Top 10 Best Whole-House Generator | Reviews & Guides
Power outages can be caused by various factors and can last up to several days. In these cases, a generator is the best solution to ensure an uninterrupted power supply. Choosing the right generator for the whole house can be a good idea, especially if you live in an area where tropical storms regularly occur. Therefore, you need the best whole-house generator to solve these problems.
Choosing the best whole-house generator can be difficult. There are several factors to consider, such as the size of the generator, the type of fuel and the type and size of inverter you need.
That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 best whole-house generator for 2021.
To help you choose the right generator for your needs, we’ve also put together a comprehensive generator sizing guide.
Read on to learn more about our generator reviews so you can choose the right emergency generator for your home.
The Generac 70432 22/19.5 kW air-cooled generator is another option to the Generac Guardian range of general-purpose emergency generators. It gives your home the power and reliability it needs in the event of a power outage. It is also the largest generator available. The cost per kilowatt is the lowest of all domestic emergency generators.
The Generac 70432 has a powerful, stable and reliable Generac G-Force engine. This engine is pressure resistant and can be used for long periods of time even in the harshest conditions. It requires less regular maintenance than other models.
Generac residential generators are powered by a 200A NEMA 3R circuit breaker. The breaker can be used outdoors and is protected by an aluminum enclosure. It protects both mains and household circuits.
The generator itself can produce 22,000 watts on CNG and 19,500 watts on natural gas. The Generac 70432 operates very quietly. The Generac 70432 is very quiet: the noise level is only 67 dB, which makes it relatively quiet even for people living in noisy areas.
This advanced generator has a quietness test and self-diagnostics that turns the generator off for 5 or 12 minutes to ensure optimal performance and energy efficiency.
The quiet and economical whole-house standby generators are suitable for all appliances, including those that require sensitive power. True Power TM technology, which reduces harmonic distortion to less than 5%, ensures safety even for sensitive appliances.”
Features:
- Surge Watts : 22000
- Running Watts : 19500
- Voltage : 240 Volts
- Dimensions : 48 X 25 X 29 Inches.
- Noise Level : 67 Decibels
- Wifi Capability : Yes
- Item Weight : 525 Pounds
- Warranty : 5-Year Limited Warranty
This is the second-best generator for home use on our list: the USA12000E has all the features that make it one of the best generators on the market. It is very efficient and will light up any appliance for a long time. Some people worry about the reliability of the SUA12000E. However, for many, it is the ideal choice because it is the most economical generator for the whole house.
The USA12000E has 12 horsepower but operates at 9000 watts. That’s enough power to light up the whole house for a long time. It is easy to use. It can be turned on at the push of a button. So you don’t have to worry about turning it on.
The USA12000E has a long-lasting fuel capacity. The most economical and quietest generator uses up to 7 gallons of fuel at a time. At 50% system load, one load can provide about 9 hours of operation.
The USA12000E weighs 206 kg. It is the lightest home generator on the market. It is easy to move from place to place thanks to the wheels on the floor. It has a GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) cover to protect against moisture.
The unit is equipped with a DC connector. This connector can be used to charge the battery or the USB adapter directly on the unit.
Features:
- Generator Type : Conventional
- Fuel Type : Gasoline
- Surge Watts : 12,000
- Running Watts : 9,000
- AC Voltage : 120/240
- Engine : 459cc OHV Single-Cylinder 4-Stroke Air-Cooled
- Starting Type : Electric, Recoil
- Fuel Tank Capacity : 7 Gal.
- Run Time : 9 Hours (1/2 Load), 7 Hours (Rated Load)
- Noise Level : 78 Dba
- Dimensions : 27.6 X 27.2 X 25.6 In.
- Weight : 216 Lbs
- Warranty : 2-Year Residential, 1-Year Commercial
The best choice for portable generators is the Westinghouse portable generator. This generator can run continuously for several hours. The Westinghouse unit requires 12,000 watts of power, gas or electricity. It is very easy to use. At the push of a button, the generator starts.
It is also an efficient generator. So it can be used to power heavy appliances, such as refrigerators. This generator also has a remote control. The remote control can operate the generator from a distance of up to 30 metres.
It is so easy to use that it can power the whole house. Whole house ventilation generators don’t need wires to power all your appliances. It’s the best home generator available with up to 16 hours of run time and a 10.5-gallon refillable water tank.
