Best Home Generator of 2024

Choosing the best home generator ensures your household remains powered during outages, maintaining comfort and safety. Whether for emergency backup or off-grid living, selecting the right generator involves considering power output, fuel type, and features. In this guide, we’ll explore the top home generator options to help you find the perfect fit for your needs.

Duromax Electric-Start Generator

Power your home or worksite with the Duromax Electric-Start Generator, delivering a robust 13,000 watts from its powerful 500cc OHV engine. With gasoline fuel, it ensures reliable, long-lasting power, capable of handling heavy loads such as lights, refrigerators, air conditioners, and high-amperage power tools.

This versatile generator features a comprehensive power panel with a variety of outlets: one 120/240V 50A heavy-duty outlet, one 120/240V 30A twist-lock outlet, one 120V 30A twist-lock outlet, and two 120V 20A household outlets. Portable with a foldable handle and equipped with low oil shutdown, hour meter, and CO sensor, it’s EPA and CARB approved for use in all 50 states.

Pros:

• Powerful 500cc OHV Duromax Engine
• Impressive 13,000 watts for heavy loads
• A versatile power panel with multiple outlets
• Electric start for easy ignition
• Durable construction for long-lasting use
• Suitable for a variety of applications
• Gasoline-powered for reliable performance

Cons:

• Hefty weight at 236 pounds
• Requires gasoline as fuel source

Westinghouse Portable Generator

Westinghouse Portable Generator delivers 12000 running watts and 15000 peak watts, providing reliable power for residential needs. With electric start and a remote start key fob, it offers convenience and ease of use. The 10.5-gallon fuel tank ensures up to 11 hours of run time, making it ideal for extended use.

Equipped with multiple outlets, including GFCI 120V household receptacles, transfer switch-ready outlets, and USB ports, it offers versatility and safety. The robust 713cc OHV V-Twin engine features a long-lasting cast iron sleeve, automatic low oil shutdown, and a digital hour meter. Plug-and-play setup ensures you’re ready to go right out of the box. Backed by a 3-year limited warranty and nationwide customer service.

Pros:

• Powerful 12000 running watts and 15000 peak watts
• Electric start and remote start with key fob for convenience
• Multiple outlets, including RV-ready and USB ports
• Durable Ultra Duty 713cc OHV V-Twin Westinghouse Engine
• It comes with essential accessories for easy setup
• Functionally tested, EPA and CARB-compliant
• 3-year limited service, labor, and parts coverage

Cons:

• Hefty weight at 352 pounds
• Minimal assembly required
• May have residual oil and/or fuel odor initially

Champion Power Equipment Generator

Harness the power of the versatile Champion Power Equipment Generator, delivering 5500 watts of reliable energy. This portable dual-fuel generator operates on gasoline or propane, with a fuel selector switch for safe, seamless transitions. Ideal for commercial, residential, and camping use, it features an Intelligauge to monitor voltage, hertz, and run-time hours, ensuring efficient maintenance. The generator includes a 120/240V 30A locking outlet and four 120V 20A GFCI-protected household outlets for versatile connectivity.

Weighing 162.5 pounds, this generator comes with a wheel kit for easy transport. The low oil shut-off sensor and 1.2-quart oil capacity enhance operational safety. Enjoy peace of mind with a 3-year limited warranty and lifetime technical support.

Pros:

• 5500-watt dual-fuel power for flexibility (gasoline, propane)
• Patented fuel selector switch for quick and safe transitions
• Intelligence monitors voltage, hertz, and run-time hours
• Multiple outlets, including a 120/240V 30A locking outlet
• Portable design with included wheel kit for easy mobility
• Fuel safety switch prioritize user safety
• 3-year limited warranty and FREE lifetime technical support

Cons:

• It weighs 162.5 pounds, which may be heavy for some users

Wen Gn6000 Generator

Generate up to 6000 starting watts and 5000 running watts with the Wen Gn6000 Generator, perfect for residential use. Its 3.4-gallon fuel tank offers up to 7.5 hours of half-load runtime, ensuring dependable power during outages. The compact design, coupled with a wheel and handle kit, maximizes portability for easy maneuvering.

Weighing just 0.01 ounces and delivering 240 volts, this gas-powered generator is both powerful and lightweight. Its portable nature makes it ideal for various applications around the home. Included components ensure you have everything needed for immediate use. Dimensions are 28.5 inches long, 20.5 inches wide, and 20.5 inches high.

