Top 10 Best Standby Generator | Reviews & Guides
Power cuts are a common problem. Natural disasters can make the situation even worse. Storms and hurricanes can also affect the energy supply. Power cuts can be prolonged.
Imagine a 72–hour power cut. You have no heating, no TV, no fridge and no way to charge your smartphone or tablet.
With a standby generator, you’ll never have to suffer another power cut again. If the power goes out, you can still run your generator. That’s why there’s such a need for emergency generators. There are so many brands and types of generators to choose from that it can be difficult.
If you’re considering replacing your portable generator with a home emergency generator, we’ve put together this buying guide and review of the best standby generators.
The aim of this article is to give you an overview of the best emergency generators on the market. To do this, we’ve scoured the market and found these generators We have selected only the ten best home standby generators that have met our strict criteria.
At the end of the article, you will also find a detailed buying guide, a comparison of different fuels and a FAQ.
Interested? Then sit back and read on.
Generac Guardian 70422 series generators provide the automatic emergency power you need to protect your home and family in the event of a power outage.
It includes a 22/19.5 kW air-cooled generator, 22 000 W with LPG and 19 500 W with gas.
The unit’s noise level is within acceptable limits (67 dB) and True Power technology ensures smooth power delivery with less than 5% harmonic distortion.
The Generac 70422 is equipped with a control unit, LCD display, battery status indicator and multilingual support. It also offers free connectivity so you can check the status of your generator from anywhere in the world using your mobile phone, tablet or computer.
As the leading brand of home backup and whole house generators, we offer not only the features our customers expect, but also a five-year limited warranty and 24-hour customer service.
Features
- Maximum Watts (LP) : 22000
- Maximum Watts (NG) : 19500
- Noise level : 67 dBA
- Displacement : 999 cc
- Starting system : Recoil, Electric
- Run Time : 30 hrs. @ 25% Load
- Fuel Tank Size : 9.0 gal.
- Item Dimensions : 48 x 25 x 29 inches
- Weight : 525 Pounds
- Warranty : 5-Year limited Warranty
Champion Power Equipment‘s 12.5kW generator features an ergonomic design and is the ideal standby generator for the home. It is energy efficient and can be used in both hot and cold climates.
The robust housing can be easily removed for installation, maintenance and repair. It will meet your family’s needs all year round.
Champion Power Equipment’s 717 cubic inch engine with fill valve can run continuously on propane or natural gas. Continuous output is 12,500 watts when using propane and 11,000 watts when using natural gas.
The 24 volt starting system provides high quality power with less than 5% harmonic distortion, which does not affect the operation of sensitive electronic equipment. It can also be used in ventilated living spaces. It is also more economical than other backup generators of the same size
Features
- Surge Watts : 12,500 watts
- Running Watts : Natural gas: 11,000 watts, Propane: 12,500 watts
- Fuel Type : Propane & Natural Gas
- THD Rating : Below 5%
- Dimensions : 52.4 x 33.5 x 32.1 inches
- Weight : 520 pounds
- Starting Mechanism : Automatic
- Noise Level : 63 dBA
- Warranty : 10 years limited warranty
- Certifications : EPA and CARB
The Briggs & Stratton EmPower Now 7000W generator provides power to most appliances and equipment in the event of a power outage. It is powered by a reliable and durable Briggs & Stratton engine and can be converted into a ready-to-use standby generator using an additional plug (sold separately). This EmPower generator has a starting power of 7,000 watts and 10,500 watts when running on LPG (6,000 watts and 9,000 watts when running on gas).
In the event of a power outage, this generator can provide uninterrupted power at home or on the road. With a continuous supply of propane or natural gas, it will run continuously and fully automatically for as long as needed.
This is a versatile backup generator that offers flexible power at a price comparable to portable generators. The included propane quick–start kit allows you to start it immediately and switch to continuous backup power when needed. A special cold weather feature keeps the generator cool as temperatures drop, making it easy to start and keep the engine running efficiently in all situations.” EmPower generators use clean propane or natural gas and are EPA compliant, so there’s no waiting in long lines for gas in an emergency.
