Automatic Standby Generators FAQs
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
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.

What will it power?
GUARDIAN® 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 match it to the
appropriate generator system. Everything on that circuit will be protected. GUARDIAN also
powers furnaces, air conditioners, well pumps, water heaters 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 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.

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.

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 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.

How do I select a generator that’s right for me?
The most accurate way is to have an electrician apply an amp meter to the circuits or
appliances that will operate with emergency backup power. Measurements should be taken as
the appliance starts up. That’s because start up requires the greatest amount of power. To
eliminate the hassle of this process, GUARDIAN allows you to simply match your system to the
existing circuits in your electrical panel. With our 8, 10, 12 or 16 circuit, pre-wired systems, we
take the guesswork out of sizing. For customers concerned with air conditioning, the wattage
rating of the generator and its circuit breakers inside the transfer switch should be reviewed so
that A/C startup power requirements are met.  (
click this link for the Guardian size selector grid)

For GUARDIAN QuietSource™ liquid-cooled models, a licensed electrician must perform a site
survey to determine the size and voltage of the unit to meet your backup power needs.

What is Whisper-Test™? (GUARDIAN QuietSouce models only)
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 long does it take to install an automatic standby generator?
GUARDIAN air-cooled models, which come equipped with a comprehensive installation manual,
can take as little as four hours to install. They come pre-mounted on a composite pad to
further simplify installation. Liquid-cooled generators normally require up to 14 hours to install.
Because of their additional weight, liquid-cooled units must be installed on a stronger mounting
surface such as a concrete slab.

Note: Time estimates are based on typical applications. Additional time may be required to run
gas conduit or gas piping or to place the unit far from the incoming gas or electrical service.

Who should install the generator?
For safety reasons and to be sure of adherence to local, state and national codes. It is
recommended the generator be installed by an Authorized Dealer or licensed contractor.
However, the air-cooled systems are prepackaged, prewired and come with comprehensive
installation instructions to enable a competent “Do It Yourselfer” to participate in the installation
process.

How much fuel does an automatic standby generator use?  
7-16 kW Air-Cooled - Natural Gas (cu ft/hr) 100-250 - LP (cu ft/hr) 50-90
20-45 kW Liquid-Cooled - Natural Gas (cu ft/hr) 300-750 - LP (cu ft/hr) 120-300
60-150 kW Liquid-Cooled - Natural Gas (cu ft/hr) 960-2061 - LP (cu ft/hr) 375-830

Please refer to the individual model’s specification sheet for exact figures.

Note: Figures are based on continuous operation at full load. It is unlikely that the generator
will run at full load for an extended period, therefore, consumption decreases accordingly.

The generator that I've chosen has a 100-amp automatic transfer switch. What if I
have 200-amp service?
Emergency circuits should always be isolated by the emergency load center. An isolated sub-
panel helps to prevent overload situations.

Is a 200-amp automatic transfer switch available for the air-cooled models and the 20
kW liquid-cooled model?
No. Because a 200-amp transfer switch is not necessary. The outputs of these generators are
safely carried with a 100-amp automatic transfer switch.

Where can I purchase parts?
Parts can be purchased through any Authorized GUARDIAN Dealer. 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 an installation contract?
Costs are determined by the installation and are based upon the model chosen and the
requirements of the model. 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.

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 the complete product from the controls to the
enclosures, to their air-cooled engines specifically designed for their generators. This ensures
that their products are built to their highest standards.
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