20 Best Generator For Emergency Home Use (2023 Updated)
A generator is a machine that converts mechanical energy into electrical energy. Generators are used in a variety of applications, including on board ships, in emergency power systems, and as a power source for electric vehicles.
The generator consists of a rotating assembly, called a rotor, and a stationary assembly, called a stator. The rotor is connected to an engine, and the stator is connected to the power source. As the engine rotates the rotor, it produces a magnetic field.
This magnetic field interacts with the stator to produce electricity.
There are two main types of generators: AC generators and DC generators. AC generators are used in most applications, including on board ships and in emergency power systems. DC generators are used in a few applications, such as electric vehicles.
Generators are rated by the amount of electrical power they can produce. The rating is usually given in watts or kilowatts. A small generator might have a rating of only a few thousand watts, while a large generator can have a rating of several million watts.
20 Best Generator For Emergency Home Use
1. Westinghouse WGen3600v Portable Generator
- 3600 Running Watts and 4650 Peak Watts; Recoil Start; 4 Gallon Fuel Tank With Fuel Gauge; Up to 13.5 Hours of Run Time Per Tank
- Plug-and-Play: Comes With Oil, an Oil Funnel, a Tool Kit, and a User’s Manual to Get You Started Right Out of the Box
- Powered by a 212cc Westinghouse 4-Stroke OHV Engine Featuring a Long-Lasting Cast Iron Sleeve With Automatic Low Oil Shutdown
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Amazon.com | |
eBay | |
Camping World | |
Acme Tools |
Product Details
Specifications
Details | |
Peak Watts | 4650 |
Rated Watts | 3600 |
Reviews From Real Customers
2. Generac 249344 GP Series 3600W Portable Generator with Engine 7677
- Featuring Generac’s PowerRush advanced technology – delivers over 40% more starting capacity allowing you to do more with less
- Generac’s OHV engine with splash lubrication provides a long engine life
- Low-oil level shutdown automatically safeguards engine from damage
- Large-capacity steel fuel tank with incorporated fuel gauge provides durability and long run times
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Sam’s Club | |
Northern Tool |
Product Details
Specifications
Details | |
Product type | Generator |
Portable | Yes |
Surge wattage | 4500W |
Color | Black, orange |
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3. Honda EU2200i Inverter Generator
- 121cc 2200W
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Home Depot | |
Lowe’s | |
Camping World |
Product Details
Specifications
Details | |
Low Oil Shut Down | Yes |
Starting Watts | 2200 |
Can Be Used for Tailgating | Yes |
Can Be Used for Campsites | Yes |
Fuel Type | Gasoline |
4. Generac 70432 Air-Cooled Home Standby Generator
- True Power Technology
- G-Force Engines
- Evolution Controller
- LCD Display
- Tough, Durable All-Aluminum Enclosure
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Product Details
Specifications
Details | |
Package Weight | 515.0 lbs. |
Rated Wattage | 22000 |
MFG Brand Name | Generac |
Frame Material | Aluminum |
Supplier Product Type/Category | Home Standby Generators |
Current Range (A) | 100 Amp |
UL Listed | Yes |
Voltage Rating | 240 |
Net Package Quantity/Net Content | 1 |
ETL Listed | No |
MFG Model # (Series) | 70432 |
MFG Part # (OEM) | 70432 |
Color / Finish | Bisque |
Item has Restrictions? | No |
Manufacturer Warranty | 5 year warranty |
CSA Certified | No |
Product Name | 22kW/19.5kW Air Cooled Home Standby Generator with WiFi with Whole House 200 Amp Transfer Switch (non CUL) |
5. DuroMax XP13000E 13000 Watt Portable GAS Electric Start Generator
- Xp13000e 13,000 Watt
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Plenty of Power | With 13,000 starting watts and 10,500 running watts, this unit can handle heavy loads from lights and a refrigerator to a home air conditioner and high amperage power tools. |
Powerful 20HP Engine | The DuroMax 500cc OHV engine is a workhorse that provides plenty of power to handle multiple jobs from powering high voltage appliances to heavy duty power tools. |
Low Oil Shutoff | Protects your investment by automatically shutting the generator off when it senses that the oil is low. |
Fully Featured Power Panel | The power panel includes a wide selection of outlets for maximum compatibility in your applications including: 2 120V household GFCI outlets, 1 120V 30A twist lock outlet, 1 240V 30A outlet, and 1 240V 50A outlet. The panel also includes a voltmeter and 12V DC charging posts for charging external batteries. |
Complies with Emissions Standards | All DuroMax generators are both approved by the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) and CARB (California Air Resources Board) and follow strict guidelines to ensure our generators are as environmentally friendly as possible. |
Reviews From Real Customers
6. Westinghouse WGen7500 Portable Generator with Remote Electric Start
- The WGen9500 features remote start which is operated by key fob, adding to the convenience of having power wherever you need it. Push-Button Start.
- Starting the WGen9500 couldn’t be easier with our Westinghouse Push-Button Start. 457cc Westinghouse OHV Engine with Cast Iron Sleeve.
