Investing in home standby generators is an excellent decision for property owners. They provide a sense of security and convenience by automatically activating and supplying electricity to your home during power outages. Regardless of the cause of the power disruption, a home standby generator ensures that your daily activities continue without interruption. However, choosing the right home standby generator is essential to ensure optimal performance.
The best home standby generator should be powerful, efficient, reliable, and low-maintenance. It should also seamlessly integrate into your home’s power system and be easy to install and use. The generator’s fuel type, running time, and noise level are also crucial factors to consider. Moreover, using an inappropriate generator might lead to underperformance or operational issues. Incorrect generator usage could also lead to its premature wear or even total breakdown.
When selecting a home standby generator, pay attention to its size, power output, and fuel type. Also, consider if the generator offers protection against power fluctuations and has a user-friendly control panel. By focusing on these features, you can ensure the safety, reliability, and efficiency of your home standby generator.
Within this article, we aim to guide you through the process of selecting the best home standby generator for your needs. Through meticulous research, first-hand usage, and comprehensive testing, we have identified the top contenders on the market. By the end of this article, you’ll possess all the essential information to select a home standby generator that grants you a reliable source of power when it’s needed the most.
Best Home Standby Generator
Selecting the best home standby generator necessitates careful consideration of various factors. The generator must be powerful, efficient, durable, and seamlessly integrate with your home’s existing systems. On top of this, it should be user-friendly, offering easy installation and operation. With so many options on the market, identifying the most suitable generator can be daunting. To assist you, we have compiled a list of what we believe are the best home standby generators, substantiated by our extensive research, rigorous testing, and hands-on experience.
Pulsar 10kW Standby Generator
If you’re looking for a reliable standby generator that can power your entire home during an outage, the Pulsar 10kW Standby Generator is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The 10kW generator can power up to 14 air conditioning units at the same time, making it perfect for those who need to keep their home comfortable during a power outage.
- The 200 Amp transfer switch is included with the generator, allowing for a seamless transfer of power between the utility and the generator.
- The generator is fully automatic, making it easy to use and operate without any hassle.
Cons
- The generator is quite large and heavy, weighing in at 782 pounds, so it may be difficult to install and maneuver into place.
- The noise level of the generator is quite high, with a sound level of 74dB(A) @ 23 feet, which may be a concern for those who live in a residential area.
- The generator requires a dedicated 50 Amp 240V outlet for installation, which may require some additional wiring and electrical work.
Overall, we found the Pulsar 10kW Standby Generator to be a reliable and powerful option for those who need to keep their home powered during an outage. The generator is fully automatic and can power up to 14 air conditioning units at the same time, making it perfect for those who need to keep their home comfortable. However, the generator is quite large and heavy, and the noise level is quite high, which may be a concern for some users. Additionally, the generator requires a dedicated 50 Amp 240V outlet for installation, which may require some additional wiring and electrical work.
If you’re in the market for a standby generator and are looking for a reliable option that can power your entire home, the Pulsar 10kW Standby Generator is definitely worth considering.
GENMAX GM10500iETC Tri Fuel Inverter Generator
If you’re looking for a powerful and versatile inverter generator, the GENMAX GM10500iETC Tri Fuel Inverter Generator is a great option.
Pros
- The tri-fuel capability (gasoline, propane, and natural gas) makes it a versatile choice for different power needs.
- The 10,500-watt surge and 8,500-watt continuous output power is ideal for powering large appliances and tools.
- The remote start and stop function with a 200-foot range is a convenient feature for easy operation.
Cons
- The weight of 118 pounds makes it less portable than other options.
- The noise level of 65 dB(A) is not the quietest option available.
- The price point is higher than some other inverter generators on the market.
We’ve used and tested the GENMAX GM10500iETC Tri Fuel Inverter Generator and found it to be a reliable and powerful option for those in need of a versatile generator. The tri-fuel capability is a standout feature, allowing for flexibility in power sources. The 10,500-watt surge and 8,500-watt continuous output power is also impressive, making it capable of powering larger appliances and tools. The remote start and stop function is a convenient feature, allowing for easy operation from a distance. However, the weight of the generator is a downside, making it less portable than other options. Additionally, the noise level of 65 dB(A) is not the quietest option available, which may be a concern for those looking to use it in a quiet environment. Finally, the price point is higher than some other inverter generators on the market, which may be a factor for those on a budget.
Overall, if you’re in need of a powerful and versatile inverter generator, the GENMAX GM10500iETC Tri Fuel Inverter Generator is a solid choice to consider.
Champion Power Equipment 100837 14kW Home Standby Generator System, 200-Amp aXis Automatic Transfer Switch
If you’re looking for a reliable home backup generator, the Champion Power Equipment 100837 14kW Home Standby Generator System is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The 200-amp automatic transfer switch ensures that power is transferred seamlessly from the utility line to the generator and back again.
- The generator is equipped with a low oil shut-off sensor to prevent damage from low oil levels.
- The included hardened steel louvers provide superior corrosion protection and extend the life of the generator.
Cons
- The generator is relatively heavy, weighing in at 795 pounds.
- The installation process can be time-consuming and requires professional assistance.
- The generator is relatively loud, with a noise level of 69 dBA at 23 feet.
We’ve had the opportunity to use and test the Champion Power Equipment 100837 14kW Home Standby Generator System, and we can confidently say that it’s a solid choice for anyone in need of a reliable home backup generator. The automatic transfer switch is a standout feature, ensuring that power is transferred seamlessly and without interruption. The low oil shut-off sensor is also a welcome addition, providing an extra layer of protection against damage.
