Generac Next Gen Generators vs.
Guardian Series Generators
Generac introduced its newest home standby generator design in January 2025, and it became available through Generac Authorized Dealers the second half of this year. While the existing Guardian Series of home generators from Generac remains a solid, reliable option for home standby power, the Next Gen generators represent the most significant advancement in residential backup power technology in years.
To help our customers in Queensbury, Glens Falls, Lake George and Saratoga understand the key differences between these two series, we’ve put together this comprehensive comparison.
Next Generation Generators vs. Guardian Series –
Key Differences
Signals Electric breaks down the main differences between the Next Generation Series of Generac generators and the Guardian Series below.
Fuel & Ignition Technology
- Guardian Series: Traditional carburetor-based fuel system with manual choke
- Next Gen Series: Advanced electronic fuel injection and ignition control (EFIC)
Why it Matters: The EFIC system improves fuel efficiency by up to 20% over the Guardian series and eliminates failed starts in freezing temperatures. It also meets stricter emissions standards with potentially cleaner operation.
Connectivity
- Guardian Series: Optional Wi-Fi Connectivity
- Next Gen Series: Built-in cellular connectivity standard across all models
Why it Matters: Cellular connectivity works anywhere with cell phone tower coverage, so it’s not dependent on your home Wi-Fi network. It also allows for instant mobile alerts sent directly to your smartphone, real-time monitoring and diagnostics, and automatic firmware updates.
User Interface & Controls
- Guardian Series: Basic LCD display on the unit with limited functionality
- Next Gen Series: New “Power Zone 200” controller with smartphone integration
Why it Matters: With the new generators, the controls are hidden inside the unit. So, settings and functions are controlled from a smartphone app. This new technology allows for better remote insight, with the potential for fewer field failures and service calls than with the Guardian Series, but it also increases dependence on a mobile device and software.
Oil Level Monitoring & Diagnostics
- Guardian Series: Manual dipstick checking only
- Next Gen Series: Electronic oil level monitoring and mobile alerts
Why it Matters: The advanced oil level sensing technology on the new generators allows for real-time oil level monitoring, mobile app notifications, dealer service integration, and predictive maintenance scheduling.
Fuel Pressure Monitoring & Diagnostics
- Guardian Series: No fuel system monitoring
- Next Gen Series: Advanced fuel sensing technology
Why it Matters: The fuel pressure sensor monitoring on the new generators provides early detection of fuel pump problems, real-time monitoring during operation, and specific diagnostic codes for fuel system failures.
Maintenance Requirements
- Guardian Series: Requires servicing every 100 hours
- Next Gen Series: Requires servicing every 200 hours
Why it Matters: With extended service intervals, the Next Generation generators boast lower maintenance costs over the generator’s life.
Power Output
- Guardian Series: Up to 26kW with a natural gas output of 22.5 kW
- Next Gen Series: Up to 28kW with a natural gas output of 25kW
Why it Matters: The Next Gen 28kW model represents the industry’s most powerful air-cooled standby generator on the market, offering a stronger option for larger homes, without the need for liquid-cooled / industrial class generators.
Cold Weather Performance
- Guardian Series: Flat roof design, air intake exposed to the elements
- Next Gen Series: Sloped roof design with redesigned air intake
Why it Matters: The sloped roof design prevents the buildup of snow, ice and debris, and the redesigned air intake and helps prevent common issues seen in Guardian units during winter weather, where snow could be drawn into the air filter and cause the generator to shut down. The EFIC system in the new generators is also better for harsher climates and freezing temperatures.
Which Generac Generator is Right for You?
Whether you’re thinking about upgrading your existing home standby generator, or installing a whole-home generator for the first-time, the Next Generation series of Generac generators offers the most advanced, reliable and user-friendly solution available.
In addition to the technology and performance advancements, the Next Generation series of generators features a complete aesthetic overhaul for a more modern appearance, and installation updates that save time and money, as well as upgraded motors and components for increased safety, reliability and long-term performance.
Generac Next Generation Generators in Queensbury, Lake George & Saratoga
For a free in-home consultation and estimate for home standby generator installation in Queensbury, Lake George, Saratoga and throughout the southern Adirondacks, call 518-217-2865. Our Certified Generac Installers will discuss your generator options with you and ensure you make the best choice for your home.