Brags & Hayes is proud to announce its partnership with Generac Power Systems, a move that brings a new dimension to our energy solutions portfolio. This collaboration is not just about expanding our product range; it’s about aligning with a brand that embodies innovation, reliability, and a deep understanding of power generation needs. In this article, we delve into Generac’s technological advancements, product offerings, market competitiveness, and the legacy that makes it a leader in the power generation industry.
Founded in 1959 by Robert Kern, Generac began its journey in a small garage in Wisconsin, aiming to provide affordable backup power solutions. Over the decades, Generac has transformed from a modest operation into a Fortune 1000 company, renowned for its comprehensive range of power products. The company’s commitment to innovation is evident in its milestones, such as introducing the first gaseous-fueled automatic home standby system in 1989 and re-entering the portable generator market in 2008 after a strategic hiatus.
Recognitions
- Generac is a recipient of Milwaukee Magazine’s “Best Places to Work” award for Southeastern Wisconsin.
- Generac’s industrial sizing application, Power Design Pro, received silver in the 2010 Plant Engineering “Product of the Year” award.
- The company has also earned the Good Housekeeping Seal for its Guardian Series home standby generators and several portable generators.
- Generac was honored with the 2014 Natural Gas Generator Company of the Year Award from Frost & Sullivan for its contribution to the North American natural gas generator set industry.
Generac’s Power Range: Scalable Energy Solutions from 800 Watts to Over 3 Megawatts
Generac has earned a dominant position in the power generation industry not only because of its technology, but also due to the breadth and depth of its power output portfolio. From compact portable generators for home or recreational use to utility-grade industrial generators capable of powering entire facilities, Generac’s offerings span virtually every power application on the market today.
This range allows Brags & Hayes—as an authorized distributor—to deliver tailored solutions that meet the specific load demands and operational requirements of clients across sectors.
1. Portable Generators (800 W – 17,500 W)
Target users: Homeowners, RV owners, contractors, emergency responders
These are designed for flexibility and short-term use in scenarios where mobility is crucial. Generac’s portable lines include the GP, iQ, and XC series, with power outputs ranging from:
GP2200i inverter (2,200 starting watts / 1,700 running watts)
GP8000E (10,000 starting watts / 8,000 running watts)
GP17500E, among the most powerful portable units, delivering up to 17,500 running watts
Many of these models feature CO-sense™ carbon monoxide monitoring, electric start, and fuel gauge indicators. They’re ideal for job sites, events, and home backup during short-term outages.
2. Home Standby Generators (10 kW – 26 kW)
Target users: Residential homeowners, small businesses, rural installations
Generac’s Guardian Series leads the home standby segment, with air-cooled models ranging from:
10 kW to 26 kW, the highest output currently available in air-cooled residential generators
These units are permanently installed, integrate with automatic transfer switches (ATS), and are fueled by natural gas or propane. Key advantages include:
Seamless auto start during outages
Remote monitoring via Mobile Link™
Wi-Fi connectivity and load management modules
G-Force® engine technology for long runtimes
Generac also offers EcoGen™ 15 kW, a model specifically designed for off-grid homes, compatible with renewable energy systems.
3. Commercial Standby Generators (30 kW – 150 kW)
Target users: Restaurants, retail locations, medical offices, small manufacturing facilities
The Commercial Series steps up with liquid-cooled generators offering longer runtimes and higher load capabilities. These range from:
30 kW to 150 kW, with models like the QT150
Features include:
Natural gas, propane, or diesel options
UL2200 and NFPA 110 Level 1 compliance
Remote diagnostics and auto-test modes
Optional PowerManager® controllers for load sequencing
These are often installed with large ATS systems to maintain uptime for refrigeration, lighting, communications, and safety systems.
4. Industrial Generators (200 kW – 3.25 MW)
Target users: Hospitals, data centers, airports, large-scale manufacturing, utilities
Generac’s Industrial Power Division provides robust solutions engineered for mission-critical power. These systems range from:
200 kW up to over 3,250 kW (3.25 MW), and can be paralleled using Power Zone™ Pro Sync for systems exceeding 100 MW of combined output
These generators can be configured as:
Diesel-powered (e.g., MD1000 series)
Gaseous-fueled, using natural gas or biogas (e.g., MG1000)
Bi-fuel, combining diesel with natural gas for extended run times and environmental compliance
Key features:
ISO 8528 and UL2200 compliance
Sound-attenuated enclosures
Integrated fuel management systems
Paralleling switchgear and advanced controls
Generac’s modular power system (MPS) approach allows multiple smaller units to be configured in parallel, providing N+1 redundancy and load balancing, which is more flexible and often more cost-effective than a single large unit.
