Image Credit: Generac and Kohler
While each brand brings its unique spin on generator design, the question has probably crossed your mind in considering Kohler vs. Generac: which is better?
The expert electricians at Reliable Power Systems have broken down each brand of generators, their product offerings, and their standout features to find which one provides the most bang for your buck.
Table of Contents
Reliable Backup Power
Living in South Florida, power outages are not uncommon, typically due to severe weather, grid failures, or occasional failures.
The loss of power can last for days to weeks, leading to problems such as food spoilage and unsafe temperatures in homes, as well as potential equipment damage or loss of business for commercial entities.
These risks make having reliable backup power through either a Kohler or Generac generator essential.
Image Credit: Kohler
Learn More About Kohler Generators
Founded in 1873 and beginning production of generators in 1920, Kohler has spent the last century delivering the very best when it comes to dependable backup power.
Product Range
Over the decades, Kohler has developed a diverse range of generators to address various backup power needs. Whether you’re powering a large commercial space or going on a simple camping trip, Kohler offers the perfect generator to meet your electrical requirements.
The different generator products Kohler offers include:
- Residential Generators
- Commercial Generators
- Portable Generators
- Industrial Generators
- Marine Generators
Top Features
PowerBoost™ Equipment
The PowerBoost™ system allows a Kohler generator to manage larger-scale loads, needed for appliances like air conditioners, without compromising the power supply to smaller, sensitive electronics.
Corrosion-Resistant Materials
Each Kohler generator is equipped with corrosion-resistant enclosures, which not only protect the internal components but also maintain the unit’s sleek appearance in even the worst weather conditions.
Complex Diagnostic Systems
With the installed diagnostic systems, monitoring the generator unit becomes a breeze. The generator alerts users to potential issues, saving them the stress of more severe problems and costly repairs.
Silent Operation
Compared to their competitors, Kohler generators run much quieter thanks to the installed sound-dampening technology, allowing users to enjoy reliable power without the noise pollution.
Read More: What Is the Process of Sizing a Home Backup Generator?
Warranty and Customer Support
Kohler reinforces the quality of their generators with one of the industry’s most generous warranty coverage, including residential generators coming with either a 5-year or 2,000-hour limited warranty.
And suppose you ever have questions about your unit. In that case, Kohler has a network of dealers and experts ready to provide customers with answers and support whenever needed, including us at Reliable Power Systems.
Learn More About Generac Generators
If you are in the process of comparing Kohler vs Generac generators, continue reading to learn more about the top features and equipment specifications for Generac systems.
Since 1959, Generac has worked its way up to become one of the industry’s biggest powerhouse for backup generators.
Generac’s design focus has centered on innovating reliable power while keeping prices affordable for customers, making them a popular choice for home and business owners.
Product Offerings
If you’re looking for a diverse selection of generator types, Generac offers a wide catalog to meet your various electrical needs. Generac’s products range from:
- Home Standby Generators
- Commercial Generators
- Portable Generators
- Industrial Generators
- Solar Generators and Battery Storage Systems
Top Features
G-Force Engine
Generac’s patented G-Force engine is designed exclusively for use in generators. Built for durability, the engine delivers backup power even during extended periods of use.
Mobile Link™ Remote Monitoring System
Thanks to Mobile Link™, unit monitoring can be done from a smartphone, tablet, or PC, allowing users to have full knowledge of their generator’s condition at any time.
True Power™ Equipment
With True Power™ technology installed, Generac generators produce clean, stable power with less than 5% harmonic distortion. This means that your sensitive electronics, such as laptops, receive a safe and consistent power supply.
PWRview
The PWRView app designed by Generac enables customers to analyze their unit’s energy usage patterns, allowing them to optimize power consumption and potentially reduce their energy costs.
Warranty and Customer Support
With each of their generator installations, Generac offers comprehensive warranty coverage, including a 5-year limited warranty for residential generators.
Similar to Kohler, Generac has a wide network of dealers and technicians, such as Reliable Power Systems, ready to assist customers with any questions and offer expert generator maintenance and generator repair services.
Read More: How Does a Generac Standby Generator Work?
