7 Best Home Standby Generators
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Why Home Standby Generators Are a Modern Necessity
Are you one of the many people who lost power for a few hours or even days at a time? Here are just some of the causes of power outages:
- Snowstorms
- Hurricanes
- Tornadoes
- Power grid failures due to aging infrastructure
- Fires, especially forest fires
- Planned maintenance by an electric utility
All these and more can result in your home losing power from a few hours to weeks at a time.
You can have the most delightful set up for your lawn and pool, but if there’s a blackout, what are you going to do?
That is why a home standby generator is not only useful but could even be a lifesaver. If your electricity goes out and you have no backup power, your food rots in the refrigerator. If you have a water filter or sump pump that depends on electricity, you lose your water.
Your computers do not work. If you require medically necessary equipment to sustain life, what will you do? Critical communication via the internet may not work. You can’t even charge your mobile phone. All are at risk when the electric company can’t deliver electricity to your home.
If you’d like to cut to the chase and see the list, here it is:
Last update on 2023-09-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
How Do I Choose a Standby Generator?
Here are the basic criteria by which you choose the right standby generator for your needs.
First, think about what appliances, tools, computer usage, and so on you absolutely NEED vs. what you can get by with.
- Do you really need air conditioning or electric heat, which uses a lot of electricity?
- What are your power requirements?
- Can you make do without a microwave or other electric mode of cooking, or can you use gas or even a wood or charcoal grill for cooking your food instead?
- Will you need to make use of power tools?
- Can you get by without a big home entertainment system? A swimming pool, hot tub, etc.?
Second, which type of fuel do you want? Decide on whether you want to use gasoline, diesel, natural gas, or propane. Some generators are dual fuel. Are you willing to pay for that benefit?
Third, how important is mobility to you? If you need to move your generator around, for example, between your home as a backup generator, on a worksite, or for camping, you will need a portable generator with wheels. However, if you just need it for a backup, as a whole house generator, then a regular standby generator will work best.
Quiet Operation
This is another thing to keep in mind because your standby generator is going to be near the home, so you will probably want it to be quiet. Most standby generator manufacturers keep this in mind already, though, so technology is used to ensure that the generator runs on levels friendly for residential homes. Always check the decibel levels on the generator you choose.
Fuel Efficiency
The automotive-style engines are going to usually prove to be the best when it comes to fuel efficiency.
Liquid Cooled
If your generator is going to be used at the home for prolonged periods of outage, then you want to make sure to find a liquid-cooled generator. These generators can handle the prolonged heat much better than some others.
Maintenance Intervals
When you have a home standby generator, you also want something that can go a good amount of time between maintenance. Portable generators require a bit more maintenance and upkeep, which can also cause you a lot of time and money in the long run.
While both portable and standby generators can be useful to protect yourself from a power outage, key differences between portable generators and standby generators are:
- Standby generators have no wheels and stand in place
- They may run on gasoline, or on LPG. You can consider having a converter, so that in cold weather, the LPG works better, and gasoline works better in warm weather
- Standby generators often have automatic transfer switches. When your power goes out, it turns on automatically and when your power comes back on, it shuts off automatically
- Standby generators may have better noise reduction controls, however these and the other features make them more expensive than portable generators
- You should hire a professional electrician to install your standby generator for convenience, safety, and to satisfy code requirements
This last point raises the following question: Given the fact that standby generators cost more, how much extra cost should you expect to pay to have a whole house generator installed?
How Much Do I Have to Pay to Get a Generator Installed?
Portable generators are simpler to install than a whole house generator. However, both can be hazardous if not installed properly. So, it is not simply wise from an electrical safety point of view, but it’s also important that you comply with legal requirements in your area.
The bottom line is that it may cost as much for a professional electrician to install as the cost of the unit itself. But that’s cheaper than legal costs should you violate code regulations. Or worse, electrocute yourself!
Are Whole House Generators Worth It?