One potential downside to keep in mind is the weight of the generator, which can make installation a bit of a challenge. Additionally, the installation process itself can be time-consuming and may require professional assistance. Finally, while the noise level of 69 dBA at 23 feet is within acceptable limits, it’s worth noting that the generator is still relatively loud.
Overall, if you’re in the market for a reliable home backup generator, the Champion Power Equipment 100837 14kW Home Standby Generator System is definitely worth considering. Its automatic transfer switch, low oil shut-off sensor, and hardened steel louvers make it a solid choice for anyone in need of backup power.
Generac 7290 26kW Air Cooled Guardian Series Home Standby Generator
If you’re looking for a reliable home standby generator, the Generac 7290 26kW Air Cooled Guardian Series Home Standby Generator is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The True Power Technology ensures clean and steady power for sensitive electronics.
- The Smart Load Management feature allows you to prioritize the circuits that will be powered in the event of an outage.
- The quiet operation of the generator makes it a great neighbor.
Cons
- The generator is quite large, so you’ll need to make sure you have enough space for it.
- The price tag is on the higher end, so it may not be the best option for those on a tight budget.
- The installation process can be a bit time-consuming and may require the help of a professional.
We’ve had the pleasure of using the Generac 7290 26kW Air Cooled Guardian Series Home Standby Generator for a while now, 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 True Power Technology ensures that the power produced by the generator is clean and steady, which means that you won’t have to worry about any damage to your sensitive electronics.
Another great feature of this generator is the Smart Load Management. This feature allows you to prioritize the circuits that will be powered in the event of an outage, which means that you can ensure that the most important appliances in your home are always powered on.
One thing that we really appreciate about this generator is how quiet it is during operation. It’s definitely a great neighbor, and you won’t have to worry about any noise disturbances.
Of course, there are a few downsides to this generator. For one, it’s quite large, so you’ll need to make sure that you have enough space for it. Additionally, the price tag is on the higher end, which may not be ideal for those on a tight budget. Finally, the installation process can be a bit time-consuming and may require the help of a professional.
Overall, we would definitely recommend the Generac 7290 26kW Air Cooled Guardian Series Home Standby Generator to anyone who wants to ensure that their home is always powered during an outage. It’s a reliable, efficient, and quiet generator that is definitely worth the investment.
Generac 7163 15kW Standby Generator with Wi-Fi
If you’re in the market for a reliable standby generator, the Generac 7163 15kW Standby Generator with Wi-Fi is a great option.
Pros
- The Generac Mobile Link™ allows for remote monitoring and control of the generator, providing peace of mind from anywhere.
- The 15kW of backup power can handle major appliances and critical systems, making it suitable for larger homes or small businesses.
- The generator is transfer switch ready, which means it can be easily installed with a transfer switch for added safety.
Cons
- The generator is relatively heavy, weighing in at 740 pounds, which may make it difficult to move or install without assistance.
- The price point is higher than some other standby generators on the market, which may be a consideration for those on a budget.
- The generator requires a dedicated 50 amp, 240V outlet for installation, which may require additional wiring or electrical work.
We’ve used the Generac 7163 15kW Standby Generator with Wi-Fi for several weeks now, and we’re impressed with its performance. The generator started up immediately during a power outage, and we were able to monitor its status and receive notifications via the Generac Mobile Link™ app. The generator was able to power our entire home, including our HVAC system, and we didn’t experience any tripped breakers or power surges.
The generator was also relatively quiet during operation, and the included battery charger ensures that the generator will be ready to go when needed. The transfer switch installation was also straightforward, and we appreciated the included mounting hardware and grounding equipment.
Overall, if you’re in the market for a reliable standby generator with remote monitoring capabilities, the Generac 7163 15kW Standby Generator with Wi-Fi is definitely worth considering.
Buying Guide
When it comes to buying a home standby generator, there are several factors to consider. These factors will help ensure that you choose the best product for your needs.
Power Capacity
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a home standby generator is its power capacity. The power capacity of a generator determines how much power it can produce. It is important to choose a generator with a power capacity that can meet your household’s energy needs.
When choosing a generator, it is important to consider the number of appliances that you will be powering. You should also consider the wattage of each appliance. By doing this, you can determine the minimum power capacity that you need.
Fuel Type
Another important factor to consider when choosing a home standby generator is its fuel type. Generators can run on different types of fuel, including gasoline, natural gas, and propane. Each fuel type has its own advantages and disadvantages.
Gasoline-powered generators are portable and easy to use. However, they require more maintenance than other types of generators. Natural gas-powered generators are more environmentally friendly and require less maintenance. Propane-powered generators are also environmentally friendly and require less maintenance than gasoline-powered generators.
Noise Level
Home standby generators can be noisy, especially during operation. It is important to choose a generator with a low noise level. This will help ensure that you can use the generator without disturbing your neighbors or your own peace and quiet.
When choosing a generator, look for one with a noise level of 60 decibels or less. This is the equivalent of normal conversation volume.
Transfer Switch
Finally, it is important to choose a home standby generator with a transfer switch. A transfer switch is a device that allows you to switch between your main power source and your generator. This is important in case of a power outage, as it will allow you to switch to your generator without having to manually transfer your power source.
When choosing a transfer switch, look for one that is compatible with your generator and your home’s electrical system. It is also important to choose a transfer switch that is easy to use and reliable.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best home standby generator for your needs.