The generator’s energy consumption can be monitored using an internal energy meter that plugs into a standard electrical outlet. In the event of a power failure (battery and charger supplied with the generator), power can be restored at the touch of a button. A built–in voltage stabilizer protects sensitive electronic equipment such as computers and cameras from voltage fluctuations. Thanks to its robust design, you don’t have to worry about batteries. The fully enclosed design features a specially designed air intake, Lotone sound attenuators and acoustic foam seals, making it 50% quieter than traditional portable generators. The exterior is professionally oxidised and coated with a high quality grey car paint for durability and weather resistance.
For added convenience, the service kit includes a special UL–certified air filter, spark plugs, oil filter and synthetic motor oil. The kit also includes a polymeric mounting plate, paint and synthetic motor oil.
Features
- Starting Watts : 7000
- Surge Watts : 10500
- Item Dimensions : 30.5 x 24.5 x 33 inches
- Weight : 280 Pounds
- Run Time : Up to 12 Hours
- Fuel Type : Gasoline, Natural Gas, Liquefied Petroleum Gas
- Warranty : 2 Year Warranty
Generac’s Guardian Series 10 000W generator is a reliable standby generator that can supply your family in the event of a power outage. In the event of a power outage, the generator will restore power within 10 seconds.
The highly efficient OHVI motor runs on natural gas or liquid propane. It can be connected directly to the existing gas network, eliminating the need for regular refueling. Fuel changes can also be done easily without the use of tools.
The engine, designed for comfort, is easy and smooth to operate. It is more reliable and easier to maintain than competing models.
The 16–position switch allows for easy operation of all electrical devices without the need for an extension cord. Although it looks like an air conditioner, it is mounted on a hidden mounting plate outside the house to keep the unit running.
The system is equipped with circuit breakers to protect the equipment and generator from damage. Indicator lights show whether the generator is running or not.
All generator parameters can be checked from anywhere in the world. If you have a computer or tablet device and an internet connection, you can use the popular “Mobile Link” remote monitoring system.
When the generator is running, it can safely charge the battery with 5% harmonic distortion, allowing you to connect small electronic devices.
High temperature or rainfall will not affect the operation of the generator. The use of solid wood ensures a reliable supply of power for the life of the generator.
Features
- Fuel Type : Liquid Propane & Natural Gas
- Starting Watts (Gas) : 9kW
- Running Watts (Propane) : 10kW / 10kW
- Voltage : 120/240
- Dimensions : 48 x 25 x 29 inches
- Start Type : Automatic
- Transfer Switch Included : Yes (100-amp)
- Weight : 338 Pounds
- Warranty : 5 Years
This standby generator is ideal for running household appliances during power outages. The quality, reliability, durability, and cost–effectiveness will not disappoint homeowners.
It has enough power to run gas and propane appliances in small to medium–sized homes. Propane and natural gas have a rated capacity of 7,500 kW and 6,000 kW, respectively.
If you live in a large house and only need a few appliances, choose this generator for its high quality and affordability.
Generac generators are known for their innovative features, and there’s no reason this generator can’t be one of them. With best–in–class TruePower technology, the current generated has a distortion factor of less than 5%, allowing you to safely charge sensitive electronic devices such as cell phones and laptops.
If you do not have a surge protector in your home, there is no need to replace it. This generator comes with an 8–pole, 50–amp circuit breaker to ensure a safe power supply to your equipment.
The galvanized steel enclosure ensures that the generator will operate in all weather conditions. All components are sealed from the inside, which also serves as a soundproof wall. The noise level of the powerful 426–liter engine is only 69 decibels.
Another advantage of this generator is the Mobile Link remote control system. This feature allows you to control the various settings of the generator using your computer, tablet or smartphone. In the event of a power failure, this standby generator will automatically start generating power within 10 seconds and comes with a 3–year warranty for peace of mind.