You need to ask yourself if a whole house generator is worth it or if you can get by with a portable backup generator that covers the basics. For example, you may be able to get by with powering your refrigerator, computers, basic appliances like washing machines, plus of course lighting and burglar alarms.
A portable or small standby generator with a capacity of 10,000 watts or less (10 KW) should be adequate. These run from a bare bones unit costing under $500 to up to $2,000, which does not include installation.
If you can afford it and have a house more than 2500 square feet and a more complex situation, such as a swimming pool, sauna, and other energy-hungry devices that you just don’t want to live without, then you’ll need a generator that’s minimum 22KW, or 22,000 watts. These can cost about $5000 or more, and installation is a minimum of $2000 up to about $5000.
What Are the Best Portable Home Standby Generators?
If you’re confused by the choices of over 3000 models available, take heart. We’ve sorted through dozens of models. Take a look at the chart for the top 5 portable standby generators, and for more details, see below. Further down, you can check on our two top choices for standby whole house generators. We have done the heavy lifting to make your decision easier.
We picked out the 5 best standby portable generators for home use. Please check each model before you invest money in the one that meets your needs.
Last update on 2023-09-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Westinghouse WPro 8500 Portable Generator (Editor’s Choice)
Topping the list, there is no better option than WPro 8500.
- 8500 Running Watts and 11500 Peak Watts; Remote Start With Included Key Fob, Electric and Recoil Start; 12 Hour Run Time on 6. 6 Gallon Fuel Tank With Convenient Built-In Fuel Gauge
- Features Full Panel GFCI With (4) 120V 20A 5–20R Standard Household Outlets, (1) 120V 30A L5-30R, (1) 120/240V 30A L14–30R, and (2) 5V USB Ports
- Plug-and-Play: Comes With a Remote Start Key Fob, 12V Battery Charger, Oil, an Oil Funnel, a Tool Kit, and a User’s Manual to Get You Started Right Out of the Box (Minimal Assembly Required)
- Super Duty 457cc OHV 4-Stroke Westinghouse Engine With Automatic Low Oil Shutdown, Automatic Idle Control, and VFT Data Center. AC Frequency-60 Hz
Last update on 2023-09-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This quality portable generator is both efficient and user-friendly. High-quality materials result in tremendous performance and value. Here are some key features:
- 457 cc four-stroke OHV engine ensures that it can perform reliably for the long term
- 6.6 gallon gas tank lets it run for nearly 17.5 hours
- Harmonic distortion stays less than 5%, so it performs perfectly for sensitive equipment
- This generator is backed by a 3-year warranty along with certification from OSHA, CARB, and EPA
- 8,500 rated watts, 11,000 peak watts
- Some users find this generator somewhat noisy. It’s rated at 74 dBA, but some tests show up to 85 dBA. If you can bear this, then it is definitely a great choice for your home. You can also do things to reduce noise. (1)
- Heavy-duty construction for professional applications
- 3 year limited labor, parts. customer support
Pros
- Produces completely clean sine wave
- Highly fuel-efficient unit
- Delivered with a complete set of accessories
- Convenient to use remote control operation
- Easy to assemble
- Maneuverable
- Portable
Cons
- Noise level of 74 dBA might be an issue for some buyers
- Run time is a little bit lower than many top models
Conclusion
Your best bet in the under 10 KW backup power range home standby generators
A-iPower SUA12000E Generator (Runner Up)
- The A-iPower SUA12000 produces 12,000 starting watts with 9,000 running watts to power your tools at the construction site, camping ground, or home appliances.Grounding system (AC) : Neutral bonded to frame
- Powerful 459 cc OHV 4 stroke engine with a low oil alert light and low oil automatic shutdown, helping keep your generator performing year after year
- Large 7 gallon gasoline fuel tank provides average run time of 7 hours at 100% load and 9 hours at 50% load
- Complete with Electric Start capability allowing you to quickly, easily, and conveniently start up your generator whenever you need it
- Outlets include: 2x5-20R Duplex GFCI (20A, 120V), 1xL14-30R (30A, 120/240V), 1x14-50R (50A, 120/240V), 1xMultifunction Port USB Ready Automotive Style Outlet (8.3A, 12V). All outlets include rubber covers for an additional layer of safety.
