As the saying goes, ‘an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure’ – and when it comes to preparing for power outages, having a reliable home generator is the ultimate preventative measure. You’re probably wondering which ones are worth the investment. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming. But rest assured, we’ve taken the guesswork out of it for you. From whole-house standby generators to portable power stations, we’ve narrowed down the top contenders to bring you the crème de la crème of home generators. But which ones made the cut? You’ll have to find out what sets them apart from the rest.
Contents
- Generac 22kW Air Cooled Home Standby Generator
- Champion 12.5-kW Home Standby Generator
- DuroMax XP13000EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator
- Generac 24kW Air Cooled Home Standby Generator
- Generac 7.5kW Air Cooled Home Standby Generator
- Goal Zero Yeti 1500X Portable Power Station
- WEN DF475T Dual Fuel Portable Generator
- Factors to Consider When Choosing Home Generators
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Generac 22kW Air Cooled Home Standby Generator
If you’re looking for a reliable and powerful whole-house generator that can deliver 22,000 watts of clean power with less than 5% total harmonic distortion, the Generac 22kW Air Cooled Home Standby Generator is the best choice for you.
This generator is designed to provide thorough protection for your entire home, with smart controls and versatile power to back it up.
You’ll appreciate the Wi-Fi connectivity and real-time updates that keep you informed about your generator’s performance.
Plus, with a 200-amp NEMA 3R smart switch, you can rest assured that your whole house is protected.
As an added bonus, the Generac 22kW comes with a 5-Year Limited Warranty and is engineered and assembled right here in the USA.
Best For: Homeowners who need a reliable and powerful whole-house generator that can provide clean power with low total harmonic distortion.
Pros:
- Comprehensive protection with smart controls and versatile power for whole-house coverage
- Wi-Fi connectivity and real-time updates for monitoring performance
- 5-Year Limited Warranty and engineered/ assembled in the USA for added peace of mind
Cons:
- Some customers have reported mixed opinions on the product’s performance, noise level, and customer support
- The generator is heavy, weighing 466 pounds, which may require additional installation costs
- The product has a high price point, which may be out of budget for some homeowners
Champion 12.5-kW Home Standby Generator
The Champion 12.5-kW Home Standby Generator is a powerful and reliable solution that can seamlessly power your entire home during an outage, with 12 available circuits and a quiet operation of just 63 dBA.
This generator is designed to operate in extreme temperatures, from -22°F to 104°F, and performs weekly self-diagnostic tests to guarantee it’s always ready to go.
With 12,500 watts of continuous power on propane and 11,000 watts on natural gas, you’ll have all the power you need to keep your essentials running.
Plus, its innovative gull-wing design makes maintenance a breeze, and its 10-year limited warranty provides peace of mind.
Best For: Homeowners who want a reliable and powerful solution to power their entire home during an outage.
Pros:
- Quiet operation with a noise level of 63 dBA, making it suitable for residential areas
- Can operate in extreme temperatures, from -22°F to 104°F, ensuring it’s always ready to go
- Innovative gull-wing design makes maintenance easy and convenient
Cons:
- Heavy item weight of 455.5 pounds, making it difficult to move or transport
- Requires a significant amount of space for installation, which may be a concern for smaller homes or yards
- Limited portability due to its size and weight, making it less suitable for camping or RV trips
DuroMax XP13000EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator
The DuroMax XP13000EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator is an ideal choice for homeowners who need to keep their entire house running during a storm or power outage, with its impressive 13,000 watts of power.
You’ll appreciate the flexibility of dual fuel technology, which allows you to switch between fuel types as needed.
The robust DuroMax engine is designed for power and durability, and the heavy-duty all-metal frame and power panel can withstand rough handling.
You’ll also appreciate the wide variety of outlets, including a transfer switch-ready 50-amp outlet, and the push-button start and front-facing interface for easy fuel type changes.
This generator can handle running your entire home, including heat, during a power outage, and it operates quietly even when standing next to the exhaust side.
However, be aware that the instructions lack clarity, especially for propane use, so be prepared to do some research on your own.
Best For: Homeowners who need a reliable and powerful generator to keep their entire house running during a storm or power outage.
Pros:
- Provides 13,000 watts of power to run entire homes, including heat, during power outages
- Offers flexibility with dual fuel technology and a wide variety of outlets
- Has a robust engine and heavy-duty frame for durability and quiet operation
Cons:
- Instructions lack clarity, especially for propane use, and may require additional research
- Some users have reported issues with the generator stalling on propane in low idle mode
- Fuel valve switch must be turned on for proper operation, which may not be immediately clear to users
Generac 24kW Air Cooled Home Standby Generator
For homeowners seeking a reliable and high-capacity power backup solution, the Generac 24kW Air Cooled Home Standby Generator stands out as a top choice, offering automatic backup power during outages and quiet-test self-test mode for long-term assurance.
You’ll appreciate its advanced features, including Mobile Link Wi-Fi connectivity for remote monitoring and a purpose-built G-Force Engine engineered and assembled in the USA.
With a 24,000-watt capacity and the ability to run on natural gas or LP gas, this generator can power your entire home or essential circuits.
