I learned this MANY years ago from a friend who was a mechanic. Glue a piece of copper between the posts to act as a sacrificial anode. I used to use a penny but there isn't enough copper in them now so get you a copper washer. All of the corrosion will migrate to the copper and leave your posts clean. I've done this on my cars for 40 years and IT WORKS!
Do what??? Heard of pennies in house plants, tomato plants. (pre 1972 for more copper, if I remember correctly). Just learned about the Hot Water heater anode & working on that (getting flex kind & driver next week), And just saw this comment. Thank you, Sir! I will need to look into this! LUV this old school knowledge, wish it was in a book!!!
In the marine industry we use dielectric grease to cover the terminal after making the (clean) connection. The issue with having a sacrificial anode is you will still have the corrosion, just on the piece of copper, that will still need to be cleaned up. Dielectric grease covering the terminals will cut off the oxygen and moisture in the air that is the source of the corrosion.
@parkertazelaar i typically use dielectric grease. I didnt have any at the time i made that video. Mainly just wanted to stress the importance of some kind of terminal protection.
I noticed he couldn't wait to.show off is work. Very nice, he should be proud. Heck I wish he would come down to Greenville SC and install mine. Helene. The beotch really caused head aches for us.
Loved it! Been waiting for a new video. Thanks for the “plug” on my video, the decal on your toolbox and the fart on the pillow! I’m still laughing at your daughter on the bike 😂😂😂 You sure know how to make what would normally be a boring video into something very entertaining! Nice job.
Agreed. When we put in our pool with hot tub, we had to pay the gas company to install an upgraded meter that could handle the influx of gas needed to heat the hot tub and pool.
Use caution when buying a Kohler, their dealer service network is nowhere to be found in many areas of the country and in areas where their might be one they can be a bit touchy if you didn't buy from the when it comes to service, I have a 12RESV unit 1/1/2 years old 100 hours running time that has failed and because I had a local electrician install it the local Kohler dealer told me they no longer will do service calls on units they did not sell and install, so basically no matter what Kohler offers as a warranty it's useless in my situation so I now own a nice Yard ornament....Choose wisely
The vertical shaft smaller units are junk. Wether its a kohler or generac. Your right, kohler is particular about theyre installers, unlike generac. We have always had good luck with warranty issues. I think a lot of that comes down to the installer.
@@SpicerDesignsLLC ... as a 25 year Generac tech, I have to say that many dealers (of various brands) are not all that experienced. Smaller dealers can't keep good help or pay a competitive wage.... and they just don't do enough to gain the experience because they don't focus on generators. (plumbers, power equipment sales, electricians, etc) your installation seems exceptionally nice, but service and troubleshooting of the unit is another game.
@@nomansland4811 100 hours and brushes and rotor are toast are a big deal, although I did finally get them to repair under warranty, however brushes burning up shows a manufacturing.assembly problem which is a reliability problem hence forth I no longer leave it in Auto and only run it if the power company tells me the will be down for more than an hour, bottom line here is that the Alternator is Chinese and as it stand no more reliable than my 12000 dual fuel portable I have, next year will see if I can find a NON Chinese generator to replace the Kohler
I build custom steel stands for those generators. Some of the cities around me wont allow wooden stands anymore. They also raised all the flood zone levels so I've built some pretty high stands. I think my highest stand so far has been a nine foot stand. I've been thinking about getting certified to service those generators. It never hurts to make extra money!
This is excellent sound advice! Really enjoyed your approach to simplicity and comedy, while giving home owners GREAT BACKUP information. And, it’s coming from a certified/experienced electrician! As a retired service member, we typically vet, research, and look things over with a fine tooth comb times 100, for overkill. 😂 Just to ensure there are no high risk liabilities. You my friend, have sold me on your setup! It’s clean, practical, and quite efficient! I have a 200amp 4000sqft home, and I was contemplating a mobile generator unit. Down here in TEXAS, we seem to go through unpredictable power outages during both winter and summer. Now, I’m researching and getting quotes to install a 20kw Koyler year! Thanks again for your informative video! YOU ROCK- From a veteran to an electrician, AIRBORNE!
Thanks for the nice comment and thank you for your service! Glad you found the video helpful. I figured it was a good overview of the system to help people with their decision. Good luck with you generator install and thanks for watching.
Great video! Your electrical installation in your home is amazing. Definitely over the top, but worth it. The benefits of doing it yourself and knowing it's done perfect. 👍🏻
Thanks a lot from Northern California - Sonoma County. Subbed 2/20/23. Our house has gas on one side and power panel on the entirely opposite side of the house! Something to think about!! Thanks a lot!
Man, I wish the inside of my breaker box was that neat! One perk of having new construction done by one person at one time....and I'm sure it helps if the homeowner is the electrician
We bought a Briggs and Stratton Power protect 26Kw early last year and the power hasn't gone out once. It exercises once a week for 10 minutes. Maybe we will lose power some day.
Super HELPFUL detailed information which is gonna make me a way more informed consumer. You're the archetype of why I go to youtube for information: expertise delivered in an understandable and practical way... and the humor is fun brother!
Try using a non conductive pointer to identify live connections in the future. Getting close to live leads get my teeth a little edgy! Thanks for the video, my generator is just like yours, love it. Tip: go wired ethernet instead of wifi to the generator for use of the app and information - eliminates connection issues. Installers will try to talk you into wireless - don't do it!
I dont have an experience installing a Cummins, just servicing. I know their commercial units are good. Cummins always seems to have good products but im not much help on this one.