5. Renewable and Hybrid Solutions (Up to 18 kWh of storage per battery)
Target users: Residential solar users, businesses seeking energy independence
With the rise of grid instability and energy independence goals, Generac has entered the renewable segment with the PWRcell series. These hybrid solar + storage systems deliver:
Modular battery capacity from 9 kWh to 18 kWh
Up to 11 kW of continuous output power
Integration with solar inverters and smart load panels
PWRcell is ideal for zero-export applications, TOU rate optimization, and home resiliency, especially when paired with standby generators for full backup.
Summary Table of Generac Power Ranges
| Product Line | Power Range | Fuel Type | Application |
|---|---|---|---|
| Portable (GP, iQ, XC) | 800 W – 17.5 kW | Gasoline | Recreation, emergency backup, mobile work |
| Guardian Series (Home) | 10 kW – 26 kW | Propane / Natural Gas | Residential backup |
| Commercial Series | 30 kW – 150 kW | NG / LPG / Diesel | Small to medium business continuity |
| Industrial Systems | 200 kW – 3.25 MW+ | Diesel / NG / Bi-Fuel | Hospitals, data centers, critical infrastructure |
| PWRcell Systems | 9 – 18 kWh (battery) | Solar + Storage | Energy independence, load shifting |
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Technological Innovations: Proprietary Advancements
Generac’s commitment to technological advancement is evident in its proprietary developments:
G-Force Engine: The Heart of Generac’s Standby Power Advantage
One of Generac’s standout proprietary technologies is the G-Force® Engine, a pressure-lubricated engine specifically engineered for the rigorous demands of generator operation. Unlike standard small engines commonly repurposed from lawn or garden equipment—which often underperform when subjected to prolonged use under heavy load—the G-Force engine is purpose-built for extended operation, durability, and low maintenance.
Technical Design and Performance
The G-Force engine is built on an overhead valve (OHV) platform with a full pressure lubrication system, similar to automotive engines. This ensures optimal oil circulation under continuous load conditions, minimizing heat buildup and mechanical wear. The engine includes features such as:
High-performance crankshafts and heat-treated components for longer engine life.
Splash lubrication alternatives are replaced with a more robust pressure system that improves component longevity.
Spin-on oil filters and accessible valve adjustments, allowing for easier serviceability.
Designed with low harmonic vibration, contributing to reduced noise and enhanced component lifespan.
These design attributes collectively result in longer maintenance intervals, lower total cost of ownership, and improved reliability—critical features for both residential and commercial users relying on standby power for mission-critical operations.
Operational Impact
Thanks to this engine platform, Generac’s air-cooled generators—such as the Guardian Series (ranging from 10 kW to 26 kW)—can deliver:
Consistent frequency control within ±1 Hz, supporting sensitive electronic loads.
High-starting power for inductive loads such as HVAC compressors.
Enhanced cold-weather performance, supported by integrated block heaters and low-oil temperature start systems.
Moreover, G-Force engines are tested for thousands of hours in simulated real-world conditions, ensuring they meet the reliability standards expected in standby applications—especially in extreme weather or utility outage scenarios.
Lifecycle and Support
Generac backs the G-Force engine with industry-leading warranties—typically five years for residential units, with optional extensions to ten years. With more than 6,000 service centers across North America, end users benefit from responsive and knowledgeable support when it comes to both routine maintenance and unexpected repairs.
The company also provides digital maintenance tracking through its Mobile Link™ remote monitoring system, enabling both the user and service provider to proactively address engine maintenance needs before they impact performance.
True Power™ Technology: Clean Energy for Sensitive Loads
In modern standby and portable power systems, the quality of electrical output is just as crucial as the quantity. That’s where Generac’s True Power™ Technology becomes a defining feature—delivering clean, stable electricity with less than 5% total harmonic distortion (THD). This level of power quality is essential when operating sensitive electronic devices, HVAC systems, medical equipment, or any microprocessor-based appliances.
The Problem of Harmonic Distortion
Total Harmonic Distortion is a key metric in evaluating generator performance. High THD results in unstable voltage and frequency signals that can:
Cause overheating or premature wear in motors.
Disrupt or damage sensitive electronics.
Trip UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) systems.
Lead to erratic behavior in home automation or smart control systems.
Generators without effective harmonic filtering can produce THD values as high as 20%—well outside the safe operating range for sensitive devices.
How True Power™ Technology Works
Generac’s proprietary True Power™ Technology is achieved through a combination of advanced alternator design, digital voltage regulation, and proprietary microprocessor-based controls. Here’s a breakdown of how the system achieves such clean output:
Precision Winding and Core Design: The alternator is engineered with premium copper windings and balanced magnetic circuits to reduce voltage fluctuations.
