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 and the Kohler 14RCAL 14kW are evenly matched, rated 3.0 and 3.0. The Kohler 12RESVL 12kW leads on value. The Kohler 14RCAL 14kW wins on noise. The Kohler 12RESVL 12kW costs $1,171 less ($4,728 vs $5,899).
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 14RCAL 14kW
#9 in Under 15 kWFull review
For homes that want essentials plus one air conditioner managed automatically, with a full parts and labor warranty.
Norwall $5,899$5,899
Which should you buy?
- Choose the Kohler 12RESVL 12kW for value ($394 per kW ($4,728 with transfer switch, 12 kW on propane) vs $421 per kW ($5,899 with transfer switch, 14 kW on propane)).
- Choose the Kohler 14RCAL 14kW for noise (69 dBA rated in normal operation vs 71 dBA rated in normal operation).
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 14RCAL 14kW |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.0/5 | 3.0/5 |
| Value 35% | 34 $394 per kW ($4,728 with transfer switch, 12 kW on propane) | 25 $421 per kW ($5,899 with transfer switch, 14 kW on propane) |
| Transfer switch 15% | 100 includes a 100 A transfer switch | 100 includes a 200 A transfer switch |
| Noise 15% | 8 71 dBA rated in normal operation | 25 69 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 14RCAL 14kW | |
|---|---|---|
| Output | ||
| Rated output, propane | 12 kW | 14 kW |
| Rated output, natural gas | 11 kW | 12 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, 200 A |
| Load management | No | Yes |
| Remote monitoring | Yes | Yes |
| Enclosure | Steel | Aluminum |
| Dimensions | 30.6 x 28 x 32.4 in | 47 x 26.0 x 32.3 in |
| Weight | 433 lb | 490 lb |
| Noise and warranty | ||
| Noise, normal operation | 71 dBA | 69 dBA |
| Noise, weekly self-test | 67 dBA | 63 dBA |
| Warranty | 5 years | 5 years |