I have a 22kw Generac and I have noticed even running the engine longer doesn't evaporate the water from the oil. I change mine every 6 months (cheaper oil is better than contaminated 13.00/qt. amsoil!). I noticed yoy have a square meter socket with buried lines, do they no longer mandate the larger meter sockets? They never said anything with mine either. Also, do you recommend whole home surge protection? I didn't see one on your panel. I have been looking into them to shunt any surges to protect my home. Thank you and keep up the videos, you are onto something with this UA-cam thing :-)
Ive only seen that milky oil in the Generacs. Not sure how theyre getting that much moisture in the engine. We typically install pedestals meters for new residential but the county i was in required a meter can verse the pedestal. They actually provided it when I installed that service. And yes its always smart to have surge protection. I never got around to installing one at my old house thats jn that video. We sold that house about 8 months ago.
@@SpicerDesignsLLC The engines definitely get hot enough to evaporate water. If they still can't cook off condensate after that it has to be a breather issue not allowing moisture to escape. At any rate, I'm just going to be on a spring/fall plan for oil changes. Plugs and filter every 2 years is fine. Natural gas burns clean and unless I lose power for days should have less than 25 hours on an air filter :-) 30.00 for an oil change with a wix filter and 2qts of amsoil small engine 10w-30 (compatible with 5w30 also). That's reasonable twice a year. I noticed all those decals on your toolbox. What have you built that requires cometic gaskets? I have a 71 C10 with a roller 388.
@@FastBowtie388 i built a LQ4 6.0 iron block that i was going to put into a 64 C10. I ended up building my last house and decided to sell the project because i didnt have the time with all the new house projects. Was fun to build though. Learned a lot.
@@SpicerDesignsLLC I was at Martin 131 draway a few years back and someone had a single turbo on a 6 liter in a jeep. Damn thing couldn't keep the front tires on the ground. Looked like fun. I can only imagine how squirrely that would be on the big end lol. Better be wearing depends lmao
The 6:00 minute mark in this video is one of the most important! Copper is expensive but you Buy Once & Cry Once… When you mess with the distance of a LNG or Propane line and have a heavy load to supply it will mean all the difference in the world to keep it running to peak!
So clean electrical boxes. My new house I'm building I elected to go with a portable backup from the meter. Great information on the setup. Keystones are safe from going warm yay. Cheers Kyle
Thanks for the info. I never had a backup generator and you answered a lot of the questions. In the 200 amp service range what is a couple of the units you would recommend? Have a good one from west Tennessee
Great video for a guy like me who's considering a whole home generator. Unfortunately our house is on a slab and I have the natural gas meter on one side of the house and the electrical panel on the other. How much of a problem is that going to be, if I place the generator on the side with the gas meter to get to the other side of the house where all of the electrical is? Can that even be done??? Thanks.
Thanks! It can be. Youll probably have to bury a line around the back of the house to the transfer switch. Youll want the switch next to the electrical meter. Generator by the gas meter. Hard to say if that is realistic for your situation being you may have some landscaping or other obstacles. Theres always a way. Just more time and money. Depends if its worth it to you or not.
@@SpicerDesignsLLC Thanks so much for the quick reply. I think it's realistic that we can bury the electrical line around the back of the house to the transfer switch. It's a new house with very little landscaping at this point.
Awesome video… after 3 days without power(including Xmas eve and Xmas)in the middle of an upstate NY winter storm monkeying around with a portable was not fun at all!… I went with the Cummins, the rep gave high praise to the Koehler and Cummins but he was not as much of a fan of the generacs( but my neighbor has a Generac with no complaints)either way.. if you can afford to get a standby Genny then do it!… the peace of mind is well worth it and you’ll be waiting for the next outage .
Now here goes a good question is that power transfer switch outdoor weather rated? For example my home my breaker box is outside by the meter which is not attached to my home and is put on a 8x8 post about 50 ft away from my home. I don't have a breaker box inside my home they're all outside on the pole. Real hard part about it is figure out how to tie it into a solar system as a backup power source for it.
Thanks, nice video, I'm looking into buying one now and I got 3 bids and all 3 gave me different size units 20kw 22kw, and 24kw. I'm lost, my house is only 2100 sqft and 5 ton a/c. Everything I'm reading and seeing leads me to think a 20kw nat gas one would be ok. Any thoughts would be greatly and humbly taken. thanks
20kw is all you need. The 22 and 24 are a scam in my opinion. The output is almost the same as the 20. I ran my house in that video with a 20kw. That was with a 5 ton and 3 ton AC.
Doesn't hurt to increase the pipe size. If you keep the generator close to the gas meter, which I would recommend, it shouldn't affect it much. Definitely a discussion to be had with the plumber.
@@grege1972 no problem. I try to keep up with comments so i can respond in a reasonable time. Good luck with your home build. Feel free to reach out with any other questions.
Neighbor has one across the street and had it used three times in a year .. I'm tired of running extension cords and using a gas Duramax to power certain appliances and having two kids is cumbersome. Getting a generac soon
Is it practical during very not Texas summers to use the natural gas generator to cool the house for a few weeks to save on the energy bill? Even a couple days a week might be cost saving.
Hard to say. You would have to calculate your utility costs to find out. Also the extra run hours will cause you to have it maintenance more often. Probably not recommended.
At one point do you need to change the main breaker panel from 100 to 200 amp panel when installing a generac generator 24kw or is it needed. Thanks learned a lot I will subscribe
You shouldnt need to change the main in your panel. If your doing a whole house transfer switch you will need to make sure you get a services entrance rated transfer switch. Hopefully that answers your question.
Great video! Very informative with some good humor. I'm going to have one installed where my pool heater used to be. Gas connection is all set and ready to go. Going to need to run about 75 feet of wire to get to where the meter and transfer switch will be. Do you anticipate any issues? I was glad to hear you say running wire was better than gas. Figure it will save me some money on the install.
