The 12 Best Backup Generator For House Power Outage in April 2023

• Best Overall: Generac 70432 Home Standby Generator Guardian Series 22kW/19.5kW Air Cooled
• Best Budget: DuroMax XP13000EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator 13000 Watt Gas or Propane Powered Electric Start-Home Back Up
• Editor's Choice: Champion 8.5-kW Home Standby Generator with 50-Amp Outdoor-Rated Automatic Transfer Switch

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How portable home generators help you during power outages?

Portable home generators can help you during power outages by providing backup power to your home. This can allow you to continue to power your essential appliances and devices during an outage, which can help you stay comfortable and connected. Additionally, portable generators can be a great option for those who need backup power for a specific purpose, such as running a medical device or keeping an sump pump running.

When should you consider a home backup generator?

There are a few key times when you should consider purchasing a home backup generator: 

1. If you live in an area that is prone to power outages.
2. If your home relies on electricity for critical functions such as heating or cooling.
3. If you have medical equipment that needs to be powered up at all times.
4. If you have a large family or home entertainment system that would be difficult to live without during a power outage.

What size generator do I need to back up my house?

A 5,000 to 7,500 watt generator should be adequate for backup power for a typical house. Keep in mind that the wattage required for your specific appliances may vary, so it's best to consult with the manufacturer or a qualified electrician to be sure.

How long can a backup generator power a house?

A backup generator can typically power a house for 3,000 hours.

What size generator do I need for a 2000 square foot home?

For a 2000 square foot home, you would need at least a 1000 kWh generator.

Will a 15000 watt generator run a house?

A 15000 watt generator will not run a house. A typical American home consumes about 1000 watts of electricity, so a 15000 watt generator would be too powerful.

What type of generator is best for home backup?

A 10kW to 24kW generator is best for home backup. They are powerful enough to provide backup power during an outage, and they are small enough to be stored in a home.

 

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Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 300, 293Wh Backup Lithium Battery

Specs:

• Power Source: Solar Powered
• Wattage: 300 watts
• Output Wattage: 300 Watts
• Voltage: 110 Volts
• Special Feature: Portable
• Color: Black, Orange
• Product Dimensions: 9.1"L x 5.2"W x 7.8"H
• Item Weight: 7.1 Pounds

What we like:

• Quick recharge time: It only takes 2 hours to recharge 80% battery of the power station through the wall outlet and 60W PD USB-C port simultaneously.
• Safe and steady power supply: The Explorer 300 is equipped with a 293Wh lithium-ion battery pack and features 2 Pure Sine Wave AC outlets that deliver stable and safe 300W power.
• Multiple charging options: The power station can recharge itself and charge up to 6 devices at the same time through 2 AC outlets, 1 PD 60W USB-C port, 1 fast charge 3.0 port, 1 USB-A port, and 1 DC car port.
• Green power supply: The power station is compatible with the Jackery SolarSaga 100 solar panel, making it an ideal portable power kit for outdoor activities like tent camping and overland journeys.

What we don't like:

• No solar panel included: While the power station is compatible with the Jackery SolarSaga 100 solar panel, it doesn't come included with the product.

Our Verdict

The Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 300 is a reliable and versatile power source for outdoor activities. Its quick recharge time, safe and steady power supply, and multiple charging options make it a practical choice for anyone who needs power on-the-go. Additionally, the compatibility with the Jackery SolarSaga 100 solar panel provides a green power supply option. The only downside is the lack of included solar panel, which would be a convenient addition for outdoor enthusiasts. Overall, we highly recommend the Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 300.

