FAQ

ANSWERS? WE'VE GOT THEM.

Here are the questions we are most frequently being asked:

 

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? 
Advanced Energy Systems installed 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. The generator 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 Advanced Energy has simplified the process with the GUARDIAN . 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 Advanced Energy Systems  preventative maintenance schedule to satisfy the maintenance requirements. 

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. 

What is Whisper-Test™? (GUARDIAN Quiet Source 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 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? 
Advanced Energy Systems installed GUARDIAN air-cooled models can take as little as four hours to install. 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 Generac recommends the generator be installed by an Authorized Dealer or licensed contractor such as Advanced Energy Systems. 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. 

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 Advanced Energy Systems.  Part numbers are located in the owner's manual. 

 

What is the cost of a service/maintenance contract? 
Costs are based upon service levels offered by Advanced Energy Systems.

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. 

Where do I go to have warranty repairs performed? 
Advanced Energy Systems will perform any warranty service.

Where is my generator made? 
Advanced Energy Systems exclusively install GUARDIAN generators that are made in the United States.  Manufactured in Wisconsin by Generac Power Systems Inc., who design and build the complete product from the controls to the enclosures, to the air-cooled engines specifically designed for generators. This ensures that Generac products are built to the highest standards.

 

With an Advance Energy Systems installed GUARDIAN,

you’ll never have to worry about your power again.

Let it rain, let it snow, let it blow, let it storm!

Call us for your no obligation estimate for your peace of mind today!