Last update on 2023-09-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The next option is the A-iPower SUA12000E that is considered a little bit underrated in the world of gas generators. That’s because it is not as well-known as brands like Westinghouse, Briggs Stratton, Generac Guardian, or Kohler.
However, as one of many home standby portable generators, it will surprise you with its fine performance at a decent price. This product is for people who care less about brands and focus on quality.
The A-iPower gives good value for the money and helps you to make sure you will have electricity during difficult times like power outage emergencies and blackouts. The best thing about this product is it is a great budget option. Here are the basics:
- 59CC four-stroke motor that provides approximately 9,500 watts of running energy, just enough for basic functions for a complete house
- Fuel capacity – a 7-gallon tank that makes sure the generator can run for 15-18 hours quite easily
- Lots of standard outlets for powering air conditioners, appliances, and electric tools
- 9.5-inch wheels so you can use it either at home or at a construction site
The majority of people who have used it due to the hurricanes and tornadoes in the United States have reported positive reviews. Again, the problem faced by homeowners is its noise level that is pretty common in standby generators. The standard mufflers added to its engine for minimizing the noise aren’t that good. Still, most users are happy with this unit and find it worth the money spent on this generator.
Pros
- Impressive runtime at affordable price
- Capable of working a variety of appliances
- Extremely high wattage
- Large fuel tank
- Beautifully designed generator
Cons
- Rather high loud noise levels
- Replacement components are not too easy to find
- Unfortunately, this home standby generator is NOT CARB-compliant, and cannot be shipped to California
Conclusion
Well priced alternative to the Westinghouse WP8500, however, it is not available in California, and may not have the parts you need in case of service problems.
DuroMax XP12000EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator (Best for Fuel Flexibility)
- Powerful DuroMax Engine: the XP12000EH is powered by a DuroMax, 457cc OHV engine.With Gasoline : Peak Wattage - 12,000., Running Wattage - 9,500., Running Amperage at 120V - 79.17., Running Amperage at 240V - 39.58., Runtime at 25% Load - 19., Runtime at 50% Load - 8With Propane : Peak Wattage - 11,400., Running Wattage - 9,025., Running Amperage at 120V - 75.21., Running Amperage at 240V - 37.6., Runtime at 25% Load - 14., Runtime at 50% Load - 7Please read the detailed safety instructions in the manual before operating.Fuel Delivery System : Carburetor.Engine Speed : 3600 RPM, Volt Meter : Analog, Cast Iron Sleeve : Yes, Engine Cooling Type : Forced Air.
- Dual fuel technology: the ability to run on propane or gasoline allows the freedom and flexibility of fuel choice. Protects your investment by automatically shutting the generator off when it senses that the oil is low
- Plenty of power: with 12,000 starting watts and 9, 500 running watts, This unit can handle heavy loads from lights and a refrigerator to a home air conditioner and high amperage power tools.
- Maximum power: with DuroMax MX2 technology, get the maximum power from each of the 120 volt receptacle. Choose between operating the generator at both 120 V and 240 V Simultaneously, or at 120 only with full power.
- Powering everyone anywhere: like all DuroMax generators, the XP12000EH is EPA and CARB approved For use in all 50 States.
Last update on 2023-09-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
If you are looking for a highly efficient portable generator that can power your whole house, then this product from DuroMax is all you need to buy. It is a 12,000-watt portable generator that comes with dual fuel features for adding much-needed flexibility.
You have the liberty to use gas or propane depending on the situation. It is capable of handling everything ranging from heavy powered equipment, an air conditioner, water heater, or a freezer or refrigerator.
