Top 10 Best Home Generator Buying Guide 2019
The modern day household has so many essential elements that run on electricity.
When the power goes out, it isn’t only inconvenient, it can be dangerous. Extreme summers or winters without temperature regulation can push people to unhealthy edges.
To get around this, you need to find the best home generator you can.
Eager to keep the power on when things go bad? Our guide below will help you find the generator right for you.
Details On Your Home Generator
A backup generator for your home is a big item investment. This isn’t only because of their cost, but because of the security they bring when disaster strikes. You need to make sure you have all your bases covered when the worst happens.
First on the list is power usage. The average household runs about 5,000 watts for basic needs like appliances and lights. Keep in mind, this is for a full running household.
Many generators can get close to this number, but small handheld generators may not. Be mindful of going too small.
Next is the type of generator. While any of these generators will do the job, keeping the type in mind will help you in how well it recharges and what it takes to refuel.
There are pure electric generators that run off of additional batteries.
A diesel generator can be very durable if you can keep the fuel flowing.
Hybrid generators do exist and may provide a good balance between the two.
Vital Features
There are a few nice features that can help make a generator stand out. Automatic start is one of the big ones, allowing the generator to kick on as soon as you lose power.
There are various features that can help with managing fuel capacity. Fuel gauges are handy to track fuel levels during long outages. A low-oil shutoff can prevent damage to the engine when oil gets low.
Some generators have alternative fuels that can act as backups, such as a natural gas outlet after a battery runs out.
The absolute most important addition that you must get is a transfer switch. This allows you to make a safe connection from the generator to your circuit panel.
Without this, your generator, and anyone who works near it may be in danger.
The Best Home Generator Top 10
Now that you know what makes a good generator, here are some of the top 10 best sellers on the market.
1. Westinghouse WGen7500 Portable Generator
This model from Westinghouse focuses on power but doesn’t sacrifice ease of use.
This generator is one of the most powerful on the list, clocking in at over 9000 watts.
Setup and maintenance are easy, and the generator overall is durable. Great solid overall generator.
2. Honda EU2200I Portable Generator
This portable generator from Honda may not have the power to power an entire household, but it has a stable engine, is quiet running, and can charge even delicate electronics like laptops.
This generator is great for pinpoint surge protection and backup power. It can double up with another unit for extra durability and power.
3. Champion Power Equipment 46539 Portable Generator
This Champion generator is a gas-fueled powerhouse of a generator.
It has a remote start, electric push start, and a low-oil shutdown safety system. It can pump up to 4000 watts and can run for a long 12 hours on one tank when at 50% of its load capacity.
4. Briggs & Stratton 30651 P2200 PowerSmart Series Generator
The Briggs and Stratton PowerSmart series has a lot of versatility. While not the most powerful portable generator on the market, it can make up for it with durability and lightweight efficiency.
This generator has all of the features you can ask for and more. It can charge delicate electronics and still has enough power to run multiple appliances at once.
5. Champion Power Equipment 100302 Digital Hybrid
This digital hybrid from Champion provides a cost-effective powerful generator with enough finesse to handle the small things too.
With incorporated inverter technology, it can switch between a powerful 4000 watt generator to a quiet, clean energy generator safe enough for even the most delicate electronics.
6. WEN 56475 Portable Generator
This WEN portable generator is one of the most fuel-efficient generators on this list without sacrificing raw power.
Capable of a full 5000 watts, this generator can run for 11 hours at half load and has a massive 4-gallon fuel tank.
7. Generac 5939 GP5500 Portable Generator
Getting to the biggest players in the portable generator game, we have the Generac portable generator.
This generator can sport 5500 watts of consistent power. This generator pushes for long hauls and heavy jobs. It also comes equipped with a splash lubrication system for longer lasting engine life.
8. DuroStar DS4000S Portable Generator
The DuroStar generator is a solid middle range generator.
It can generate up to 4000 watts and has a steel frame built for stability. The frame reduces rattle to a minimum, making the DuroStar one of the quietest generators.
9. DuroMax XP4400E Portable Generator
The DuroMax generator has a potent 7 horsepower engine and durable frame, making it great for outdoor usage as well as being a solid backup generator.
This generator runs at up to 4400 watts and can run for a good 8 hours at half load. The durability of the frame quiets any rattling from the engine.
Overall, the DuroMax is a high-value engine for its durability, power, and price.
10. PowerPro 56101 Gas Powered Portable Generator
The PowerPro gas powered generator is the smallest on this list, ranking in at 36 pounds.
Due to its size, it only produces 1000 watts of power at a time, but given its small size and quiet running, still makes it perfect for running some appliances and most light setups.
This generator may be best used as a backup or in low powered setups in the face of a complete power loss.
Keeping the Home Going
With this guide, we hope you have found a better idea of what you need for your best home generator.
When disaster strikes, you want to be ready. When that disaster has come and gone, you need to know how best to get on your feet. Continue to get the best advice with our guide to roof repairs!
