Generac OHVI Air-Cooled Engine •Features plateau honed cylinder walls and plasma-moly rings •Full pressure lubrication system w/ 2 year oil change interval •Aids in cooling the engine for longer life
Operates On Clean Burning, Efficient Natural Gas or LP (Vapor)
Skewed Rotor Design For Smooth Output Waveform "Clean Power" •Automatic voltage regulator equipped for +/- 1% regulation
Nexus™ Digital Controller Monitors & Controls All Functions •Provides system status - compatible with Nexus™ wireless monitors
Sound Attenuated Weather Proof Enclosure •Attractive styling with lockable access doors •Incorporates electrostatically applied epoxy paint technology •Sound dampening enclosure limits sound pressure to a low 63dB(A)
Includes 12 Circuit Load Center Style Auto Transfer Switch (100A) •5' Pre-wired External Connection Box From Wall to Generator •30' Pre-Wired Indoor Conduit From Switch To External Box •2' Pre-Wired Indoor Conduit From Transfer Switch To Main Panel •Composite mounting pad and 1’ flexible fuel line connector
Listed to UL2200 Engine/Generator Standard for Safety
Q: Jim: If the steel brackets that hold the # 57811 Generac 10 KW onto the shipping pallet are used to hold the unit down to the concrete pad. How do you use the Black Plugs to fill the holes after installation of these brackets by Jim from Florida on April 18, 2012
A: Actually, Generac does not recommend using them anymore. On the installation drawing they show anchor points inside the unit to mount it to a concrete pad....see link for details.....
Q: Where do I get the installation instructions for the Generac Home Standby Generators? by T Wanamaker from New York on March 12, 2012
A: The unit comes with the installation instructions or you can find them on the Generac website. The instructions you get without the serial number will be basic.
Q: If I need more wire than the 30 feet supplied, can I splice what ever i need onto it? Also, are the circuit breakers standard ones if i ever need to replace one, or do i have to buy them from Generac? by Stanley Zydel from New York on February 10, 2012
A: The maximum length you can add is 15 feet as long as local code permits adding length (some do not). If you need to go beyond this length then the entire run of wiring needs to be changed because of the wire sizes/gauge.
Generac typically uses Siemens breakers in their switches which allows for replacement to be easy.
Please keep in mind that you cannot put larger amperage breakers in to replace smaller amperage breakers.
Please always consult with a certified electrician for proper installation and wiring.
Q: Hi Jim,is there any codes to how far from a window the standby generator must be.
Thank You Frank by Frank Gelsomino from Connecticut on January 24, 2012
A: NFPA 37 - 4.1.4 Engines Located Outdoors. Engines, and their weatherproof housings if provided, that are installed outdoors shall be located at least 1.5 m (5 ft) from openings in walls and at least 1.5 m (5 ft) from structures having combustible walls. A minimum separation shall not be required where either of the following conditions exist:
(1) The adjacent wall of the structure has a fire resistance rating of at least 1 hour. (2)*The weatherproof enclosure is constructed of noncombustible materials and has been demonstrated that a fire within the enclosure will not ignite combustible materials outside the enclosure.
The above code is referenced in NFPA 70 - Article 445 Generator Locations.
You do need to reference with your local inspector what the requirements are for your local city codes along with the requirements in your area for noncombustible materials.
Always consult with a certified electrician on all installation procedures and processes.
Q: What is the percentage of THD for the 5871 Standby Generator? Is this figure somewhere in the specs pages or owners manual? by Ray Lacourse from Massachusetts on January 04, 2012
A: The THD (Total Harmonic Distortion) for the Generac Guardian Series Home Standby Generators is less then 5% which can be found in the Generac spec sheet. The link for the spec sheet is under our specs tab on the product page.