Features
- Starting Watts (Gas) : 6kW
- Running Watts (Propane) : 7.5kW
- Fuel Type : Liquid Propane & Natural Gas
- Dimensions : 36 x 27 x 25 Inches
- Voltage : 120/240
- Start Type : Automatic
- Transfer Switch Included : Yes (50-amp)
- Weight : 280 Pounds
- Warranty : 3 Years
If you are looking for a medium-sized standby generator, the 40555 from Briggs and Stratton is a good choice. Its performance is ideal for heavy machinery and delicate equipment. It has enough power to run heavy tools in a workshop or factory.
With both 17,000 watts of propane and 15,300 watts of gas, it is ideal for medium to large homes. Both units are ideal for medium to large homes and are very quiet compared to other models of the same capacity. The Briggs and Stratton 4055 is more compact than its predecessors, extremely quiet, comes with a 5-year warranty, and is easy to maintain. It is easy to maintain and easy to use.
Features
- Fuel Type : Natural gas & propane
- Starting Watts : 17,000 watts
- Running Watts : Propane: 17,000 watts, Natural gas: 15,300 watts
- THD Rating : Below 5%
- Voltage : 120/240 volts
- Dimensions : 50.5 x 32.9 x 31 inches
- Starting Mechanism : Automatic
- Noise Level : 64 dBA @ 7 meters
- Weight : 484 pounds
- Warranty : 5-years
This is the first and only quad on our list. Its power reaches 15 kW. The engine type is four-stroke. It can be used in two modes: electric start and coil start.
Fuel tank capacity is 8 gallons. Made of steel for strength and durability. Corrosion and rust-resistant.
Corrosion-resistant steel and stainless steel are used for durability and strength. Excellent fuel economy and relatively low noise level. Proven durability.
Despite its weight of 460 kg, it is easy to transport thanks to its four wheels. Its dimensions are 39 x 31 x 38 inches and it has 4.4 stars on Amazon.
Features
- Starting Watts : 15000
- Running Watts : 12000
- Noise Level : 85 dBA
- Engine Type : 4 Stroke
- Displacement : 680 cc
- Tank Volume : 8 Gallons
- Run Time : Up to 7 hours at 50% load
- Start Type : Electric and Recoil
- Dimensions : 39 x 31 x 38 inches
- Weight : 460 Pounds
- Warranty : 2 Year
The 13 kW generator can power an air conditioner and a refrigerator. The unit weighs 256 pounds, so you’ll appreciate the wheels for easy mobility.
This generator can run on either gasoline or propane, but the generator that runs on propane is preferable because gasoline releases noxious fumes. This generator will likely be approved in all 50 states because it meets EPA and CARB standards.
It is robust and durable, so it can be left outdoors in any weather. It can be used with a starter motor or electric drive. It measures 29 x 30 x 26 inches and is rated 4.5 stars on Amazon.
Features
- Starting Watts : 13000
- Running Watts : 10500
- Noise Level : 74 dBA
- Runtime : Up to 8 hours on a full tank of gasoline
- Start Type : Electric and Recoil
- Dimensions : 29 x 30 x 26 inches
- Engine Type : 4-Cycle Air-Cooled
- Displacement : 500 cc
- Weight : 256 pounds
Cummins Onan Caravan QG5500 EVAP petrol generator. The QG RV series, formerly known as the Onan Marquis Gold, features a fully integrated design and is the quietest in its class. 15,000 BTUs for one or two air conditioners for single or emergency power. “The RV QG 5500 EVAP features low noise, airtightness, low vibration, self-diagnostics for easy troubleshooting, and digital voltage control that stabilizes with changes in load, making the RV QG 5500 EVAP suitable for CARB (California Air Resources Board) installation.
Generator noise is very low. It has not yet been used enough to confirm its durability, but some users have confirmed that it is durable. We also note that it consumes a lot of fuel.
It weighs 310 kg and has a power output of 5.5 kW. The generator runs on petrol. The unit is large enough to power one or two 15 000 BTU air conditioners.
