Generac Guardian 22kW vs Kohler 20kW RCA
Quick take: The Kohler 20kW RCA costs $300 less; the Generac Guardian 22kW puts out more sustained power (22,000W); the Generac Guardian 22kW is quieter at 67 dB.
| Spec | Generac Guardian 22kW | Kohler 20kW RCA |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $5,999 | $5,699 |
| Rating | 4.7★ (9,200) | 4.7★ (500) |
| Type | Home Standby Generator | Home Standby Generator |
| Fuel | NG/LP | NG/LP |
| Running / Output Watts | 22,000W | 20,000W |
| Starting / Surge Watts | 22,000W | 20,000W |
| Battery Capacity | — | — |
| Expandable To | — | — |
| Noise | 67 dB | 70 dB |
| Runtime | Continuous (runs on home NG/LP supply); 22kW on LP, 19.5kW on NG | Continuous (runs on home NG/LP supply); 20kW on LP, 18kW on NG |
| Outlets | None — hardwired via automatic transfer switch (7043 bundle adds 200A SE switch) | None — hardwired via automatic transfer switch (sold separately) |
| Fuel Tank | — | — |
| Weight | 466 lbs | 555 lbs |
| Transfer-switch ready | Yes | Yes |
| Warranty | 5-year limited | 5-year/2,000-hour limited |
Pros & cons
Generac Guardian 22kW
- ✓Enormous installed base — parts, techs, and advice everywhere
- ✓Carries two AC units in most homes with load shedding
- ✓Often discounted now that the 24kW is the flagship
- ✓<5% THD safe for sensitive electronics
- ✓5-year warranty with widely available extended options
- ✓Proven multi-week hurricane performance in owner reports
- ✗19.5kW on natural gas — the derate matters for NG homes
- ✗67 dB is noticeably loud up close; siting matters
- ✗Evolution controller remains the top failure item in owner forums
- ✗Post-storm dealer backlogs can leave you waiting for warranty work
- ✗Being phased out in favor of the 24kW — long-term parts pricing unknown
Kohler 20kW RCA
- ✓Class-leading 41kVA surge starts big AC without load shedding
- ✓Long production history with a strong owner reliability record
- ✓Hydraulic lifters and pressurized lubrication — minimal maintenance
- ✓Corrosion-proof enclosure suits coastal installs
- ✓5-year/2,000-hour warranty with 10-year extensions available
- ✓Priced competitively against Generac's 22kW
- ✗18kW on natural gas vs 20kW on LP
- ✗70 dB at rated operation is the loud end of the class
- ✗OnCue Plus app and connectivity feel a generation behind
- ✗Thinner dealer network slows service scheduling in some areas
- ✗555 lbs and larger footprint complicate tight side-yard installs