@@SpicerDesignsLLC thank you. Going through that process now. Any thoughts on the Kohler versus a Briggs & Stratton? Kohler dealer support is very limited in my area. There is much more Briggs support in my area.
@@briancurry8514 ive worked on many Briggs. They are good units. Im not familiar with they’re newer units. Not sure if they’ve changed much. I was doing services on Briggs that were 15 years old.
we typically four or more feet of snow, should the generator be installed above this possibility amount? say block foundation where the pad is mounted to?
They weigh close to 400lbs. Im not sure on the requirements for an area with that much snow. May need to be under roof like a lean to for wood. Sorry i dont have a good answer for that
@@thefaeryman .... good chance you don't get 4 ft of snow in a single storm, on a regular basis so placing it say 20 - 30 inches high on a concrete base will help. Higher than that may make for difficult servicing. You probably shouldn't consider any sort of roof, especially if it's near the house. There are building code issues with carbon monoxide and possible fire related situations, along with having head room to work on the unit. BTW, I am in Ct so familiar with the weather.
Great video and well presented. But is that window is about 5-ft to generator and the basement well. Looking to install one but exhaust issue is my concern
@@ssmarcocarlo you shouldnt have any issues. Just make sure you load shed any large electric loads, electric oven, hot tub, multiple air conditioners, ect. The installers should be aware of that.
I'm having a Kohler standby until installed. The Kohler dealer quote was nearly double the price over what a good electrician would charge. And the dealer's price didn't include gas piping or trenching (for buried gas/electrical) just the electrical work. So you might save thousands of dollars by comparing authorized dealers to qualified electricians if considering a standby generator. Definitely worth a few extra phone calls.
They will. Typically you would buy the unit from Kohler or the electrical contractor. Kohler has a list of preferred installers per area code. Which are usually electrical contractors.
Nice video, good details and I felt like I learned something new. Definitely not going to do this myself. I'm located in the South and my home doesn't have natrual gas. Do you have a video on how to set up a Kohler or Generac in this case? If this includes having to rely on liquid propane, what does the cost look like for that? Would you recommend a portable solution in this scenario vs setting up a home backup generator?
LP would be the other option for these units. Not sure what the cost it for that. As far as a portable, there are tons of choices. Would have to install a small manual transfer switch and a generator plug. Or just back feed the house and kill the main.
I have just got one of these units about a year ago. I did not install it myself, I hired an electrical company to buy it and install it. I guess the place I choose for it's placement may have added a lot of extra work. They had to install about 40 ft of gas line to reach the generator. I really like knowing that if I do loose power this unit will start automatically and everything continues as normal. My installer actually offers that they do the yearly maintenance for a small fee. I would recommend this unit.
Hey Bob, not sure if Doug told you or not. We are coming out again to visit in February. I know you subscribe so id like to meet you if your around. Feel free to email me if its easier. Spicerdesignsllc@gmail.com
@@SpicerDesignsLLC Kyle, Doug did not mention that you were coming back to PA. Glad you a coming back this way. It would be great to meet you. When you get here, Doug or yourself can contact me. Thanks, Bob.
Thanks for sharing this. Getting a custom home done and the builder has made a rough in plus kept a natural gas line. Most likely will go Kohler up here in Canada (Ontario). That being said, there are other homes. I’m guessing there’s not much we can do regarding noise?
Loved the vid, very informational as I decide whole house or something solar with backup batteries. For a 2500 sq ranch, gas furnace, stove, dryer, but no AC, what size would you recommend? Thank you.
Worked 40+ years for a lawn Mower MFG that was bought out by B&S, one day we got a shipment in our Ga. warehouse straight from the Savannah port, we opened the trailer door and there was OVER 5 well known U.S. brand names on the boxes of ALL generators, and the kicker was they ALL came out of the same MFG plant in CHINA
overall good and informative video. (with my sense of humor) I must add that local codes will be different. Here in Ct that unit must be 5 feet from both the electric meter (utility co rules) and gas meter. (NFPA code) NFPA is national code. Something else to consider (you touched on this) is gas meter size AND gas pipe size... from the street. People need to know if upsizing is even possible without spending $10k to go all the way to the street main. Also, some gas companies will upsize the meter free of charge, while others have a hefty fee. As I recall, that 20Kw unit will need 300 - 400 CFH additional flow above other demands in the house. It must be figured in advance and there are no short cuts. BTW, the Kohler units do offer slightly better fuel economy and are slightly quieter that the Generac. BTW, I just retired after 25 years with the local Generac / Kohler dealer. Yes, we sold both, but probably 10 to 1 in favor or Generac. We are one of the larger servicing dealers east of the Mississippi.
@@thomassemich4627 ... I didn't say I was in favor, I said Generac sold more in our market by a heavy margin. My best guess is mostly due to price advantage and number of dealers. There's also the fact that Generac's transfer switch has had load shedding available for near 10 years, which makes it easier to wire in AC units on a smaller gen set. Other companies offer it, but as an add-on item. (last I looked before I retired)
Enjoyed your video & was curious if you could do a basic break down of the installation costs & would $ be saved by finding an independent like yourself to do the work? I imagine some costs are baked in but wondering if there's much room to maneuver to save money.
I'm too poor, for wannuh those, but I have a portable Briggs and Stratton generator, 8500 watts, for in case of a hurry-cane hitting Jacksonville, FLA, my home.....I would like to eventually run a transfer switch to the main breaker, some day...... THANKS for the info !!!!
Love your humor in this video-I'm in the process of getting a Generac standby gen. installed, my biggest obstacle was getting a propane tank installed ( it looks like you are way out in the country how did you get so luck to have natural gas available?) still waiting for the first fill up and then get a plumber to run the line and get the co. inspector out. I live in NC and its hurricane season down South and they still come thru here and wreak havoc on the power lines. Did you wire up your main 200amp box, that wiring is a thing of beauty....