Q: Concerning transfer switch circuits. I don't need the 40a 2 pole breaker or the 30 amp 2 pole. But could use 2-20amp 2 pole breakers. Could also use 6-20 amp single pole breakers and 2-15's. Can we make changes to the circuit configurations as long as they don't exceed overall rating? Looking at the Model 5871. by Kent Reeser from Illinois on June 04, 2011
A: The pre-wired automatic transfer switches can be modified in the field as long as the internal wiring is changed to the appropriate amperage that gets installed.
Q: What is a composite pad ? by CHARLES BLYTHE from North Carolina on April 08, 2011
A: The composite pad is a strong, lightweight mounting pad provided to simplify the installation. By including the pad with the generator, installation time and cost is reduced since a concrete base is no longer a requirement. by Jim, Product Expert
Q: Hello Jim, do you have, or can you recommend stand-by generator installers for the Houston, Texas area? We are in the N.W. Houston area. by David Reece from Texas on February 13, 2011
A: Since we do not get involved in the installation process and since we ship all over the continental US we do not have a list of installers to provide. You can contact a local Generac dealer who may do installations at a reasonable price and will provide you with the best installation knowledge. You do not necessarily have to purchase a Generac generator from them to utilize their installation and they would be your resource for maintenance and warranty repairs.
Q: How far does a generator has to be from my house? by Jim from Massachusetts on February 04, 2011
A: The manufacturer recommends the back side of the unit to be set no less then 18 inches from any non-combustible surface and the sides of the unit need at least 36 inches for proper intake and exhaust.
Note: It is recommended to check with your city, county and state codes as they may differ from the manufacturers recommendations.
Q: Is this generator (Model 5884) a good choice for off grid solar system backup. 14kw not essential circuit? by Avery Edwards from Colorado on January 25, 2011
A: The Generac 5884 generator is specifically designed for emergency backup only and will not be warranted in an off-the-grid application.
Generac did come out with a new model specifically designed for off-the-grid and solar applications.
Q: What size battery do I need? by James Fritch from Pennsylvania on January 25, 2011
A: The battery is a Group 26R with 525 cold cranking amps - which is often difficult to find locally.
However, don't get too caught up in the specs. We already sized the battery for this model.
Click on the "Add 12V Start Battery" box when ordering.
The battery currently costs $89.99 and no shipping when you buy it with a standby generator.
We don't sell the batteries individually because they are hazardous materials that must ship via freight. If you bought one individually, it would cost more to ship than the battery is worth.
Since this generator is already shipping via semi-truck, we shrink wrap them together, and the battery tags along for the ride.
Q: What kind of oil comes in the generator, and when it is time to change it? Can I run Mobile 1 Synthetic 5W30 year round in central Oklahoma? by Ron Hopper from Oklahoma on January 24, 2011
A: The Generac standby generators are shipped with 5W30 oil in them and Generac does give the option to use 5W30 Synthetic in needed. The owner's manual covers all oil options and temperature ranges. Oil changes are determined by use and maintenance is also covered in the manual.
Q: Can this generator be anchored to the slab? If so, can you provide an anchor bolt layout by Gregg Deemer from Texas on January 21, 2011
A: Generac's model 5885, as with all of their standby generators, are anchored to the pallet at all 4 corners with special anchors which can be used to anchor the unit directly to your concrete base using concrete bolts. by Jim, Product Expert
Q: Jim, We're interested in this Generac model 5870 and we were wondering under full load what size LP tank capacity should we consider and approximately how much run time could we expect. This will be used in a home application with backup to HVAC needs, a light circuit, sump pump refrigerator /freezer. 3,000 sq ft home. I know that there are many variables and I probably need to get you more information, however, I thought that this would be a good start. Thanks, Mike by Mike Mitrione from New Jersey on January 18, 2011
A: Proper sizing of the generator is to size it to 80% of the generators full capacity. A higher rated generator will operate comfortably at approximately 80% of its full capacity and will provide a margin of flexibility if the load increases in the future. So if your need is 8kW then you should look at a 10kW standby generator. Tank size is based on how much run time you want available when you lose power. The fuel usage is listed in the owner's manual which you can find our our website under the specs tab for each model. Normally a 100-Gal. tank or larger is best suited. Generac 5870 Generac 5871 IMPORTANT!! Please review your wattage needs with a certified electrician to verify you are selecting the right size generator for your needs. by Jim, Product Expert
Overall Rating
4.9
(Based on 15 Reviews)
Sort By
Jim Baugher, Product Expert Electric Generators Direct
Jim's Recommendation
This 10 kilowatt version is powerful enough to run a small home, except a central air conditioner. If you live in the northern states or don't mind sweating during a summer power outage, the 10 kilowatt version is a great option for you.