The 4 points heavy-duty frame makes sure the motor runs smoothly and quietly. Total run time on a full propane tank is almost 20 hours if it runs at 50% maximum output. On the other hand, the gasoline run time is a little bit disappointing with just 10 hours when running with the same output.
The company delivers this generator with a highly convenient transportation kit for extra portability. This kit comes with handles and large rubber wheels that can be very useful to move the generator from one place to another. It is an EPA, and CARB approved unit that is allowed in all 50 states of the United States.
Pros
- Equipped with dual fuel capabilities
- Friendly option for wallet
- Extremely sturdy construction
- Very easier to move
- Solid power of 12,000 Watts
Cons
- Disappointing run time with gasoline
- Noise levels are a little bit irritating
- A number of customers report service and reliability issues
Conclusion
You get a lot of power at a reasonable price.
Duromax XP10000E (Best Gas Powered Portable Standby Generator)
- Powerful DuroMax engine: a 439cc OHV DuroMax Engine powers The XP10000E Gas powered technology: run your generator with gasoline for long-lasting power.
- Plenty of power: with 10,000 starting watts and 8,000 running watts, this unit can handle heavy loads from lights, refrigerators, home conditioners and high amperage power tools.
- Maximum power: with DuroMax MX2 technology, get the maximum power from each of the 120 volt receptacle. Choose between operating the generator at both 120 V and 240 V Simultaneously, or at 120 only with full power.
- Powering everyone anywhere: like all DuroMax generators, the XP10000E is EPA and CARB approved for all 50 States
Last update on 2023-09-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This value-priced home generator features an air-cooled 16 HP OHV engine that performs quite impressively. It can operate at 8,000 watts constantly, whereas the peak ability of this unit is nearly 10,000 W.
The Duromax XP10000E is very portable and is approved by the EPA thanks to the presence of spark arrester and exhaust emission. Plus, it is fully compatible with American National Park Requirements.
Five sockets in the front panel provide different powers depending on the needs of different appliances. The running time is nearly 10 hours on the full fuel tank whose capacity is 8.3 gallons. Moving it from one place to another may be a problem due to problems with wheels.
The batteries power the self-starting mechanism of this unit. The users can rely on the recoil pull cable when the battery is not charged. Overall, it is a very nice option that one can shop for powering their home during blackouts or power outages. This generator is also backed by one-year limited warranty coverage that is pretty peaceful for the mind.
Pros
- Compliant from both EPA and CARP
- Solid peak and running power
- Highly durable design
- Extremely well-built mechanism
Cons
- Very bulky in weight
- Complaints about a dead battery
- Some customers note that it arrived damaged in transit
- Wheels may break
Conclusion
A budget way to power your house. But it has some drawbacks.
Generac 5734 GP15000E (Good substitute for a Fixed Standby Generator)
- Powerful Performance: The Generac GP15000E features a robust 15000-watt gas-powered engine, offering reliable and ample power for your portable generator needs
- Easy Start and Extended Runtime: Enjoy the convenience of electric start with the included battery and plug-in battery charger jack. Plus, its dual fuel capability allows you to switch between gas and propane for extended runtime options
- Enhanced Control and Efficiency: The built-in hour meter, low-oil level shutdown, and idle control features ensure optimal performance, reduce noise, and conserve fuel, providing a quiet and efficient operation
- Extended Run Time: With its large 16-gallon fuel tank, the Generac GP15000E can provide up to 10 hours of run time at 50% load, allowing you to tackle longer power needs without interruption
- Durable and Portable: Designed for rugged environments, the hardened 1 1/4" steel tube cradle provides added durability and strength. The integrated lifting eye enables easy transport, making it ideal for camping, RV trips, and job sites
Last update on 2023-09-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The next option about which we want to talk about is this brilliant pen-frame designed generator that comes with a starting wattage of 22,500 W. The Generac 5734 can surpass its competition even by a mile thanks to its well-versed engineering and reliability. There are large pneumatic wheels and handles added by the manufacturer allowing the users to push the generator easily.
