Best Home Emergency Generators: Best Picks Of 2022

By, Sandra Espinet
Updated 02 Oct 2022 10:04

DuroMax XP5500EH Electric Start — *Image credit: Amazon.com*

When the electricity goes out, a generator can protect your home warm during the winter or warm and dry, your groceries cold, your cooking functioning, and your phones and computers recharged.

For an extended period, a generator was a valuable item to have on hand in case of an outage. However, power interruptions caused by harsh weather are making generators increasingly necessary.

Constantly operate a generator outdoors, away from your house, with the emissions pointed out from it. The best home emergency generators are listed below for your consideration.

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1 Top Choice

Best Overall
DuroMax XP5500EH Electric Start

DuroMax

Our Score:

9.9

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Product Highlights

Wattage: 5000 watts
Item Dimensions LxWxH: 22 x 25 x 22 inches
Item Weight: 142 Pounds
Color: Blue/Black
Voltage: 120 Volts
Engine Type: 4 Stroke
Engine Displacement: 224 Cubic Centimeters
Frequency: 60 Hz
Output Wattage: 5500 Watts

The DuroMax 224cc OHV motor is a workhorse with enough power to perform a wide range of tasks, including high-voltage devices and heavy-duty power equipment.

2 Top Choice

Best Green Solar Generator
DuroMax XP12000EH Generator

DuroMax

Our Score:

9.8

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Product Highlights

Wattage: 12000 watts
Item Dimensions LxWxH: 30 x 29 x 26 inches
Item Weight: 224 Pounds
Color: Black and Blue
Voltage: 240 Volts
Engine Type: 4 Stroke
Engine Displacement: 457 Cubic Centimeters
Frequency: 60 Hz
Runtime: 8 hours

The XP12000EH is easy to maneuver over any surface with the included handle kit and travels on robust and durable solid-fill wheels. Like the others in the DuroMax line, this machine is entirely built of copper coil that will last for decades.

3 Top Choice

Best Safety
Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment WGen7500

Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment

Our Score:

9.5

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Product Highlights

Wattage: 7500
Item Dimensions LxWxH: 27.2 x 26.1 x 26 inches
Item Weight: 192 Pounds
Color: CARB Compliant, Transfer Switch Ready
Voltage: 12 Volts
Engine Type: 4 Stroke
Total Power Outlets: 5
Engine Displacement: 420 Cubic Centimeters
Ignition System Type: Electronic

Thanks to a VFT Data Center that delivers real-time upgrades on extensive implementation, the most excellent home emergency generators are easy to maintain, ensuring long life and usefulness.

Best Gas Powered for Home
All Power America APG3014G Portable Generator

All Power America

Our Score:

9.1

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Product Highlights

Wattage: 2000 watts
Item Dimensions LxWxH: 19 x 15 x 15 inches
Item Weight: 54.9 Pounds
Color: Black/Red
Voltage: 120 Volts
Engine Type: 4 Stroke
Output Wattage: 2000 Watts
Tank Volume: 1.3 Gallons

This All Power generator is ideal to be used as a backup power source at home or in the workplace. A 3HP motor can keep standard equipment and fixtures in good working order.

Best for Power
DuroStar DS4000S Portable Generator

DuroStar

Our Score:

9.7

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Product Highlights

Wattage: 4000 watts

Item Dimensions LxWxH: 23 x 17 x 18 inches
Item Weight: 94 Pounds
Color: Yellow/Black
Voltage: 120 Volts
Engine Type: 4 Stroke
Engine Displacement: 208 Cubic Centimeters
Frequency: 60 Hz
Runtime: 8 hours

This DuroStar 208cc OHV engine is a powerhouse that can handle everything from high-voltage devices to heavy-duty power machines. When the fuel level in the most incredible power generator for a house becomes low, it immediately shuts off to secure your investment.

Best Lightweight and Convenience
Champion Power Equipment 76533 Generator

Champion Power Equipment

Our Score:

9.4

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Product Highlights

Wattage: 3800 watts
Item Dimensions LxWxH: 26.3 x 24.8 x 22.9 inches
Item Weight: 122 Pounds
Color: Yellow
Voltage: 120 Volts
Engine Type: 4 Stroke
Engine Displacement: 224 Cubic Centimeters
Frequency: 60 Hz
Output Wattage: 3800 Watts

This Champion 76533 Dual Fuel RV Ready Portable Generator features a solid steel frame, folding handles, and never-flat tires for easy movement and transportation. The most robust generator for power outages provides you with the electricity you need to go through your day.

Best For The Long Hour Run
Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment WGen3600 Portable Generator

Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment

Our Score:

9.2

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Product Highlights

Wattage: 3600 watts
Item Dimensions LxWxH: 23.3 x 22.8 x 21.3 inches
Item Weight: 107 Pounds
Color: Gas Powered, CARB Compliant
Voltage: 120 Volts
Engine Type: 4 Stroke
Total Power Outlets: 4
Engine Displacement: 212 Cubic Centimeters
Runtime: 13 hours

This Westinghouse WGen3600 Generator has a powerful 212cc 4-Stroke OHV Westinghouse Motor with a cast iron casing for longevity, an integrated fuel indicator, and an automated low oil cutoff.

Product Images, Product Titles, Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API

Are There Necessary Things Customers Should Keep In Mind To Select The best home emergency generators?

You may think purchasing seems simple, and it sometimes does the opposite! Studying the outcome of best home emergency generators will take a considerable amount of time. Also, there are multiple sides of best home emergency generators you need to check. That’s the reason why we’re all ready to assist you with best home emergency generators issue.