The step up from the 8kW version is rather dramatic – although not necessarily in just power output. The model 5871 features a 530cc v-twin engine for smoother operation and comes with a total of 12 pre-wired circuits in the transfer switch. If you want to run more than the basics, this is a good machine to consider.
The NEXUS series digital controller allows for some really neat accessories. Wireless monitors are one such accessory which is offered in 2 variants, basic status alerts & the full blown generator controller display replicated inside your home.
April 10, 2012
Bruce Remington, IN
Staandby Generator
Electric Generators Direct was a very easy company to deal with. I received the generator 4 days after I ordered it. The 10 KW was large enough for me to connect my entire home to it as my house is total gas. It took me one day to pour a pad. 2nd day I mounted the EZ-switch and then had to do some other things other than the gen. The 3rd day I wired and set the unit up. I love the peace-of-mind it gives my wife and me. I would recommend this company to anyone.
December 28, 2011
Tony Niskayuna, NY
"In Standby Mode"
I have not needed to use the generator yet. I hear it kick on and exercise weekly, which is a good sign. Although it has not run yet in a power outage, I don't worry about the threat of power loss any longer. It is reassuring to know that when and if the power goes out I will not be scrambling to bring the kids to my in-laws, trying to get my portable generator started in the dark, throwing out food due to the loss of the refrigerator/freezer and the worst worry of all is the basement flooding out because there is no power to operate the 2 sump pumps in the basement. Thanks Generac for one less major worry in life !
I have not needed to use the generator yet. I hear it kick on and exercise weekly, which is a good sign. Although it has not run yet in a power outage, I don't worry about the threat of power loss any longer. It is reassuring to know that when and if the power goes out I will not be scrambling to bring the kids to my in-laws, trying to get my portable generator started in the dark, throwing out food due to the loss of the refrigerator/freezer and the worst worry of all is the basement flooding out because there is no power to operate the 2 sump pumps in the basement. Thanks Generac for one les... more
December 20, 2011
Seth Great Neck, NY
Very Professional Sales, Support, & Delivery
This unit is just right for my application (essential circuits plus a few extras). It will power 3 sump pumps, all residential telecommunications, entertainment and security systems, bedroom lights, kitchen appliances, a few outlets and lights around the house. Installation was done by a professional electrician, so I can only say it was done to local codes and it went fairly quickly. Activation and start up was also quick. The functionality is effortless, once it's set up just leave it alone until it's time for maintenance.
If your home has critical electrical requirements, and you don't want to run into big natural gas or LP gas fuel bills if the unit has to be on for several days, and if you really can live without many of your electrical devices, and if you don't want the unit to sound like an industrial park, this is an excellent choice. I live in the northeast, and extremes of hot and cold are not really an issue (yet). After I have had it in operation a few years, I'll try to post another review. For now, it was the right unit for the job and at the right price.
This unit is just right for my application (essential circuits plus a few extras). It will power 3 sump pumps, all residential telecommunications, entertainment and security systems, bedroom lights, kitchen appliances, a few outlets and lights around the house. Installation was done by a professional electrician, so I can only say it was done to local codes and it went fairly quickly. Activation and start up was also quick. The functionality is effortless, once it's set up just leave it alone until it's time for maintenance.
