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Frequently Asked Questions
What is an automatic standby generator?
An automatic standby generator is a back-up electrical system that operates whether you are at your property or away. It automatically supplies power to essential circuits of your building within 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 usually is installed outside at ground level or on the roof.
What will it power?
GUARDIAN® generators supply electricity to the electrical panel circuits of your property through an automatic transfer switch. You can elect to back up selected emergency circuits or your entire facility. A GUARDIAN Dealer or electrician can calculate the amperage of items you want to protect and match it to the appropriate generator system. Our liquid-cooled models range from 20-150 kW (single and three phase) and are ideal for larger homes, small businesses and commercial applications.
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 to ensure proper response to an outage. There are no extension cords to plug in and no gas tanks to fill. It operates automatically so it protects our property 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 use engines we design and manufacture specifically for our smaller generators. Volume production helps us to keep cost down, making our air-cooled generators the most affordable for our customers. They cover essential circuits and back-up power needs in most residential applications. Liquid-cooled units use automotive engines for increased horsepower. This makes them ideal for larger requirements such as whole-house power coverage, larger homes and commercial applications.
Do they have to be maintained?
Just like your car's engine, generators need periodic oil and filter changes. Many customers rely on GUARDIAN’s preventative maintenance kits (models up to 45 kW) to satisfy routine maintenance requirements. Refer to your owner's manual for routine maintenance procedures and schedules. Kits can be purchased through the business that sold you your GUARDIAN generator.
What is the advantage of an aluminum enclosure?
Aluminum is corrosion resistant, so it prolongs the life and look of the generator, particularly in salt air communities.
What is Whisper-Test™?
Whisper-Test is a feature that reduces noise by 50% during the generator's weekly self-test cycle. That makes it as quiet as a car idling in your driveway. The generator starts up and operates at a reduced speed, lowering sound output by as much as 12 decibels for units that normally run at higher speeds under load. This allows for near-silent operation in test mode and satisfies all known sound ordinances.
How do I select a generator that's right for me?
The most accurate way is to have a licensed electrician perform a site survey to determine the size and voltage of the unit to meet your backup power needs.
How long does it take to install an automatic standby generator?
Liquid-cooled generators normally require up to 14 hours, over two days, to install. Because of their additional weight, liquid-cooled units must be installed on a stronger mounting surface such as a concrete slab.
How much fuel does an automatic standby generator use?
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Natural Gas (cu ft/hr) |
100-250 |
300-750 |
960-2061 |
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LP (cu ft/hr) |
50-90 |
120-300 |
375-830 |
Please refer to the individual model's specification sheet for exact figures.
What transfer switch do I need?
Liquid-cooled models up to 60 kW require RTS transfer switches (100-400 amps), while 70-150 kW models require HTS transfer switches (100-800 amps).
Where can I purchase parts?
Parts can be purchased through any Authorized GUARDIAN Dealer. See our
Dealer Locator
to find a dealer near you. They can also be ordered online through Order Tree at www.ordertree.com or by calling (877) 500-7499. Part numbers are located in the owner's manual.
What is the cost of a service/maintenance contract?
Costs are determined by the installing dealer and are based upon service levels. Cost will also vary based on hourly labor rates in your local area.
What type of oil is recommended?
15W-40 is recommended for all liquid-cooled units. The oil should be a SAE rated high detergent oil that meets API Service Class SF requirements for gasoline engines.
Propane tanks are usually rated by pounds. Is there a conversion that can be applied to the fuel consumption numbers?
Yes. For general conversion, propane weighs 4.24 pounds per gallon. 1 lb. = 8.58 cu. ft. 1 gallon = 36.39 cu. ft.
Where do I go to have warranty repairs performed?
Any Authorized GUARDIAN Service Center can perform warranty service. To locate a dealer near you, please refer to our
Dealer Locator
section of the Web site or call our Automated Dealer Locator at 1-800-333-1322. The automated dealer locator is available 24/7/365. Our Authorized Service Centers provide parts, service and information on GUARDIAN equipment, regardless of where it was purchased.
Where is my Generator made?
GUARDIAN generators are made in the United States. Manufactured in Wisconsin by Generac Power Systems Inc., we design and build our complete product from the controls to the enclosures. This ensures that our products are built to our highest standards.
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