All in all, it has enough power to supply electricity to a three-bedroom set house without compromising with quality. It has a pretty attractive design that will boost the décor of your house for sure. There is a pretty smart lubrication system available in the unit that boosts the life of the engine. It has a fuel tank of 16 gallons that can provide a run time up to 10 hours with a 50% load.
There are very impressive durability and durability provided by the hardened 1 ¼ “ steel tube cradle. Additionally, it has a built-in lifting eye for better transportation and security. The low maintenance and high-performance OHVI engine boast a great variety of features that you will definitely love for sure.
Pros
- Equipped with very brilliant lubrication system
- Large 16-gallon resin tank for powering the whole house
- Extremely sturdy construction
- Capable of running a great sort of appliances
Cons
- Inconsistent customer service
- Certain conditions in warranty policies
- This generator is NOT CARB compliant, and cannot be shipped to California
- It’s loud
- It’s heave and hard to move around
Conclusion
A much less costly alternative to a regular whole house standby generator, if you are willing to accept a few of its quirks.
What is the Best 20 KW Standby Whole House Generator?
In this section, we will cover two of the best whole house generators and their brands: Kohler and the Generac Guardian Series. Since a whole house generator can set you back a good $5000, not including installation, you want to get a good brand. And these companies have a great story to tell.
Kohler 20RESCL-200SELS
Kohler is a true vanguard in the electrical generator field (along with its other lines of business.) Founded in 1920, its claim to fame was in 1929 when Admiral Richard Byrd’s South Pole expedition took Kohler generators to power his base.
He left them at the base and did not return for four years. When he came back and refueled them, they started right up, surviving four years of the most brutal conditions on the planet! Kohler generators are used in nuclear power plants, Hollywood sets, and even lit the worksite of the Hoover Dam, built during the 1930s.
So, this is a company with a century-long history of quality and innovation.
- 20,000-watt air-cooled generator automatically starts up when the power goes out
- Includes 200 Amp whole-house, service entrance rated, load shedding, automatic transfer switch
- Fast response--power to your home in 10 seconds; premium power quality; quiet operation
- 100% corrosion-proof enclosure offers protection from even the harshest seaside conditions
- Measures 48 by 26.2 by 29 inches; 5-year/2000-hour limited warranty Battery type needed - Group 51
Last update on 2023-09-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Kohler Model 20RESCL-200SELS is a high-quality generator for your home’s backup system.
- 20,000 watts of generating power ensures that you can stay calm even during bad weather conditions or natural disasters
- It switches on automatically within 10 seconds during the power outages. Your home can receive consistent power according to the demand
- The body of this generator is 100% corrosion-free protecting it even from the harshest conditions
- The company delivers it with a 2,000-hour limited warranty that can give you complete peace of mind
- Your fuel choices are either liquid propane or natural gas
- Quiet operation at dBA of less than 70
- Low harmonic distortion protects your sensitive electronics from damage
Pros
- Constructed in a air-cooled design
- Backed by a 5-year, 2000 hour warranty
- Instant power backup
Cons
- Installation and maintenance can be expensive; however, it will result in years of service
- For customer service or installation, you can find a dealer or service office near you at the Kohler website
Conclusion
A great option for a whole house generator. However, there have been some service issues.
Generac 7043 Home Standby Generator 22kW/19.5kW Air Cooled with Whole House 200 Amp Transfer Switch, Aluminum
Generac is also a very highly respected company. It was started – you guessed it, the old fashioned way – in a garage in 1959. But it has come a long way! Here’s a look at Generac’s facilities:
Here’s a crew installing one of Generac’s units (these guys show you it’s best to hire a professional installer!
