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Home standby generators are an essential investment for anyone seeking to protect their home and family during power outages. Given their ability to automatically switch on when utility power fails, these machines provide critical backup power for prolonged periods. However, not all generators are created equal, and it’s crucial to choose the most reliable and effective one for your home.
The best home standby generator should be user-friendly, reliable, and able to provide the right amount of power for your needs. It should also be extremely durable, able to withstand harsh weather conditions, with minimal noise generation, and offer excellent fuel efficiency. Using a subpar generator can lead to ineffective power backup, unnecessary delays, and potential damage to your equipment.
When buying a home standby generator, it’s vital to pay keen attention to the specifications. Make sure the generator can handle your home’s power demands while deciding on fuel type. Diesel generators are known for their fuel efficiency, while natural gas or liquid propane might have a more convenient fuel supply for your residence.
In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of selecting the best home standby generator. We have done extensive research, testing, and review of various generator types to identify the ones that will provide reliable power in the event of an outage. By understanding your needs and considering key features of the generators we recommend, you will be better-equipped to make an informed and wise choice.
Best Home Standby Generator
Choosing the right home standby generator goes beyond operational specifications and includes the ease of use, noise generation, and the overall system’s reliability and durability. Given many available options and the critical role a standby generator fulfills in a home, it can feel daunting to decide on the most suitable model. To streamline this process, we have tested numerous models and compiled a list of the best home standby generators to facilitate your purchase decision.
Generac 8251 GP2500i 2,500-Watt Gas Powered Portable Inverter Generator – Compact and Lightweight Design with Parallel Capability – Produces Clean, Stable Power – COsense Technology – CARB Compliant
If you’re looking for a portable inverter generator that is easy to carry and produces clean, stable power, then the Generac 8251 GP2500i is a great option.
Pros
- The compact and lightweight design makes it easy to carry and transport, weighing only 47 pounds.
- The parallel capability allows you to connect two 2500-watt GP2500i inverters to double your power output.
- The CO Alert System ensures your safety by automatically shutting off the generator if carbon monoxide is detected.
Cons
- The 1-1/8 gallon fuel tank may need to be refueled more frequently depending on usage.
- The 1,500 watts of continuous power may not be sufficient for some heavy-duty applications.
- The noise level of 59 dBA(A) may be too loud for some users.
The Generac 8251 GP2500i is a reliable and efficient portable inverter generator that produces clean, stable power. It is ideal for camping, tailgating, and power outages. The eco-mode fuel efficiency ensures longer run times and extended engine life. The parallel capability allows you to connect two inverters for double the power output.
The CO Alert System is a great safety feature that ensures your safety by automatically shutting off the generator if carbon monoxide is detected. However, it is important to note that the generator should always be used in a well-ventilated area.
Overall, the Generac 8251 GP2500i is a great portable inverter generator that is easy to carry and produces clean, stable power. It is a reliable and efficient option for those who need power on the go.
Generac GP10000E 10kW 220V-1PH Standby Generator
If you’re looking for a reliable and powerful standby generator, the Generac GP10000E 10kW 220V-1PH Standby Generator is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The Generac GP10000E is a powerful generator that can handle all your home’s essential circuits during an outage.
- With 10,000 watts of output, it can power your home’s most critical appliances, including your HVAC system, well pump, and sump pump.
- The Generac GP10000E is Transfer Switch Ready, which means it’s compatible with Generac’s line of automatic transfer switches.
Cons
- The Generac GP10000E is a bit noisy, with a decibel rating of 74 dB.
- It requires a dedicated 50-amp circuit for installation, which may require some additional wiring.
- The Generac GP10000E is relatively heavy, weighing in at 215 pounds.
We’ve had the pleasure of using the Generac GP10000E 10kW 220V-1PH Standby Generator, and we can confidently say that it’s a great investment for anyone who wants to ensure that their home is always powered during an outage.
The Generac GP10000E is a powerful generator that can handle all your home’s essential circuits during an outage. With 10,000 watts of output, it can power your home’s most critical appliances, including your HVAC system, well pump, and sump pump. We were impressed by how smoothly the generator transitioned from generator to utility power during a power outage.
Another great feature of the Generac GP10000E is that it’s Transfer Switch Ready, which means it’s compatible with Generac’s line of automatic transfer switches. This makes it easy to install and set up, and it ensures that you’ll always have a reliable source of power when you need it.
While the Generac GP10000E is a bit noisy, with a decibel rating of 74 dB, we found that the noise level was manageable and not overly intrusive. However, it’s worth noting that the generator requires a dedicated 50-amp circuit for installation, which may require some additional wiring. Additionally, the generator is relatively heavy, weighing in at 215 pounds, so it may require some assistance during installation.
Overall, we highly recommend the Generac GP10000E 10kW 220V-1PH Standby Generator to anyone who wants to ensure that their home is always powered during an outage. It’s a reliable, powerful, and easy-to-install generator that’s sure to provide you with peace of mind during any power emergency.
