How Does the Generac Generator Work?

At C.M Mose & Son, we want you to feel confident with your backup generator purchase. Buying a generator is a big decision. We get more and more calls from people who want the protection and peace of mind that having backup power can provide. Our “sizing software” provides the customer and the sales and maintenance company, with the knowledge that will ensure you get the generator you need running the electrical circuits you want. If you've ever wondered what a Generac generator runs on on how it works, keep reading. We answer your generator FAQ below!

We’ve put together a few questions our customers in Pleasant Valley and all around Kansas City seem to ask the most and our answers. If you have a question not listed here, please give us a call and we’ll answer it for you personally. 

Need a quote for a generator for your home or your business? Call us at (816) 339-5190. Read more about Generac Generators on our website.

Generator FAQ

Do I have to push a button to turn the generator on?

Generac generators with automatic transfer switches are just that, automatic. They monitor the electrical feed from the utility company, and when your home loses power, the backup generator will automatically turn on.

What do I have to do to make the generator work?

Once the generator is installed, there is nothing for the homeowner to do. Regular maintenance would include having the oil changed once a year by a certified technician.

What does a Generac generator run on?

Generac generators run on natural gas or liquid propane fuel, and they outside your home or business just like a central air conditioning unit.

Does it turn on automatically?

Yes. The transfer switch monitors power from the utility company and turns the backup generator on and back off again as needed.

How do I know the generator is working?

The generator runs a self-diagnostic test and runs briefly once a week for approximately ten minutes. This test will assure the Generac generator is ready when you need it. You tell us when you want the test to run, and we program it for you.

How much does a backup generator cost to operate?

Generac generators operate on either natural gas or propane. The cost is a function of how many home appliances, lights, and heating and/ or cooling equipment you have on as well as the cost of propane or gas at the time.

How long can a Generac whole house generator run continuously?

Generac generators are a popular choice for reliable emergency power, and many Missouri residents have one on hand in case of power outages. Generac generators can run continuously in an outage for a maximum of 7 days, depending on the size of the fuel tank and power load. These generators are designed to be fuel efficient yet powerful, enabling them to provide continuity of service during extended outages. Generac also offers a range of generator models tailored specifically to each homeowner’s needs, giving Missourians peace of mind that they will always be ready if they need a reliable source of electricity.

As long as there is a fuel supply of natural gas or propane, a well-maintained backup generator will keep running. If the Generac generator is running on propane, with a 500-gallon tank, it should run 24 hours a day for over a week.

There are 24-hour, 48-hour, and 72-hour tanks available. Make sure the generator isn't running out of oil by monitoring its oil consumption. Whenever you use your generator for an extended period of time, it is a good idea to shut it down every 24 hours, let it cool, and add oil if necessary.  

How loud are Generac generators?

Generac generators are very quiet. They are average rated at 66 decibels at three meters (about ten feet). That’s about the sound of the A/C running or a phone ringing.

For more information about how the Generac Generator work, call (816) 339-5190 or fill out our online contact form today to speak with our expert technicians!

Related Reading: 

• Understanding How Generac Generators Work
• Generac Generator Repair
• How Long Can A Standby Generator Run Continuously?