Generac prides itself as being ‘the #1 manufacturer of home backup generators**
Generac is committed to developing a long-term vision that promotes environmentally responsible products, processes, and partnerships. We offer product options that allow our customers to shrink their ecological footprint when backup energy use is required.**
The Generac Guardian has a lot in common with the Kohler Model 20RESCL-200SELS.
- Both are about 20 KW and meant to be a whole house, home backup generator
- They are both quiet home standby generators with less than 70 dBA noise factor
- Both are friendly to modern sensitive electronics
- Both run on either natural gas or propane
No products found.
Pros
- Best home standby backup power for your home
- Automatic transfer switch available, so if there is an outage, it starts by itself
- It is as quiet as could be expected for a big piece of machinery
- Profession staffers countrywide to install properly
- An 800 service number, at their headquarters, so you always have access to service
Cons
- Some warranty and service problems
- In rare cases, the unit did not run past 24 hours in a long term power supply interruption
Conclusion
We could say that between two great companies with long records of service and quality, it is a virtual tossup. However, Generac’s reputation as the #1 Specialty Home Generator and is on call 24/7/365 service number gives it the edge.
How to Choose the Best Standby Generator for Home Use
Nowadays, power losses are a fact of life for an average American household. Having a standby generator will be a crucial factor to deal with blackouts. However, many factors can influence your purchase decision. And choosing isn’t easy! That is why our team has created a buying guide that will help you make the right choice.
Backup Size
The most important thing that you should check while buying a standby generator is how much power your home needs. Every home has a different requirement as 9,000 W is enough for one household, whereas others will need even more than 20,000 W.
Determine what load exactly you need for the home and decide according to that. If the generator does not succeed in fulfilling your power needs, then there will be no benefit of shopping one.
Fuel Source
The standby generators work either on natural gas or liquid propane. Both of them are wonderful to use, and the choice depends on what source you can easily access.
Please keep in mind that there is a need for a large tank for running the generator properly. On the other hand, it is strongly suggested to buy a gas meter if you want to buy a standby generator working on gas.
Selecting a Transfer Switch
The next thing that you need to look into with a standby generator is choosing a transfer switch. If you follow our advice, then we suggest going for an automatic transfer switch as the generator springs into action automatically as soon as a power failure occurs. It makes things less stressful and convenient as there is no longer a need to start the generator manually.
Conclusion
Now you know the right way to select the best standby generator for home use. You can choose any of the models mentioned in this post to provide the necessary backup to your home based on your particular situation.
Thanks for reading!
Home Standby Generator FAQ
Here is a list of some of the more commonly asked questions regarding the best home standby generators and their care and maintenance.
What size generator will I need for the home?
Sometimes it can be quite the challenge to determine how much power you will need in your home during an outage. To make it easier, try to determine which items are essential and require power rather than adding in items, it would just be nice to have.
How does a home standby generator work during an outage?
Your home standby generator can immediately start supplying your home with power within 20 seconds of the outage. This is due to the automatic transfer switch that you can have separately installed in the home. This transfer switch monitors the power in the home and switches on your standby unit when needed.
What happens with the home standby generator when the power turns back on?
Most generators are designed to continue running for up to a minute after the power in the home is restored. It makes sure that the electricity is stable and allows the generator to cool down before it shuts itself off.
What kind of maintenance does this kind of generator need?
Regular maintenance is recommended for all kinds of generators. This means that you should regularly change out the oil and filter to ensure everything continues to run as it should. You also want to make sure that the housing is always free from debris.
How do you choose the best location for your standby home generator?
When installing your home generator, its placement will determine the amount of work that is going to be required. When placing your unit, the most ideal location would be between the electric meter and the gas meter outside. It should be at least 18 inches away from the house and a minimum of five feet from any doors and windows of the home.
What fuel options are available for these standby generators?
Your fuel options can vary. You can choose diesel, propane, and natural gas. However, some models can be powered on all three of these fuel types.