Champion Power Equipment 100416 10,000/8,000-Watt TRI Fuel Portable Natural Gas Generator

Specs:

• Brand: Champion Power Equipment
• Wattage: 8000 watts
• Fuel Type: Gasoline, Propane (LPG), Natural Gas (NG)
• Power Source: propane-powered
• Item Weight: 207 Pounds
• Voltage: 120 Volts
• Output Wattage: 8000 Watts
• Special Feature: Tri Fuel, CO Shield®, Cold Start Technology, EPA certified and CARB compliant, Natural Gas Generator
• Included Components: Engine Oil, Natural Gas Hose with NPT Adapter, Propane (LPG) Hose, Wheel Kit, Oil Funnel
• Color: NG/LPG Hose Kits and CO Shield

What we like:

• The Champion Power Equipment 100416 is a tri-fuel generator that runs on natural gas, propane, or gasoline, providing flexibility and convenience.
• The unit comes with natural gas and propane hoses, making it easy to switch between fuel sources without additional purchases.
• The generator features Cold Start Technology, which ensures reliable performance even in cold weather.
• The CO Shield® technology provides an additional layer of safety, automatically shutting down the generator when CO levels become dangerous.
• The generator is EPA certified and CARB compliant, meaning it meets strict emissions standards.
• The 3-year limited warranty and lifetime technical support from dedicated experts provide peace of mind.

What we don't like:

• The 207-pound weight may be too heavy for some users to move or transport easily.
• The generator's noise level may be relatively high compared to some other models.

Our Verdict

Overall, the Champion Power Equipment 100416 10,000/8,000-Watt TRI Fuel Portable Natural Gas Generator is a versatile and reliable generator that offers the convenience of running on multiple fuel sources. The unit's safety features and EPA/CARB compliance make it a responsible choice for those concerned with emissions and safety. The weight and noise level may be drawbacks for some users, but the generator's overall performance and warranty make it a worthwhile investment.

 

Generac 7043 22kW Air Cooled Guardian Series Home Standby Generator

Specs:

• Brand: Generac
• Wattage: 22000 watts
• Fuel Type: Liquefied Petroleum Gas/Natural Gas
• Power Source: Natural Gas/LP
• Recommended Uses For Product: Residential
• Item Weight: 0.01 Ounces
• Voltage: 240 Volts
• Special Features: Digital Display, Overload Protection, Short Circuit Protection, Automatic Voltage Regulation, Automatic Shut Down, Automatic Idle Control, Fully Enclosed Design
• Included Components: Generator and Transfer Switch
• Color: 200-Amp Transfer Switch

What we like:

• Provides up to whole house protection with the 200 Amp, NEMA 3R smart switch.
• The Generac Evolution Controller features a multilingual LCD display that allows you to monitor battery status and track maintenance intervals to ensure your generator is always in top operating condition.
• Has a fully enclosed design to protect against harsh weather conditions.
• Provides real-time status updates, so you are always aware of the generator's performance.

What we don't like:

• The price may be higher compared to other standby generators on the market.
• It requires professional installation, which may incur additional costs.

Our Verdict

Overall, the Generac 7043 22kW Air Cooled Guardian Series Home Standby Generator with 200-Amp Transfer Switch is an excellent investment for homeowners who prioritize continuous power supply. The generator offers a variety of features that make it user-friendly and efficient, such as the multilingual LCD display and real-time status updates. The fully enclosed design ensures that the generator is protected against harsh weather conditions. However, the cost of the generator may be a drawback for some consumers, and the professional installation required may also incur additional costs. Nevertheless, we highly recommend this product for its reliability and excellent performance.

 

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Champion Power Equipment 100692 2000-Watt Portable Inverter Generator

Specs:

• Brand: Champion Power Equipment
• Wattage: 2000 watts
• Fuel Type: Gasoline
• Power Source: Gas-powered
• Item Weight: 39.5 pounds
• Voltage: 120 Volts
• Output Wattage: 2000 Watts
• Special Feature: Portable
• Included Components: USB Adapter, Engine Oil, Oil Funnel, Battery Charging Cables
• Color: Ultralight

What we like:

• The Champion Power Equipment 100692 is an ultralight inverter generator, weighing only 39.5 pounds.
• It is one of the lightest 2000-watt inverters in the industry, making it easy to transport and handle.
• The 53 dBA noise level from 23 feet is perfect for camping, tailgating, or as a backup power source for home essentials.
• It features 2000 starting watts, 1700 running watts, and up to 11.5 hours of run time.
• The inverter includes two covered 120V 20A household outlets that provide clean electricity with less than 3% THD.
• The optional clip-on parallel kit enables this inverter to connect with another 2000-watt Champion inverter to double the output power.
• The product comes with a 3-year limited warranty and free lifetime technical support from dedicated experts.

