BENFIELD ELECTRIC GENERATORS FAQ
How much does it cost?
  • Final costs are of course subject to a site survey and professional estimate. Generally speaking, without plumbing costs, the systems start between $6,900 and $7,800 (8.5 and 12 KW systems). Basic plumbing costs start around $600. Project cost is highly dependent on the nature of your site and current state/arrangement of your home’s electrical system and plumbing cost. Please contact us for an estimate at no obligation.
How big is it?
  • This depends on the amount of power you select. A 12,000 watt generator unit is just slightly larger than a typical central A/C unit and can handle most of a home’s essential loads.
How loud is it?
  • Small portable generators (also known as “screamers”) have created the myth that all generator systems are unbearably loud. Not true. KOHLER® systems are enclosed by sound insulated weather housings that are designed to be outdoors 100% of the time, just like your A/C unit. The 12,000 watt generator purrs at a very quiet 65 Decibels, which is quieter than a typical vacuum cleaner. Most A/C units are actually louder than this.
Should I power the whole house or just select devices?
  • For essential loads a moderate size unit can be used to run only those devices that you pre-select. Alternatively, a larger generator can be sized to accommodate the entire electrical load of your house. During the site electrical survey, Benfield will evaluate your needs to help you select the proper size unit. 
What are the qualifications of your installers?
  • Benfield Electric employees are factor-trained by KOHLER. They are fully qualified for: site electrical surveys, equipment sizing and selection, product sales, delivery, installation, start-up, warranty, parts, and long-term service and maintenance.
How quickly will the generator restore power in the event of an outage?
  • KOHLER home standby generators restore power within 10 seconds of an outage.
How soon can I get one?
  • The smaller systems are usually in stock. Exceptions can occur, however, especially during hurricane season and other storm events – so PLAN AHEAD – if you delay until the storms come, you may have to wait! Systems over 30,000 watts are subject to a standard factory lead-time of about 8 weeks. Again, plan ahead and get in touch with us today!
What fuel can I use?
  • We offer residential generators that operate on natural gas, LP (propane) or diesel fuel. Natural gas or LP is the easiest, cleanest and quietest choice for most homeowners. For those who do not have utility natural gas service, we can help you coordinate with a propane supplier.
Do I really need a generator?
  • Of course we all depend on electricity for the basic necessities of life: heating, cooling, lighting, refrigeration, water. The question is, are you willing or able to be without them for two or three days, or longer, in the case of major outages, hurricanes, and ice storms for example.
How does it work?
  • The KOHLER standby power system includes the generator, automatic transfer switch, battery charger and distribution panel. The transfer switch is the brain of your KOHLER backup power system. It continually monitors the utility power for an interruption. If utility power fails, the transfer switch automatically starts the generator, transfers the electrical loads and restores power to your home. When utility power resumes, the transfer switch reverses the process... again, automatically, whether you're home or away.