If your home has critical electrical requirements, a... more
November 23, 2011
Linda Quakertown, PA
No More Blackouts!
We live in the middle of a heavily wooded ares in Bucks County Pa. We frequently lose power for a few hours when ever there is a storm. The last two times we lost power, hurricane Irene and the Halloween snowstorm we were out for 5 days each time. We live in a total electric house with a well. No power means no water, no flushing, no lights, no phone, no Internet, no lap top and a phone that needs recharging, and no heat except for the fireplace. It will not happen again. I searched locally and online and found electric generators direct. Best price, free shipping and no tax! Generator arrived in about two weeks. Bring on the snow!
We live in the middle of a heavily wooded ares in Bucks County Pa. We frequently lose power for a few hours when ever there is a storm. The last two times we lost power, hurricane Irene and the Halloween snowstorm we were out for 5 days each time. We live in a total electric house with a well. No power means no water, no flushing, no lights, no phone, no Internet, no lap top and a phone that needs recharging, and no heat except for the fireplace. It will not happen again. I searched locally and online and found electric generators direct. Best price, free shipping and no tax! Generator arriv... more
November 03, 2011
Paul Mahopac, NY
Made The Right Decision
My generator did the job for us when the October snowstorm hit the northeast. lines down, trees down, a real mess! I recommended it to my son who plans to order the same one for his new home. Great to do business with you.
October 04, 2011
Anthony Niskayuna, NY
10 KW
I installed the generator myself with little effort. Called an Elite Dealer in the area to conduct a start up and test. This went well, unit checked out, and all the circuits on the transfer switch operated nicely.
September 15, 2011
Carolyn Fort Washington, MD
I'm Ready
Received all merchandise in a timely manner and the Price was the BEST of any other merchant carrying this product. Haven't had to use the genrator for any length of time but I'm ready when it does.
August 31, 2011
Lonny Ringwood, NJ
Hurricane Irene
I just got power back after 54 hours of downtime from Irene. I was the only house with power those 2+ days and since we all have septic and wells, I offered showers and water to the neighbors. My sump pump worked overtime and I didn't flood. Having a standby generator was the best idea.
This is an internal combustion engine. It makes noise. You will hear it running. It won't make your ears bleed, but you will hear it drone and it can be annoying overnight. Hey, turn it off if the noise bothers you. It's much quieter than a lawnmower and it saved my house and made my family comfortable. I recommend generators to all my friends and family, especially to those bailing water out of their houses.
I just got power back after 54 hours of downtime from Irene. I was the only house with power those 2+ days and since we all have septic and wells, I offered showers and water to the neighbors. My sump pump worked overtime and I didn't flood. Having a standby generator was the best idea.
This is an internal combustion engine. It makes noise. You will hear it running. It won't make your ears bleed, but you will hear it drone and it can be annoying overnight. Hey, turn it off if the noise bothers you. It's much quieter than a lawnmower and it saved my house and made my fami... more
July 16, 2011
Duane Plano, IL
Stress Relief
I purchased a Generac 5871 after years of worry over my sump pump, which runs like crazy in the spring or after a very heavy rain fall. I had a portable generator for years, but one needs to be at home and available to pull it out and hook it up which translates into a lot of stress if one is out of town during a power outage. I am very happy with our new Generac, it fired right up on schedule for it's weekly test run this morning. Kris at Electric Generators Direct was very helpful and made our transaction very smooth. Highly recommend your company and products!!
June 28, 2011
Dennis Wilson, NY
Good buying experience -- recommend the company
I haven't had the generator long enough to fully evaluate it (and probably won't until the first time I actually need it), but I can attest to the following:
* The sales rep I dealt with was knowledgeable and bent over backwards to ensure alternative arrangements for delivery (when it was clear that the 18-wheeler wouldn't be able to navigate my driveway).
* Everything that was ordered arrived on the day that it was supposed and arrived in good shape (i.e., well packed).