What we don't like:

• The generator runs on gasoline, which can be messy and require frequent refills.
• It may not be powerful enough for large household appliances or equipment.

Our Verdict

The Champion Power Equipment 100692 is an excellent choice for those who need a portable and lightweight inverter generator for camping, tailgating, or as a backup power source for home essentials. Its low noise level and clean electricity output make it a reliable and convenient option. The optional parallel kit allows for increased power output, and the included warranty and technical support provide peace of mind. However, users should keep in mind its limitations in terms of power output and the requirement for gasoline fuel. Overall, we highly recommend this product for its convenience and reliability.

DuroMax XP13000EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator 13000 Watt Gas or Propane

Specs:

• The DuroMax XP13000EH is a dual-fuel portable generator with a peak wattage of 13,000 watts and a running wattage of 10,500 watts.
• It is powered by a 500cc OHV Duromax engine and can run on either gasoline or propane.
• The generator weighs 234 pounds and has a voltage of 240 volts.
• The power panel includes multiple outlets, such as a heavy-duty 120/240V 50A outlet, a 120/240V 30A twist-lock outlet, and two 120V 20A household outlets.
• It is EPA and CARB approved for use in all 50 states.

What we like:

• The ability to run on both gasoline and propane gives users the flexibility to choose the most convenient and cost-effective fuel source.
• The XP13000EH can handle heavy loads from appliances, power tools, and more.
• The power panel has multiple outlets, making it compatible with a wide range of applications.
• It is EPA and CARB approved, ensuring that it meets environmental standards.

What we don't like:

• The XP13000EH is heavy and bulky, making it difficult to move around.
• The generator can be loud when running, which may be a concern for some users.

Our Verdict

The DuroMax XP13000EH is a powerful and versatile portable generator that offers the flexibility to run on both gasoline and propane. It can handle heavy loads from appliances and power tools, making it an excellent choice for backup power during emergencies or for use on job sites. The multiple outlets on the power panel make it compatible with a wide range of applications. However, the generator's weight and noise level may be a concern for some users. Overall, the XP13000EH is a solid choice for those in need of a reliable and powerful portable generator.

Westinghouse 4650 Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator

Specs:

• Rated Watts: 3600 (Gasoline), 3240 (Propane)
• Peak Watts: 4650 (Gasoline and Propane)
• Fuel Type: Gasoline and Propane
• Fuel Tank Capacity: 4 gallons (with fuel gauge)
• Power Source: Electric start
• Outlets: 5-20R 120V duplex outlet, RV-ready TT-30R 30A outlet, L5-30R 30A outlet
• Engine: 212cc Westinghouse 4-stroke OHV engine with a cast iron sleeve
• Special Features: Overload protection, automatic voltage regulation, low oil shutdown, muffler, dual fuel, fuel gauge
• Included Components: WGen3600DF, propane regulator hose, handle, heat-resistant plastic wheels with never-flat polyurethane tires, oil, funnel, tool kit, and user manual
• Warranty: 3-year limited service, labor, and parts coverage

What we like:

• Dual fuel capability, allowing the use of gasoline or propane
• Remote electric start with auto choke for easy operation
• RV-ready 30A outlet for powering recreational vehicles
• Automatic low oil shutdown to protect the engine from damage
• Long-lasting cast iron engine sleeve for durability
• Comes with propane regulator hose, handle, wheels, oil, funnel, tool kit, and user manual
• Minimal assembly required

What we don't like:

