Comparing KOHLER and Generac Generators
Please note: RSC Heating and Air Conditioning proudly services customers within the greater Lancaster, PA area only. This post is an informative guide to our product offerings.
When it comes to residential power generation in the Central PA area, KOHLER and Generac are two of the biggest names. If you’re shopping for a standalone generator to keep your Harrisburg home running while the power is out, then you may have compared units. Taking a deeper look at the two brands will allow you to find the correct facts in a sea of contradictory information.
There are two main components to consider when searching for the right home generator power output and engine components. Both of these are extremely important and can determine just what brand of generator to buy.
Power Output
When it comes down to it, a backup generator for a Lancaster home needs to do one thing: deliver reliable power to your home when you need it. In this regard, KOHLER products are the clear winner. In fact, the National Advertising Council found that KOHLER generators, “maintained voltage within plus or minus 1 percent of the rate 240 volts while Generac models deviated significantly under a steady load.” In our mind, the ability to stay at the same power level for a long period of time is the job a generator should be doing, not fluctuating up and down.
Engine Components
In a home generator, quality engine components contribute to greater efficiency, longer service life and more reliable power output. Residents in Lancaster county want to know that their purchase is going to last them a lifetime. Residential KOHLER generators for the central Pennsylvania area feature the same design and components as the company’s commercial line. Compared to Generac, KOHLER generators feature a sturdier engine block (26.9 lbs. vs. 19.66 lbs.) and better components that will never need adjusted, including a 500 lb. thrust crankshaft, high-flow cylinder valves, and hydraulic valve lifters.
Debunking the Myths
When doing thorough research for a home generator it’s important to note discrepancies between what is advertised and what is given. In our own test study we found that when searching for online comparisons, several consumers noted that Generac has a history of misrepresenting their products. In fact, a recent consumer comparison found that Generac generators:
- Do not have the “highest output” and “best-in-class” reliability
- Do not have a longer life or better performance than KOHLER products
- Do not require less maintenance
- Are not the quietest on the market
- Cannot claim to be environmentally friendly
Either generator would make a good choice for your Lancaster, PA home, but only one brand came out on top in a recent consumer comparison. As the publication’s top-rated stationary model, the KOHLER 8.5 RES-QS7 was praised for its quiet operation, reliable power and automatic shutoff feature. If you’re looking for a generator and doing your homework, then look no further. Our team at RSC Heating and Air Conditioning would love to help you find the right one for your home!