Digital AVR (Automatic Voltage Regulation): An intelligent control system continuously monitors and adjusts the output voltage in real-time, keeping it stable under load variations.
Low THD Circuit Filtering: Specialized filtering capacitors and inductive balancing eliminate harmonic spikes and maintain a clean sine wave.
Synchronization Algorithms: In multi-unit systems, True Power™ maintains harmonics even during load sharing and generator syncing, minimizing cumulative distortion.
These systems are particularly effective during transient loads—when a generator must respond quickly to start-up surges or large step changes in demand. True Power™ ensures that these transitions occur smoothly and safely, without risking equipment failure.
Applications in Sensitive Environments
True Power™ is more than a specification—it’s a necessity in environments where power irregularities are not tolerated. Use cases include:
Hospitals and Clinics: Supporting ventilators, imaging equipment, and digital medical records systems.
Data Centers and Telecom: Ensuring power integrity for routers, switches, and servers.
Residential Smart Homes: Powering automation hubs, high-end entertainment systems, and electric vehicle chargers.
Industrial Controls: Protecting PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers) and SCADA systems from signal interference.
This is particularly important for homeowners using Guardian Series standby generators, and for business owners depending on uninterrupted operation of commercial refrigeration, digital signage, or automated production lines.
Impact on Longevity and Warranty
Clean power doesn’t just protect appliances—it also extends the life of the generator itself. By reducing mechanical and electrical stress across the system, True Power™ indirectly supports:
Longer maintenance intervals.
Higher mean time between failures (MTBF).
Improved fuel efficiency due to more efficient voltage regulation.
These benefits contribute to the industry-leading warranties Generac provides, further enhancing the overall value proposition of its systems.
Power Zone™ Pro Sync Controller: Intelligent Load Management and Generator Synchronization
One of the most advanced technologies embedded in Generac’s industrial and commercial product lines is the Power Zone™ Pro Sync Controller. This proprietary digital control system is designed to optimize the performance of multi-generator installations, enabling parallel operation, dynamic load sharing, and seamless system scalability.
In today’s landscape—where power systems are often hybrid, interconnected, and demand-responsive—the ability to precisely control multiple gensets as a unified system is mission-critical. The Power Zone™ Pro Sync Controller delivers this with precision, flexibility, and a high degree of automation.
Core Capabilities
At its core, the Power Zone™ Pro Sync is an integrated digital generator control and monitoring system that supports:
Multi-gen synchronization (island or utility-parallel).
Real-time load sharing (kW/kVAR balancing across units).
Seamless genset addition/removal from the power bus.
Auto start/stop sequencing based on site demand.
Closed transition transfer switching (no power interruption).
Remote monitoring and diagnostics.
These capabilities are facilitated through high-speed CANbus communication and support for Modbus RTU/TCP, allowing full integration into SCADA or building management systems (BMS).
Advanced Load Management
Traditional generators operate as standalone units or in limited synchronized configurations. The Power Zone™ Pro Sync Controller changes that paradigm by enabling load demand-based control. When the system detects an increase in power demand, it can automatically bring additional generator units online. Conversely, when demand drops, the controller can shut down redundant units to conserve fuel and reduce wear.
This “smart dispatch” logic ensures:
Improved fuel economy.
Reduced emissions, particularly important for EPA Tier 4 compliance.
Extended service life of each generator by evenly distributing runtime.
This feature is essential in critical environments like hospitals, manufacturing plants, and data centers where loads fluctuate significantly.
Black Start and Utility Paralleling
In industrial applications, the controller supports black start functionality, allowing a site to recover from a complete power loss without external assistance. Moreover, when configured for utility paralleling, it can synchronize with the grid to:
Provide peak shaving.
Manage grid support during high-tariff periods.
Enable soft transitions during planned maintenance.
Utility paralleling is especially beneficial in microgrid environments, where facilities combine solar, battery storage, and diesel/natural gas generators into an integrated energy system.
Human-Machine Interface (HMI)
The Power Zone™ interface is intuitive and operator-friendly, featuring:
A full-color touchscreen display.
Graphical dashboards showing real-time load, frequency, voltage, and generator status.
Alarm logs and diagnostics.
Secure access control for multi-user environments.
Remote interface via cloud-based portals for monitoring from laptops, tablets, or smartphones.
For maintenance teams and facility engineers, this centralized visibility drastically simplifies both routine checks and incident response.
