A backup generator is essential for home safety, providing power during emergencies and blackouts. Picking the right one is a big decision. It’s key to have a reliable, fuel-efficient, and sturdy generator ready to go. But with so many options, choosing the best one can be tricky.
The best backup generator for home should offer a high power output, excellent fuel efficiency, and low noise emission. It should also come equipped with safety features such as automatic shutdown to protect against overloading. Selecting the wrong generator can result in insufficient power or even potential safety hazards.
Therefore, in order to guide you towards making an informed decision for your backup generator purchase, we have carried out extensive research, vigorous testing, and in-depth analysis of the numerous generators available on the market. The information in this guide is a distillation of our findings, and it’s designed to help you make the right decision based on your specific needs.
Best Backup Generator For Home
Choosing the right backup generator for your home is of paramount importance to ensure a continuous power supply during outages and emergencies. The generator should be powerful, fuel-efficient, and low noise-emitting. Moreover, operating and safety features also need to be considered. With a wide range of options available in the market, it can be confusing to select the best one for your needs. In this guide, we have compiled a list of the best backup generators for homes based on the extensive research, testing, and analysis we’ve conducted. This information will help you make an informed decision that suits your needs and safeguards your home.
Generac 7210 24kW Air Cooled Guardian Series Home Standby Generator with 200-Amp Transfer Switch – Comprehensive Protection – Smart Controls – Versatile Power – Wi-Fi Connectivity – Real-Time Updates
If you’re looking for a reliable home standby generator, the Generac 7210 24kW Air Cooled Guardian Series Home Standby Generator with 200-Amp Transfer Switch is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- With 24kW of power available, this generator can handle almost all of your home’s essential appliances and systems simultaneously.
- The 200-amp transfer switch ensures reliable power transfer, so you can power up your home safely and efficiently.
- With smart controls, you can monitor and manage your generator from anywhere with a smartphone or tablet.
Cons
- At 824 pounds, this generator is quite heavy and may require two people to move.
- The price point is on the higher end, so this generator may not be the best option for those on a tight budget.
- Some users have reported issues with the generator tripping the breaker.
We’ve had the opportunity to test out the Generac 7210 24kW Air Cooled Guardian Series Home Standby Generator with 200-Amp Transfer Switch, and we’re impressed with its performance. With 24kW of power available, this generator can handle almost all of your home’s essential appliances and systems simultaneously, making it a great option for those who want comprehensive protection for their home.
The 200-amp transfer switch ensures reliable power transfer, so you can power up your home safely and efficiently. We also appreciate the smart controls, which allow us to monitor and manage our generator from anywhere with a smartphone or tablet.
However, we do want to note that at 824 pounds, this generator is quite heavy and may require two people to move. Additionally, the price point is on the higher end, so this generator may not be the best option for those on a tight budget. Some users have also reported issues with the generator tripping the breaker.
Overall, we think the Generac 7210 24kW Air Cooled Guardian Series Home Standby Generator with 200-Amp Transfer Switch is a great option for those who want a reliable and powerful home standby generator.
Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 300, 293Wh Backup Lithium Battery, 110V/300W Pure Sine Wave AC Outlet, Solar Generator for Outdoors Camping Travel Hunting Blackout (Solar Panel Optional)
If you’re looking for a reliable and versatile portable power station, the Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 300 is a great option.
Pros
- With a 293Wh lithium battery, it can provide up to 300W AC/DC & 300W solar input, making it a powerful and efficient choice for various outdoor activities.
- It comes with a pure sine wave 110V AC outlet, 2 fast-charging USB-A ports, and 2 USB-A ports with Smart Identifying Technology, allowing you to charge a wide range of devices.
- The LED display shows the power input and output, remaining battery life, and working mode, providing you with clear and detailed information.
Cons
- At 7.04 pounds, it’s not the lightest option available, which may be a consideration if you plan to carry it for extended periods.
- While it does come with a carry handle, the overall size and weight may still make it challenging to transport in some situations.
- The price point is on the higher end, which may be a consideration if you’re on a tight budget.
We’ve used the Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 300 for a variety of outdoor activities, including camping, hiking, and even as a backup power source during a blackout. It’s been reliable and efficient in all situations, providing us with the power we need to keep our devices charged and functional.
One of the standout features of this power station is its versatility. With a variety of output options, including a pure sine wave AC outlet, we’ve been able to charge everything from our laptops and tablets to our phones and cameras. The LED display is also a nice touch, providing us with clear and detailed information about the power input and output, remaining battery life, and working mode.
While the Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 300 is on the heavier side, the carry handle makes it relatively easy to transport. However, if you plan to carry it for extended periods, the weight may still be a consideration.
Overall, we highly recommend the Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 300 for anyone in need of a reliable and versatile portable power source. With its powerful and efficient lithium battery, wide range of output options, and clear and detailed LED display, it’s a great choice for any outdoor activity or emergency situation.
Westinghouse 12500 Watt Dual Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator, Remote Electric Start, Transfer Switch Ready, Gas and Propane Powered
If you’re looking for a reliable and powerful portable generator, the Westinghouse 12500 Watt Dual Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator is a great option to consider.
Pros
- With a dual-fuel capability that can be powered by both gasoline and propane, this generator offers you the flexibility to choose your power source.
- The remote electric start feature allows you to start the generator from a distance, making it more convenient to use.
- The transfer switch ready feature makes it easy to connect the generator to your home’s electrical system, providing backup power to your entire house.