Its 5-Year Limited Warranty and 24/7/365 customer support provide added peace of mind.
Weighing 455 pounds and measuring 48L x 25W x 29H inches, this generator is designed to provide total protection for your home and family.
Best For: Homeowners seeking a reliable and high-capacity power backup solution for their entire home or essential circuits.
Pros:
- Provides automatic backup power during power outages and quiet-test self-test mode for long-term assurance
- Offers advanced features like Mobile Link Wi-Fi connectivity for remote monitoring and a purpose-built G-Force Engine engineered and assembled in the USA
- Comes with a 5-Year Limited Warranty and 24/7/365 customer support for added peace of mind
Cons:
- Some users have reported noise level issues during operation
- There have been instances of damage during shipping
- A few customers have experienced issues with customer support
Generac 7.5kW Air Cooled Home Standby Generator
This Generac 7.5kW Air Cooled Home Standby Generator is an excellent choice for homeowners seeking reliable power with best-in-class quality, thanks to its True Power Technology that guarantees less than 5% THD.
You’ll appreciate the convenient transfer switch, which is a 50-amp 8-circuit model, and the user-friendly Evolution Controller that features LED indicators for generator status, utility power presence, or maintenance requirements.
The durable all-weather aluminum enclosure has three removable sides for easy access during installation, service, and maintenance.
With its OHV engine designed for reliability and long-life operation, you can trust this generator to provide power when you need it.
Plus, with Mobile Link remote monitoring, you can check on your generator from anywhere in the world using your smartphone, tablet, or PC.
Best For: Homeowners seeking reliable power with best-in-class quality for their residential needs.
Pros:
- Reliable power with True Power Technology that guarantees less than 5% THD
- Convenient transfer switch and user-friendly Evolution Controller for easy maintenance and monitoring
- Durable all-weather aluminum enclosure with removable sides for easy access and maintenance
Cons:
- High installation cost
- Poor warranty service
- No electric start feature
Goal Zero Yeti 1500X Portable Power Station
You’ll get unparalleled power and flexibility with the Goal Zero Yeti 1500X Portable Power Station, which boasts a massive 1,516 Wh battery capacity and 10 versatile ports to charge everything from small devices to large appliances.
This power station is built to last, with a durable anodized aluminum enclosure and tier 1 lithium battery cell.
You’ll appreciate its safe and quiet operation, making it perfect for camping trips or backyard gatherings.
The included Boulder 200 Briefcase solar panel, 12V car charger, wall charger, and user guide enable you to get started right out of the box.
With the ability to power most small and large appliances, including refrigerators, microwaves, and TVs, you’ll be prepared for any situation.
Best For: Outdoor enthusiasts, campers, and those who need a reliable power source for small and large appliances.
Pros:
- Offers unparalleled power and flexibility with a massive 1,516 Wh battery capacity and 10 versatile ports
- Durable construction with anodized aluminum enclosure and tier 1 lithium battery cell ensures safe and quiet operation
- Includes a range of accessories, including a solar panel, car charger, wall charger, and user guide, to get started right away
Cons:
- Heavy at 45.6 lbs due to aluminum housing
- Battery is not replaceable like the older Yeti 1400 Lithium
- Premium pricing may be out of budget for some users
WEN DF475T Dual Fuel Portable Generator
The WEN DF475T Dual Fuel Portable Generator is an ideal choice for commercial users who need a reliable power source that can run for up to 11 hours on a single tank.
With its dual fuel capability and electric start, you’ll appreciate the flexibility of being able to switch between gasoline and propane, depending on your needs.
This generator is designed to provide 4750 watts of power, making it suitable for heavy-duty applications.
It also features a transfer switch ready design, two 120V GFCI outlets, and a 120V/240V NEMA 30A twist lock.
With its electric start and wheel and handle kit, you’ll find it easy to move around and get started quickly.
Plus, it’s CARB and EPAIII compliant, ensuring it meets environmental standards.
Best For: Commercial users who need a reliable power source for heavy-duty applications.
Pros:
- Dual fuel capability allows for flexibility in power source
- Electric start and wheel and handle kit make it easy to move around and get started quickly
- Transfer switch ready design and multiple outlet options provide versatility in power distribution
Cons:
- Some reviewers mention issues with shipping damage or missing parts
- Heavy weight of 105.8 pounds may make it difficult to transport for some users
- No specific information is provided on noise level or operating noise reduction features
Factors to Consider When Choosing Home Generators
When you’re in the market for a home generator, you’ll want to deliberate a few key factors to guarantee you get the right one for your needs.
You’ll need to think about the type of power source you prefer, how fuel-efficient you need the generator to be, and how much noise you’re willing to tolerate.
Power Source Options
Choosing the right power source for your home generator depends on several key factors, including your budget, fuel availability, and personal preferences.
You’ll need to weigh the pros and cons of each option to make an informed decision.
If you have a gas line installed, natural gas generators can be a reliable and cost-effective choice. However, they may not be suitable for areas prone to natural disasters that can disrupt gas supply.
