Power outages, whether caused by storms, grid failures, or other disruptions, can leave homes without essential electricity, impacting daily life and comfort. Home generators offer a solution by providing an independent source of power, keeping lights on, food preserved, and communication systems operational. Choosing the right generator involves understanding different types, fuel options, power outputs, and safety features.
Understanding Generator Types
Generators vary significantly in design and purpose. Portable generators are designed for mobility, often featuring wheels and handles, making them suitable for camping, tailgating, or temporary power needs during an outage. Inverter generators, a subset of portable models, are known for their quieter operation and ability to produce clean, stable power, which is ideal for sensitive electronics.
Standby or backup generators are permanently installed and wired directly into a home's electrical system. These units can automatically activate within seconds of a power failure and are typically powerful enough to run an entire house. While more expensive and requiring professional installation, they offer the highest level of convenience and power.
Solar generators, technically power storage units paired with solar panels, harness sunlight to charge internal batteries. They offer silent operation and are environmentally friendly but may not match the power output of fuel-powered generators and rely on sunlight for recharging.
Key Considerations When Buying a Generator
Several factors are crucial when selecting a home generator:
Power Output and Size
Generator size is measured in wattage, with ratings typically ranging from a few thousand to over 25,000 watts. A smaller generator (up to 3,000 watts) can power essential items like lights and small appliances. For running multiple appliances, entertainment systems, and lighting, a model producing around 8,000 watts is often recommended. Whole-home power typically requires generators in the 12,000 to 24,000-watt range, depending on the home's size and electrical demands.
Generators feature two wattage ratings: starting watts and running watts. Starting wattage, the higher number, is the peak power the generator can supply for a short duration to start motors in appliances like refrigerators or air conditioners. Running wattage is the sustained power output the generator can deliver continuously.
Fuel Types
Generators can operate on various fuel sources. Gasoline is widely available but does not store well long-term. Propane burns cleanly and is a common option. Natural gas is often used for permanently installed standby generators, allowing for a direct connection to the home's gas line. Diesel is typically reserved for heavy-duty models. Dual-fuel generators, which can run on gasoline and propane, offer flexibility, especially when one fuel source may be scarce during emergencies.
Features and Safety
Control panels on generators vary but often include features like push-button start, digital gauges for fuel level and output, resettable breakers, and fuel-type selectors. Important outlet types include standard 120-volt outlets, 30-amp and 50-amp hook-ups, and USB ports. For sensitive electronics, inverter generators are preferred due to their cleaner power output.
Safety is paramount. Look for features such as low-oil shut-off, overload protection, and carbon monoxide (CO) detectors that automatically shut down the unit in dangerous conditions. Many modern generators also offer features like remote monitoring via smartphone apps.
Noise output is another consideration, with standard generators often exceeding 80 decibels, while inverter models can be as quiet as 50 decibels. For permanently installed units, noise is often mitigated by their enclosure and placement.
Installation and Connectivity
Portable generators can be connected to a home's electrical system using an outdoor plug and manual switch gear installed by a licensed electrician, which prevents back-feeding power into the grid. Extension cords are a less safe option and generally not recommended for powering a whole house.
Standby generators require more complex installation, including a concrete pad, underground wiring, switch gear, and fuel line connections, all typically performed by a professional electrician. The cost for installing a whole-house generator can range from $3,000 to $8,000 on top of the unit's purchase price.
Top Generator Models
Several models stand out for their features and performance:
The Westinghouse Tri-Fuel 13,000/10,500 generator is a top overall pick, offering the flexibility of running on gasoline, propane, or natural gas. It features a push-button start with a remote key fob and is transfer-switch compatible. It can run for up to 19 hours on gasoline and includes a carbon monoxide safety shut-off.
For value, the Westinghouse WGen3600cv provides substantial power for its price, capable of running an RV, including its air conditioner. It offers up to 14 hours of run time on 4 gallons of gas but requires a separate purchase for a wheel and handle kit and lacks remote start.
The Westinghouse WGen14500DFc is a higher-end portable option with a peak wattage of 18,000. It runs on gasoline or propane and includes a comprehensive control panel with multiple outlets, including transfer-switch-ready connections.
For whole-home power, the Generac Guardian 26,000-watt standby generator is a robust choice. It features a 200-amp transfer switch that activates within seconds of an outage and runs on natural gas or propane, with mobile monitoring capabilities. Professional installation is required.
The Honda EU 2,200-Watt Inverter Generator is noted for its clean, stable power and quiet operation, making it suitable for electronics. It is compact, relatively lightweight, and features Honda's Eco-Throttle system for fuel efficiency, though its power output is lower than larger models.
The EcoFlow Delta Pro is a powerful solar generator option, offering up to 7,200 watts of output and including a 400-watt solar panel for off-grid charging. It is lightweight and portable, with multiple outlets including an RV-ready 30-amp port.
The Jackery Solar Generator Kit 2000 Plus is highlighted for its expandable platform, allowing for increased capacity with additional battery packs and solar panels. It includes two 200-watt bifacial solar panels and app compatibility for remote control.
The DuroMax XP13000HX offers dual-fuel flexibility with gasoline or propane operation, providing up to 13,000 starting watts. It features a comprehensive control panel and multiple outlets, though its weight can be a factor in portability.