Champion Power Equipment 100837 14kW Home Standby Generator System, 200-Amp aXis Automatic Transfer Switch
If you’re looking for a reliable and efficient home standby generator, the Champion Power Equipment 100837 14kW Home Standby Generator System with a 200-Amp aXis Automatic Transfer Switch is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The generator is capable of producing clean power for up to 10 essential appliances and systems during a power outage, thanks to its transfer switch and Champion’s exclusive AVR technology.
- With 14,000 peak watts and 10,000 rated watts, it can handle heavy loads with ease.
- The aXis Transfer Switch can be pre-programmed to transfer to generator power during an outage, and it can also be manually transferred with the touch of a button.
Cons
- The generator is quite heavy, weighing in at 215 pounds.
- It requires a dedicated 50-amp NEMA 3R exterior grade 220-volt 240V outlet.
- The price point is on the higher end.
This generator is perfect for those who need to power their entire home during an outage. It’s capable of handling heavy loads and can provide clean power for up to 10 essential appliances and systems. The aXis Transfer Switch is also a great feature, as it can be pre-programmed to transfer to generator power during an outage.
One downside to this generator is its weight, as it can be quite difficult to move around. Additionally, it requires a dedicated 50-amp NEMA 3R exterior grade 220-volt 240V outlet, so you’ll need to make sure you have the necessary infrastructure in place. Finally, the price point is on the higher end, so this generator may not be the best option for those on a tight budget.
Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable and efficient home standby generator, the Champion Power Equipment 100837 14kW Home Standby Generator System with a 200-Amp aXis Automatic Transfer Switch is definitely worth considering.
FUEL OUTLET
The GENMAX GM10500iETC Tri Fuel Inverter Generator is a powerful and versatile machine that can run on gasoline, propane, and natural gas. It is a great choice for those who want to be prepared for any power outage situation.
Pros
- The tri-fuel capability of this generator is a standout feature. It is one of the few portable generators that can run on natural gas, making it a great choice for those who want to avoid the hassle of buying and storing gasoline.
- The 50Amp RV outlet is a great addition, making it easy to power up your RV or other appliances that require a lot of power.
- The remote start is a convenient feature that allows you to start the generator from a distance, making it easy to operate even if you are not in close proximity to the machine.
Cons
- The generator is quite heavy, weighing in at 115 pounds. This can make it difficult to move around, especially if you need to transport it to a different location.
- The noise level of the generator is relatively high, with a rating of 68dB(A). This can make it difficult to use in a quiet environment, such as a campground or residential area.
- The generator requires a propane hose and regulator, which are sold separately. This can add to the overall cost of the machine.
The GENMAX GM10500iETC Tri Fuel Inverter Generator is a great choice for those who want a versatile and powerful generator that can run on multiple fuel sources. The tri-fuel capability, 50Amp RV outlet, and remote start are all great features that make this generator stand out from the competition.
The generator is quite heavy, which can make it difficult to move around. Additionally, the noise level is relatively high, which can make it difficult to use in a quiet environment. However, these are minor drawbacks considering the overall power and versatility of the machine.
Overall, if you are in the market for a portable generator that can run on multiple fuel sources and has a high power output, the GENMAX GM10500iETC Tri Fuel Inverter Generator is definitely worth considering.
Anker SOLIX C1000 Portable Power Station
If you’re looking for a reliable and efficient portable power station, the Anker SOLIX C1000 is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The 1000W AC/DC/USB output allows you to charge up to 10 devices at the same time, making it perfect for emergencies or outdoor adventures.
- With a full charge in just 58 minutes using a 120V outlet, you can quickly power up your devices without having to wait for hours.
- The 1056Wh LiFePO4 battery has a long service life and can be charged up to 300 times, ensuring that you can use it for years to come.
Cons
- The 630W solar panel is sold separately, which means that you’ll have to spend extra money if you want to charge it using solar power.
- At 22.5 pounds, it’s not the lightest portable power station on the market, which may make it difficult to carry around if you need to move it frequently.
- While it can charge most devices quickly, it may take longer to charge larger appliances like a mini fridge or a microwave.
The Anker SOLIX C1000 is a versatile and powerful portable power station that can be used for a variety of purposes. Whether you need to power your devices during a blackout or you want to take it camping, it’s a great choice. However, if you’re looking for a solar-powered option, you’ll need to purchase the solar panel separately.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best home standby generator, there are several factors to consider. Here are some key features to look for:
Power Output
The power output of a generator is one of the most important factors to consider. It is essential to choose a generator that can meet the power needs of your home. Consider the number of appliances you need to power and their wattage requirements when selecting a generator.
Fuel Type
Home standby generators can run on different fuel types, including natural gas, propane, and diesel. Consider the availability and cost of fuel in your area when selecting a generator.
Noise Level
Generators can be noisy, and it is essential to choose a generator that operates at an acceptable noise level. Look for generators with sound attenuation features to reduce noise.
Automatic Transfer Switch
An automatic transfer switch (ATS) is essential for seamless power transfer from the utility grid to the generator. Look for generators that come with an ATS or are compatible with one.
Maintenance
Regular maintenance is essential to keep your generator running smoothly. Look for generators that are easy to maintain and have a reasonable service interval.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best home standby generator that meets your power needs and budget.