And it’s safe to use because it shuts off automatically when the power is restored. The best feature of this generator is that it shuts off automatically when the oil level is low. It is one of the most convenient generators for daily use.
Features:
- Wattage : 12000 Watts
- Ignition Type : Electronic
- Voltage : 120/240
- Runtime : 11 Hours
- Tank Volume : 10.5 Gallons
- Dimensions : 34 X 31 X 35 Inches
- Weight : 352 Pounds
This emergency generator can provide up to 8,000 watts of rated power for several hours, and the 8-gallon fuel tank can easily maintain half the power for extended periods. The design also includes an hour meter, maintenance-free batteries and generator wheels.
The low noise level and simple electronic start system make it a practical choice in emergency situations, and the corrosion-resistant metal makes it durable in all conditions.
This generator combines a reliable and powerful engine with practical features such as noise elimination and excellent performance in a user-friendly design.
Features:
- Starting Watts : 10000 Watts
- Running Watts : 8000 Watts
- Dimensions : 27.75 X 22 X 25 Inches
- Displacement : 420 Cubic Centimeters
- Ignition Type : Electronic
- Tank Volume : 8 Gallons
- Run Time : Runs Up To 9-Hours On 1/2 Load
- Noise Level : 76 Db
- Weight : 230.5 Pounds
- Warranty : 1-Year Warranty
DuroMax is the market leader when it comes to home emergency generators, and this model is no exception: it features MX2 technology that allows it to use 120V and 240V power supplies for maximum efficiency. One of the most important features of this generator is the automatic shutdown function, which stops the generator when it runs out of oil. This reduces power consumption when the unit is not in use, making it ideal for workplaces where electricity is needed every day.
The generator has excellent sound insulation and operates very quietly. It is fully portable and has an integrated wheel and handle system. It weighs 380 kg, so it is very heavy, but the wheel system distributes the weight well and makes it easy to move. Like all Duromax units, it is made of 100% metal with copper posts. The fuel tank has a capacity of 10.5 litres and is powered by a V-engine.
The unit is rated at 240 volts, 15,000 watts and measures 33 x 30 x 35 inches. The generator has several safety features, such as an automatic shutdown when the oil level is low, a separate switch on the control panel that protects the engine from overloading, and an idle control system that reduces engine speed when the generator is not in use. The generator is powerful enough to power all household lamps, refrigerators and air conditioners and is equipped with overvoltage protection technology for added safety.
Features:
- Starting Watts : 15000
- Running Watts : 12000
- Displacement : 713cc V-Twin Engine
- Dimensions : 33 X 30 X 35 Inches
- Voltage : 240 Volts
- Engine Type : 4 Stroke
- Weight : 380 Pounds
Champion generators are equipped with the latest innovative technology. They are the best generators in terms of reliability, performance and durability. You can expect all their products to be of the same quality.
The generator is equipped with an Intelliguage meter that displays the generator’s key parameters. It monitors the running time of the generator and displays important information, such as the remaining battery charge. As the generator is battery powered, it can be started easily. This convenience is not lost in cold conditions, as is the case with many other generators, and the cold start technology ensures fast start and operation.
Next on our list is the 15,000-watt generator, with 15,000 watts of starting power and 12,000 watts of running power, allowing it to power all types of appliances. The motor, which is the heart of the generator, is integrated into a robust cast iron housing and generates power.
The large 10.9-gallon gas tank can provide enough energy for nine households at 50% load. Despite the large tank, it is very easy to transport thanks to the stand and handle. The generator can also be easily used for camping and horseback riding.
As expected, this household generator is noisy, but the noise level of 74 dB is acceptable for its power output. It can be taken camping, but be careful not to make too much noise.
This generator generates clean electricity so you can use your electronic devices without any problems. In the unlikely event of a power surge, the built-in surge protector will suppress it to prevent damage to electronic devices and components.
This generator is EPA and CARB compliant and can be used in all 50 states. Champion offers a three-year limited warranty and free lifetime technical support for this generator.
