Generac Power Systems 6242 Details and Specifications
Generac pairs their 17 kilowatt standby generator with a 16-circuit automatic transfer switch for a complete package that provides automatic backup electrical power during an outage. The 6242 backup generator package installs permanently to provide around-the-clock protection against power outages―even when the homeowner is away―keeping critical circuits supplied with electricity. Generac provides a 5 year limited consumer warranty on all their Guardian Standby Generators.
Fuel Choices
The 6242 offers the flexibility of running on either LP gas (propane) or natural gas. Generac factory configures their standby generators for natural gas, but conversion to LP is fast and easy during installation. A full 17 kilowatts are available using LP fuel, and 16 kilowatts using natural gas. At half load, the engine consumes 183 cubic feet of natural gas or 1.6 gallons of LP gas per hour. Electrical loads directly affect fuel consumption. As the load increases or decreases, fuel consumption changes accordingly. Required fuel pressure to generator fuel inlet at all load ranges 3.5" - 7" water column for natural gas or 10" - 12" water column for LP gas.
Engine
Generac uses their own engines which were specifically designed to meet the demands of a standby generator. The 992cc overhead valve industrial engine is built with plateau-honed 'Spiny-Loc' cylinders and moly plasma rings for reduced wear and oil consumption. Solid-state ignition, a fully pressurized oil lubrication system, and a 200 hour maintenance interval for oil changes keep the 6242 ready for any outage lasting a few hours, a few days, or even a week or more. Low oil and high temperature shutdown protect the engine against damage.
Evolution Controls
Generac's Evolution Controller handles all generator functions and controls the operation of the automatic transfer switch. It continuously monitors utility power and senses an outage immediately. After a 10 second delay (dealer programmable from 2-1500 seconds) it starts the generator and instructs the transfer switch to disconnect the utility lines and supply the home with generator power. When utility power is restored, it disconnects the generator runs the engine in a cool-down cycle, then shuts it down.
The controller monitors operation and constantly regulates voltage and frequency to provide electrical power equal to that supplied by the utility. The Evolution display provides status updates, fault reports, and maintenance requirements.
A smart battery charger keeps the units battery at full charge and detects deteriorating batteries to notify the owner before they fail and will no longer start the engine.
Optional controller features include Mobile Link, an advanced monitoring system that keeps you in touch from inside your home or anywhere there is a web connection. It provides a web-based dashboard to access to controller functions to allow programming exercise periods, scheduling maintenance, and viewing status messages or fault reports using your tablet, computer, or smart phone. It also sends status updates to your cellular phone via text message.
Use an optional wireless monitor to see generator status from the comfort and convenience of your home, or upgrade to the advanced model and view status messages, reports, schedule exercise periods or test the generator. All without going outside.
Automatic Transfer Switch
The automatic transfer switch is a 100-amp, 16 circuit load center that connects to a circuit breaker in the main service panel. In a typical installation, it supplies power to the circuits in the load center from the main panel during normal operation, and from the generator during a power outage.
Generator Unit
The generator in the 6242 is a brushless, rotating field generator with skewed stators for superior voltage and frequency control (1 percent frequency and voltage variance) under heavy and continuously changing load conditions. The fast response to changing conditions ensures utility-quality power suitable for today's sensitive electronics and large, power-hungry appliances. The brushless design helps eliminate noise, improves engine fuel economy, and reduces wear.
Appearance and Noise
The generator unit is neighborhood friendly with a eye-pleasing enclosure designed to fit into any urban setting. The galvaaneal steel cabinet is powder coated for years of corrosion-free service in harsh climates. A fully enclosed muffler keeps sound levels at 66db, comparable to many air conditioning units. The compact design is 48 inches wide, 25 inches deep, and 29 inches high. Locking doors allow access for maintenance and operation and discourage tampering.
