Generac vs. Kohler Standby Home Generators: Why Generac is the Smart Choice for Your Home

When the power goes out, your home’s comfort, safety, and functionality are at risk. Investing in a reliable standby generator is the best way to protect your household from unpredictable outages. Among the leading brands, Generac and Kohler stand out. However, when it comes to overall performance, reliability, and cost-effectiveness, Generacconsistently proves to be the better choice for homeowners. Here’s a detailed comparison to help you understand why Generac should be your top pick.

1. Power Output and Capacity: Generac Delivers More Power and Flexibility

• Generac: Generac offers a wide range of models, but the Generac Guardian Series is one of the most popular, providing up to 22 kW of power for residential homes. This makes it ideal for larger homes or homes with multiple energy-intensive systems like HVAC, refrigeration, and home security. Generac generators are designed to handle full-home backup power or partial setups tailored to your needs. The ability to provide consistent and stable power during extended outages has made Generac the leader in the industry.

• Kohler: Kohler’s standby generators, such as the Kohler 20RESCL, offer up to 20 kW of power, which is competitive but generally comes up short for homeowners with higher power demands. Kohler models can handle essential appliances but may struggle to power larger homes or multiple systems simultaneously.

Verdict: If you need robust power output, especially for larger homes or households with higher energy needs, Generac offers greater capacity and flexibility. The Generac Guardian 22kW model delivers more wattage and provides peace of mind that your entire home will be powered seamlessly during outages.

2. Fuel Efficiency and Runtime: Generac Keeps You Powered for Longer

• Generac: One of the standout features of Generac generators is their fuel efficiency. Models like the Generac Guardian 22kW use True Power Technology, which delivers smooth, reliable power while optimizing fuel consumption. Generac generators are designed to run efficiently over extended periods, offering 9 to 10 hours of runtime on 5 gallons of propane. This means that during a prolonged outage, you can rest assured that your fuel will last longer, keeping your home powered without frequent refueling. This level of efficiency makes Generac a top choice for those who want to minimize both fuel costs and maintenance during outages.

• Kohler: Kohler generators, while reliable, don’t match Generac in fuel efficiency. The Kohler 20RESCL offers around 7-8 hours of runtime on the same amount of propane, meaning Kohler units may require more fuel refills during long outages. This not only increases fuel costs but also adds the inconvenience of more frequent monitoring and refueling.

Verdict: Generac’s advanced fuel efficiency gives it a distinct advantage, especially for homeowners in areas prone to longer outages. With more runtime on less fuel, Generac helps you stay powered without the constant worry of running out of fuel.

3. Noise Levels: Generac’s Quiet Operation Won’t Disturb Your Peace

• Generac: Many homeowners are concerned about the noise level of standby generators, especially in residential neighborhoods. Generac generators are designed with residential use in mind, and models like the Generac Guardian 22kW operate at around 67 decibels (dB), which is quieter than a typical vacuum cleaner. This low noise level ensures that your generator won’t disturb your family or neighbors, making Generac ideal for homes in quiet areas.

• Kohler: Kohler generators, while reliable, tend to run louder than Generac. The Kohler 20RESCL model operates at about 69-72 dB, which, while not excessively loud, can still be more noticeable, especially during nighttime or in areas where noise restrictions are in place.

Verdict: For quieter operation and less disruption to your household and neighbors, Generac’s lower decibel levels make it the better choice for residential use.

4. Cost and Value: Generac Offers Superior Value for Your Investment

• Generac: Despite offering higher power output, longer runtime, and quieter operation, Generac generators are also more affordable than Kohler in most cases. The Generac Guardian 22kW typically costs around $5,000 for the unit alone, with installation costs ranging from $2,000 to $5,000, depending on the complexity of the setup. Generac also offers a 5-year warranty on most models, ensuring long-term protection and peace of mind.

• Kohler: Kohler generators, like the Kohler 20RESCL, are often priced higher, with the unit alone costing around $6,000. Installation costs are comparable to Generac, but the higher upfront price tag can make Kohler a less attractive option for budget-conscious homeowners. Kohler also offers a standard 5-year warranty, but parts and repairs tend to be pricier than Generac, further adding to the long-term costs.

Verdict: Generac offers more value for your money, delivering better performance and features at a lower cost. For homeowners looking to maximize their investment, Generac is the clear winner.

5. Market Share and Customer Satisfaction: Generac is America’s #1 Generator Brand

• Generac: It’s no surprise that Generac dominates the home standby generator market with a 70% market share in the U.S. This leadership position speaks volumes about the brand’s reliability, innovation, and customer satisfaction. Generac has a proven track record of meeting the needs of homeowners, and with features like Mobile Link remote monitoring, users can conveniently track the performance of their generator from anywhere, ensuring they are always prepared for an outage.

• Kohler: While Kohler is a respected name in the industry, it holds a smaller share of the residential market, focusing more on commercial and industrial applications. Kohler’s smaller market presence in residential generators means fewer options and a less tailored experience for homeowners.

Verdict: Generac’s massive market share and reputation for innovation make it the go-to brand for homeowners who want a generator they can rely on.

Final Thoughts: Generac is the Ultimate Choice for Homeowners

While Kohler offers respectable standby generators, Generac consistently outperforms in key areas that matter most to homeowners: power output, fuel efficiency, noise levels, cost, and customer satisfaction. Whether you need a generator for occasional outages or long-term backup power, Generac delivers the best combination of performance, reliability, and value.

For homeowners seeking the best standby generator to protect their home, Generac stands head and shoulders above the competition.