The unit is also subject to periodic self-testing and is approved by the California Air Resources Board (CARB).
Features
- Wattage : 5500 watts
- Engine Type : 4-cycle, OHV, 90-degree V-twin
- Starting system : Remote
- Dimensions : 39 x 25 x 23 inches
- Noise Level : 69 dBA
- Displacement : 653 cc
- Weight : 310 Pounds
- Warranty : 3-year limited warranty
Kohler is well known in the standby generator industry. This machine is ideal for coastal areas where erosion and rust are a concern. In addition, its housing is 100% corrosion resistant, so even after 10 years, it will be safe and in excellent condition.
The unit is rated at 20,000 watts when powered by propane and 18,000 watts when powered by natural gas. This is enough to provide good performance in large homes, restaurants, offices and workshops. The harmonic distortion is less than 5% and the voltage adjustment of +/-1% allows you to use selected appliances without problems.
This generator is covered by a 5-year warranty. This unit is not CARB certified and is not sold in California.
Features
- Starting Watts : 20,000 watts
- Running Watts : Propane: 20,000 watts, Natural gas: 18,000 watts
- Fuel Type : Natural Gas and Propane
- THD Rating : Below 5%
- Dimensions : 48 x 26.2 x 29 inches
- Starting Mechanism : Automatic
- Noise Level : 64 – 69 dBA @ 23 feet
- Weight : 569 Pounds
- Warranty : 5-year limited warranty
Standby Generator: Buying Guide
There are many different models of standby generators available today. Therefore, it is very important that you evaluate your needs before purchasing a good generator.
To do this, you need to take into account factors that affect the performance, comfort, reliability, durability and safety of the equipment you are considering. You also need to consider how much money you can spend on a standby generator.
Here are some key points to consider.
Power Requirements
When looking for a standby generator, you should first consider your needs and capacity. standby generators are usually integrated into the electricity grid. They are not. They are machines, and every machine has its limitations. The best way to solve the problem is to buy a generator that will give you the power you need. A generator that is too small will not work as a standby generator and a generator that is too large will be too expensive to buy, operate and maintain in the long run. That’s why it’s important to buy a generator that meets your needs.
Noise Level
No one wants to live next to a generator that makes so much noise that they can’t sleep at night. No one wants to live next to a noisy generator. That’s why most people don’t have a generator.
Some generators, like the Generac 7033, are so quiet you won’t even notice them at night.
Switches
The same attention should be paid to circuit breakers. If your generator doesn’t have a breaker, install one. In the event of a power failure, the breaker will automatically close and the generator will provide power to restart the appliances.
Depending on the power of the generator, you can buy a 200A, 100A or 50A circuit breaker.
Start
Standby generators are available in different price ranges to suit your needs. Once you know how much you have, you can decide what type of standby generator you need and which model is right for you.
If you take the time to compare prices from different models and suppliers, you can get the lowest possible price for a standby generator.
Safety Features
Modern standby generators have excellent safety features. If the oil level is too low, the emergency generator will not start and stop if it is overloaded or overheated. This ensures that equipment and wiring are not damaged.
Guarantee
Don’t forget to check and inform yourself about the warranty: 5 years warranty and free compulsory technical assistance.
Do you enjoy reading Top 10 Best Standby Generator Reviews and Guides... and figure out the generator that can comfortably handle all your power needs, YOU MAY ALSO LIKE:
Our review article on Top 10 Best Dual Fuel Generator | Reviews & Guides;
To spend quality time in the countryside Top 10 Best Camping Generator | Reviews & Guides;
To keep your surroundings silent Top 10 Best Quiet Generator | Reviews & Guides;
From our blog - The tips about Watts, Volts and KVA To Better Calculate Your Energy Needs;
The reflection around How to Connect a Portable Generator to Your Home;
And also to, Understand The History Of Generators: Learn How It Has Developed Over The Years;
How Does The Backup Generator Work?