• Item weight of 109 pounds may be too heavy for some users to move around easily
• 4-gallon fuel tank may not provide enough run time for extended use

Our Verdict

The Westinghouse 4650 Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator is a versatile and reliable power source for residential use. Its dual fuel capability provides flexibility and convenience, while the automatic low oil shutdown and overload protection ensure the engine's longevity. The RV-ready 30A outlet is a useful feature for camping enthusiasts, and the remote electric start makes operation easy. The product includes everything needed for quick and easy assembly, and the 3-year limited warranty provides added peace of mind. The only potential drawbacks are the generator's weight and fuel tank capacity, but these are minor issues compared to the product's overall performance and value for money. We highly recommend the Westinghouse 4650 Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator to anyone in need of a reliable and versatile power source.

EF ECOFLOW Portable Power Station DELTA 1300, 1260Wh Solar Powered Generator with 6 x 1800W AC Outlets

Specs:

• Brand: EF ECOFLOW
• Wattage: 1260 watts
• Power Source: Solar Powered
• Voltage: 120 Volts
• Output Wattage: 3300 Watts
• Special Feature: 6x AC Outlets & 1260Wh capacity, Fast charge via solar and car, Power 13 devices simultaneously, Charge from 0%-80% within 1 hour
• Included Components: DELTA Bag, DELTA 1300, User Manual & Warranty Card, AC Charging Cable, Car Charging Cable
• Product Dimensions: 15.7"L x 8.3"W x 10.6"H
• Frequency: 60 Hz

What we like:

• The Ecoflow Delta power station can be charged from 0%-80% within 1 hour, making it one of the fastest charging portable power stations on the market.
• With a huge 1.2kWh capacity, the Delta can power hours of backup power and can support power tools up to 1800W.
• The Delta can be charged by solar panels, an AC wall adapter, or a car charger, making it extremely versatile and ideal for outdoor activities or blackouts.
• The power station has 6 AC outlets and can power up to 13 devices simultaneously, making it perfect for larger groups or families.
• The included Delta bag and compact design make it easy to transport and store.

What we don't like:

• The solar panel is not included and must be purchased separately.
• The price point is higher compared to other portable power stations.

Our Verdict:

The Ecoflow Delta power station is an excellent choice for those who require a reliable and high-capacity portable power source. With its fast charging speed, multiple charging options, and 6 AC outlets, the Delta is a versatile and efficient power station for outdoor activities or emergency situations. While the price point is on the higher side, it is well worth the investment for those who need a powerful and long-lasting power source.

Geneverse 1002Wh Portable Power Station

Specs:

• Wattage: 1000 Watt-hours
• Fuel Type: electric-vehicle-grade
• Power Source: Solar Powered, Battery Powered
• Recommended Uses For Product: For Home Devices, Appliances, Camping, Tailgates, Power Outages, Refrigerator
• Item Weight: 23 Pounds
• Voltage: 110 Volts
• Special Feature: Portable, Super Quiet, Digital Display
• Included Components: 1002Wh (Solar Capable) Battery Generator, AC Charging Cable, Carport Charging Cable
• Color: Multi

What we like:

• The Geneverse HomePower ONE is a reliable emergency power supply with industry-leading safety and reliability features.
• It has a long-lasting capacity of 1,002Wh and can provide power to crucial devices and home appliances for up to 7 days on a single charge.
• The power output is powerful, with 3 AC outlets supporting 1000W rated power and 2000W surge power at 110V.
• It has wide-range compatibility with 2 USB-C outputs with PD 18W, 1 USB-A with 5V/2.4A, 1 USB-A with Qualcomm Quick Charge 3.0, and 1 car outlet with 12V/10A.
• It is easy to recharge from a car, AC outlet, or with the SolarPower ONE solar panel power generator.

What we don't like:

• The Geneverse HomePower ONE is a bit heavy at 23 pounds, which may not be suitable for some users who need a more lightweight power generator.
• The product is also relatively expensive compared to other power generators in the market.

