Frequently Asked Questions

What is a 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  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.
Automatic  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. Generators can 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 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 automatic generators has simplified the process. By allowing you to protect everything on chosen circuits, you no longer have to worry about individual items.

What’s the difference between air-cooled and liquid-cooled?
Air-cooled units use engines we design and manufacture specifically for our smaller generators. Volume production helps us to keep cost down, making our air-cooled generators the most affordable for our customers. They cover essential circuits and back-up power needs in most residential applications. Liquid-cooled units use automotive engines for increased horsepower. This makes them ideal for larger requirements such as whole-house power coverage, larger homes and commercial applications.

Do they have to be maintained?
Just like your car’s engine, generators need periodic oil and filter changes. Many customers rely on preventative maintenance contracts to satisfy routine maintenance requirements.

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.

How long does it take to install an automatic standby generator?
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  recommends 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.


What tools should I have available for installation?
Drill, drill bits, hole saw (type and length will be determined by the materials you will be drilling and cutting), open-end wrenches or adjustable wrenches, socket wrenches or nut drivers, standard and Phillips screwdrivers, level, sledgehammer, channel-lock pliers, spade shovel, pencil and safety goggles.

How much fuel does an automatic standby generator use?

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? any Authorized Gore Electric Service Dealer. See our  find a  local dealer near you.

What is the cost of a service/maintenance contract?
Costs are determined by the installing dealer and are based upon service levels. 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.

Propane tanks are usually rated by pounds. Is there a conversion that can be applied to the fuel consumption numbers?
Yes. For general conversion, propane weighs 4.24 pounds per gallon. 1 lb. = 8.58 cu. ft. 1 gallon = 36.39 cu. ft.