Propane generators offer a cleaner-burning fuel option and can be more portable, but you’ll need to refuel them more frequently and deal with higher operating costs.
Diesel generators are often more fuel-efficient and durable than gasoline generators, but they can be noisier and produce more emissions.
Gasoline generators are widely available and relatively affordable, but they may have shorter lifespans and require more frequent maintenance.
If you want flexibility, dual fuel generators allow you to switch between different fuel types, such as gasoline and propane, depending on availability and cost.
Fuel Efficiency Matters
How much can you really save on fuel costs by opting for a fuel-efficient generator? The answer is substantial.
With some fuel-efficient models offering up to 12 hours of runtime on a single tank of gasoline or propane, you can cut down on fuel expenses substantially.
But what makes a generator fuel-efficient? The rating to look for is gallons per kilowatt-hour (gal/kWh), with lower ratings indicating better fuel efficiency.
Dual-fuel generators that can run on both gasoline and propane often offer better fuel efficiency, especially when running on propane.
Additionally, advanced features like automatic idle control and smart throttle technology can improve fuel efficiency by reducing engine speed and power output when not needed.
When choosing a generator, bear in mind the fuel efficiency rating, as it can heavily impact the overall cost of ownership and operation.
By opting for a fuel-efficient generator, you can cut back on fuel costs and reduce your environmental footprint.
Make sure to prioritize fuel efficiency when selecting the right generator for your home, as this factor can greatly influence your expenses in the long run.
Noise Level Concerns
You’ll want to weigh noise level concerns, as it can substantially impact your quality of life and relationships with neighbors.
A generator’s noise level is typically measured in decibels (dB) and can range from around 50 dB to over 100 dB.
For residential areas, look for generators with noise levels around 60 dB, which is equivalent to a normal conversation. These will be quiet enough to avoid disturbing you and your neighbors.
If you need a generator for camping or RVing, consider inverter generators with noise levels as low as 50 dB.
The type of fuel used can also affect noise levels, with propane-powered generators tend to be quieter than gasoline-powered ones.
When researching generators, check the product specifications for noise level ratings. This information will help you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and noise tolerance.
Space and Portability
When selecting a home generator, its weight and size become essential considerations, as they directly impact your ability to store and transport it efficiently.
You’ll find that some models weigh as little as 45 pounds, while others exceed 400 pounds.
Portable generators are designed to be compact and lightweight, making them ideal for camping, RVing, or small home backup power.
Standby generators, on the other hand, are typically larger and heavier, suited for whole-house power.
When evaluating portability, consider the type of handle, wheel kit, and overall design.
These features can greatly impact the ease of movement and storage of the generator.
Look for innovative features like telescoping handles or collapsible designs that enhance portability without sacrificing power output or performance.
It’s vital to balance portability with power output, as smaller generators may not provide sufficient power for larger homes or heavy-duty appliances.
Budget and Value
Now that you’ve thought about the size and weight of your home generator, it’s time to think about the budget and value, as the cost of a generator can vary widely depending on its features, power output, and brand.
You’ll want to determine how much you’re willing to spend and what features are must-haves for you. Ask yourself, are you looking for a basic model that’ll provide minimal power, or do you need a more advanced generator that can handle multiple appliances?
Set a budget and stick to it.
You’ll also want to weigh the value of the generator. Will it provide long-term savings, or will it need frequent maintenance and repairs?
Look for generators with high-quality components, efficient engines, and durable materials. Additionally, check for certifications like EPA and CARB compliance, which guarantee the generator meets environmental standards.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Install a Home Generator Myself, or Do I Need a Professional?
If you’re handy, you might think you can install a home generator yourself, but it’s not recommended – you’ll need to guarantee proper wiring, permits, and safety measures, so it’s best to hire a licensed electrician.
How Long Does It Take to Recover the Cost of a Home Generator?
“Imagine sipping coffee by candlelight during a blackout, wondering when the lights will flicker back on. You’ll recover the cost of a home generator in about 5-7 years, depending on usage and local incentives, making it a smart long-term investment.”
Are Home Generators Compatible With Solar Panel Systems?
You’re wondering if your solar panel system can work with a generator. Fortunately, yes, they’re compatible! You can use a hybrid system, where the generator provides backup power when your solar panels aren’t producing enough energy.
Do Home Generators Require Frequent Maintenance and Upkeep?
Imagine owning a generator that’s been idle for months, only to have it fail when you need it most. You’ll avoid this scenario by performing routine checks, like changing the oil every 50-100 hours, to guarantee your generator runs smoothly when the power goes out.
Can I Use a Portable Generator as a Standby Generator?
You’re wondering if you can use a portable generator as a standby generator. While it’s technically possible, it’s not the most ideal solution. You’ll need to weigh, examine, and review the power output, automatic transfer, and installation requirements.
Conclusion
You’ve got the power in your hands now!
With these high-quality home generators, you’ll never be left in the dark again.
From whole-house coverage to camping trips, these reliable machines will keep your lights on and your devices charged.
Remember, choosing the right one is key, so consider your needs, budget, and space constraints before making a decision.
With the perfect generator, you’ll be ready to weather any storm that comes your way.