Our Verdict:

Overall, the Geneverse HomePower ONE is a reliable and powerful emergency power supply that is suitable for various applications, including home devices, camping, tailgates, and power outages. It has a long-lasting capacity and wide-range compatibility, making it a versatile product. However, the weight and price may not be suitable for some users. Despite these drawbacks, the HomePower ONE is a great investment for those looking for a reliable and efficient power generator.

EF ECOFLOW 3.6KWh 3600W AC Output

Specs:

• Brand: EF ECOFLOW
• Wattage: 3600 watts
• Fuel Type: Gasoline
• Power Source: gas-powered, Solar Powered, Battery Powered
• Output Wattage: 3600 Watts
• Color: Black, Grey
• Product Dimensions: 25"L x 11.2"W x 16.4"H
• Engine Type: 4 Stroke
• Tank Volume: 4 Liters
• Frequency: 60 Hz

What we like:

• The DELTA Pro with Smart Generator Adapter comes included in the bundle, which expands the total capacity to 9KWh.
• The unparalleled 3600W output makes it perfect for powering up 4500W devices with X-Boost. It is sufficient for heaters or window AC units.
• There are five ways to charge DELTA Pro, including EV station charging, solar, wall outlets, using the Smart Outdoor Generator, or via a car outlet.
• The battery power station has an LFP battery, providing 6500+ full cycles to last for years. It is ideal for outdoor camping and travel.
• The EcoFlow Smart Generator has CO, oil, and fuel exhaustion alerts, making it smart and safe. Additionally, the auto-shutdown option for when the EcoFlow power station reaches a designated limit provides a great safety net in emergencies.
• The clear-to-read LCD screen or EcoFlow App makes it convenient to monitor and control your home backup power.

What we don't like:

• The product is relatively expensive compared to other similar generators in the market.
• It's not entirely silent, so it may not be ideal for use in a quiet neighborhood.

Our Verdict:

The EF ECOFLOW DELTA Pro with Smart Generator is an excellent product that delivers unparalleled performance and versatility. It has a high power output, is easy to monitor and control, and comes with multiple charging options. Although it is relatively expensive, it is an excellent investment for anyone who wants a reliable backup power supply for their home or RV. We highly recommend this product to anyone in the market for a high-quality generator.

Geneverse 1002Wh (2x4) Solar Generator Bundle: 2X HomePower ONE Portable Power Stations

Specs:

• Brand: Geneverse
• Wattage: 2000 Watt-hours
• Fuel Type: electric-vehicle-grade
• Power Source: Solar Powered, Battery Powered
• Recommended Uses For Product: For Home Devices, Appliances, Camping, Tailgates, Power Outages, Refrigerator
• Item Weight: 23 Pounds
• Voltage: 110 Volts
• Special Feature: Portable, Super Quiet, Digital Display
• Color: 2x4 (For 2-4 People Family)
• Product Dimensions: 13"L x 9.15"W x 9.57"H

What we like:

• The Geneverse 1002Wh (2x4) Solar Generator Bundle provides reliable emergency power supply with electric-vehicle-grade battery cells and 52 reliability and safety tests.
• With a capacity of 1,002Wh (278,400mAh) for each portal power station, it can offer up to 7 days of power supply to crucial devices and home appliances on a single charge.
• It has powerful output with 3 AC outlets with pure-sine wave, supporting 1000W rated power and 2000W surge power at 110V.
• The wide-range compatibility of the power station with 2 USB-C outputs, 1 USB-A with 5V/2.4A, 1 USB-A with Qualcomm Quick Charge 3.0, and 1 car outlet with 12V/10A makes it convenient to charge different devices.
• The solar power recharge option and 30-second hassle-free setup make it easy to use in any emergency situation.

What we don't like:

• The price of the Geneverse 1002Wh (2x4) Solar Generator Bundle may be a bit high for some buyers.