Integration and Expandability
The system is engineered for seamless integration with Generac’s Transfer Switches, ATS Load Management Modules, and Mobile Link™ remote connectivity. It also supports firmware upgrades, ensuring the system evolves alongside new code regulations and technological improvements.
Some models also support custom logic scripting, allowing engineers to define site-specific responses to complex scenarios—such as priority shutdowns, scheduled testing, or staggered startup sequences.
Practical Impact
In operational environments, the Power Zone™ Pro Sync Controller enables:
Zero downtime failover between gensets.
Reduced fuel and maintenance costs through intelligent load rotation.
Increased resilience by avoiding single points of failure.
Regulatory compliance with NFPA 110, ISO 8528, and UL2200 standards.
PWRview™ Monitoring System: Empowering Users Through Data-Driven Energy Management
In an era where energy consumption is under intense scrutiny—due to rising utility costs, decarbonization goals, and the growing complexity of home and business energy ecosystems—visibility and control have become indispensable. Generac addresses this need with its proprietary PWRview™ Monitoring System, a cloud-connected platform that transforms the way users understand and manage their energy consumption.
Unlike traditional monitoring systems, which only report generator status or alert on faults, PWRview™ is a comprehensive energy intelligence tool. It enables real-time monitoring, usage forecasting, cost tracking, and even integration with smart home ecosystems—turning power generation from a passive asset into an active part of the energy management strategy.
Core Functionality and Capabilities
PWRview™ is designed to integrate seamlessly with Generac’s home standby generators, particularly the Guardian Series, and the PWRcell solar + battery storage systems. Key features include:
Real-Time Load Monitoring: View power usage at the whole-home level or down to individual circuits (with optional smart modules).
Predictive Usage Analytics: Based on historical patterns, the system forecasts future consumption and costs.
Fuel Savings Estimation: When used with Generac generators, the system shows how often the generator is running and its fuel efficiency.
Utility Bill Tracking: Helps users correlate generator runtime with avoided costs during outages or peak tariff periods.
Cloud-Based Access: Securely accessible via mobile app or web dashboard from anywhere.
This makes it particularly valuable for homeowners managing TOU (Time-of-Use) billing plans or for small businesses needing operational cost oversight on energy consumption.
Technical Integration and Architecture
At the technical level, PWRview™ uses a combination of:
CT clamps (Current Transformers) installed in the main electrical panel to measure incoming and outgoing power.
IoT-connected hardware linked to Generac’s cloud infrastructure via Wi-Fi or cellular.
APIs and secure MQTT protocols for real-time data transmission and encrypted communication.
Mobile Link™ integration, allowing generator status and load data to be visualized in the same interface.
The system supports firmware updates over the air (FOTA), ensuring longevity and compatibility with future technologies.
Advanced Features for Power Users
What sets PWRview™ apart from generic energy monitors like Sense or Emporia is its tight integration with Generac’s generation and storage products, allowing advanced capabilities such as:
Load Prioritization Logic: For homes using PWRcell or generator systems with Smart Management Modules, users can configure load priorities during outages.
Event Logging and Notifications: Receive alerts for power outages, generator startups, runtime durations, and critical faults.
Energy Storage Control: In PWRcell systems, users can define how and when the battery should charge/discharge—e.g., during grid peak hours, outage-only mode, or maximum self-consumption mode.
Solar Performance Visualization: When paired with PWRcell solar arrays, PWRview™ displays solar generation vs. load demand in intuitive graphs.
This level of control brings residential energy management closer to what was once only achievable in industrial EMS (Energy Management Systems).
Data Insights and Energy Optimization
One of the most powerful features of PWRview™ is its data visualization and analytics engine. Users can view:
Hourly, daily, and monthly energy usage trends.
Estimated energy costs based on local utility rates.
Carbon offset estimations for solar-generated or generator-avoided grid power.
Power draw comparisons by season or time of day.
This data empowers users to make informed decisions about energy upgrades—whether it’s adding insulation, shifting HVAC schedules, or investing in higher-efficiency appliances. For professionals, this can also support sustainability reporting and ROI analysis for system investments.
Comparison to Market Alternatives
While systems like Tesla’s Powerwall Gateway, Enphase’s Enlighten, or Schneider’s InsightHome offer similar functionalities, PWRview™ distinguishes itself through:
Deeper generator integration—it’s built around the standby power platform first, not added as an afterthought.
Fuel runtime modeling that connects generator output to household usage dynamically.
Simplified installation and lower total cost of ownership, especially when bundled with Generac’s full system ecosystem.
Its value proposition lies in being purpose-built for resilience and autonomy, not just efficiency.