Thank you! Ya the lot we built on had natural gas available. Was expensive to run to the house. Ive since sold that house and bought another with propane. Not as convenient but it works. Yes im an electrician by trade. I build that house. Did all the wiring and plumbing and a whole lot more.
Great video and well presented. Thank you. I agree with the others about the clean install and super clean electric panel. There is only so much one can do on retrofit but new construction is the time to do these things right.
They can run for about 100 hours straight before it needs to be serviced. They are not designed to be a primary source of power of thats what your asking.
Great video…and entertaining. I recently had an 18kw Generac installed at my house. Curious why you think Kohler is a better unit…hope I didn’t make a mistake. I looked at both brands. I’m useless when it comes to working with electricity, so I had to pay full price.
Generacs arent bad units. There are some things about them i dont like. If you get a good installer thats an actual electrician and not just a generator tech youll be fine. Glad you enjoyed the video. Thanks for the comment!
Thank you for the video! I have a question about single phase vs. 3 phase for home stand-by generators. In what situations would you recommend a homeowner a 3 phase over a single phase? I've noticed that these are options I can choose with generators, but I'm not too familiar with why I would need one or the other. Thanks again!
Single phase it what a residential home requires and uses for normal power. Three phase is strictly for commercial buildings/ businesses. Most commercial building are 3 phase.
Check out the 20KW Kohler with transfer switch on Amazon: amzn.to/47YofWn
I learned this MANY years ago from a friend who was a mechanic. Glue a piece of copper between the posts to act as a sacrificial anode. I used to use a penny but there isn't enough copper in them now so get you a copper washer. All of the corrosion will migrate to the copper and leave your posts clean. I've done this on my cars for 40 years and IT WORKS!
Do what??? Heard of pennies in house plants, tomato plants. (pre 1972 for more copper, if I remember correctly). Just learned about the Hot Water heater anode & working on that (getting flex kind & driver next week), And just saw this comment. Thank you, Sir! I will need to look into this! LUV this old school knowledge, wish it was in a book!!!
In the marine industry we use dielectric grease to cover the terminal after making the (clean) connection. The issue with having a sacrificial anode is you will still have the corrosion, just on the piece of copper, that will still need to be cleaned up. Dielectric grease covering the terminals will cut off the oxygen and moisture in the air that is the source of the corrosion.
@parkertazelaar i typically use dielectric grease. I didnt have any at the time i made that video. Mainly just wanted to stress the importance of some kind of terminal protection.
Ran into this when doing research on stand-by generators. The video was excellent. The humor gems included were great.
Glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for the comment!
Thanks! Nice Keystone jokes ... fridge with 115 cans of Keystone, value $20. 😉
Thanks Jay! We like our Keystone around here
"That system was frowned upon." lol. Thanks for the video. Really helped fill in some information gaps for me.🤙
That’s the cleanest electrical wiring I have seen. Nice job!
Thank you! Im slightly OCD. I sold that house and my new one is a rats nest of romex. Bothers me. But ill fix it.
I noticed he couldn't wait to.show off is work. Very nice, he should be proud. Heck I wish he would come down to Greenville SC and install mine. Helene. The beotch really caused head aches for us.
As soon as he opened the panel door, I said the exact same thing.
Time Stamp: 9:59 was an EXCELLENT demonstration concerning raw Ng. Nicely done, Spicer Designs!
Very thorough and useful and the humor with the wife was a bonus. Thanks!
Loved it! Been waiting for a new video. Thanks for the “plug” on my video, the decal on your toolbox and the fart on the pillow! I’m still laughing at your daughter on the bike 😂😂😂
You sure know how to make what would normally be a boring video into something very entertaining! Nice job.
I had to try hard on that one cause it would have been boring otherwise. Im sure most wont watch it all the way through though.
I use a watering bottle next to my kids when they supply power to my home. Don't wanna have any cry babies who ran out of sweat.
Excellent down to earth explaining. Even a old dummy like me understands. Thankyou!
I had no idea to check with the utility company to ensure adequate fuel capacity to the generator but it makes perfect sense. Great tip! Thanks!
Agreed. When we put in our pool with hot tub, we had to pay the gas company to install an upgraded meter that could handle the influx of gas needed to heat the hot tub and pool.
Use caution when buying a Kohler, their dealer service network is nowhere to be found in many areas of the country and in areas where their might be one they can be a bit touchy if you didn't buy from the when it comes to service, I have a 12RESV unit 1/1/2 years old 100 hours running time that has failed and because I had a local electrician install it the local Kohler dealer told me they no longer will do service calls on units they did not sell and install, so basically no matter what Kohler offers as a warranty it's useless in my situation so I now own a nice Yard ornament....Choose wisely
The vertical shaft smaller units are junk. Wether its a kohler or generac. Your right, kohler is particular about theyre installers, unlike generac. We have always had good luck with warranty issues. I think a lot of that comes down to the installer.
@@SpicerDesignsLLC ... as a 25 year Generac tech, I have to say that many dealers (of various brands) are not all that experienced. Smaller dealers can't keep good help or pay a competitive wage.... and they just don't do enough to gain the experience because they don't focus on generators. (plumbers, power equipment sales, electricians, etc) your installation seems exceptionally nice, but service and troubleshooting of the unit is another game.
That makes sense. The dealer doesn’t want to be responsible for a handyman installing the generator when he could have done it in properly.
I don’t think that’s as insurmountable a problem as you make it out to be.
