The Generac Generator is an extremely popular standby power source for homes and small businesses. The Generac 13,000-watt, air-cooled standby generator with Wi-Fi and a 200-amp transfer switch costs $3,687 before installation.
The Generac Generator has the most positive consumer reviews online and is the highest rated among electricians. Kohler Generators came in a close second place. As of 2023, with America getting hit with more hurricanes than we’ve seen in a decade, Generac Generators are often back-ordered.
One of the biggest complaints about Generac generators is that consumers often have to wait months before their generator arrives and can be installed.
Review Generac Generator Installation Tips
Most municipalities require you to obtain a permit before installing a standby generator. Be sure to check the rules in your area before hiring an electrician to install your generator. Generac generators require gas to operate, so you’ll need approval to connect it to your existing gas fuel supply.
You will need to install the generator on a flat area, like a patio or cinder blocks.
Generac vs. Kohler Generators
Both Generac and Kohler generators come with an automatic transfer switch. The generator will allow your home’s electricity to keep running automatically when the electricity goes out. You may not even notice the power went out.
Generac and Kohler’s generators also come with a 5-year, 2,000-hour premium warranty and a corrosion-proof enclosure built to last through the toughest weather. If there’s a hurricane storm in the summer, both of these generators will keep your air conditioner running without issue. As long as you ensure the generator you purchase has a minimum of 11,000 watts.
Reviews and Complaints on Generac Generators
Generac Power Systems, Inc., the company behind Generac generators, is A+ rated and accredited at the BBB. However, their average customer review rating sits at 1.29/5, based on over 150 customer reviews. This is a poor rating; however, keep in mind Generac is a huge company.
Here’s a summary of the complaints against Generac from customer reviews at the BBB:
- Customers experienced significant delays in receiving technical support and field technician visits, ranging from 4 to 6 weeks.
- Power outages occurred due to product failures, leaving customers without power for several days.
- Generac’s 24-hour field tech support did not provide timely assistance as promised.
- Repair and replacement requests were ignored or delayed by Generac, leaving customers without resolution.
- Warranty claims were denied or not honored, even when the products were within the warranty period.
- Customers faced challenges in finding authorized dealers or service centers for repairs.
- Poor customer service was reported, including long hold times, unresponsive communication, and lack of accountability.
- Customers experienced difficulties in obtaining firmware updates for their generators, with Generac withholding necessary updates.
- Battery issues were not covered under warranty, resulting in additional expenses for customers.
- Finger-pointing and lack of cooperation between Generac and its authorized distributors caused delays and frustration for customers seeking resolution.
What is the most common BBB complaint about Generac?
The most common complaint listed in the provided BBB complaints is Generac’s refusal to provide warranty support services on three different claims in the last nine months. Customers expressed frustration with Generac’s practice of shifting the responsibility onto homeowners instead of diagnosing and sending repair personnel to resolve equipment issues.
Complaints also highlighted difficulties in finding authorized dealers for warranty support and repairs. Customers further expressed concerns about the lack of responsiveness from Generac’s customer support and the company’s failure to honor warranty coverage.
To purchase this Generac generator, visit Home Depot or search online for “Generac Dealers Near Me.”