Features:
- Starting Watts (Gas) : 15000
- Running Watts (Gas) : 12000
- Runtime : 9 Hours At 50% Load
- Engine Type : 4-Stroke V-Twin
- Fuel Tank Capacity : 5.9 Gallons
- Frequency : 60 Hz
- Fuel Type : Gasoline
- Size : 33.6 X 26.6 X 33.3 Inches
- Weight : 330 Pounds
- Warranty : 3 Year
One of the largest and most powerful portable generators on the market. With up to 15,000 watts (15 kW), it is ideal for those looking for a complete range of generators for the home.
This power can run most household appliances simultaneously, with the exception of some appliances that require particularly high power, such as electric tumble dryers. If you try to run an air conditioner, nothing will happen.
The generator is powered by the original Generac OHVI 992cc engine.
It has an oil change system that automatically switches off when the generator runs out of oil.
The fuel tank is very large, with a total capacity of 16 gallons. Depending on the load, the generator can run for more than 10 hours on a single charge.
The main drawback that many buyers mention is Generac’s poor customer service. Even if the generator has just been purchased, the manufacturer is often insensitive to problems that arise.
If it weren’t for the poor customer service, this Generac generator would be on my list. However, I expect my generator to run smoothly and I don’t want to rely on an outside company for service and repairs, so these problems reduce its value.
But if you’re looking for a portable emergency generator of at least 15,000 W, I think it’s worth considering.
Features:
- Surge Watts : 22500
- Running Watts : 15000
- Dimensions : 48.5 X 30.75 X 38.5 Inches
- Run Time : 10 Hours Of Run Time At 50% Load
- Voltage : 120 Volts
- Tank Volume : 16 Gallons
- Displacement : 992cc OHVI Engine
- Item Weight : 373 Pounds
- Warranty : 2-Year Residential, 1-Year Commercial
Champion Power Equipment’s generators are ergonomically designed. Champion’s 12.5 kW full power home generator is ideal for home emergencies. It is energy efficient and can be used in both hot and cold conditions.
The rugged and durable housing can be easily removed for installation, maintenance and repair. It can meet the family’s needs all year round if needed.
Champion Power Equipment’s 717cc engine with feed valve provides continuous operation on propane or natural gas. It provides 12,500 watts of power when operating on liquid propane and 11,000 watts of continuous power when operating on natural gas.
The 24 V starting circuit provides high quality power with less than 5% harmonic distortion to ensure uninterrupted operation of sensitive electronic equipment. It can be used in homes with exhaust ventilation. It is also more economical than other emergency generators of the same size.
Features:
- Wattage : 12500 Watts
- Voltage : 120 Volts
- Engine Type : 4-Stroke V-Twin
- Fuel Type : Propane (LPG), Natural Gas (NG)
- Noise Level : 63 Dba
- Dimensions : 52.4 X 33.5 X 32.1 Inches
- Weight : 520 Pounds
- Warranty : 10-Year Limited Warranty
Generac is a leading brand of household generators with innovative technology developed in the USA. A key feature of this generator is its ability to provide uninterrupted power to safely operate computers and sensitive electronic devices. If a power outage occurs, the generator detects it and starts automatically. With automatic start, you spend less time in the dark and less time turning on lights. All lights, appliances, electronics and air conditioning in your home can run without over- or under-voltage.
The generator can run the whole house or, if you want to reduce energy consumption, only certain circuits in the home. The casing is said to be made of aluminium and will not rust when exposed to moisture. It is therefore recommended to keep it as dry as possible to avoid corrosion. The price is high, but the features and performance are worth it.
You will need to buy accessories such as a Generac battery and a switch, but these are not included in the price of the generator. The installation and maintenance of this generator are very simple and efficient. Three of the four walls of the aluminium casing are removable, making it easy to access the inside of the generator. The electrical installation is simple, so there is no need to prepare a floor stand in advance.
Features:
- Generator Type : Residential, Commercial Standby
- Rated Power (LP) : 20000 Watts
- Rated Power (NG) : 17000 Watts
- Displacement : 999 Cc
- Phase : 3
- Dimensions : 27x44x50 Inches
- Noise Level : 67 Dba
- Weight : 466 Lbs
- Warranty : 5 Year Limited Warranty
The Craftsman 5750W portable generator combines the power of a 457cc 4-stroke engine with valve heads, two fuel tanks and rugged M-shaped steel construction with a maximum output of 11,050W when running on gasoline and 10,050W when running on liquid propane.
