1. Introduction
This manual provides essential information for the safe and efficient operation, installation, and maintenance of your Generac Guardian 26kW Home Standby Generator. Please read this manual thoroughly before attempting to install, operate, or service the unit. Retain this manual for future reference.
The Generac Guardian 26kW Home Standby Generator is designed to provide automatic backup power to your home during utility power outages. It operates on either natural gas or liquid propane (LP) fuel and is equipped with a 200 Amp automatic transfer switch for seamless power transition.
Figure 1.1: Generac Guardian 26kW Home Standby Generator with 200 Amp Transfer Switch.
2. Safety Information
WARNING: Improper installation, operation, or maintenance can result in serious injury or death. Always follow all safety precautions and instructions.
2.1 General Safety Precautions
- Read and understand all instructions in this manual before operating the generator.
- Installation must be performed by a qualified and licensed electrician and plumber, in accordance with all local and national electrical and plumbing codes.
- Ensure the generator is properly grounded to prevent electrical shock.
- Never operate the generator indoors or in enclosed spaces. Exhaust fumes contain carbon monoxide, which is a colorless, odorless, and deadly gas.
- Keep children and pets away from the generator during operation.
- Do not touch hot surfaces. The generator engine and exhaust system become very hot during operation and remain hot for some time after shutdown.
- Turn off the generator and disconnect the battery before performing any maintenance or service.
2.2 Fuel Safety
- This generator is designed to operate on natural gas or liquid propane (LP) only. Do not use gasoline or other fuels.
- Ensure all fuel connections are secure and free of leaks.
- Store LP tanks in a well-ventilated area, away from ignition sources.
3. Product Overview
The Generac Guardian 26kW Home Standby Generator (Model 7291) is a robust power solution featuring a durable all-aluminum enclosure and a powerful G-Force engine. It includes a 200 Amp automatic transfer switch for seamless integration with your home's electrical system.
3.1 Key Components
- Generator Unit: Houses the engine, alternator, and control panel.
- Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS): Automatically transfers power between utility and generator.
- G-Force Engine: Purpose-built for generator use, ensuring reliability and reduced maintenance.
- Control Panel: Provides operational status, diagnostic information, and control buttons.
- Mobile Link Wi-Fi Connectivity: Allows remote monitoring via a smartphone, tablet, or computer.
Figure 3.1: Internal view of the Generac G-Force Engine and Control Panel.
Figure 3.2: Front view of the Generac Guardian 26kW Home Standby Generator.
4. Setup
Proper installation is crucial for the safe and efficient operation of your Generac Guardian generator. Generac strongly recommends that installation be performed by a certified and licensed electrician and plumber.
4.1 Site Selection and Preparation
- Choose a location that complies with all local codes and regulations regarding setbacks from buildings, windows, and property lines.
- Ensure the site is level and provides adequate clearance for maintenance and airflow.
- Prepare a stable base pad for the generator. The unit's design requires minimal ground preparation.
4.2 Electrical and Fuel Connections
- The 200 Amp Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS) must be installed between your utility meter and your home's main electrical panel.
- Connect the generator to your existing natural gas or LP fuel supply. Ensure all connections are leak-free and meet local gas codes.
- Wire the generator to the ATS according to the provided wiring diagrams and local electrical codes.
- Install a suitable battery (not included) for engine starting.
Figure 4.1: Schematic of generator connection to home electrical system.
5. Operating Instructions
Your Generac Guardian generator is designed for automatic operation. Once properly installed and configured, it will automatically detect power outages and restore power to your home.
5.1 Automatic Operation
- Ensure the generator's control panel is set to AUTO mode. The green indicator light should be illuminated.
- When utility power is lost, the Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS) will sense the outage.
- The generator will automatically start and warm up.
- Once the generator reaches proper voltage and frequency, the ATS will transfer your home's electrical load to the generator.
- When utility power is restored, the ATS will transfer the load back to utility power.
- The generator will cool down and then shut off automatically.
Figure 5.1: Impact of a power outage on a home.
Figure 5.2: Automatic backup power provided by the Generac generator.
5.2 Manual Operation
For testing or specific situations, the generator can be operated manually:
- Press the MANUAL button on the control panel. The generator will start and run.
- To stop the generator, press the OFF button.
5.3 Mobile Link Monitoring
The Mobile Link Wi-Fi connectivity allows you to monitor your generator's status from anywhere. Download the Mobile Link app and follow the in-app instructions to connect your generator.
6. Maintenance
Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and reliable performance of your Generac Guardian generator. Refer to the maintenance schedule in the separate maintenance manual for detailed intervals.
6.1 Routine Checks
- Weekly Exercise: The generator is programmed to run a short exercise cycle weekly to ensure readiness. Verify this occurs.
- Visual Inspection: Regularly check for any visible damage, leaks, or obstructions around the unit.
- Fuel Level: For LP models, ensure adequate fuel supply.
- Battery Condition: Check battery terminals for corrosion and ensure the battery is charged.
6.2 Scheduled Maintenance
Annual maintenance by a certified Generac technician is highly recommended. This typically includes:
- Oil and filter change.
- Air filter inspection/replacement.
- Spark plug inspection/replacement.
- Valve adjustment (if necessary).
- General system check and calibration.
7. Troubleshooting
This section provides solutions to common issues you might encounter with your Generac Guardian generator. For complex problems, contact a certified Generac service technician.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Generator does not start. | Low battery, no fuel, control panel not in AUTO mode, fault code. | Check battery charge, ensure fuel supply, set to AUTO, check control panel for fault codes and refer to manual. |
| Generator starts but does not transfer power. | ATS issue, generator not producing proper voltage/frequency. | Verify generator output on control panel. Contact technician if ATS is not transferring. |
| Generator runs but shuts down quickly. | Low oil pressure, overheating, fuel issue. | Check oil level, ensure proper ventilation, verify fuel supply. Consult fault codes. |
8. Specifications
Key technical specifications for the Generac Guardian 26kW Home Standby Generator (Model 7291):
- Model: 7291
- Power Output: 26,000 Watts (26kW)
- Fuel Type: Natural Gas or Liquid Propane (LP)
- Engine: Generac G-Force 1000 Series (999 Cubic Centimeters)
- Voltage: 240 Volts (AC)
- Frequency: 60 Hz
- Transfer Switch: 200 Amp Automatic Transfer Switch included
- Enclosure Material: All Aluminum
- Dimensions (L x W x H): 48.5" x 25.1" x 28.6"
- Weight: 518 Pounds
- Special Features: Fully Enclosed Design, Low Oil Shutdown, Super Quiet, Mobile Link Wi-Fi Enabled
Figure 8.1: Generac Guardian 26kW Generator Dimensions.
Figure 8.2: Power Needs Estimation Chart (for reference only).
9. Warranty and Support
9.1 Warranty Information
The Generac Guardian 26kW Home Standby Generator is backed by a 5-Year Limited Warranty. This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use and service. For full warranty terms and conditions, please refer to the warranty document included with your product or visit the official Generac website.
Figure 9.1: Generac Guardian Generator highlighting the 5-Year Limited Warranty.
9.2 Customer Support
For technical assistance, parts, or service, please contact Generac Customer Support. A nationwide dealer network of over 6,000 strong is available to assist you.
- Online Support: Visit the official Generac website for FAQs, troubleshooting guides, and service locator.
- Phone Support: Available 24/7/365. Refer to the Generac website for the most current contact numbers.