- The WGen9500 portable generator produces enough power to keep you up and running when you need it. Long Run Time.
- Runs up to 14 hours on a single tank (6.6 gallons).
- The WGen9500 features two GFCI 5-20R 120V household duplex receptacles, as well as transfer switch read.
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Norwall PowerSystems | |
Mowers at Jacks |
Product Details
Specifications
Details | |
Peak Watts | 9500 |
Rated Watts | 7500 |
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7. Generac 7228 18KW Standby Generator
- 18000 W
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Electric Generators Direct | |
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Product Details
Specifications
Details | |
Weight | 420 lb. |
Color | Beige |
Volts | 240 V |
Engine Speed | 3600 rpm |
Low Oil Shutdown | Yes |
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8. Generac Guardian 24,000W Home Standby Generator
- Takes up 70% less space when compared to other output products
- Be ready for power outages at all times with a Generac Standby Generator
- Generac generators and engines are engineered and built in the USA (Assembled in the USA using domestic and foreign parts)
- *Based on internal company data; savings will vary based on multiple factors, including energy habits, size of home, and number of occupants
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Amazon | |
Tractor Supply Company | |
Electric Generators Direct | |
Norwall PowerSystems |
Product Details
Specifications
Details | |
Length | 48 in. |
Wheel Kit Included | No |
Weight | 455 lb. |
Fuel Gauge | Yes |
Low Oil Shutdown | Yes |
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9. Pulsar 12000W Dual Fuel Portable Generator with Electric Start
- Easy to Start.
- This Pulsar 9500W/12,000W dual-fuel portable generator has a 6.6-gallon gasoline tank that offers up to 13 hours of run time on half load.
- This Pulsar dual-fuel portable generator has an electric push-button starter with a standard recoil starter as a backup.
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Size | 12,000W |
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10. Generac 5734 GP Series 15,000 Watt Portable Generator
- Generac’s OHVI engine incorporates full pressure lubrication with automotive style spin on oil filter for longer life engine
- Idle control reduces noise and conserves fuel for extended run-times
- Low-oil shutdown automatically safeguards engine from damage
- Large-capacity fuel tank with incorporated fuel gauge provides durability and extended run times
- Hour meter tracks maintenance intervals
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Electric Generators Direct | |
Northern Tool | |
NationwideGenerators.com |
Product Details
Specifications
Details | |
Assembled Depth (in) | 48.5 in |
Assembled Height (in) | 38.5 in |
Assembled Width (in) | 30.75 in |
Assembled Weight (lbs) | 363 lbs |
Package Weight | 425 |
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11. Generac iQ3500 Portable Inverter Generator
- 3500 W
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Product Details
Specifications
Details | |
Package Weight | 80.5 lbs. |
Rated Wattage | 3000 |
MFG Brand Name | Generac |
Horsepower (hp) | 0 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline |
Reviews From Real Customers
12. Pulsar PG2300iS 2,300 Watt Portable Small GAS Powered Inverter Power Generator
- 2300 peak watts/1800 running watts
- (2) AC 120V 13A outlets, (1) 12V 8A Cigarette outlet, and (1) 5V USB port
- Stable sine WAVE for powering sensitive electronics
- Recoil start, low oil shut-off, and AVR
- Ideal for Tailgating, Camping, and Small 120V Appliances
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Acme Tools | |
OurGenerators.com |
Product Details
Specifications
Details | |
Power/Fuel Type | Gasoline |
Operational Volume (dB) | 59 |
Horsepower (hp) | 3 |
Engine Displacement (cc) | 80 |
Starting Wattage | 2300 |
Half-Load Run Time | 4.8 |
Fuel Technology | Single Fuel |
Application | Home Standby,Job Site,Recreation |
Voltage (volts) | 120 V |
Engine Make | OEM Branded Engine |
Fuel Tank Capacity (gallons) | 1.18 gal |
Full load fuel consumption (gallons/hour) | 0.15 |
Start Type | Recoil Start |
CA (CARB) Compliant | CARB Compliant |
CO Shutoff Capable | No |
Number of Outlets | 4 |
Built-in inverter | Yes |
Running Wattage | 1800 |
Outlet Type | 120V 15A,12V DC |
Certifications and Listings | CARB Compliant,EPA Approved |
Product Length (in.) | 19.7 in |
Product Width (in.) | 11.22 in |
13. Generac GP5500 Portable Generator
- Large steel fuel tank with easy-to-read fuel gauge for durability and extended run times
- 5500 running watts / 6875 starting watts
- Fold-down locking handle and heavy-duty, never-flat wheels for reliable portability
- Covered, circuit breaker protected outlets provide added protection from the environment
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Grainger Industrial Supply | |
Power Pros |
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Specifications
Details | |
Assembled Weight (lbs) | 171 lbs |
Package Weight | 194 |
Height | 25.12 in |
Length | 27.24 in |
Width | 27.05 in |
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14. Generac 5981 Portable Generator
- The GP1800 Watt generator features low-tone mufflers for quiet operation, low-oil shutdown, and circuit breaker protected outlets.
