Which 20kw whole house generator would you recommend and why

[pclausen]

Before I spent anything more than $1000 to rebuilt the generator you have, I would want to see in writing that it would start the AC unit when rebuilt, or that they would give you credit on it toward another machine.

Excellent suggestion. I'll be sure to obtain that if we end up going in that direction.

 

[pclausen]

They called back with a quote for replacing the engine. Engine $1,296, shipping, labor and misc parts $644 for a total of $1,940.

The A/C is on a 40A breaker, so 40x240 = 9600W. Not sure what the start up draw is. Will take a look at the unit. Maybe the label will tell me. The well pump is on a 20A breaker, so 20x240 = 4800W.

I think the 15KW unit should be able to start the AC as long as the well pump doesn't happen to be running at the same time. The ovens are not on the generator panel, nor is the water heater or other electronics except for the fridge/freezer.

I'm waiting to hear back from them to see if they will put it in writing that this 15kw unit will reliably be able to start the AC and I also want it in writing that the new engine comes with a 3 year warranty.

$2000 to swap the engine seems a bit steep when a brand new 17kw unit with the digital nexus controller can be had for $3,390...

 

[brin]

They called back with a quote for replacing the engine. Engine $1,296, shipping, labor and misc parts $644 for a total of $1,940.

The A/C is on a 40A breaker, so 40x240 = 9600W.

The well pump is on a 20A breaker, so 20x240 = 4800W.

I think the 15KW unit should be able to start the AC as long as the well pump doesn't happen to be running at the same time. The ovens are not on the generator panel, nor is the water heater or other electronics except for the fridge/freezer.

I'm waiting to hear back from them to see if they will put it in writing that this 15kw unit will reliably be able to start the AC and I also want it in writing that the new engine comes with a 3 year warranty.

$2000 to swap the engine seems a bit steep when a brand new 17kw unit with the digital nexus controller can be had for $3,390...

I just want to give everyone an idea I came up with on a hot water heater that would work while on my whole house generator...I bought a $300.00 25 gal water heater from HD that is 110 v and plugs right in the wall...A friend of mine who is a plumber ...installed it so when we have a power failure I can switch over to the small 110v hot water heater...It works great so we don't have to give up hot water and is a relatively inexpensive work around.

 

[hr3]

Any word from them on the leak down test.??? Or some sort of infomation why they say you need a new motor ??

 

[murphy1244]

I just want to give everyone an idea I came up with on a hot water heater that would work while on my whole house generator...I bought a $300.00 25 gal water heater from HD that is 110 v and plugs right in the wall...A friend of mine who is a plumber ...installed it so when we have a power failure I can switch over to the small 110v hot water heater...It works great so we don't have to give up hot water and is a relatively inexpensive work around.

What is the draw?? A 110v heater is going to be a big time power draw.

 

[pclausen]

Any word from them on the leak down test.??? Or some sort of infomation why they say you need a new motor ??

I'm still waiting for a call back from "Benjamin" to get all those questions answered. He's the tech that performed the tests.

 

[pclausen]

Finally spoke to the tech that looked at the engine. Yes, the leakdown test numbers are a percentage. 28% on #1 and 48% on #2. Generac replaces engines under the 3 year warranty that reads higher than 28%. Unfortunately, this engine is a little over 4 years old.

He said that the air was coming out the oil dip stick pipe (the dip stick removed). So I guess that would indicate worn rings.

The replacement engine would be considered parts, and therefore only comes with a 90 day warranty.

He said the 15KW unit should be able to run the AC if it did so in the past, but he would not make that guarantee in writing.

Not sure what the best course of action is. I'm inclined to go for a new generator and take this engine apart to see if all it needs are a new set of rings and turn it into a good unit again.

 

[hr3]

I think you are on the right track.. I'd replace it... and fix it for a spare or sell it..

If you need any help I have all the books and would help if you like..

 

[pclausen]

Awesome. Thanks hr3!

 

[pclausen]

Well, it's done. Talked it over with mother and we both felt the best bet was to get a new unit. Just placed order for new 20kw generator. Mom is 78 and living by herself, so I want to make sure she has all the needed amenities when (not if) we loose power again.

Hopefully the engine on the 15kw unit won't be too bad off once I tear it down. I've never rebuilt a "small" engine before, only car engines. Should be a fun/interesting project!