You should purchase the best generator brand on the market to get the most out of your money. Finding the best one can be tricky, depending on the desired use and power requirements. The features of each of the three generators are discussed below to help you know which is the best.
Kohler vs Generac vs Cummins – Brand comparison
Kohler is a brand under Kohler Power. It makes power systems and generators that use a variety of power sources to provide backup and main power solutions.
On the other hand, Generac is a brand under the Generac holdings. The Generac generator brand is a leading producer of portable and standby generators. Its generators are some of the best backup power generators on the market. Their outputs range from 800 watts to 9 megawatts.
Cummins is a generator brand under Cummins Inc. It is a corporation in the top league of designing and manufacturing power generation equipment. In 1919, Clessie Cummins, who was 31 at the time, started Cummins in Columbus, Indiana.
Kohler Standby Generators
Kohler generators are among the most reliable generators on the market, built to provide consistent power and last longer. They undergo rigorous quality testing to make sure they are strong and durable, which makes them a good choice for home power supply.
Kohler generators are built with commercial-grade engines, making them able to withstand extreme workloads for many years.
Key features
The Kohler generator has some excellent features that make it valuable and reliable. Some of these features include:
- Heavy duty engine – Kohler generators have commercial-grade engines that can withstand extreme weather and running conditions to ensure they provide the power you need.
- Improved technology – They utilize self-diagnostic technology that automatically exercises the engine and runs diagnostics for about 20 minutes weekly.
- High power output – Kohler generators have a power boost technology enabling the operation of heavy and bulky loads.
- Quiet – They have sound mufflers that reduce the noise resulting from operation, making them neighborhood-friendly
- Easy to use and handle – Kohler generators come with an OnCue generator management system that allows remote management of your generator. The software lets you get updates by text message and see how much power is being used and how the machine is running in real time.
- Warranty – They come with a 5-year, 2000-hour premium warranty, thus ensuring safe and insured operations.
Pros
- Quiet operation.
- High power output.
- Easy to use.
- Lengthy warranty period.
- Durable and robust construction.
- Utilize recent technology.
- Industry level compliance.
Cons
- They are more expensive compared to other generators.
Related Read: Where Are Kohler Generators Made?
Generac Standby Generators
Generac generators use OHV customized engines that enable them to last for a long time, making them a wise investment. They have a long history of being the top-selling home standby generators.
Key features
- Quiet technology – Generac generators produce little or no noise during operation as they are much quieter than any other generator.
- G – Flex technology – They utilize this technology to adjust the engine workforce depending on the energy needed.
- Safety features – Have safety features that protect the appliances and electronics connected from current surges, thus preventing overheating and overloading.
- E- Technology – They use a technology that detects and prevents dangerous carbon monoxide emissions into the environment.
- G- FORCE ENGINE – Generac generators use OHVI, a pressure-lubricated engine that produces enough reliable backup power.
- Steel cages – They have a steel cage that protects the engine from external mechanical damage, providing a long-lasting operation time.
Pros
- Automatic power connection.
- Safe and reliable.
- Quiet operation.
- Enable remote monitoring.
- Fully operational in all conditions.
- High power output.
- Well detailed manual.
- Tri-fuel use.
Cons
- They require a frequent maintenance routine.
- Tear and wear over time.
Cummins Standby Generators
Cummins was the first to build diesel engines in late 1919. Cummins generators are high producers of portable power, making them among the most preferred generators.
These generators are specifically built to serve a specific market need and thus possess high quality, durability, and efficiency in portable power production. They are compact in design and thus long-lasting.
Key features
- Compact design – They have a compact design that makes them robust, increasing their safety rating. Hence, they can be installed near your house.
- Flexible exercise modes – They have exercise modes that enable them to run diagnostic procedures, eliminating the need for frequent checks.
- Cummins cold weather kits – Cummins generators have kits that allow them to operate optimally in colder regions where the temperature is as low as 0°F.
- Intelligent load regulator – They have a technology that monitors the required amount of power needed and regulates the generator to produce the required amount of power, thus eliminating unnecessary work for the generator.
- Quiet technology – They have Cummins quiet connect technology that allows them to produce little noise, which is enhanced by the sound-insulated enclosures.
- Large capacity tanks – The generators have large capacity tanks that eliminate the need for frequent fueling.
Pros
- The sturdy and durable cylindrical design.
- Easy to maintain and repair.
- Sufficient cooling system.
- High power output.
- Diesel-powered.
- Efficient lubricating system.
- Large load capacity.
Cons
- Frequent maintenance routine.
- Hard to move or relocate.
- Vulnerable to breakdowns.
- Expensive to install.
Kohler vs Generac vs Cummins Standby Generators: Which is best?
| Generator characteristics | Kohler generators | Generac generators | Cummins generators |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ease of use | User friendly | Very user friendly | Hard to use, especially during troubleshooting |
| Maintenance | Once per year | Once per year | Every quarter |
| Noise | Produces some noise but not loud | Less noise production | The quietest on the market |
| Cost | Expensive | Slightly less expensive than the two other options | Expensive |
| Warranty | 5 years or 2,000 hours | 5 years or 2,000 hours | 2-year warranty |
You can determine the best generator by carefully looking through their performance capabilities. The best generator is highly rated and impervious to common problems. The Generac generator is the top-rated and most purchased generator among the three. We would confidently rank it as the most reliable of the three options.
Also, the Generac generator is inexpensive, has a good warranty, and easy to set up and maintain, so it comes highly recommended.
FAQs - Kohler vs Generac vs Cummins Standby Generators
Is it worth it to get a standby generator?
Standby generators make it safer and more secure when the power goes out, which makes them convenient and useful. Check this guide for further reading on natural gas generators’ pros and cons.
Which generator is better, Cummins or Generac?
Generac is a better generator than Cummins in terms of operation and basic features. In addition, in comparison to Generac, Cummins is more expensive.
Who makes the most reliable standby generator?
Generac Inc. is the most trusted maker of generators as it has a wide variety of standby and portable generators.
Are Cummins standby generators any good?
Yes, they are among the top manufacturers of diesel-powered generators. They are of high quality, durable, efficient, and compact.
Who makes the quietest whole house generator?
The Champion aXis is the best producer of silent generators. It produces the quietest of the top quiet generators.
How much does it cost to install a Generac standby generator?
The average installation cost of installing a Generac generator ranges from $12,000 to $13,000 depending on the installation factors.
Conclusion: Kohler vs Generac vs Cummins Standby Generators
With the increased consumer need for generators, understanding the specific generator specs and features can help you make the most informed decision on which generator to purchase. And when it boils down to the best three brands, Kohler, Cummins, and Generac standby generators are unbeatable. However, as you choose the best one for you, make sure you consider your load demand, budget, and noise levels, among many other factors.
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