Shopping for a generator

[oosik]

I think we better consider ourselves & our situation pretty darn fortunate, Larry. A lot of folks, on here, are subject to some devastating natural disasters.

 

[doxford jim]

I too have a Kubota generator (12kW) and it powers the house with geothermal heating, stove washer , drier etc. It has been a godsend when we have had power outages with temperatures down around -25C/-15F. The glow plug preheat makes a big difference in starting at these low temperatures. The unit was already installed on the property when I bought it, but had not been used - engine run hours of 2. I reran the fuel system from a 250 gallon fuel tank and it now starts and runs well. I currently have around 160 hours on it with just engine oil and filter and fuel filters changed. Air filter is as good as new. I guess mine consumes around 1/2 gallon per hour at 60% load.
Both of the units are good choices in my opinion. You could probably buy cheaper if you shopped around, but is it worth it. The Kubota has performed flawlessly for me which is important.
HTH

 

[techman]

If you do not need automatic transfer, but a simple mechanical, like: Generator InterLock Kit Manual Transfer Switch

You can feed the whole house, and does not cost much. As for the start control, Central main does not list it, just call and ask about it.
As for using it, long spells go by without use, except exercise. However the 2 day outage during winter, with temps in the teens, and near miss hurricanes and super storm Sandy are all you need to appreciate having backup. Having water from a well and heating the house can be high interests.

Paul

 

[Hunter29]

Thanks for the replys, I am all set with a switch, this is a replacement for the 10kw gas unit I have now..

 

[Hunter29]

I didn't see the option for an automatic transfer switch with the Perkins? And I didn't see the option for a remote start with the Kubota?

I'm imagine you could get either aftermarket though.

How will you be enclosing it? Will you be using it for a whole house generator? Are you going to tie it in with automatic transfer?

On the Kubota, it gave the option for a 100amp transfer switch. Does this mean you can't use it for a 200amp panel? Or do you just get a second transfer switch to make 200?

Yep whole house, it will live in my 200 SF generator house.. this is an old photo, its all finished now.

 

[Piston]

Nice generator house Hunter! :thumbsup:

 

[Hunter29]

Thanks Piston..

 

[Hunter29]

Question for Techman and Jim, what oil do you run in the winter?

 

[techman]

Question for Techman and Jim, what oil do you run in the winter?

I use regular car diesel. I treat it with stuff from the HVAC supply house. Advertised as prevents gelling, absorbs moisture, prevents algae growth, and so on. Meant for oil burner tanks, but same oil. I have never had an issue with gelling. As soon as mine starts it will blow warm air on the oil tank. I have run it into the teens.

Paul

 

[Hunter29]

I use regular car diesel. I treat it with stuff from the HVAC supply house. Advertised as prevents gelling, absorbs moisture, prevents algae growth, and so on. Meant for oil burner tanks, but same oil. I have never had an issue with gelling. As soon as mine starts it will blow warm air on the oil tank. I have run it into the teens.

Paul

I run Biobor in my diesel, but what I am asking is motor oil, do you run 10w 30 15w 40 ect?