The machine has a floor stand and 10-inch non-slip wheels for easy transport and storage.
The Craftsman 5750W also features an easy-to-use control panel, four dual 120V, 20A outlets and a portable 120V outlet with swivel rubber cover.
The Craftsman 5750W portable generator features a rugged M-shaped steel frame, a powerful 457cc engine and two interchangeable fuel tanks that provide up to 10 hours of run time for all your basic needs.
Built-in Ford technology makes the unit rugged and weather-resistant, while the 10-inch wheels and folding handle make it easy to transport.
The Craftsman 5750W portable generator has received 5 stars in reviews for being easy to start, simple and easy to change fuel, and having low fuel consumption.
Features:
- Starting Watts : 7200
- Running Watts : 5750
- Engine Displacement : 420 Cc
- Fuel Tank Capacity : 8.5 Gallon
- Run Time : 12 Hours Of Run Time At 50% Load
- Dimensions : 27.7 X 25.1 X 28.7 Inches
- Weight : 179 Lbs
- Warranty : 3 Year Limited Warranty
One Bonus Product Review From Westinghouse #Wgen5300s Whole House Generator
The Westinghouse WGen5300s Storm portable generator is a gas-powered generator with a powerful engine and an easy-to-use drive system.
The Westinghouse WGen5300s Storm portable generator is designed for safe and reliable operation at the touch of a button.
For added convenience, it features an electronic remote control that allows the generator to be operated from up to 10 meters away.
In addition to convenient remote start, the WGen5300 also features a standard on/off button so you can power your entire home without complicated wiring.
The WGen5300 has a powerful high-voltage, two-cylinder motor that can power a 10.5-gallon gas tank for 16 hours.
In addition, easy-to-use safety features such as automatic oil change, automatic voltage regulation and intelligent idle control make regular maintenance rarely necessary, extending the life of the unit.
Designed with performance, efficiency and safety in mind, the Westinghouse WGen5300s Storm portable generator features a DC-V motor, remote control and automatic transmission.
It is equipped with a number of safety features, such as automatic oil shutdown, automatic voltage regulation and advanced idle control, to ensure reliable operation and extend unit life.
The Westinghouse WGen5300s Storm portable generator received five stars in reviews due to its user-friendly manual, easy gas shut-off feature and excellent customer service.
Features:
- Starting Watts : 6600
- Running Watts : 5300
- Engine Type : OHV 4 Stroke
- Displacement : 274cc
- Fuel Tank : 4.7 Gallons
- Noise Level : 68 Dba
- Run Time : 18 Hours At 25% Load
- Dimensions : 26.97 X 21.65 X 19.69 Inches
- Weight : 133.2 Pounds
- Warranty : 3-Year Limited Warranty
Best Whole House Generator: Buying Guide
In areas hit by natural disasters, hurricanes often knock down power poles and cause power outages. This can lead to power outages for days or even weeks. This means that food stored in the refrigerator can spoil within days. The safety problems are exacerbated especially at night when the alarm system is not working.
In addition, power cuts in cold areas can mean that heating does not work even if electricity is available. In short, power cuts have several disadvantages. To avoid this and to power most household appliances, we use generators, called field generators, to restore power to our homes.
These generators are more efficient and can power more appliances. These generators can be connected to the house via a circuit breaker, so that the generator and the household grid are never connected at the same time.
A whole-house generator can be stand-alone or portable, depending on the customer’s choice. Read more
Standby Vs Portable: Which Generator Is Better?
Traditionally, portable generators are used for outdoor events or at work, but standby generators, which often provide electricity for an entire house, are something else entirely. Firstly, standby generators are much larger and designed to be installed permanently near your home, rather than being moved to another location when needed. This size is partly due to the fact that standby generators have a larger capacity than portable generators. Standby generators typically produce at least 14,000 watts and often more than 20,000 watts when powered by liquid propane, while larger portable generators have a maximum output of about 12,000 watts.
The type of fuel used in portable and emergency generators also varies widely. Most portable generators run on petrol alone or on petrol and propane. There are three types of portable generators: gasoline, propane and natural gas, but they are quite specialised and not widely available on the market. On the other hand, most emergency generators use only propane or natural gas and not gasoline.
