Last updated: March 2026

RS17A

Power: 17kW LP / 17kW NG
Installed Cost: $10,000–$14,000
Noise: 65 dB
Weight: 531 lbs
Warranty: 5 years
Fuel: Dual-fuel (NG/LP)

Best for: 2,000–2,500 sq ft with 3-ton AC. Fills the gap between 14kW and 20kW that other brands skip.

The RS17A fills a gap that most brands don't bother with. Generac jumps from 14kW to 18kW. Kohler jumps from 14kW to 20kW. Cummins gives you 17kW: the size that covers a 2,000 to 2,500 square foot home with a 3-ton AC without paying for capacity you won't use.

What This Generator Keeps Running

3-ton central AC (load management cycles compressor with other loads), refrigerator, freezer, furnace, sump/well pump, full lighting, home office, CPAP.

Limitations: 4-ton AC. Step up to RS20A.

What It Actually Costs

Unit price

$5,290

Installed

$10,000–$14,000

Competitively priced against Generac 18kW ($10,000–$15,000) with same-fuel NG output and built-in load management included.

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How Loud Is It?

65 dB. same as every QuietConnect. Same engine, same footprint, same noise as RS13A and RS20A.

How Big Is It?

34.1" × 36" × 27.3" identical to RS13A and RS20A. 531 lbs.

Maintenance

Same QSJ999G engine across the entire lineup. Identical service to RS13A and RS20A.

Pros & Cons

What's good

✓17 kW on both fuels: zero NG derating
✓Fills the 14-to-20kW gap other brands skip
✓65 dB, smallest footprint, built-in load management
✓$10,000–$14,000 installed: competitive with Generac 18kW
✓Extreme weather variant available

What's not

✗Limited dealer network
✗Only $514 less than the RS20A; the step to 20kW is tempting
✗Cloud Connect reliability issues
✗Transfer switch sold separately

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 17kW enough for a 2,500 sq ft house?▾

With 3-ton AC and gas heat, yes. The built-in load management helps it cover loads that would otherwise need 18–20kW from brands without load management.

Why does Cummins offer 17kW when others don't?▾

All three QuietConnect models use the same engine tuned to different outputs. Adding a 17kW option costs Cummins almost nothing but fills a real gap for mid-size homes.

RS17A or RS20A?▾

RS20A costs $514 more for 3 kW more on propane (though it drops to 18kW on NG while the RS17A holds at 17 on both fuels). If your loads fit in 17kW, save the money. Installation cost is the same either way.

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