@@nomansland4811 100 hours and brushes and rotor are toast are a big deal, although I did finally get them to repair under warranty, however brushes burning up shows a manufacturing.assembly problem which is a reliability problem hence forth I no longer leave it in Auto and only run it if the power company tells me the will be down for more than an hour, bottom line here is that the Alternator is Chinese and as it stand no more reliable than my 12000 dual fuel portable I have, next year will see if I can find a NON Chinese generator to replace the Kohler
Good video, looking to get a generator and this was a very well put together video and informative one at that, good looking Heidi lol.
Another outstanding video! Gonna have to binge watch your previous videos!!
Thanks. Very informative! I also appreciate people who share the same sense of humor that I have! 😂
Glad you enjoyed it!
Thanks! Not a DIY’er but did help me get through my 20-minute cycle ride.. (and I learned something)👍🏻
I build custom steel stands for those generators. Some of the cities around me wont allow wooden stands anymore. They also raised all the flood zone levels so I've built some pretty high stands. I think my highest stand so far has been a nine foot stand. I've been thinking about getting certified to service those generators. It never hurts to make extra money!
Wow nine foot. I bet thats fun to service. Those stand by generators are almost standard on houses now. Everyone is getting them.
I think 4 feet slab is good. That way water won't get in the generator during heavy rain or hurricane
This is excellent sound advice! Really enjoyed your approach to simplicity and comedy, while giving home owners GREAT BACKUP information. And, it’s coming from a certified/experienced electrician!
As a retired service member, we typically vet, research, and look things over with a fine tooth comb times 100, for overkill. 😂 Just to ensure there are no high risk liabilities. You my friend, have sold me on your setup! It’s clean, practical, and quite efficient! I have a 200amp 4000sqft home, and I was contemplating a mobile generator unit. Down here in TEXAS, we seem to go through unpredictable power outages during both winter and summer.
Now, I’m researching and getting quotes to install a 20kw Koyler year! Thanks again for your informative video!
YOU ROCK- From a veteran to an electrician, AIRBORNE!
Thanks for the nice comment and thank you for your service! Glad you found the video helpful. I figured it was a good overview of the system to help people with their decision. Good luck with you generator install and thanks for watching.
@@SpicerDesignsLLCcool video and I’m considering this setup when getting my house 🏠 built. Salute 🫡
Great video! Your electrical installation in your home is amazing. Definitely over the top, but worth it. The benefits of doing it yourself and knowing it's done perfect. 👍🏻
Great info AND comedy? I like thus guy lol
Thanks a lot from Northern California - Sonoma County. Subbed 2/20/23. Our house has gas on one side and power panel on the entirely opposite side of the house! Something to think about!! Thanks a lot!
This is a phenomenal video packed with GREAT information. Bravo Spicer!
Thank you! Much appreciated
Man, I wish the inside of my breaker box was that neat! One perk of having new construction done by one person at one time....and I'm sure it helps if the homeowner is the electrician
Thanks for great video. Learned what I needed to know.
You need to create Kohler vs. Generac video and your views will skyrocket!!!
Good information today. Thanks for sharing
subscribed. I gotta have a little humor with the content.
Lol y`all did a great job.
Glad you enjoyed it! I have more coming
That is a beautiful looking service panel.
Thank you!
That was my same thought, his work speaks for itself. I don't mind paying for work like this
Thanks for the video! Very informative.
This is something I want to do....great video, thanks! It was nice of the Keystone girl to teach you how to do all that.
Thanks! Ya shes the mastermind. I just do what im told.
We bought a Briggs and Stratton Power protect 26Kw early last year and the power hasn't gone out once. It exercises once a week for 10 minutes. Maybe we will lose power some day.
Hah! Thats how it always goes
Super HELPFUL detailed information which is gonna make me a way more informed consumer. You're the archetype of why I go to youtube for information: expertise delivered in an understandable and practical way... and the humor is fun brother!
Thanks I appreciate that. Im just trying to share what ive learned.
Try using a non conductive pointer to identify live connections in the future. Getting close to live leads get my teeth a little edgy! Thanks for the video, my generator is just like yours, love it. Tip: go wired ethernet instead of wifi to the generator for use of the app and information - eliminates connection issues. Installers will try to talk you into wireless - don't do it!
What is your opinion on Cummins home gensets? How do they compare to Generac and Kohler?
I dont have an experience installing a Cummins, just servicing. I know their commercial units are good. Cummins always seems to have good products but im not much help on this one.
Best unit 😊
I have a 22kw Generac and I have noticed even running the engine longer doesn't evaporate the water from the oil. I change mine every 6 months (cheaper oil is better than contaminated 13.00/qt. amsoil!). I noticed yoy have a square meter socket with buried lines, do they no longer mandate the larger meter sockets? They never said anything with mine either. Also, do you recommend whole home surge protection? I didn't see one on your panel. I have been looking into them to shunt any surges to protect my home. Thank you and keep up the videos, you are onto something with this UA-cam thing :-)
Ive only seen that milky oil in the Generacs. Not sure how theyre getting that much moisture in the engine. We typically install pedestals meters for new residential but the county i was in required a meter can verse the pedestal. They actually provided it when I installed that service. And yes its always smart to have surge protection. I never got around to installing one at my old house thats jn that video. We sold that house about 8 months ago.
@@SpicerDesignsLLC The engines definitely get hot enough to evaporate water. If they still can't cook off condensate after that it has to be a breather issue not allowing moisture to escape. At any rate, I'm just going to be on a spring/fall plan for oil changes. Plugs and filter every 2 years is fine. Natural gas burns clean and unless I lose power for days should have less than 25 hours on an air filter :-) 30.00 for an oil change with a wix filter and 2qts of amsoil small engine 10w-30 (compatible with 5w30 also). That's reasonable twice a year. I noticed all those decals on your toolbox. What have you built that requires cometic gaskets? I have a 71 C10 with a roller 388.