There are several reasons for this. First, propane and natural gas are much cheaper than gasoline when used in large quantities, and emergency generators require much more fuel than portable generators. Secondly, propane can be stored for many years before it breaks down in an emergency, whereas petrol has to be replaced every few months. Many homes have systems that can supply gas in the event of a power outage. Therefore, natural gas must be suitable for use in household generators.
Another important difference is that emergency generators are fully enclosed and can be used in all weather conditions, while portable generators usually have an open engine compartment and are fully heated to reduce weight. Emergency generators usually start automatically in the event of a power failure, whereas portable generators have to be started manually.
What Should I Consider Before Buying A Whole-House Generator?
Power
The power of a generator is the most important aspect to consider before buying a generator. If you don’t know how much power you need, you won’t know what type of generator to buy. If you calculate the total amount of power you need, you can compare different generators and make your choice easier.
Generators have two values: starting current and running current. You need to calculate the maximum starting and running power for your home. If the generator is too small, it will not have the right equipment, and if it is too big, it will be expensive to buy and maintain. The bigger your house is, the more power it needs.
Fuel Consumption
Naturally, domestic generators consume a lot of fuel. However, fuel consumption varies greatly between generators. However, it is surprisingly difficult to calculate the most efficient generator because fuel consumption also depends on how much electricity is used. Fuel consumption is usually calculated at 50% of the load, which is close to the maximum power of the generator. For small generators, it is 80% of the load, but for large generators, it is only 50% of the load. Therefore, when using a generator, you can determine exactly how much fuel is needed if you know what power is required.
Noise Levels
Depending on where you live, there may be some restrictions on noise levels. Check with your landlord to find out what noise levels are acceptable. Most household emergency generators have a noise level of fewer than 60 decibels, but some can be quite noisy when running at full power. If you’re looking for a smaller, quieter generator, read our guide to quiet generators.
Safety
Your generator should be equipped with basic safety equipment to protect your home and your generator. This could include automatic shutdown in the event of high temperatures or a shortage of oil or fuel. These measures help prevent damage to the generator.
Warranty
A home generator is a big investment and you want it to last a long time. One of the best ways to ensure peace of mind is to check the manufacturer’s warranty against design defects and premature failure. The manufacturer’s warranty is usually 5 years, but Champion offers a longer warranty of 10 years.
Size
The size of the generator is directly proportional to its power. Once you have decided how much power you need, you can decide how big the generator should be: from a small to a large X. A small generator can power a few appliances, while a large X generator can power an entire house.
The bigger the generator, the more space you need to store it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Whole-house generators are designed for demanding environments and can power most electrical appliances. Depending on the size of the generator, it can power anything from light bulbs to a powerful central air conditioner.
In a medium or large home, you may not be able to run all the appliances at the same time, but you can run the appliances you need.
The ideal place to install a generator is close to your home’s electrical panel. If the generator is installed further away, the cost of installation will increase significantly. It should be installed on the outside of the house, next to the electricity switchboard. You should also pay attention to the gas connection. All this is done by the installer. Make sure the generator is covered so that rain, snow or sunlight will not damage the equipment.
The lifespan of a standby home generator is uncertain and often depends on the type of fuel used. Diesel generators can run for up to 20,000 hours (833 days). Even if you use it for that long, you don’t have to worry about it breaking down. Of course, you don’t want to use it that long. With proper care, they can last up to 30 years.
The lifetime of a gas or propane generator is about 3,000 hours or 125 days of continuous operation. Of course, it is not necessary to use it for that long.
The easiest way to find out how much energy you need is to ask the computer questions about the number and type of appliances you use, the details of your heating and cooling systems, the size of your home, etc. This is all you need to know to get a rough idea of how much energy you need. The most accurate way to calculate your energy needs is to add up the energy consumed by all the appliances that use electricity in your home.
In general, you need a permit from your local authority to install an emergency generator at home. If you order a generator from a reliable company like Generac, they will help you get a permit.
Wrap-Up
So, there you have it, the top 10 best whole-house emergency generators.
Hopefully, this guide can help you decide which generator is right for your home and how to use it safely.
I always recommend buying a generator that can provide more power than you need. I always recommend buying a generator that can provide more power than you need, because it’s better to have a generator and not need it than to need it and not have it.
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