Top Generac Generator Lines
Our staff offers the latest Generac generator lines, including:
- Generac Guardian Series Generators
- Generac EcoGen Series Generators
- Generac Centurion Series Generators
- Generac QuietSource Series Generators
- Generac Protector Series Generators
Comparing Generac and Kohler Systems
Now that we have broken down what each brand brings to the table, we will compare Kohler vs Generac generators to determine which one comes out on top.
Power Output
Both Kohler and Generac offer a wide catalog of different generator types and models, each equipped to provide power for specific uses.
When it comes to power output:
- Kohler units provide exceptional fuel efficiency, but their large-scale industrial models truly shine
- Generac’s G-Force engine provides optimized performance while reducing fuel consumption
Each brand excels in terms of power output, so the choice ultimately comes down to your specific power needs and the model specifications that best fit them.
Operational Noise
Whether you’re using it for your home or business, a quiet generator is often the preferred choice.
- Kohler units feature a pre-installed sound-dampening enclosure, making them remarkably quiet when in operation.
- While they have improved on incorporating sound insulation, specific Generac units will run at a much louder volume.
If reducing the noise pollution from a standby generator is a heavy factor in your choice, Kohler may be ideal. But always consider each unit’s decibel ratings, as they will give you a better clue as to how much noise they make.
Installation and Maintenance
You pay for more than just the generator itself, as you have to consider the complexity of the installation and maintenance over time.
- Kohler generators are designed for simple installations and easy placement outside homes and businesses.
- Generac units are equipped with a tool-less panel removal, making maintenance checks and tune-ups much simpler and faster.
If you need a no-frills installation, opt for Kohler. However, if you prefer simple maintenance and tune-ups, Generac is the brand for you.
No matter which brand you pick, keeping your generator routinely checked and maintained is key to having it perform at its best when you need it the most.
Read More: How Long Can a Generac Generator Run Simultaneously?
Making the Correct Choice
If you have the perfect generator in mind, there are several key factors to consider before you make a decision:
- Assessing your exact power requirements to ensure you choose the correct generator capacity
- Determine your budget limitations and balance them with the potential savings after installation
- Consider the availability and cost of the generator’s fuel type
- Evaluate the space available to determine if it is sufficient for the installation
- Research the availability of technicians and generator parts in your specific area
- Check your local codes and regulations regarding generator installation and usage
Who is the Winner? Kohler or Generac?
As you have probably noticed throughout our comprehensive Generac vs Kohler generators guide, each brand excels in providing high-quality backup power. So whichever brand you end up picking, you won’t have to worry about sudden outages again.
What you also may have noticed is that we haven’t talked about a key detail in all this–the price. This is where a big divide between the brands may come up, as:
- Kohler units cost more upfront, but require less maintenance and thus less upkeep costs
- Generac offers a budget-friendly price, but it comes with shorter lifespans compared to Kohler.
For many, price is the deciding point, so if long-term savings is your goal, then Kohler is your pick. But if you need an installation that won’t break the bank before hurricane season, Generac is the ideal choice.
One Final Thought About Kohler and Generac Generators
After considering factors such as price and operational noise, you may have your ideal choice. But getting a second opinion never hurts.
Before making a big purchase, consult with a licensed, certified electrician in South Florida to discuss factors such as your budget and space limitations, as they’ll help steer you in the right direction to select the ideal generator for your home or business.
We Offer Generac and Kohler Generator Installation or Repair Services
When you need an expert second opinion on which generator is better, Kohler vs. Generac, call the team of professionals from Reliable Power Systems by phone at (561) 408-5147 to receive assistance.
Our staff offers comprehensive generator installation services in Fort Myers, Boca Raton, Fort Lauderdale, and the surrounding areas. As certified dealers for both Kohler and Generac, our team of electricians is ready to consult with you regarding budget, space, and other factors. We will narrow down the best choice and guide you towards the ideal Kohler or Generac model for your power needs.
Keep your home or business running, no matter what Mother Nature throws at you. Contact Reliable Power Systems today or go online to schedule your consultation for a new generator installation.