@@FastBowtie388 i built a LQ4 6.0 iron block that i was going to put into a 64 C10. I ended up building my last house and decided to sell the project because i didnt have the time with all the new house projects. Was fun to build though. Learned a lot.
@@SpicerDesignsLLC I was at Martin 131 draway a few years back and someone had a single turbo on a 6 liter in a jeep. Damn thing couldn't keep the front tires on the ground. Looked like fun. I can only imagine how squirrely that would be on the big end lol. Better be wearing depends lmao
Love your video. I have a little knowledge of dc circuits and am a HAM. Perfect overview. Thanks.
The 6:00 minute mark in this video is one of the most important! Copper is expensive but you Buy Once & Cry Once… When you mess with the distance of a LNG or Propane line and have a heavy load to supply it will mean all the difference in the world to keep it running to peak!
Great job explaining and especially showing us not only how the generator works but how it gets its power very detailed video
Thank you! Glad it was helpful for you.
funny and informative! thanks!
Very impressive explanation,very helpful with deep information. Thank you
So clean electrical boxes. My new house I'm building I elected to go with a portable backup from the meter. Great information on the setup. Keystones are safe from going warm yay.
Cheers Kyle
Thanks buddy. Congrats on the new house
VERY informative; actually impressive. a few goofy interludes and in some cases, funny breaks. All good however, since the content is so solid.
Living off grid and switched to an Franklin Whole Home. Havent missed the noisy gas generator at all.
I love this video. Thanks bro. You and your wife remind me of me and mines 😂😂😂
Thanks buddy. We try to keep it entertaining on the channel
My filter is not right there. What size oil filter do you need?
Thanks for the info. I never had a backup generator and you answered a lot of the questions. In the 200 amp service range what is a couple of the units you would recommend?
Have a good one from west Tennessee
The Kohler and Generac are the two most popular. I know Cummins offers an air cooled unit as well.
Great video for a guy like me who's considering a whole home generator. Unfortunately our house is on a slab and I have the natural gas meter on one side of the house and the electrical panel on the other. How much of a problem is that going to be, if I place the generator on the side with the gas meter to get to the other side of the house where all of the electrical is? Can that even be done??? Thanks.
Thanks! It can be. Youll probably have to bury a line around the back of the house to the transfer switch. Youll want the switch next to the electrical meter. Generator by the gas meter. Hard to say if that is realistic for your situation being you may have some landscaping or other obstacles. Theres always a way. Just more time and money. Depends if its worth it to you or not.
@@SpicerDesignsLLC Thanks so much for the quick reply. I think it's realistic that we can bury the electrical line around the back of the house to the transfer switch. It's a new house with very little landscaping at this point.
Can I get the little person generator on Amazon or at Wall mart? Great video! Thanks! Where is the link to that other guys video?
Thanks! I thought it was in there. His channel is @oneeyecustoms
Good info. Appreciate the humor.
Awesome video… after 3 days without power(including Xmas eve and Xmas)in the middle of an upstate NY winter storm monkeying around with a portable was not fun at all!… I went with the Cummins, the rep gave high praise to the Koehler and Cummins but he was not as much of a fan of the generacs( but my neighbor has a Generac with no complaints)either way.. if you can afford to get a standby Genny then do it!… the peace of mind is well worth it and you’ll be waiting for the next outage .
Anything is better than Generac
@@Asidebar yikes… sounds like you have a great story behind that statement lol.
Great vid 👏👏👏
Now here goes a good question is that power transfer switch outdoor weather rated? For example my home my breaker box is outside by the meter which is not attached to my home and is put on a 8x8 post about 50 ft away from my home. I don't have a breaker box inside my home they're all outside on the pole. Real hard part about it is figure out how to tie it into a solar system as a backup power source for it.
Its sure is. Its an aluminum enclosure. Most installs are on the exterior. I was able to install it inside since i did it when i built the house.
Very informative and entertaining video. Thank You!!
Thanks, nice video, I'm looking into buying one now and I got 3 bids and all 3 gave me different size units 20kw 22kw, and 24kw. I'm lost, my house is only 2100 sqft and 5 ton a/c. Everything I'm reading and seeing leads me to think a 20kw nat gas one would be ok. Any thoughts would be greatly and humbly taken. thanks
20kw is all you need. The 22 and 24 are a scam in my opinion. The output is almost the same as the 20. I ran my house in that video with a 20kw. That was with a 5 ton and 3 ton AC.
@@SpicerDesignsLLC Thank you so very much!! GOD bless you! I've been pulling out my hair over this and I'm bald! lol Again thanks!
Building a house now. Would I need larger gas pipes in the home, in addition to the upgraded gas meter?
Doesn't hurt to increase the pipe size. If you keep the generator close to the gas meter, which I would recommend, it shouldn't affect it much. Definitely a discussion to be had with the plumber.
Thanks for the advice. Wasn’t, expecting a response so fast, LOL.
@@grege1972 no problem. I try to keep up with comments so i can respond in a reasonable time. Good luck with your home build. Feel free to reach out with any other questions.
Best video on generators I’ve seen ye. Thank you
Thanks for the information. What do you think about a diesel genset?
They do fine. Just depends on your setup and what makes the most sense for your needs.
Thanks for your knowledge, you my kind of guy very straight to the point. Thank you Sir.
Thanks! I appreciate that
Been looking for a generator and my mom sent me this video. Mom says: "His mouth sucks but focus on the generator" 😂😂😂
Solid video 👍🏼
Neighbor has one across the street and had it used three times in a year .. I'm tired of running extension cords and using a gas Duramax to power certain appliances and having two kids is cumbersome. Getting a generac soon
Is it practical during very not Texas summers to use the natural gas generator to cool the house for a few weeks to save on the energy bill? Even a couple days a week might be cost saving.