The most helpful advice has been tested. Prior to shopping for the best home emergency generators, it is recommended that you do the research. Here are some questions you may see on some sale forums:

What might be beneficial for you when buying this product?
Where should you ask for support when having a problem with this product?
What to keep in mind to get the best one?
Does it make use to invest in this product?
According to customers, what is the most popular type of this product on the market currently?

With the flexibility of the market, all our staffs are able to solve clients’ inquiries. The practical review of information from many famous sources is preferred for everyone. We recommend well-known websites, sale forums, or even comments from users around you. As mentioned above spaces, our website use AI tool and Big Data to create buying guides. Thus, all our materials are accurate and reliable.

You should pay more attention to the following criteria of best home emergency generators in October:

Alternative Fuel Capacity

Although most portable models are powered by gasoline, some have the ability to be run on natural gas or propane. Others can also be modified with kit conversions.

Power Requirements

You should first determine your power needs before purchasing a generator. Air conditioning, refrigerators, sump pumps or well pumps and medical devices will all have high power draws and are most important during an outage.

Traditional Or Inverter

These models are ideal for powering delicate electronics such as computers and TVs. These models produce an uninterrupted sine wave of electricity, which ensures there won't be any power surges.
Traditional and standard generators operate at maximum speed, regardless of the power required. An inverter, on the other hand, uses a smart throttle to adjust when you switch on an appliance or light. It saves fuel and runs quieter, more efficiently, and it is healthier for the environment.

Phase

Single-phase generators generate single-phase power that is comparable to the one used in most household appliances. Single-phase generators can be used in small and large homes.
Three-phase power is often required for larger commercial operations. Therefore, a generator with three phases is necessary.
Although three-phase generators are able to be operated as one phase, the power output of a single phase will not be as high as when it is run in three phases.

Automatic CO Shutoff

If a CO sensor is installed, this critical safety feature will automatically turn off a generator's motor. To be included on the CR list, a portable generator should have this safety feature. This technology is available in more brands than ever before, even heavyweights like Ryobi, Honda and Generac. We have more than a dozen generators with CO safety shutoffs.

Size/Noise

After you have determined your power requirements, two important factors to consider are its physical footprint and how loud it emits. You will want to have the generator close to your house, no matter how small or large the area.
You should consider how loud the generator will be outside your house. This is measured in decibels. Our generators average between 60 and 70 decibels. A vacuum cleaner, on the other hand, is around 70 to 80 decibels.

Fuel Type

Although home generators can run on a wide variety of fuel types, all those listed here use liquid propane (LP), natural gasoline (NG), or both. The generators that are able to use either one or both of these fuel types can be easily converted without the need for tools.

Stationary Or Portable

Portability is not a top priority if you need backup power for your home. There are many advantages to stationary generators. Stationary generators are generally more quiet, less complicated to start and much stronger than portable ones. They can also be hardwired to your business or home, so don't try this at home! There will not be any messing with extension cords if the power goes out.
You'll need something portable for camping, caravans, boats, fishing, and other home uses. You will need to decide what kind of start-up your portable generator should have. There are both pull-start and batteries start options.

FAQs

How Far Away From The House Does A Generator Need To Be?

National Fire Protection Association guidelines allow small generators to remain at least 18 inches away from exterior walls. However, local codes may require you to check for more strict requirements. Installers who are professionals should be familiar with the codes to help plan where your generator will go.

How Long Can You Run A Whole House On A Generator?

The home generator could theoretically last indefinitely if it has unlimited fuel supply and is free from mechanical problems. The generator engine works in the same way as a car engine. It requires regular maintenance such as an oil change, replacement of belts and other similar tasks.

What Is The Best Generator To Buy For Home Use?

There are many factors that go into choosing the best generator for your home. These include your power needs, your essential appliances, such as fridges, air conditioners and sump pumps.

Can I Use A Portable Generator For Backup During A Power Outage?

Yes. Yes. You can connect household devices and appliances to a portable generator, but not all at once.
You should never plug the generator in to an electrical outlet at home or work. A certified electrician will install a manual power transfer switch that conforms to electrical codes if you want to attach a portable generator into your home or business's wiring.

How Often Should I Perform Routine Maintenance?

For the maintenance recommendations, consult your owner's guide.

Does The Portable Generator Need To Be Grounded?

Yes. Yes. You risk electrocution if the generator isn’t properly grounded. Follow all federal, state and local rules relating to grounding.

Are Home Generators Worth It?

Although they can be more expensive than portable generators, home generators will provide you with peace of mind and ensure that your family is safe during an outage.

Can I Vent The Exhaust Out Of An Enclosed Area?

No. No. Generators that are portable can be used outdoors where ventilation is available. Like all gasoline engines' exhaust, generator exhaust contains toxic carbon monoxide. You can find more details in the Portable Generator Safety Tips.

How Big Of A Generator Do I Need To Run A House?

A home requires a minimum of 5,500 to 7,500 watts in order to operate. Common home generator capacities start at 10,000 watts.

All in all, anything you need to acquire for your convenient purchase of best home emergency generators is presented above. Admittedly, this information is accurate, thanks to our product consulting experts with a wealth of experience. Furthermore, we keep best home emergency generators of 2022 data up-to-date at all times. It is helpful if you are a busy person. Try to check us as much as possible!

You are expected to contact us if any problems or inaccuracies with best home emergency generators occurs. With your feedback, we can improve our data better!

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About Sandra Espinet

Sandra Espinet is an editor and freelance writer who loves nothing more than helping others polish their work to perfection. She has a keen eye for detail and a passion for home decorating, which she enjoys sharing with her readers. When she's not editing or writing, Sandra can be found spending time with her family or exploring the great outdoors.

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