If you live in an area where natural disasters such as hurricanes and tornadoes occur frequently, you may experience power outages. It can take days or even weeks to restore power. If the power is restored within a few days after such a disaster, you are lucky, otherwise, you will be without electricity, but if you have a standby generator, you are lucky. It provides peace of mind and security, but how does it work?
An emergency standby generator is a device that can power all the appliances in your home and is permanently connected to your home’s electricity grid at the flick of a switch.
A generator is simply an engine that uses natural gas, propane or, if more power is needed, diesel to generate electricity. When the engine is heated to produce electricity, it is cooled by a pump and the coolant is passed to a radiator. Fans blow air into the radiator, which transfers heat to the environment and cools the cooling water.
The main component of the standby generator is the circuit breaker, which is controlled by an intelligent controller. In the event of a power failure, the breaker detects the fault and sends a signal to start the generator. After a few seconds of stabilisation, it is connected to the house circuit. Please note that the power line must be disconnected before connection to avoid backflow problems.
The same applies to power restoration: the transfer switch detects the power restoration, disconnects the generator from the house and connects it to the mains. Once the generator has cooled down, it switches off. This cycle is repeated each time a power failure occurs.
Some of the most modern circuit breakers on the market have a power management function that provides power to the main circuit in the event of a power outage. If two power consuming devices are connected, one of them will be in standby mode until it is needed.
What Is The Best Size Backup Generator For My Home?
It is important to determine the size of the backup generator before making a decision. If the generator does not produce enough power, some appliances may not work when they are needed. If it is too large, the initial investment and running costs will be high.
Generators can be large or small and prices depend on size and equipment. If you only need enough power during a power cut, you can buy a smaller generator that won’t put a strain on your pocket. The size of a standby generator is usually determined by its power (in kilowatts).
To make a reasonable estimate of how big a generator you need, first, find out how many appliances you want to have power for in the event of a power cut. This could be a fridge, a light bulb, a TV or an oven. Once you have decided which appliances you want to power, you need to leave a 15% reserve for future needs, so that you can replace them if necessary without affecting the working appliances.
Then calculate how much energy you need for each appliance. In many cases, this is indicated on the label of the appliance. If not, multiply the voltage by the current to get the voltage. Then add up the power consumption of all the selected devices when the power runs out.
Whatever the sum, the generator must have a minimum output to ensure normal operation of all devices. When making your final decision, choose a generator with 25% more power than you actually need. This ensures reliability for many years to come.
For a medium-sized house, a 20 kW generator is sufficient to cover the electricity demand. For larger houses, you can choose a more powerful generator.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Average Lifetime Of An Emergency Generator?
The average lifetime of an emergency generator is around 3000-4000 hours. Taking into account the frequent power outages in the US, it can last for 30-40 years. However, regular maintenance can extend the lifetime even further.
Does It Make Sense To Use An Emergency Generator?
Everyone has different needs and ideas. How often does the power go out? How long will you be without power? Are you prepared for a cyclone or storm? Can you handle the hassle of a portable generator? The answers to these questions will give you some ideas about what to do in this situation.
However, there is no doubt that emergency generators are the safest and most practical solution in the event of a power outage.
How Long Can An Emergency Generator Run On A Full Tank Of Fuel?
A generator that uses less fuel will always last longer than a generator that uses less fuel. The size of the engine and the fuel tank also affect run time.
What are the requirements for the installation and approval of a standby generator?
Contrary to popular belief, Lorem Ipsum is not simply random text. It has roots in a piece of classical Latin literature from 45 BC, making it over 2000 years old. Richard McClintock, a Latin professor at Hampden-Sydney College in Virginia, looked up one of the more obscure Latin words
Conclusion
If you want to be safe in an emergency and have a reliable source of power no matter what happens to the local power grid, a complete home generator or stationary generator is recommended.
Use the information in this quick guide to finding a home standby generator that’s right for you. You won’t regret your decision.
Bestgeneratorreviewed™ Is A Participant In The Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, An Affiliate Advertising Program Designed To Provide A Means For Sites To Earn Advertising Fees By Advertising And Linking To Amazon.Com