Pros:

• Powerful output of 6,000 starting watts and 5000 running watts
• 3.4-gallon fuel tank provides up to 7.5 hours of half-load runtime
• Compact design with wheel and handle kit for easy portability
• Versatile use for camping, emergencies, or outdoor events
• The sleek black color adds a touch of style

Cons:

• Gasoline-powered, limiting fuel source options
• Weighs only 0.01 ounces but still requires physical effort to transport
• Noisy operation is standard for most gas-powered generators

Best Home Generator Buying Guide

Power outages can strike at any time, causing inconvenience and potential damage to your home and appliances. Investing in a reliable home generator is a wise decision to ensure uninterrupted power supply during emergencies or unexpected outages. This comprehensive buying guide will help you navigate the process of selecting the best home generator to meet your specific needs.

Determine Your Power Requirements

Before diving into the market, it is crucial to assess your power requirements. Consider the essential appliances and devices you need to keep running during an outage, such as lights, refrigerators, heating or cooling systems, and electronics. Calculate the total wattage required by adding up the power consumption of each item. This calculation will help you determine the appropriate generator size and ensure it can handle your household’s energy demands.

Fuel Type

Home generators are typically powered by gasoline, propane, or natural gas. Gasoline-powered generators are the most common and offer portability, but they require refueling and produce more emissions. Propane generators are environmentally friendly and offer convenient refueling, but propane may be more expensive. Natural gas generators are cost-effective and eco-friendly, but they require a direct gas line connection, limiting their mobility.

Generator Size and Capacity

Generator size and capacity are measured in watts or kilowatts. To ensure the generator can handle your power needs, choose a model with a rated capacity that exceeds your calculated total wattage requirement. It is generally advisable to select a generator with a capacity that is 20% to 25% higher than your estimated needs to account for future growth or additional appliances.

Noise Level

Generators can produce significant noise, which may be a concern, especially in residential areas. Consider the noise level and look for models with low decibel ratings or features like noise-dampening enclosures. Quieter generators may come at a higher cost, but they can prevent disturbance to your family and neighbors.

Automatic Transfer Switch

An automatic transfer switch is a valuable feature that automatically switches the power supply from the utility to the generator when an outage occurs and vice versa when power is restored. This eliminates the need for manual switching and ensures a seamless transition, reducing the risk of potential hazards and inconvenience.

Portability and Outdoor-Rated

If you plan to use the generator for outdoor activities or emergencies, consider a portable model with wheels and handles for easy transportation. Outdoor-rated generators are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions and are equipped with additional features like weather-resistant enclosures and electric start capabilities.

Safety Features

Safety should be a top priority when selecting a home generator. Look for models with features like low-oil shutoff, overload protection, and automatic voltage regulation. Additionally, ensure the generator meets applicable safety standards and is certified by reputable organizations.

Warranty and Maintenance

Generators are significant investments, and a comprehensive warranty can provide peace of mind and protect your purchase. Opt for models with longer warranty periods and consider the availability of maintenance services and replacement parts from the manufacturer or authorized dealers.

Conclusion

Choosing the best home generator requires careful consideration of your power needs, fuel preferences, noise level requirements, portability, safety features, and long-term maintenance. By evaluating these factors and following this buying guide, you can make an informed decision and invest in a reliable home generator that will provide peace of mind and uninterrupted power supply during outages or emergencies.

Frequently Asked Question

What factors should I consider when selecting the best home generator for my needs?

Consider factors such as power output, fuel type (gasoline, propane, or diesel), run time, portability, and ease of use. Assess your specific power requirements during an outage to determine the appropriate generator size for your home.

What is the importance of the generator’s fuel type, and which one is recommended for home use?

Different generators use various fuel types, including gasoline, propane, and diesel. Gasoline generators are common and widely available, but propane and diesel generators may offer longer shelf life and increased fuel efficiency. Choose a fuel type that aligns with your preferences and accessibility.

How do I calculate the appropriate generator size for my home?

Calculate the wattage requirements of essential appliances and devices you want to power during an outage. Add up the wattage to determine the generator size needed. Consider starting watts for devices that have higher initial power requirements, like refrigerators or air conditioners.

Are there features that enhance the safety and convenience of a home generator?

Look for generators with safety features such as automatic shut-off in case of low oil levels, circuit protection, and overload prevention. Electric start options and portability features like wheels and handles can also enhance convenience and ease of use.

Can a home generator be connected directly to the electrical panel, and what are the benefits of this feature?

Yes, many home generators come with a transfer switch or can be connected to a transfer switch. This allows the generator to be directly connected to your home’s electrical panel, enabling automatic power transfer during an outage. This feature ensures a seamless transition and efficient distribution of power to selected circuits, enhancing convenience and safety.