backup generator thoughts?

[yznhmr]

well this one is a bit more but it looks like a great deal.. anyone familier with it?>

http://www.norwall.com/Guardian_7_10_13.htm

 

[Nataku]

Ok, got some quotes for standby generators. Both reps say to stay away from the generac guardian. They carry them but don't recommend them. They said they are repairing them quite a bit. Both recommended the Briggs and Stratton 15KW 40234. I wanted the whole house to be run so I priced the configuration with the service disconnect and the transfer switch. This would power the original service panel without wiring up a subpanel. One guy qouted $10000 and the other $8500-$9500.

$4400 - 15kW 40234
$1350 - 71011 200 Amp Transfer w/ Service disconnect
$2500 - Electrician Installation
$1300 - Plumping for Natural Gas
---------------------------
$9550

Check you local code. You will need to file a permit.

At these prices I can afford to replace my lost livestock. I think I will look for alternatives.

 

[mhurley]

I know 3 guys that have 15Kw Generac's installed and never had a problem. Installed and running for under $5K.

$10K for the Briggs, gee...seems suspicious that what he is pushing comes at double the cost.

 

[yznhmr]

thats an awful lot for NG and electrical.. what is the guy union?

 

[Freed]

Looks like the reps want to stay away from the Guardian because they don't make nearly as much money off of them as the other. I have read numerous reports of these being great generators. My 5500 watt Generac Wheelhorse is a great piece of equipment. Your pricing for the installation and the natural gas plumbing looks a bit steep too. For the plumbing do they intend to drill down a couple hundred feet to a gas pocket? That's alot of money to run 3/4" pipe a few feet from one of your lines in the basement or thru a wall.

Electrical installation of $2500? WOW!!

 

[Nataku]

I decided to go with a portable backup generator. A 5000 watt with a manual transfer switch and a bit of elbow grease ( DYI ). This board is has the most diverse collection of experts on the planet. I have an electrical question.

The generator has a NEMA L14-20R output. I was thinking about getting a higher rated transfer switch in case i want to upgrade the generator. Will NEMA L14-30R plug fit in the generator outlet?

Thanks