharing and prioritization of essential appliances.
• Load management helps optimize generator efficiency and prevent overloading.
• Evaluating the cost and features of different generators is necessary for making the right purchasing decision.
• The location of the generator and propane tanks should be planned carefully to minimize trenching costs.
• Purchasing propane tanks outright can save money in the long run compared to renting them.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is load shedding? A: Load shedding is the process of temporarily reducing power supply to certain appliances during peak demand to prevent overloading the generator.

Q: Can I use natural gas instead of propane as a fuel source for my whole house generator? A: Yes, if you have a natural gas line available, you can use it as a fuel source instead of propane.

Q: Are whole house generators noisy? A: Most modern whole house generators are designed to operate quietly. However, the noise level may vary depending on the specific model and installation.

Q: How long does a whole house generator typically last? A: With proper maintenance and regular servicing, a whole house generator can last for 20-30 years or even longer.

Q: Can I install a whole house generator myself, or do I need professional assistance? A: It is highly recommended to hire a professional generator installation company to ensure safe and correct installation.