* I've confirmed that the price I paid was at the bottom end of the range of availability for other vendors.
In short, this was a totally positive buying experience, from beginning to end. I would recommend Electric Generators Direct to others.
Dennis
I haven't had the generator long enough to fully evaluate it (and probably won't until the first time I actually need it), but I can attest to the following:
* The sales rep I dealt with was knowledgeable and bent over backwards to ensure alternative arrangements for delivery (when it was clear that the 18-wheeler wouldn't be able to navigate my driveway).
* Everything that was ordered arrived on the day that it was supposed and arrived in good shape (i.e., well packed).
* I've confirmed that the price I paid was at the bottom end of the range of av... more
May 16, 2011
Lonny Ringwood, NJ
Total Piece of Mind
My sump pump failed over the early spring floods and that made me paranoid about future power failures. This unit has now given me piece of mind.
I originally ordered this unit from different dealer who promised, but never managed to ship the unit. After 1 month of runaround, I canceled that order and bought the unit from EGD.
I recv'd the unit within 48 hours after my order was confirmed. I sure wish I had come here first.
The unit is noisy, but maybe it is quiet compared to other generators. It also has a pretty large foot print. Be aware of this. Just as a installation idea for regular Joes, my electrician squared off an area using 2x4s and then just filled that area in with stone. Simple, easy bed to place the unit on.
I'm very happy with the unit and EGD. Thanks!
My sump pump failed over the early spring floods and that made me paranoid about future power failures. This unit has now given me piece of mind.
I originally ordered this unit from different dealer who promised, but never managed to ship the unit. After 1 month of runaround, I canceled that order and bought the unit from EGD.
I recv'd the unit within 48 hours after my order was confirmed. I sure wish I had come here first.
The unit is noisy, but maybe it is quiet compared to other generators. It also has a pretty large foot print. Be aware... more
March 02, 2011
Brent Richmond, VA
5871 Awesome
Just installed this unit for a customer of ours. Pretty easy installation. Very happy with the whole process. I paid the extra $50 for the priority shipping and was well worth it. Also, purchased a battery. I am glad I did, because I would have forgot that the unit does not come with one.
It was shipped out within hours of placing the order and got a call from the local shipping service within two days. I actually had to hold them off. Really did not expect them to be so prompt. I am glad that I asked them for a smaller truck for delivery because they were going to deliver it on an 18 Wheel truck which would not fit down our street.
The driver was awesome and even helped us get it into the garage. We just fired up the unit today without a hitch. Only and I mean only complaint, I wish that the activation codes needed were more easily available. It should be instant on the website or just a little more user friendly.
Overall, excellent experience and will only use Electric Generators Direct from now on. I could have used others, but the previous reviews convinced me to use them. Glad I did!
Just installed this unit for a customer of ours. Pretty easy installation. Very happy with the whole process. I paid the extra $50 for the priority shipping and was well worth it. Also, purchased a battery. I am glad I did, because I would have forgot that the unit does not come with one.
It was shipped out within hours of placing the order and got a call from the local shipping service within two days. I actually had to hold them off. Really did not expect them to be so prompt. I am glad that I asked them for a smaller truck for delivery because they were going to deli... more
January 17, 2011
John Lyman, ME
Peace Of Mind
I purchased this for my home as I live in a remote area and lose power on occasion.
The purchase was easy, the price was very good and delivery was prompt and without issue. My electrician installed it during recent renovations to the home.
The generator works very well and with easy programming, self test weekly. It has brought much peace of mind to both my wife and I.
November 16, 2010
James Fife, WA
10kw Generac Generator
Good price, good product, very fast delivery. Completely satisfied with everything.
Only thing that I feel would make this a perfect setup is make the power wires that comes from the transfer switch to the main electrical panel longer. 2ft of conduit makes it very difficult to bend into the main panel.
EGD: The ATS with the 2’ conduit should be installed as close as possible to the main panel
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