14kw Standby Generator Comparison

When the utility power fades, standby generators supply backup emergency power during the entire power outage. Whether a major hurricane or even a fast-moving local thunderstorm, power outages may last a few hours, weekly, or so long as per month or maybe more. With a way to obtain standby power from the home generator, residents usually stay within their homes as opposed to seeking shelter elsewhere.

Home standby generators operate automatically and so are permanently linked to the home’s electrical system by using an automatic transfer switch which is usually given by the generator’s manufacturer. The switch and generator controller come together. When the power fades, the generator starts and the transfer switch connects the house to the generator and disconnects it through the utility company. After utility power is restored, the connections are reversed and the generator shuts down.

Standard Features

Most 14kW standby generator manufacturers offer similar features and own make of extra functionality. The engines have a very fully pressurized lubrication system similar to that in cars and may de-activate for low oil pressure or high engine temperature. They all run the generator by taking exercise cycles to keep the generator lubricated preventing seals from drying out. After operating under load, they run for any short, no-load cool-down period.

Utility power is mostly clean as well as free of excessive noise. The AC frequency is steady and unvarying, and also the voltage stays inside a certain range, rarely falling below 108 volts and never exceeding 125 volts. Standby 14kW generators meet and often exceed exactly the same requirements and still provide utility-quality power, even though the loads change frequently or while starting large, heavy-duty motors.

Continuous Power

Standby generators are rated by the volume of continuous power they are able to supply, and not all supply the rated continuous power on all fuels. Kohler Power Systems and Generac Power Systems are a couple of manufactures of 14-kilowatt standby generators that run on LP or natural gas.

Some manufacturers derate their multi-fuel generators when operating on natural gas because natural gas contains about 10 percent less energy than propane. An electric that will be powered by propane will likely run okay on gas main with a few adjustments, but because the gas has less energy, the engine cannot create exactly the same power.

Remote Operation

Generac offers Mobil Link as one optional accessory. It uses cellular txt messaging system to communicate with an internet-based dashboard that owners have access to everywhere with a net connection, bringing the Generac14kW standby generator controller to tcomputers around the globe. Status text messages are given to cellular phone accounts. An electronic digital cellular phone connection with texting is necessary in the 14kW generator installation site.

Kohler’s On Cue Remote Management Systems allows owners to control their 14kW standby generator from around the globe. Status messages can be delivered to dealers, owners, or both in order that maintenance is completed as required and problems dealt with before they result in a generator to fail. Users can see real-time status, see and clean fault codes, manage generator performance, and review generator history. It provides for operation of multiple generators from just one account. The On-Cue Management Software requires Windows XP, Vista, Windows 7 or Windows 8 and generator web connection.

Warranty

Kohler covers their 14kW standby generators using a consumer warranty of five years or 2000 hours for standby operation when reliable on-grid utility power can be acquired, and includes labor throughout the first 2 years after installation. For off-grid applications where utility power isn’t reliable or available, the warranty covers parts for 18 months or 1000 hours.

Generac’s 14Kw standby generator carries a 5 year, 2000 hour limited consumer warranty for on-grid applications. Off-grid applications are not covered and may void the warranty. Comprehensive parts, labor, and mileage are covered for the first 2 years, parts throughout the third year, and limited coverage in the engine block and alternator throughout the fourth and fifth years.

For more info go to: www.NPSGenerac.com