Overview#
The Cummins RS30 is a 30 kW liquid-cooled residential standby generator from the QuietConnect RS Series. It uses the same 2.4-liter inline 4-cylinder engine platform as the RS25 but delivers 30 kW of standby power at 120/240V single phase (125 amps on both fuels). The RS30 is designed for large homes that need true whole-house backup including multiple A/C systems, electric cooking, and high-draw appliances.
The RS30 runs on natural gas or propane vapor (field selectable) at 1,800 rpm and produces 65 dB(A) at 23 feet with the Sound Level 1 enclosure. The aluminum enclosure is wind-rated to 180 mph per ASCE 7-10 and the unit is equipped for cold weather starts down to -40 F with factory-installed coolant heater and crankcase vent heater.
PowerCommand 1.1 controls provide electronic governing, self-diagnostics, automatic exercise scheduling, and remote monitoring capability with optional WiFi accessories.
Technical Specifications#
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Standby Rating | 30 kW |
| Voltage (1-phase) | 120/240V |
| Voltage (3-phase) | 120/208V, 277/480V |
| Frequency | 60 Hz |
| Rated Amps (1-phase, both fuels) | 125 |
| Engine Displacement | 2.4 L |
| Cylinders | 4 (inline) |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Rated Speed | 1,800 rpm |
| Cooling | Liquid-cooled |
| Controller | PowerCommand 1.1 |
| Sound Level | 65 dB(A) at 23 ft (7 m) |
| Weight | 1,231 lbs |
| Wind Rating | 180 mph (ASCE 7-10) |
| Cold Weather | -40 F (with factory accessories) |
Our Service Experience#
The RS30 is a strong choice for large residential installations in the 3,000-5,000 square foot range. At 125 amps it provides enough capacity for most whole-house backup scenarios without oversizing into the larger 5.9L engine platform.
The 2.4L engine is mechanically simple and reliable. Service intervals are 500 hours or annually for oil and filter, 500 hours for air filter, and 1,000 hours for spark plugs. The coolant system requires annual testing and periodic replacement. The factory-installed block heater must remain plugged in for reliable cold starting.
We see most service calls on the RS30 related to battery condition and coolant maintenance. Weekly exercise and annual battery load testing prevent the majority of no-start events. Coolant should be tested with a refractometer at each annual service to verify freeze protection and corrosion inhibitor levels.
Frequently Asked Questions#
What is the standby rating of the RS30? 30 kW at 120/240V, 60 Hz, single phase (125 amps). Also available in 120/208V and 277/480V three-phase configurations.
How does the RS30 compare to the RS25? Both use the same 2.4L inline-4 engine platform. The RS30 delivers 20% more power (30 kW vs 25 kW, 125 amps vs 104 amps). For homes that are borderline on the RS25, the RS30 provides comfortable headroom.
What is the warranty on the RS30? 2-year limited warranty from Cummins. Extended options available up to 10 years.
