[RE-wrenches] generator suggestions

[Rich Nicol]

While in the past not being a fan of Generac, we've had the same positive
experiences thus far with the Eco Gen. The two wire start is simple and
clear. It comes set up for 120v. The kit initially supplied for the 240v
conversion was incomplete and the directions made absolutely no sense. I
believe the directions for the 240v conversion have now been revised. While
we don't sell generators either we do complete the connection to our systems
and program the autostart etc. Thus far the two Eco Gen's connected to our
systems have run well. One of which has 800 hours on it with no issues thus
far.
Thanks
Rich

-----Original Message-----
From: re-wrenches-bounces at lists.re-wrenches.org
[mailto:re-wrenches-bounces at lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of
penobscotsolar at midmaine.com
Sent: Wednesday, January 30, 2013 8:08 AM
To: RE-wrenches
Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] generator suggestions

Ray,
   We don't install generators but have installed several (4) systems where
the customer has ordered and had installed Generac's Eco-Gen, if that is the
model you're referring to. In the past I would NEVER recommend Generac. The
gen installer had to install the two wire gen start option and in one case
convert the system for 120 output. At least two have been in use for more
than a year and a half with no tuneup and no complaints from the client. You
know that we are the first to be blamed when the gen goes out of voltage or
freq.  It must be the fault of the solar system.......One of the clients is
on Cat Island in the Bahamas, the  others are in Maine. I have been
recommending them to clients with smaller load demands/systems these days.
While they are not Onan or Kohler, they seem to me to be made especially for
off grid solar systems,reasonably priced and until I see problems with them
I will continue to recommend them when they fit the bill.

Daryl DeJoy
NABCEP Certified PV installer
PenobscotSolar Design



> I just found Generac's Off grid model 6 Kw.  I know I've heard nothing 
> but $%& about Generac, but this unit appears to actually be designed 
> specifically for off grid, and has a special oil cooling system and 
> runs at 2600 rpm.  Anybody dare try one?
>
> Ray Walters
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