Cybersecurity and Reliability
Given the sensitivity of energy usage data and the risk posed by remote access, PWRview™ follows best practices in:
Encrypted communication (AES 256-bit).
Two-factor authentication for account access.
Regular security patching through automatic firmware updates.
Generac also hosts its cloud infrastructure on redundant, SOC 2-compliant servers, ensuring system availability and data integrity even during regional grid events.
A Data-Driven Future of Backup Power
With the PWRview™ Monitoring System, Generac has shifted the backup power paradigm from reactive to proactive. Instead of just waiting for the grid to fail, users can now anticipate outages, optimize usage, and control costs—all through a unified, intelligent platform. Whether you’re managing a smart home or a critical operations center, PWRview™ turns energy data into actionable insight.
Market Competitiveness: Balancing Cost and Quality
In an industry where cost-efficiency often competes directly with durability and advanced features, Generac has carved a unique position by consistently delivering products that strike an optimal balance between affordability and technological sophistication. This strategic equilibrium is what allows the company to dominate both residential and commercial generator segments—offering solutions that are price-competitive without sacrificing performance, reliability, or innovation.
Affordability Without Compromise
Generac’s pricing strategy is rooted in vertical integration—the company designs and manufactures its own engines, alternators, control systems, and even load management components. This not only reduces production costs but also ensures tighter quality control and faster development cycles, enabling Generac to bring high-performing products to market at lower price points than many competitors.
For instance:
The Generac Guardian 22kW standby generator is often cited as offering the lowest cost per kilowatt among air-cooled home standby units, with prices up to 15–20% lower than equivalent models.
The company’s GP Series portable generators are priced to compete directly with major consumer brands while incorporating features like CO-sense™ safety, electric start, and extended runtime—features often missing in comparably priced alternatives.
Technological Value as a Differentiator
Generac does not pursue price leadership through cost-cutting alone. Its edge lies in delivering feature-rich systems that add genuine value, particularly for users who require robust performance in demanding conditions. Technologies like:
True Power™ Technology (clean sine wave output),
G-Force® Engines (industrial-grade, pressure-lubricated platforms),
Power Zone™ Pro Sync (advanced multi-gen controller),
and PWRview™ Monitoring (real-time energy intelligence)
—all contribute to reducing long-term total cost of ownership (TCO), a metric often overlooked when comparing sticker prices.
Generac systems typically offer:
Longer maintenance intervals (due to better filtration and engine design),
Lower fuel consumption per kWh generated,
Remote monitoring and predictive diagnostics, reducing unplanned downtime and service visits.
These performance advantages translate into long-term savings, making Generac an ideal choice for cost-sensitive buyers who cannot afford to compromise on operational reliability.
Support Infrastructure as Part of Market Value
Another critical aspect of competitiveness is after-sales support and service infrastructure. Generac boasts:
Extensive training programs for technicians and installers via the Generac Power Academy,
Industry-leading warranties (5 to 10 years on standby generators).
This expansive support ecosystem ensures that users receive prompt, local assistance, a feature that adds perceived and real value to every unit sold.
Global Competitiveness and Market Share
Generac’s value-driven strategy has translated into market dominance:
The company has consistently held the #1 market share position in North America for home standby generators (over 70% according to Generac’s investor filings).
It is rapidly expanding in industrial and microgrid applications, especially with the rise of hybrid systems and grid-tied backup power.
Even in international markets—where import costs and regulatory constraints can narrow margins—Generac remains competitive through:
Localized manufacturing in key regions,
UL and CE compliant models,
Flexible fuel configurations (diesel, natural gas, bi-fuel).
These factors give Generac a global edge in competitive bids for infrastructure, telecom, healthcare, and energy resiliency projects.
A Price-to-Performance Leader in Modern Energy Systems
Generac’s ability to balance cost and quality is not an accident—it’s a strategic outcome of decades of engineering, investment in proprietary technologies, and a relentless focus on customer needs. Whether for homeowners seeking reliable backup power or for businesses needing mission-critical uptime, Generac delivers a product that consistently outperforms its price tag. It’s not just about being affordable—it’s about being affordably excellent.
A Strategic Partnership for Enhanced Energy Solutions
The collaboration between Brags & Hayes and Generac Power Systems signifies a strategic alignment aimed at delivering superior energy solutions. Generac’s rich history, diverse product range, technological innovations, and customer-centric approach make it a valuable addition to our offerings. Together, we are committed to providing reliable, efficient, and advanced power solutions to meet the evolving needs of our clients.
For more information on Generac products and how they can meet your specific power needs, please contact Brags & Hayes. Our team is ready to provide expert guidance and support.
