Kohler 12RESVL 12kW
#8 in Under 15 kWFull review
For smaller homes that want a well pump or a small air conditioner on top of the essentials, with Kohler’s full-coverage warranty.
Norwall $4,728$4,728
The Kohler 12RESVL 12kW is the better standby generator overall, rated 3.0 to 2.9. The Kohler 12RESVL 12kW leads on value. The Kohler 10RESVL 10kW costs $440 less ($4,288 vs $4,728).
Prices were last checked November 9, 2026. Product prices and availability are accurate as of that date and are subject to change; the price and availability shown on Amazon or the retailer's site at the time of purchase apply. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
Kohler 10RESVL 10kW
#10 in Under 15 kWFull review
For smaller homes that only need the fridge, furnace and lights backed up, on Kohler’s cheapest kit with its full-coverage warranty.
Norwall $4,288$4,288
Which should you buy?
- Choose the Kohler 12RESVL 12kW for value ($394 per kW ($4,728 with transfer switch, 12 kW on propane) vs $429 per kW ($4,288 with transfer switch, 10 kW on propane)).
Scores side by side
Each factor is scored 0-100 against the same fixed reference points for every under 15 kw standby generator; a clear win is highlighted. How we rank explains each one.
| Factor weight | Kohler 12RESVL 12kW | Kohler 10RESVL 10kW |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.0/5 | 2.9/5 |
| Value 35% | 34 $394 per kW ($4,728 with transfer switch, 12 kW on propane) | 22 $429 per kW ($4,288 with transfer switch, 10 kW on propane) |
| Transfer switch 15% | 100 includes a 100 A transfer switch | 100 includes a 100 A transfer switch |
| Noise 15% | 8 71 dBA rated in normal operation | 8 71 dBA rated in normal operation |
| Power quality 10% | 83 under 5% THD | 83 under 5% THD |
| Warranty 25% | 29 5-year warranty | 29 5-year warranty |
Specifications
| Kohler 12RESVL 12kW | Kohler 10RESVL 10kW | |
|---|---|---|
| Output | ||
| Rated output, propane | 12 kW | 10 kW |
| Rated output, natural gas | 11 kW | 9 kW |
| THD | Under 5% | Under 5% |
| Engine | 725 cc | 725 cc |
| Engine speed | 3,600 rpm | 3,600 rpm |
| Install | ||
| Transfer switch | Included, 100 A | Included, 100 A |
| Load management | No | No |
| Remote monitoring | Yes | Yes |
| Enclosure | Steel | Steel |
| Dimensions | 30.6 x 28 x 32.4 in | 30.6 x 28 x 32.4 in |
| Weight | 433 lb | 428 lb |
| Noise and warranty | ||
| Noise, normal operation | 71 dBA | 71 dBA |
| Noise, weekly self-test | 67 dBA | 67 dBA |
| Warranty | 5 years | 5 years |