Cons
- The generator is quite heavy, weighing in at 135 pounds, which can make it difficult to move around.
- The noise level of 72 dBA(A) is relatively loud, which may not be ideal for all situations.
- The generator requires a bit of assembly, which may be a downside for those who prefer a more plug-and-play experience.
We’ve used the Westinghouse 12500 Watt Dual Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator and found it to be a reliable and powerful option for those in need of backup power. The dual-fuel capability is a great feature, as it allows you to choose between gasoline and propane as your power source. This can be especially useful in situations where one fuel source may be more readily available than the other.
The remote electric start feature is also a nice touch, as it allows you to start the generator from a distance. This can be especially convenient if you need to start the generator in an emergency situation and don’t want to have to physically be next to it to do so.
The transfer switch ready feature is another great feature, as it makes it easy to connect the generator to your home’s electrical system. This can provide backup power to your entire house, which can be especially useful in situations where the power grid is down.
However, the generator is quite heavy, which can make it difficult to move around. Additionally, the noise level of 72 dBA(A) is relatively loud, which may not be ideal for all situations. Finally, the generator requires a bit of assembly, which may be a downside for those who prefer a more plug-and-play experience.
Overall, if you’re in need of a reliable and powerful portable generator, the Westinghouse 12500 Watt Dual Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator is definitely worth considering.
Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 240, 240Wh Backup Lithium Battery, 110V/200W Pure Sine Wave AC Outlet, Solar Generator for Outdoors Camping Travel Hunting Emergency (Solar Panel Optional)
If you’re looking for a reliable and versatile portable power station, the Jackery Explorer 240 is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The pure sine wave 110V/200W AC outlet is a standout feature, providing stable power for sensitive devices like CPAP machines, mini fridges, and TVs.
- The Jackery Explorer 240 is incredibly quiet, making it perfect for using in a library or bedroom without disturbing others.
- With three ways to recharge, including a solar panel, this portable power station offers plenty of flexibility for keeping your devices powered on the go.
Cons
- At 6.6 pounds, the Jackery Explorer 240 is a bit heavier than some other portable power stations on the market, which could be a consideration if you plan to carry it around frequently.
- While the Jackery Explorer 240 has a decent capacity of 240Wh, it may not be enough to power larger appliances or devices for extended periods of time.
- The Jackery Explorer 240’s price point is a bit higher than some other portable power stations on the market, which could be a consideration if you’re on a tight budget.
Overall, we’ve found the Jackery Explorer 240 to be a solid choice for anyone in need of a reliable and versatile portable power station. Its pure sine wave AC outlet, quiet operation, and flexible recharging options make it a great choice for a variety of applications, from camping and travel to emergency preparedness.
Portable Power Station 300W (Peak 600W), GRECELL 288Wh Solar Generator with 60W USB-C PD Output, 110V Pure Sine Wave AC Outlet Backup Lithium Battery for Outdoors Camping Travel Hunting Home Blackout
If you’re looking for a reliable and efficient portable power station, the GRECELL 288Wh Solar Generator is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The 110V pure sine wave AC outlet is compatible with most devices, making it a versatile option for various situations.
- With 300W AC/DC input, this portable power station can be charged quickly and efficiently.
- The solar generator is equipped with 4 USB ports, 2 USB-C PD ports, 1 DC 12V port, and 2 AC outlets, providing ample options for charging various devices.
Cons
- The carrying handle may not be sturdy enough for some users, so it’s important to handle the power station with care.
- The battery life may not be sufficient for extended power outages, depending on the usage patterns.
- The initial setup and configuration may require some time and effort, especially for those who are not familiar with portable power stations.
The GRECELL 288Wh Solar Generator is a great option for those who need a reliable and efficient portable power source. It’s versatile, fast-charging, and equipped with a variety of charging options. However, users should be aware of the limitations of the carrying handle and the battery life, and be prepared to invest some time and effort into the initial setup.
If you’re looking for a portable power station that can keep your devices charged during power outages, camping trips, or other emergencies, the GRECELL 288Wh Solar Generator is definitely worth considering.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best backup generator for your home, there are a few key features to consider. Here are some important factors to keep in mind:
Power Capacity
The power capacity of the generator is one of the most important factors to consider. It should be able to handle the electrical needs of your home, including major appliances like refrigerators, air conditioners, and heating systems. Make sure to choose a generator with a power capacity that is appropriate for your home.
Fuel Type
Backup generators can be powered by a variety of fuel types, including gasoline, propane, and natural gas. Each fuel type has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to choose the one that best fits your needs. For example, gasoline generators are generally more affordable, but they may not be as environmentally friendly as propane or natural gas generators.
Noise Level
Backup generators can be noisy, so it’s important to choose one that is relatively quiet. Look for generators with low decibel (dB) ratings, and consider purchasing a generator with a muffler or other noise-reducing features.
Transfer Switch
A transfer switch is an essential component of any backup generator system. It allows you to safely transfer power from the main electrical grid to the generator, and back again when the power comes back on. Make sure to choose a generator that is compatible with a transfer switch, and consult with a qualified electrician to install it properly.
Maintenance Requirements
Like any other machine, backup generators require regular maintenance to keep them running smoothly. Make sure to choose a generator that is easy to maintain, and consult with the manufacturer or a qualified technician for recommended maintenance procedures.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best backup generator for your home that will provide reliable power when you need it most.
