With the proper maintenance, a Kohler generator can last you 25-40 years. The longevity is impressive, with the potential to serve almost two generations of a family.
When you get your Kohler generator servicing set up with us at Premier Generator, we do annual visits to handle the big stuff. But, minor maintenance should occur more frequently – and this will depend on use. We recommend checking the oil level after every 24 hours of operation, for example.
Choosing The Right Generator For Your Needs
Generac is perfect for homeowners seeking affordable, reliable power. Cummins is ideal for those who need a balance of performance and cost. Kohler stands out for its premium build and longevity, often preferred for commercial or heavy-duty use.
Kohler generators are engineered to run continuously for up to 3,000 hours, which equates to approximately 125 days of nonstop operation. This remarkable runtime makes them ideal for prolonged power outages, ensuring that homes and businesses remain powered through extended periods without electricity.
On average, your diesel generator usually should last from anywhere from 15,000 - 50,000 before it's due for service. However, a generator can last up to 30 years if it only runs for 650 hours per year. Inversely, the lifespan will decrease if there is more demand on the generator to run for more hours in the year.
With the proper maintenance, a Kohler generator can last you 25-40 years. The longevity is impressive, with the potential to serve almost two generations of a family.
While a properly maintained generator has an optimal life span, as with any other appliance, old age will cause wear and tear, no matter what. Generator replacement is usually required every 20-25 years, but how many hours your generator runs on average with proper maintenance determines your unit's life expectancy.
Maintenance Intervals
Most manufacturers recommend shutting down the generator every 8 to 24 hours for oil checks and cooling down. This maintenance ensures the generator remains in good working order and can run for longer periods when needed.
Q: How long can my Kohler electric generator run before I need to check the oil? A: Check the generator oil every 8 hours and change the oil after every 100 hours of use. If this is not possible, at the very least, check the oil every 24 hours.
For a 200-amp house, a generator with a capacity of around 15,000 to 20,000 watts is typically recommended.
Investing in a generator is the solution for your family. Kohler is one of the best and most reliable brands in the industry.
Installation costs typically range from $5,500 to $7,500, depending on factors like the generator size, electrical work, and site preparation.
Kohler home generators come with a five-year or 2,000-hour Premium Limited manufacturer warranty, whichever comes first. Labor and travel up to 200 miles are covered for the full 5-year period. The warranty does not cover damage, misuse, routine maintenance, normal wear and tear, or repairs by unauthorized people.
Replacing your generator battery every 2 to 3 years is a good rule of thumb to ensure reliable operation. However, the specific timeline can vary based on factors such as the type of battery, usage, maintenance, and environmental conditions.
For cold temperatures we recommend a full synthetic, all-season engine oil such as KOHLER genuine oil. Please check your owner's manual for the oil recommended for your generator engine. WHAT IS THE BEST OIL TO USE IN EXTREMELY HOT TEMPERATURES?
Oil does have a shelf life but it can be left in the generator while in storage, you may need to change the generator's oil before using it again if it's been sat for a long period of time as dust and debris may have contaminated the oil.
Typically, it's recommended that you limit continuous usage when able and give the unit rest and a cool down. You can run the generator for a week if necessary, but if you can shut it down daily, allow it to cool and check the oil it is the recommended practice.
Portable generators should be shut down and their oil levels checked every 8 hours of continuous operation. For more information, see the "Inspect Engine Oil Level" section of your owner's manual.
For example, if your generator has a fuel consumption rate of 0.75 gallons per hour and a fuel tank capacity of 5 gallons, your generator can theoretically run for about 6.67 hours on a full tank of gas.
They are often used for recreational purposes and can last 3,000 to 5,000 hours with proper care. Diesel generators are known for their durability and longevity. With regular maintenance, a well-built diesel generator can last 10,000 to 30,000 hours and even more in certain cases.
But when should you shop around? For most people, the best time of the year to buy a generator is between late summer and early fall. However, those with mild winters and intense summers may want to purchase a generator in the spring.
Take care of spark plugs and filters!
Change your spark plug and air filter every 200 hours of use, or every year at the very least. Having a new spark plug AND a clean air filter will assure that the engine runs more efficiently, and extend the lifespan of your generator!