Our Verdict:

Overall, the Geneverse 1002Wh (2x4) Solar Generator Bundle is a reliable and efficient emergency power supply option for home devices, appliances, camping, tailgates, power outages, and refrigerators. With its electric-vehicle-grade battery cells, powerful output, and wide-range compatibility, it can provide a long-lasting and eco-friendly power supply. The solar power recharge option and easy setup make it convenient to use in any emergency situation. However, the price may be a drawback for some buyers.

A-iPower SUA12000E 12000 Watt Portable Generator Heavy Duty Gas Powered

Specs:

• Brand: A-iPower
• Wattage: 12,000 starting watts with 9,000 running watts
• Fuel Type: Gas-powered
• Power Source: Electric
• Item Weight: 206 Pounds
• Voltage: 12 Volts
• Output Wattage: 9,000 Watts
• Special Feature: Electric Start
• Included Components: Manual
• Color: Red/Grey
• Outlets: 2x5-20R Duplex GFCI (20A, 120V), 1xL14-30R (30A, 120/240V), 1x14-50R (50A, 120/240V), 1xMultifunction Port USB Ready Automotive Style Outlet (8.3A, 12V)

What we like:

• The A-iPower SUA12000E generator has a powerful 459 cc OHV 4-stroke engine that can produce 12,000 starting watts and 9,000 running watts, making it suitable for powering heavy-duty tools and appliances.
• It comes with an electric start feature that allows for quick and convenient startup whenever needed.
• The large 7-gallon gasoline fuel tank provides an average run time of 7 hours at 100% load and 9 hours at 50% load, which is suitable for long-term usage.
• The generator features various outlets, including 2x5-20R Duplex GFCI (20A, 120V), 1xL14-30R (30A, 120/240V), 1x14-50R (50A, 120/240V), and 1xMultifunction Port USB Ready Automotive Style Outlet (8.3A, 12V), which is highly versatile and can cater to different power requirements.

What we don't like:

• The A-iPower SUA12000E generator is quite heavy, weighing 206 pounds, which can make it challenging to move around.
• The generator may be noisy during operation, which can be inconvenient in quiet environments.

Our Verdict:

The A-iPower SUA12000E generator is a powerful and reliable option for those who require high wattage power sources. The electric start feature and the versatile outlets make it a highly convenient option for various usage scenarios. However, it may not be the best option for those who require a lightweight generator or require a quiet power source. Overall, we would recommend the A-iPower SUA12000E for those who prioritize power and versatility over portability and noise levels.

GENMAX Portable Inverter Generator, 6000W Super Quiet Gas Propane Powered Engine

Specs:

• Brand: GENMAX
• Wattage: 6000 watts
• Fuel Type: Liquefied Petroleum Gas
• Power Source: propane-powered, gas-powered
• Item Weight: 117.9 Pounds
• Voltage: 240 Volts
• Output Wattage: 6000 Watts
• Included Components: Remote
• Color: Black, Orange
• Product Dimensions: 24.02"L x 18.5"W x 21.06"H

What we like:

• Dual fuel output allows for the flexibility of fuel choice (gas or propane).
• Easy to carry and use with telescopic rod and rolling wheels and a lightweight and compact design.
• Extremely quiet with as low as 62 dBA noise at 25% loading at 23 feet distance.
• Inverter technology provides clean and stable power <3%THD for sensitive electronics.
• CO detect automatically turns off the generator when an unsafe level of carbon monoxide is detected.

What we don't like:

• The weight of the generator may be challenging for some individuals to move around.
• The price point may be higher compared to other similar generators on the market.

Our Verdict

Overall, the GENMAX Portable Inverter Generator is an excellent choice for those in need of emergency home power, job site use, or camping with an RV. The dual fuel output, easy to carry design, and extremely quiet operation make this generator a top pick for those looking for convenience and reliability. The inverter technology also ensures that sensitive electronics are protected from power fluctuations. While the price point may be a bit high for some, the quality and features of this generator make it a worthwhile investment.

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