Overview#
The Cummins RS36 is a 36 kW liquid-cooled residential standby generator from the QuietConnect RS Series. It uses a turbocharged and aftercooled version of the 2.4-liter inline 4-cylinder engine, delivering 36 kW of standby power while maintaining the compact form factor of the RS25-RS40 platform. The turbocharger allows more power from the same displacement, making the RS36 ideal for large and estate-size homes.
The RS36 runs on natural gas or propane vapor (field selectable) at 1,800 rpm and produces just 63 dB(A) at 23 feet with the Sound Level 1 aluminum enclosure -- the quietest unit in its power class. The enclosure is wind-rated to 180 mph per ASCE 7-10. Cold weather operation is rated down to -40 F with factory-installed coolant heater and crankcase vent heater.
At 1,294 lbs and 94 x 34 x 45.5 inches, the RS36 is larger than the RS25 but shares the same width and height. PowerCommand 1.1 controls provide electronic governing, self-diagnostics, and remote monitoring.
Technical Specifications#
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Standby Rating | 36 kW |
| Voltage (1-phase) | 120/240V |
| Voltage (3-phase) | 120/208V, 277/480V |
| Frequency | 60 Hz |
| Engine Displacement | 2.4 L (143.5 in³) |
| Cylinders | 4 (inline) |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged and aftercooled |
| Rated Speed | 1,800 rpm |
| Cooling | Liquid-cooled |
| Controller | PowerCommand 1.1 |
| Sound Level | 63 dB(A) at 23 ft (7 m) |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 94.0 x 34.0 x 45.5 in |
| Weight | 1,294 lbs |
| Wind Rating | 180 mph (ASCE 7-10) |
| Cold Weather | -40 F (with factory accessories) |
Our Service Experience#
The RS36 is a popular choice for estate homes and small commercial applications in our service area. The turbocharged 2.4L engine provides 36 kW from a compact package that fits residential setback requirements while delivering commercial-grade output.
Service is identical to the other 2.4L models (RS25-RS40). The turbocharger adds one additional inspection point -- oil supply and return lines should be checked annually, and the turbo should be inspected for shaft play and seal condition at major service intervals. In practice, turbocharger issues are rare on these units because they operate at moderate boost levels.
The 2-year / 400-hour warranty on the RS36 reflects the heavier-duty nature of the turbocharged configuration. We recommend annual professional service including oil and filter change, coolant test, spark plug inspection, battery load test, and transfer switch exercise.
Frequently Asked Questions#
What is the standby rating of the RS36? 36 kW, available in single-phase (120/240V) and three-phase (120/208V, 277/480V) configurations.
How does the RS36 compare to the RS40? Both use the 2.4L turbocharged engine platform. The RS40 delivers 11% more power (40 kW vs 36 kW). The RS36 may be preferable when load calculations fall comfortably within 36 kW, as it runs at a lower percentage of capacity for equivalent loads.
What is the warranty on the RS36? 2-year / 400-hour limited warranty from Cummins. Extended options available up to 10 years.