Hard to say. You would have to calculate your utility costs to find out. Also the extra run hours will cause you to have it maintenance more often. Probably not recommended.
Like the humor, love the content
Glad your enjoying it. Thanks for the comment!
Does Kohler have a dual fuel whole home generator? A generator that runs both propane and natural gas and I can switch between the two?
Their units can do propane or natural gas. I believe thats a standard feature on their larger air cooled units.
Great video 👍🏼
Highly entertaining generator video!!
Funny Bastard! Great video!!
Hah. Thanks! I try to keep our videos entertaining.
You're doing a GREAT Job, Buddy!!@@SpicerDesignsLLC
At one point do you need to change the main breaker panel from 100 to 200 amp panel when installing a generac generator 24kw or is it needed. Thanks learned a lot I will subscribe
You shouldnt need to change the main in your panel. If your doing a whole house transfer switch you will need to make sure you get a services entrance rated transfer switch. Hopefully that answers your question.
@@SpicerDesignsLLC thank you for your time and knowledge sir
I immediately "liked" the video at 9:58...
Great video! Very informative with some good humor. I'm going to have one installed where my pool heater used to be. Gas connection is all set and ready to go. Going to need to run about 75 feet of wire to get to where the meter and transfer switch will be. Do you anticipate any issues? I was glad to hear you say running wire was better than gas. Figure it will save me some money on the install.
Sounds like you should be good to go. Hopefully you get a good installer and it all goes smooth for you.
@@SpicerDesignsLLC thank you. Going through that process now. Any thoughts on the Kohler versus a Briggs & Stratton? Kohler dealer support is very limited in my area. There is much more Briggs support in my area.
@@briancurry8514 ive worked on many Briggs. They are good units. Im not familiar with they’re newer units. Not sure if they’ve changed much. I was doing services on Briggs that were 15 years old.
Informative and entertaining... 🙂
we typically four or more feet of snow, should the generator be installed above this possibility amount? say block foundation where the pad is mounted to?
They weigh close to 400lbs. Im not sure on the requirements for an area with that much snow. May need to be under roof like a lean to for wood. Sorry i dont have a good answer for that
@@SpicerDesignsLLC I live in western Mass
@@thefaeryman .... good chance you don't get 4 ft of snow in a single storm, on a regular basis so placing it say 20 - 30 inches high on a concrete base will help. Higher than that may make for difficult servicing. You probably shouldn't consider any sort of roof, especially if it's near the house. There are building code issues with carbon monoxide and possible fire related situations, along with having head room to work on the unit. BTW, I am in Ct so familiar with the weather.
Great video and well presented. But is that window is about 5-ft to generator and the basement well. Looking to install one but exhaust issue is my concern
@@MyGuyKirby its rare to have the ideal placement for these most of the time. Worst case you can move it further from the house.
@@SpicerDesignsLLC Thanks for reply, after 6-days w/o power from Hurricane Beryl and running a gasoline a small generator I am looking at options.
Super great video, what SQ ft is your home
Thank you. Main level is 2360. Basement is also 2360 and upstairs is about 1500. We have two furnaces and a/c’s and it runs everything no problem.
@@SpicerDesignsLLC thank so 24kw is plenty good for 5500sf
@@ssmarcocarlo you shouldnt have any issues. Just make sure you load shed any large electric loads, electric oven, hot tub, multiple air conditioners, ect. The installers should be aware of that.
I'm having a Kohler standby until installed. The Kohler dealer quote was nearly double the price over what a good electrician would charge. And the dealer's price didn't include gas piping or trenching (for buried gas/electrical) just the electrical work. So you might save thousands of dollars by comparing authorized dealers to qualified electricians if considering a standby generator. Definitely worth a few extra phone calls.
Ideally, go with the electrician. Youll typically get a better install
But, if you have an electrician install, will Kohler dealer service the generator? Some dealers will not. Ask around.
They will. Typically you would buy the unit from Kohler or the electrical contractor. Kohler has a list of preferred installers per area code. Which are usually electrical contractors.
Nice video, good details and I felt like I learned something new. Definitely not going to do this myself. I'm located in the South and my home doesn't have natrual gas. Do you have a video on how to set up a Kohler or Generac in this case? If this includes having to rely on liquid propane, what does the cost look like for that? Would you recommend a portable solution in this scenario vs setting up a home backup generator?
LP would be the other option for these units. Not sure what the cost it for that. As far as a portable, there are tons of choices. Would have to install a small manual transfer switch and a generator plug. Or just back feed the house and kill the main.
I have just got one of these units about a year ago. I did not install it myself, I hired an electrical company to buy it and install it. I guess the place I choose for it's placement may have added a lot of extra work. They had to install about 40 ft of gas line to reach the generator. I really like knowing that if I do loose power this unit will start automatically and everything continues as normal.
My installer actually offers that they do the yearly maintenance for a small fee.
I would recommend this unit.
The Kohlers are very nice units.
Hey Bob, not sure if Doug told you or not. We are coming out again to visit in February. I know you subscribe so id like to meet you if your around. Feel free to email me if its easier. Spicerdesignsllc@gmail.com
@@SpicerDesignsLLC
Kyle,
Doug did not mention that you were coming back to PA. Glad you a coming back this way. It would be great to meet you. When you get here, Doug or yourself can contact me.
Thanks,
Bob.
How much did it cost for labor and permit.
Thanks for sharing this. Getting a custom home done and the builder has made a rough in plus kept a natural gas line. Most likely will go Kohler up here in Canada (Ontario). That being said, there are other homes. I’m guessing there’s not much we can do regarding noise?
