The Cummins RS Series for Home Backup

Cummins built the RS series for one purpose: keeping homes running when the grid goes down. These air-cooled standby generators start automatically the moment utility power fails, with no action required from you. The RS13, RS17, and RS20 cover a range of home sizes and load requirements, all within the Quiet Connect enclosure designed to operate in residential neighborhoods.

Choosing the Right kW Output for Your Home

Generator sizing is not about square footage alone. It is about the loads you need to protect during an outage. A 13kW unit handles essential circuits well: refrigerator, lights, sump pump, select outlets, and a window AC unit. A 17kW unit adds the capacity to run a central air conditioning system up to approximately 3 tons, making it a practical fit for medium-sized homes where HVAC continuity matters. A 20kW unit provides near-whole-home coverage for most average-sized residences, supporting HVAC, kitchen appliances, and general lighting simultaneously. If your home is large, all-electric, or has high starting loads from well pumps or electric heat, a licensed electrician should perform a load calculation before you purchase.

Natural Gas vs. Propane

Every Cummins RS unit is dual-fuel capable. Natural gas is the preferred fuel for most installations: it connects to your existing utility line and never runs out. Propane is a practical alternative for homes in rural areas without natural gas service. A propane tank is sized by your installer based on your expected run time and consumption. Both fuel options deliver reliable, full-rated output from the generator. Your installer connects the fuel supply line during installation.

The Quiet Connect Advantage

Cummins designed the Quiet Connect enclosure for residential use. These generators operate at noise levels suited for neighborhoods where noise ordinances apply. The enclosure also provides weather protection for the engine and controls. Quiet operation means the generator runs without disturbing sleep or outdoor activities, and without drawing complaints from neighbors. Noise output varies by model and load; check the spec sheet for the dB rating of each specific unit.

Automatic Transfer: How It Works

A home standby generator is not a portable unit you plug in during an outage. It is a permanently installed system connected to your home electrical panel through an automatic transfer switch (ATS). When the generator detects a loss of utility power, it starts the engine, waits for stable output, then transfers your circuits to generator power. This process takes seconds. When utility power is restored, the transfer switch returns your home to the grid and the generator shuts down automatically. The system requires no action from you during an outage. The automatic transfer switch is a required component of every standby installation and is separate from the generator itself.

Installation Overview

Cummins RS series generators require professional installation by a licensed electrician. The installation process includes placing the generator on a concrete pad, connecting the automatic transfer switch to your home panel, running the fuel line from your natural gas meter or propane tank, and commissioning the unit. Cummins recommends using a certified dealer installer for warranty purposes. Contact our team for guidance on finding a qualified installer in your area, and for help understanding what the full installation process involves before you purchase.

Why Buy From Mighty Generators

Mighty Generators is an authorized Cummins dealer. Every unit sold here carries the full Cummins factory warranty and direct factory parts and service support. We do not charge restocking fees. Financing is available through Klarna with 0% APR options. Units ship factory direct to your address via freight. Our specialists are available 24/7 to help with sizing, installation questions, and post-purchase support. Call (888) 775-9048 or contact us through the website.