Wrenches,
An unknown quantity of Generac EcoGens went out of the factory with
incorrectly connected oil lines. We are working with Generac now,
concerning a new unit that destroyed itself on its first run.
After we hooked the machine up and left, the customer manually
started the machine the following day. We were not able to do the
startup because we did not have all the information needed for
Generac to provide us with the access code needed to start the unit.
The representative told me she would give me the code, but that it
would void the warranty! Beware of the many EcoGen warranty loopholes!
After providing the necessary information to Generac and receiving
the access code, my client started the unit and watched happily as
the machine ran quietly and charged the batteries at twice the rate
of her old unit. She went about her chores, and 2 hours later noticed
that the yard had a tremendous amount of smoke in it. The generator
was pouring out smoke. The lid of the enclosure was too hot to touch.
The machine was seriously damaged. Much of the oil was blown out.
Neither the over-temperature nor the low engine oil shutdown
functioned to protect the unit.
We are asking Generac to provide a new unit, not repair the flawed
one, as the amount of overheating could have damaged unknown
components. We understand that Generac would prefer to repair instead
of replace.
Under the circumstances, it would be wise to monitor a new EcoGen for
much longer than would normally be required after startup. How
long? I don't know. I'd wait two hours to feel safe.
Best,
Drake
Drake Chamberlin
Athens Electric LLC
OH License 44810
CO License 3773
NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer
740-448-7328
<http://athens-electric.com/>http://athens-electric.com/
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