Generac is one of the most recognized names in the generator industry, known for its wide range of portable, standby, and industrial power solutions.
If you’re considering buying a Generac portable generator, you might be wondering: Where are Generac portable generators made?
This question is important for those who value American manufacturing, want to understand the quality of their purchase, or are simply curious about the brand’s global footprint.
This comprehensive article will explore the origins of Generac portable generators, the company’s manufacturing facilities, the role of global supply chains, and what “Made in the USA” really means for Generac products.
Table of Contents
- Introduction: The Generac Brand
- A Brief History of Generac
- Generac’s Manufacturing Facilities
- Are Generac Portable Generators Made in the USA?
- Global Sourcing and Components
- What Does “Made in the USA” Mean for Generac?
- Generac vs. Other Generator Brands
- How to Tell Where Your Generac Generator Was Made
- Why Manufacturing Location Matters
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion: The Real Story Behind Generac’s Manufacturing
Introduction: The Generac Brand
Founded in 1959, Generac Power Systems is an American manufacturer specializing in backup power generation products. The company is best known for:
- Home standby generators
- Portable generators
- Commercial and industrial generators
- Pressure washers and other power equipment
Generac is a market leader in North America, with a reputation for innovation, reliability, and a broad product range.
A Brief History of Generac
- 1959: Generac founded in Waukesha, Wisconsin, USA.
- 1960s–1980s: Focused on portable and standby generators for commercial and residential use.
- 1990s: Expanded into home standby generators, becoming a household name.
- 2000s–Present: Went public, expanded manufacturing, and acquired several other power equipment brands.
Generac’s roots are firmly American, and the company has long promoted its Wisconsin heritage.
Generac’s Manufacturing Facilities
Generac operates several manufacturing and distribution facilities in the United States, primarily in Wisconsin. Key locations include:
- Waukesha, Wisconsin: Corporate headquarters and major manufacturing site.
- Whitewater, Wisconsin: Large production facility for home standby and portable generators.
- Jefferson, Wisconsin: Manufacturing and distribution.
- Eagle, Wisconsin: Manufacturing and R&D.
- Berlin, Wisconsin: Manufacturing and assembly.
- Trenton, South Carolina: Manufacturing and distribution (acquired with the purchase of Ottomotores).
Generac has invested heavily in expanding its U.S. manufacturing footprint, especially as demand for backup power has surged in recent years.
Are Generac Portable Generators Made in the USA?
The Short Answer
Most Generac portable generators are assembled in the USA, but many components are sourced globally.
Some models are made entirely in the USA, while others are assembled in the U.S. from parts made in other countries, especially China.
Details
- Home Standby Generators:
Generac’s flagship home standby generators (such as the Guardian series) are designed, engineered, and assembled in the USA—primarily in Wisconsin. - Portable Generators:
Generac’s portable generators are assembled in the USA, but many key components (such as engines, alternators, and electronic parts) are imported, mainly from China and other Asian countries. - Commercial/Industrial Generators:
Larger commercial and industrial units are generally made in the USA, with some global components.
Generac’s official statement:
“Generac manufactures its generators in the United States, using domestic and foreign parts.”
Global Sourcing and Components
Like most major equipment manufacturers, Generac relies on a global supply chain for many of its parts:
- Engines:
Some Generac portable generators use engines made in China (often by Generac’s own overseas subsidiaries or partners). Others use engines made in the U.S. - Alternators:
Alternators may be made in the U.S. or imported, depending on the model. - Electronics and Controls:
Many electronic components are sourced from Asia. - Frames and Enclosures:
Often made in the U.S. or Mexico. - Final Assembly:
Most portable generators are assembled and tested in Wisconsin or South Carolina.
This approach is common in the power equipment industry, as it helps keep costs competitive while maintaining quality standards.
What Does “Made in the USA” Mean for Generac?
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) regulates the use of “Made in the USA” claims. For a product to be labeled as such:
- All or virtually all significant parts and processing must be of U.S. origin.
Generac typically uses the phrase “Assembled in the USA using domestic and foreign parts.” This means:
- The final assembly, quality control, and testing are done in the U.S.
- Some or many components are imported.
For most portable generators, “Made in the USA” means U.S. assembly, not 100% U.S.-made parts.
Generac vs. Other Generator Brands
How does Generac compare to other major brands in terms of manufacturing location?
| Brand | Manufacturing Location(s) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Generac | USA (assembly), China (parts) | Most portables assembled in Wisconsin |
| Honda | Japan, Thailand, China, USA | Many portables made in China/Thailand |
| Champion | China, USA (some assembly) | Most portables made in China |
| Westinghouse | China, Vietnam, USA (some) | Most portables made in China/Vietnam |
| Briggs & Stratton | USA, China, Mexico | Some portables made in USA, many in China |
| DuroMax | China | Most portables made in China |
| Yamaha | Japan, China | Most portables made in Japan/China |
Generac is one of the few major brands with significant U.S. assembly for portable generators.
How to Tell Where Your Generac Generator Was Made
- Check the Label:
Look for a sticker or plate on the generator that says “Assembled in the USA” or “Made in China.” - Check the Owner’s Manual:
The manual may state the country of origin for the product or its components. - Contact Generac:
Call or email Generac customer support with your model and serial number for details. - Retailer Information:
Some retailers list the country of origin in product descriptions. - Model Number Clues:
Some model numbers or serial numbers may indicate the manufacturing location.
Why Manufacturing Location Matters
1. Quality Control
- U.S. assembly often means stricter quality control and testing.
- Imported parts may vary in quality, but final assembly in the U.S. can help ensure reliability.
2. Support for American Jobs
- Buying U.S.-assembled products supports American workers and the local economy.
3. Warranty and Service
- U.S.-assembled generators may have better access to parts, service, and warranty support.
4. Patriotism and Values
- Some buyers prefer to support American manufacturing for ethical or patriotic reasons.
5. Regulatory Compliance
- U.S.-assembled generators are more likely to meet EPA, CARB, and other regulatory standards.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are all Generac generators made in the USA?
No. Most home standby and large commercial generators are made in the USA. Most portable generators are assembled in the USA from global parts.
2. Are Generac engines made in the USA?
Some are, but many portable generator engines are made in China or other countries.
3. How can I be sure my generator is U.S.-made?
Check the label, manual, or contact Generac with your model number.
4. Is a U.S.-assembled generator better than an imported one?
Not always, but U.S. assembly often means better quality control and support.
5. Why do companies use global parts?
To keep costs competitive, access advanced technology, and manage supply chains efficiently.
6. Are there any 100% American-made portable generators?
Very few, if any. Most brands use at least some imported parts.
Conclusion: The Real Story Behind Generac’s Manufacturing
Where are Generac portable generators made?
Most are assembled in the USA, primarily in Wisconsin, using a mix of domestic and globally sourced parts—especially engines and electronics from China and other Asian countries. Generac’s home standby and larger commercial generators are more likely to be made almost entirely in the USA.
Key Takeaways:
- Generac is a U.S.-based company with significant American manufacturing.
- Most portable generators are assembled in the USA, but not all parts are U.S.-made.
- “Made in the USA” usually means U.S. assembly, not 100% U.S. parts.
- Generac’s approach is common in the industry, balancing quality, cost, and supply chain efficiency.
If buying American-made products is important to you, Generac is a strong choice among major generator brands. However, no major portable generator is 100% U.S.-made. Always check the label, ask questions, and buy from reputable dealers to ensure you get the quality and support you expect.
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