Directory of Frequently Asked Questions
Description of Operation
Selection/Sizing
Installation
Service/Maintenance
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Description of operation:
What is an automatic standby generator?
An automatic standby generator is a back-up electrical system that operates whether you are at home or away. It automatically supplies power to essential circuits of your home within 10- 20 seconds of a utility outage. After utility power returns, the generator shuts itself off and awaits the next outage. It operates on natural gas or liquid propane and sits outside just like a central air conditioning unit.
How big and noisy are they?
GUARDIAN®’S air-cooled lineup uses an enclosure sized 4’ x 2’ x 2.5’ (L x W x H) and comes with a composite base, so a concrete pad in not required. They are rated 62 – 66 dB (A) at 23 feet, under normal load. This is the approximate sound of a car idling on a driveway.
What will it power?
GUARDIAN® standby generators supply electricity to the electrical panel circuits of your home through a built-in load center. You select the number of circuits you want to protect and we match it to the appropriate generator system. Everything on your selected circuit will be protected. The generator can power sensitive electronics, refrigerators, furnaces, air conditioners, sump/well pumps, and other appliances that are hard wired into your electrical panel.
Why should I buy an automatic standby generator instead of a portable generator?
While portable generators do supply power, an automatic standby generator produces a higher quality of electricity. It operates automatically and runs a weekly self-test for 12 minutes to ensure proper response to your needs. There are no extension cords to plug in and no gas tanks to fill. It operates automatically so it protects your home even when you're away. When utility power returns, the standby generator shuts itself off.
What's the difference between air-cooled and liquid-cooled?
Air-cooled units rely on airflow to cool the engine and range in size from 4 -20kW. Liquid-cooled units (20kW and larger) use automotive engines for increased horsepower. This makes them ideal for larger requirements such as whole-house power coverage, larger homes and commercial applications.
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Selection/Sizing:
How do I select a generator that's right for me?
The best and easiest way is to contact us for a Free Quotation. We will arrange a site visit at a time convenient for you. The visit will take 20-30 minutes to correctly size the generator, determine placement, identify electrical and gas connection requirements. We will provide a detailed quotation offering relevant options including essential circuits, additional circuits and the whole house. We can also quote different generator locations for your complete freedom of choice, allowing you to select the best system for your needs and budget.
Click here for a Free Quotation.
Why circuits and not watts?
Establishing wattage requirements of the appliances you want to power during an outage is difficult because those appliances can be plugged into various outlets in your home. That's why GUARDIAN® has simplified the process. By allowing you to protect everything on chosen circuits, you no longer have to worry about individual items.
What is the cost for an installed system?
An 8kW generator and basic installation starts at $3798.
Click here for Residential/Light Commercial Solutions.
Can’t I size the generator and order it on-line?
Yes, you have complete freedom do that, but once you buy it, you own it. It is best to have an experienced GUARDIAN® Factory Trained generator installer confirm the generator size, including the maximum surge amps as it relates to the load, and highlight the benefits of the different models.
Click here for tips on Buying a generator.
Why are there two numbers for power rating (10/9kW)?
The dual rating represents the rated power of the generator for each fuel type. The first number is the power rating for liquid propane gas (LPG). The second number is the power rating for natural gas (NG). LPG has a higher energy content than NG, thereby giving the generator more power.
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Installation:
Who should install the generator?
We can professionally and economically perform your complete installation including:
- No cost quotation
- Sizing the generator
- Supplying and placing the generator
- Installing the electric and gas connections
- Permit and Nicor applications
- Startup and maintenance
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GUARDIAN® reports that 99% of initial problems are due to faulty installation that could have been avoided. We recommend professional installation by a GUARDIAN® Factory Trained installer to insure your complete satisfaction and to protect your investment.
Click here for help with Choosing a Generator Installer.
Click here for help with Gas Piping & Generator Operation.
How long does it take to install an automatic standby generator?
The actual installation process is usually one day for air-cooled units requiring basic installation. The complete installation process from receipt of order to startup is typically 2 – 4 weeks.
Liquid-cooled units require 2 days or longer for installation, in addition to the required concrete pad due to their additional weight. The complete process can be 4-6 weeks.
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Service/Maintenance:
Do they have to be maintained?
Just like your car's engine, generators need periodic oil and filter changes. The air-cooled 8kW – 20kW generators require an oil and filter change after the first 8 hours of operation and then every 200 hours or 2 years. In addition, a complete tune-up is recommended at the same interval.
What is the cost of a service/maintenance contract?
The cost for our 8 – 20kW air-cooled generator, 40 – point, annual preventive maintenance service starts at $159. Costs can vary, based on travel distance, generator access and other factors.
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What type of oil is recommended?
SAE 30 is recommended above 32*F, 10W-30 is recommended -10* to 40*F and synthetic 5W-30 is recommended below 10*F. Liquid-cooled units use 15W-40 oil.
Where can I purchase parts?
Parts can be purchased through us since we are an Authorized GUARDIAN® Dealer. They can also be ordered online through Order Tree at http://www.ordertree.com/ or by calling (877) 500-7499. Part numbers can be located at http://www.guardiangenerators.com/Products/Manual.aspx via the manual look-up portion of guardiangenerators.com.
Where do I go to have warranty repairs performed?
We are an Authorized GUARDIAN® Service Center and can perform warranty service. We can provide service and maintenance regardless of where it was purchased.
What if I already own a portable generator?
We can install a transfer switch and permanent wiring allowing you to:
- Connect any circuit breaker in your existing house panel to the generator.
- Quickly, safely and easily connect your generator to a permanent outdoor receptacle using a single cord.
- Installation starts at $899 (using your generator).
Click here for a Free Quotation.
Where is the generator made? 
GUARDIAN® generators are made in the United States. Manufactured in Wisconsin by Generac® Power Systems Inc., they design and build their complete product from the controls to the enclosures, to their air-cooled engines specifically designed for generators. This ensures that their products are built to the highest standards.
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