With the odd changes in the climate and the unpredictable weather, strong storms and heat waves almost became the norm, and with them, power instability.
Power outages disrupt our daily lives and truly underscore the need for generators, turning them from a luxury into a need.
Two names stand out in the middle of the demand for a dependable power backup: Kohler vs. Generac.
Each company has its rich history, one being more than a century old with a diverse portfolio, while the other is more recent with a focused attitude towards backup power generators.
Today, we’ll help you understand the difference between Kohler versus Generac so you can make an informed decision. Let’s start!
Kohler Overview
According to their website, Kohler started in 1873, when John Micahel Kohler bought a foundry in Wisconsin.
As the years passed, the Kohler name grew with exceptional products for bathrooms, kitchens, and now, generators.
Pros
One of the first things that made Kohler generators special is that they’re easy to use.
The process is straightforward, making them a convenient choice for homeowners as they automatically turn on and off depending on your needs.
Following that, Kohler generators are somewhat easy to maintain with simple upkeep. You don’t have to reach tough nooks and crannies to get them cleaned up.
This ensures you have long-term reliability and efficiency. They’re also very durable, as they’re built to withstand harsh workloads over several years, making them dependable during critical times.
Finally, Kohler generators are fuel-efficient, providing maximum power output with minimal fuel consumption.
Cons
Sadly, one of the main drawbacks of Kohler generators is their high cost. Though this can be because of their material or craftsmanship, it’s still a drawback to some.
Another problem with these generators is their noise output. Kohler units are known to have high noise levels when in use, which is common among most brands.
The high noise levels may require you to further consider where the generator is placed, opting for a sound-proof location where possible.
Finally, while these generators are known for their durability, if repairs are needed, they can be quite costly.
Also, depending on the issue’s complexity, you’ll need to add the fees for the specialized technician to fix it.
Reviews
A quick look at Kohler’s generators’ user feedback will tell you that most are happy with them. The average rating is around 4.4 stars out of 5 based on more than 300 hundred reviews.
Most are happy with the no refueling option, amazing warranty option, and the automatic transfer switch.
On the downside, they mentioned the need for a professional to install it and that it can be expensive.
Generac Overview
Unlike Kohler, Generac started out with only one niche in mind: backup power. The company began operation in Wales in 1959, with just five employees.
They started creating unique generators based on Wis., Robert Kern’s designs, and within just a couple of years, the company flourished.
Pros
When talking about Generac, one of the first things people mention about them is the affordable price point.
They’re known for offering great value for money, making them an attractive option for a wide range of homeowners and the like.
Generac also offers a wide variety of generators catering to different needs and preferences. This diversity guarantees there’s a generator that fits your specific needs and requirements.
Finally, one of the most standout features of some Generac generators is their self-refueling system.
This system allows the generators to take directly from your house’s natural gas lines without requiring manual assistance.
Cons
While Generac offers a wide range of generators, some users noted there are several models with high noise output.
This can be a significant drawback, especially in residential areas where noise can be a significant concern.
However, the following drawback is vastly more significant when compared to the noise levels!
In 2023, the company recalled several of its products, over 60,000, due to potential issues related to the safety and reliability of the affected models.
Reviews
Reviews are a great source of additional reassurance for customers before they invest in higher-cost products such as generators.
Based on 3000+ reviews, Generac received an overall 4.7 out of 5 star review on Home Depot, 96% recommending the product.
So What Are the Differences?
Now that you know the pros and cons of each company, it’s time to ask where they differ. So, here’s a quick outline for the Kohler generators vs Generac debate:
Are Generac or Kohler Quieter?
The noise levels between the two generators aren’t that different, with Kolher being just a tad louder than Generac.
Features
Regarding features, it can be hard to distinguish between the two companies, as it’ll all come down to your model choice.
Some features both Kohler and Generac offer include both LPG and Natural Gas fuel types, and automatic operation after power outages.
You can customize your power plan with Generac generators by powering select appliances or the whole house, depending on your needs.
Kohler also offers multiple power options with their 14kW Generator powering the basics such as television, water heater and heating/AC units, the 20kW Generator powering most major appliances, and the 26kW Generator powering entire homes.
Lifespan & Warranty
Kohler generators boast a long lifespan, ranging from 25 to 40 years. They also offer substantial warranties, with some up to 10 years.
As for Generac, according to the company, the generators can live 25 to 30 years. Their warranty is typically five years, but there are extended warranties available ranging from 7 to 10 years.
Price
As mentioned, the prices for each company vary, Kohler tends to be more expensive. Most of their generators start from $4,000 and go up from there.
This is a general estimate without the installation fees, of course.
Generac, on the other hand, offers more budget-friendly units ranging between $2,000 and $6,000 not including installation fees.
Final Thoughts – Which Generator is Best for Homes?
Between Kohler and Generac, the best generator really depends on the home in question and its requirements. The size of a home, the type of appliances, and the available budget all come into play when picking the most suitable generator.
Having read the features, pros and cons, and customer reviews, you will now have a better idea about which brand sounds like the perfect fit for you and your budget.
