How long does it take for an installation?

How do I size a generator?

What is the expected life of the engine?

Where can I purchase parts?

What is the cost of a service contract?

How much oil does the crankcase hold?

What type of oil is recommended?

1. How long does it take to install a Residential Emergency Home Standby generator?
The air-cooled 7 kW, 12 kW and 15 kW, which comes equipped with a comprehensive installation kit, can take as little as 4 hours to install. The liquid-cooled 15 kW to 45 kW generators will normally take up to 14 hours over 2 days. Air-cooled units are typically installed on a composite mounting pad. Liquid-cooled units, because of their additional weight, must be installed on a stronger mounting surface. The increased installation time is necessary to pour a concrete slab and allow for it to set properly. If the installer can source a prefabricated mounting pad that will meet the increased weight requirements of a liquid-cooled unit, the installation time will be reduced accordingly.
The length of time is based on a typical application. It does not apply to applications that require extended runs of conduit or gas piping or the placement of a unit far from the incoming gas or electrical service.

2. How do you size a generator?
The only completely accurate way is to have an electrician apply an amp meter to the circuits or appliances that are being chosen to operate under emergency backup power. It is recommended that the amp draw be measured as the appliance "starts up" when that appliance used an inductive or resistive motor. You may also refer to our air-cooled models that offer 8, 10 or 12 circuits.


3. What is the expected life of the engine?
A properly maintained engine should provide over 20 years of operation under emergency standby conditions. Keep in mind that the units are not intended to provide continuous power (24 hours a day, 365 days a year).

4. Where can I purchase parts?
Parts may be obtained through any Authorized Guardian Dealer. Part numbers are located in the owner's manual.

5. What is the cost of a service/maintenance contract?
The cost will be determined by the installing dealer, based upon what service the customer requires for the system. Further, the cost will vary based on hourly labor rates in different parts of the country.

6. How much oil does the engine crankcase hold?
Air-cooled: 7 kW, 12 kW and 15 kW – 1.7 qt.

Liquid-cooled: 15 kW, 20 kW and 25 kW – 4.0 qt.

Liquid-cooled: 45 kW – 4.5 qt.

7. What type of oil is recommended?
The recommended oil for the 7 kW, 12 kW and 15 kW air-cooled units is 10W-30 temperatures above 20° F. Use 5W-20 or 5W-30 for temperatures below 20° F. After the first oil change, all-season 5W-30 synthetic oil may be used. API Service Class SG, SH or SJ should be used in all cases.
The recommended oil for the liquid-cooled units is 15W-40. All oil should be SAE rated high detergent oil that meets API Service Class SF requirements for gasoline engines.