Out With the Old, in With the New?
Overview
When you’re in an emergency and the power goes out, you don’t want to be left in the dark. Generac backup residential generators provide peace of mind and enough power to support your home’s functions. The manufacturer sells 16 kW, 20 kW, and 22 kW generators, all with the patented innovation and technology that makes them a leader in their field.
We’ll examine two of Generac’s 22 kW models today, the 70422 and the 70432. Both are actually from the Guardian series; 70432 is 70422’s successor, and improves upon a few shortcomings the original suffered from.
Specifications and Capabilities
70422 has dimensions of 48” x 25” x 29” and weighs 466 lbs. 70432 is heavier at 515 lbs, but maintains the same dimensions of 48” x 25” x 29”. Both models are enclosed in an aluminum shell with a RhinoCoat finish that rates them for extreme winds up to 150 mph.
Both models provide a max wattage of 22,000 W for liquefied petroleum (LP) and 19,500 W for natural gas (NG). Self-tests of these wattages can be programmed to run weekly, biweekly, or monthly. Generac’s website warns that routine oil and filter changes need to be maintained to actually achieve maximum potential performance.
For the newer 70432, reviewers complain that the installation process is counterintuitive and frustrating and that Generac customer support offered limited assistance.
Since the 70422 is the so-called ‘outdated’ model, there’s concern that support for troubleshooting and replacement parts might not be a priority of Generac’s.
The G-Force Engine
The 70432 and the 70422 run on the Generac G-Force Engine, which is built to output a stable power level while requiring less maintenance. It does this by including several unique features in the engine design, such as full oil filtration to apply refined, pressurized oil to the main and rod bearings to bolster durability; temperature management software (called the Cold Smart Start) to regulate power output and avoid engine wear; and the unique Idle-Down Control, a function that decreases fuel usage by 25% compared to market competitors. All these features add up to an efficient powerhouse that produces 20% more energy throughout the RPM range and has the lowest cost out of all air-filtered backup house generators.
True Power Technology
Strong doesn’t have to equal loud. G-Force Engines are made with minimal noise in mind. The use of Generac’s True Power Technology system means your generators will never reach above 5% power harmonic distortion. The generator itself never surpasses 67 decibels in volume. The engine maintains this state with an automated Quiet Self-Test Mode it switches into at periodic intervals.
Mobile Link Wireless Connectivity
The original model already offered WiFi connection, and they haven’t changed anything with the updated version. Both the 70432 and the 70422 can be interacted with using a smartphone, tablet, or computer on your wireless network. With the Mobile Link application, you can monitor built-in battery diagnostics, the generator’s exercise and run-time hours, maintenance information, the previous month’s generator activity, and data for the local ambient weather that the generator uses to determine its power output.
One thing to note for both models is that, depending on which vendor you purchase from, you might need to pay for WiFi access separately. There’s a shortage of the chips needed to use WiFi on the generator as of the year this article was written (2022), so you may be in for a long wait.
Evolution Controls
The generators sport the Generac smart interface called Evolution Controls. This is essentially a smooth, weather-resistant smart screen that lets you select the operating mode and view at-a-glance information at your leisure. From the Controls screen you can access up to 50 past logs of generator history, maintenance, and significant events. This interface can be used in English, Portugese, Spanish, and French– and that’s not even close to the complete list of languages it can handle. On its own, the Evolution software controls engine warm-up, cool-down, and a programmable exercise mode where the generator runs for five minutes every other week to avoid oil seal drying and damage between power outages.
The Transfer Switch
Transfer switches regulate the connections between utility power and generator power. The transfer switch prevents any form of overlap; during a power outage, the switch is crucial to directly access energy for critical building functions, lights, and emergency equipment.
The newer 70432 comes with a 200-Amp NEMA 3R Automatic transfer switch, which can be installed immediately upon your unit’s delivery (although we’d advise you to find a professional to help you with that, judging by reviewer feedback).
The 70422 does not come with a transfer switch; it must be purchased separately, which means there might be compatibility issues between the generator and a transfer switch from an outside manufacturer.
- Remote Monitoring Anywhere: With the Mobile Link Wi-Fi connectivity, effortlessly keep tabs on generator...
- Whole House Protection: Enjoy comprehensive coverage with Generac's 200-amp NEMA 3R smart switch, designed for...
- Long-Term Assurance: Count on lasting performance and reliability with our 5-Year Limited Warranty. This...
Last update on 2024-04-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Verdict
There’s so few differences between the old and new models of this Guardian generator that it comes down to reader preference in the two areas there is some disparity. With matching output and operation quality to its newer model, the 70422 might be a better choice for someone on a budget– but then there’s the absence of the transfer switch to consider. Some switches run in the $900 range, which puts a huge dent in the savings you make if you opt for the older model. Is it really worth it to whittle down on a price tag you’ll still be adding to later?
The 70432 has the benefits of being the most up-to-date model with the most up-to-date customer support; it also comes with a transfer switch verified to be compatible by its manufacturer. Some people might want this just to save the headache of finding a transfer switch on their own. Bear in mind that even with that customer support, installation of the 70432 is said to be a hassle– as inferred from the multiple complaints from consumers across different vendor websites. Proceed with professional help or professional knowledge of your own.
- Remote Monitoring Anywhere: With the Mobile Link Wi-Fi connectivity, effortlessly keep tabs on generator...
- Quiet-Test Self-Test Mode: Unlike other brands, our generators run quieter during the self-test mode thanks to...
- Long-Term Assurance: Count on lasting performance and reliability with our 5-Year Limited Warranty. This...
Last update on 2024-04-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