- Low oil shutdown prevents engine damage.
- Low-tone mufflers for quiet operation.
- Fuel gauge incorporated for at a glance fuel monitoring.
- Circuit breaker protected outlets protect against circuit overload.
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Mobile Distributor Supply | |
Neobits.com |
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Specifications
Details | |
Assembled Product Weight | 79 lbs |
Assembled Product Dimensions (L x W x H) | 23.00 x 17.00 x 17.50 Inches |
15. DuroMax XP13000EH 13000 Watt Portable Hybrid GAS Propane Generator
Product Details
Specifications
Details | |
Plenty of Power | With 13,000 starting watts and 10,500 running watts, this unit can handle heavy loads from lights and a refrigerator to a home air conditioner and high amperage power tools. |
Dual Fuel Technology | This generator runs on gasoline or propane giving you the freedom and flexibility of fuel choice. |
Powerful 20HP Engine | The DuroMax 500cc OHV engine is a workhorse that provides plenty of power to handle multiple jobs from powering high voltage appliances to heavy duty power tools. |
Low Oil Shutoff | Protects your investment by automatically shutting the generator off when it senses that the oil is low. |
Fully Featured Power Panel | The power panel includes a wide selection of outlets for maximum compatibility in your applications including: 2 120V household GFCI outlets, 1 120V 30A twist lock outlet, 1 240V 30A outlet, and 1 240V 50A outlet. The panel also includes a voltmeter and 12V DC charging posts for charging external batteries. |
Reviews From Real Customers
16. Westinghouse WGen5300v – 5300 Watt Portable Generator (CARB)
- Perfect as a backup power source at home or portable power solution for RVs
- 5,300 running watts and 6,600 peak watts with recoil start
- Powered by a tough 274cc 4-Stroke OHV Westinghouse Engine constructed with a durable cast iron sleeve
- 120/240 Volt Selector Switch allows for more flexible power draw per outlet
- VFT display gives you real time updates with the voltage output, frequency, and lifetime hours
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Electric Generators Direct | |
Mowers at Jacks |
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Specifications
Details | |
Peak Watts | 6600 |
Rated Watts | 5300 |
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17. Generac 7117 Portable Generator,inverter,120Vac,14.0A
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Northern Tool | |
Justin Power Equipment | |
Do it Best |
Product Details
Specifications
Details | |
Package Weight | 53.8 lbs. |
Rated Wattage | 1700.0 |
MFG Brand Name | Generac |
Horsepower (hp) | 2.0 |
CARB Compliant | Yes |
Reviews From Real Customers
18. Generac 7171 Guardian 10kw Home Backup Generator (WiFi-Enabled)
- True Power Technology
- G-Force Engine
- Quiet-Test Self-Test Mode
- Tough, Durable All-Aluminum Enclosure With RhinoCoat
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Lowe’s | |
Electric Generators Direct | |
Acme Tools | |
AP Electric & Generators |
Product Details
Specifications
Details | |
Generator Fuel Type | Liquid Propane/Natural Gas |
Phase | Single |
Generator Voltage | 120V AC/240V AC |
Amps | 45.0 |
Transfer Switch Included | No |
Reviews From Real Customers
19. Generac 7175 – Guardian 13kW Home Backup Generator with Whole House Switch, WiFi-Enabled
- 13,000-Watt / 200-Amp
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AP Electric & Generators |
Product Details
Specifications
Details | |
Application | Emergency Use |
Fuel Technology | Dual Fuel |
Built-in inverter | Yes |
CA (CARB) Compliant | CARB Compliant |
CO Shutoff Capable | No |
Reviews From Real Customers
20. Generac 16KW Standby Generator 7178
- 16,000-Watt / 200-Amp
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FactoryPure |
Product Details
Specifications
Details | |
Fuel Type | Liquid propane or natural gas |
Engine Displacement (Cu. Centimeters) | 816cc |
Engine Series | OHVI |
Number of Circuits | Whole house |
Automatic Transfer Switch Included | Yes |
Reviews From Real Customers
Conclusion
When the power goes out, a generator can keep your home warm (or cool), cook your food, charge your electronics, and keep the lights on. Here are a few things to consider when choosing a generator for emergency home use:
Size: How much power do you need A small generator can power a few essentials, while a larger one can keep your whole house running.
Fuel type: Gasoline, propane, or diesel Gasoline is the most common fuel type, but propane and diesel generators are also available.
Runtime: How long do you need the generator to run Some generators can run for hours, while others need to be refueled more frequently.
Noise level: Some generators are very noisy, while others are relatively quiet. Consider how much noise you’re willing to tolerate.
Ease of use: Some generators are easy to set up and use, while others require more knowledge and experience. Choose a generator that’s right for your level of expertise.
Safety: Be sure to read the safety instructions carefully and follow all safety precautions.
Cost: Generators can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand. Choose the one that fits your budget.
A generator can be a lifesaver during a power outage. Keep these considerations in mind when choosing one for your home.