No way to get around the noise. You can look up the db readings for the different models. Kohler is one of the quieter units.
Loved the vid, very informational as I decide whole house or something solar with backup batteries. For a 2500 sq ranch, gas furnace, stove, dryer, but no AC, what size would you recommend? Thank you.
You would be fine with a 20kw. If the installers know what they are doing they will shed any large loads so there are no issues.
@@SpicerDesignsLLC thank you
Worked 40+ years for a lawn Mower MFG that was bought out by B&S, one day we got a shipment in our Ga. warehouse straight from the Savannah port, we opened the trailer door and there was OVER 5 well known U.S. brand names on the boxes of ALL generators, and the kicker was they ALL came out of the same MFG plant in CHINA
overall good and informative video. (with my sense of humor) I must add that local codes will be different. Here in Ct that unit must be 5 feet from both the electric meter (utility co rules) and gas meter. (NFPA code) NFPA is national code. Something else to consider (you touched on this) is gas meter size AND gas pipe size... from the street. People need to know if upsizing is even possible without spending $10k to go all the way to the street main. Also, some gas companies will upsize the meter free of charge, while others have a hefty fee. As I recall, that 20Kw unit will need 300 - 400 CFH additional flow above other demands in the house. It must be figured in advance and there are no short cuts. BTW, the Kohler units do offer slightly better fuel economy and are slightly quieter that the Generac. BTW, I just retired after 25 years with the local Generac / Kohler dealer. Yes, we sold both, but probably 10 to 1 in favor or Generac. We are one of the larger servicing dealers east of the Mississippi.
You and/or your customers are in favor of Generac 10 to 1?
And why is that?
Thank you.
@@thomassemich4627 ... I didn't say I was in favor, I said Generac sold more in our market by a heavy margin. My best guess is mostly due to price advantage and number of dealers. There's also the fact that Generac's transfer switch has had load shedding available for near 10 years, which makes it easier to wire in AC units on a smaller gen set. Other companies offer it, but as an add-on item. (last I looked before I retired)
Great video
Very convincing videos, thank you !
“All my Keystone…” Yup, that got a like.
Enjoyed your video & was curious if you could do a basic break down of the installation costs & would $ be saved by finding an independent like yourself to do the work? I imagine some costs are baked in but wondering if there's much room to maneuver to save money.
Sorry, i missed this comment. If you want to email me i can fill you in on some more specific numbers.
lovin the wife content. good times :)
Hah. Ya that was a funny one.
Your wiring is beautiful!
@@Shorby99EK thank you!
Used to drink a lot of keystone, now a lot of Busch lite! Great vid. Building a house and will install a backup gen. Thank you!!
Both good beer. Thanks for watching!
Thanks for this video. This is the video that I was looking for! Much appreciated!
I'm too poor, for wannuh those, but I have a portable Briggs and Stratton generator, 8500 watts, for in case of a hurry-cane hitting Jacksonville, FLA, my home.....I would like to eventually run a transfer switch to the main breaker, some day...... THANKS for the info !!!!
Great video!!
Love your humor in this video-I'm in the process of getting a Generac standby gen. installed, my biggest obstacle was getting a propane tank installed ( it looks like you are way out in the country how did you get so luck to have natural gas available?) still waiting for the first fill up and then get a plumber to run the line and get the co. inspector out. I live in NC and its hurricane season down South and they still come thru here and wreak havoc on the power lines. Did you wire up your main 200amp box, that wiring is a thing of beauty....
Thank you! Ya the lot we built on had natural gas available. Was expensive to run to the house. Ive since sold that house and bought another with propane. Not as convenient but it works. Yes im an electrician by trade. I build that house. Did all the wiring and plumbing and a whole lot more.
A jack of all trades that takes pride in his work-that's pretty rare these days. Best of luck to you and your family....@@SpicerDesignsLLC
@@tonyjordan1320 thanks Tony! We have a bunch more videos on the new property you might enjoy.
Great video and well presented. Thank you. I agree with the others about the clean install and super clean electric panel. There is only so much one can do on retrofit but new construction is the time to do these things right.
Its tough to go back and clean up messes. Thats the situation im in now at our new place we bought.
@@SpicerDesignsLLCm
You are funny, I love your video on the whole home generator.
Thank you. I try to keep the videos from getting too boring.
Thanks loads, pun intended love your beer stash . humor is good thank you. best to you and your family
Thank you!
Hi where can I purchase those NEC warning signs/stickers for the generator ?
"I've got, at least, 25 to 35 dollars worth of beer in my fridge at all times."
This is how you prep, folks.
Do you know if this generator can be run 24/7? Thanks
They can run for about 100 hours straight before it needs to be serviced. They are not designed to be a primary source of power of thats what your asking.
Great video…and entertaining. I recently had an 18kw Generac installed at my house. Curious why you think Kohler is a better unit…hope I didn’t make a mistake. I looked at both brands. I’m useless when it comes to working with electricity, so I had to pay full price.
Generacs arent bad units. There are some things about them i dont like. If you get a good installer thats an actual electrician and not just a generator tech youll be fine. Glad you enjoyed the video. Thanks for the comment!
Thank you for the video!
I have a question about single phase vs. 3 phase for home stand-by generators. In what situations would you recommend a homeowner a 3 phase over a single phase? I've noticed that these are options I can choose with generators, but I'm not too familiar with why I would need one or the other.
Thanks again!
Single phase it what a residential home requires and uses for normal power. Three phase is strictly for commercial buildings/ businesses. Most commercial building are 3 phase.
@@SpicerDesignsLLC That makes sense! Thanks for the explanation!
Awesome video funny too
Thanks. I try to have provide good info and some humor in all my videos. Thanks for watching!