Over 10,000 people lost their lives to natural disasters in 2018. That number is only projected to hold steady in the future.
With the recent tsunami and earthquake in the Philippines, the raging fires in California, and the devastating hurricanes that have become commonplace in the Southeastern United States, it’s the right time to think about purchasing a generator for your home.
The rise of these natural disasters makes it very likely you will lose power at some point in the upcoming year. Depending on the severity of the event it could be for weeks.
A generator can save you tons of money and discomfort during these trying times. But, which is the best generator for home use? Here we give some great options for models to keep in your garage for when disaster strikes.
What Makes a Generator the Best?
While the answer to this question is, at the end of the day, subjective there are a few qualities we can all agree make a generator better for home use.
Low Noise Level
Commercial generators are super noisy. Anything run on gas is going to be. But, there are some models on the market that are quieter than others.
The best quiet generator is one that has a fuel-efficient engine and is powerful enough to run the necessities. Any generator you’re considering for your home needs to run efficiently and quietly to not become a nuisance more than a help.
Powerful Wattage for the Size
You’re going to need a generator that can run a few different appliances. If you live in warmer climates it needs to run a fan or small AC unit as well. This is where the wattage comes into play.
Consider the following, a refrigerator, or a small freezer, requires 600-800 watts of power. A space heater, 1250. Window AC units need 600-1500 depending on the model. Let’s split the difference and say it’s about the same as the heater at 1250.
So you’re looking at needing to cover, at minimum, about 2000 watts. Your needs for the generator are going to factor into your purchasing decision. Make sure you get a model that fits your budget and your wattage needs.
Try and get the smallest and most efficient model you can with the highest wattage.
Our 3 Options for Best Generator for Home Use
Here’s our list of the top generators to run your home.
1. Generac Guardian Series QT04524ANSX
One of the best things about this standby generator is it’s variable in price depending on wattage needed. For 22,000 watts or less, it’s only $5000 which is a steal for a stand by unit.
The more powerful model that handles 45,000 watts still clocks in at under $20K which is still a good deal.
Here are the features you need to know about this generator:
- Handles up to 45,000 watts
- Has a liquid-cooled engine
- Runs on liquid propane or clean-burning natural gas
- Quiet Test is available
- The RhinoCoat paint finish provides protection from weather
- It comes in a steel casing
- It’s UL-listed for energy efficiency
This heavy-duty unit isn’t necessary for every home but, if your home is very large or you live in a place prone to power outages it’s worth the investment. You can’t get this one if you live in California though, it’s not CARB compliant.
2. Briggs & Stratton 40445 8000-watt Home Standby Generator System
For a more budget-friendly option, and for smaller homes, the Briggs & Stratton is your generator. This standby generator sells for an unheard-of $1500-$3000 which is super low in the standby space.
Here are the key features of this unit:
- Handles up to 8000 watts
- Quick response triggers power up in seconds after power loss
- They include the transfer switch for free
- There is a 3-year limited manufacturer warranty on parts and labor
- The unit meets the NFPA 37 standard
- It doesn’t need a lot of room and can be placed only 18” from your home
- It has a user-friendly control panel for easy navigation
If you’re considering a stand-by unit we would start with this one. It’s not going to break the bank but, you’ll be covered for a number of appliances if the power does go out.
3. Westinghouse WH7500E Portable Generator
The Westinghouse unit is one of the most reviewed portable generators and still maintains a solid 4.5 out of 5-star rating.
For only $700-$1000 this is a great investment that offers a longer run time than other portable generators.
Here are the key features of the Westinghouse WH7500E:
- Handles up to 7,500 watts of continuous power
- Handles up to 9,000 surge watts
- Has a 6.6 gallon fuel tank which means fewer refills
- Able to run continuously for 11 hours without a refill
- Features a 4-stroke OHV engine
- Has an electric start so no fussing with pull cables
- Included in the box are a battery charger, tool kit, and oil with a funnel
- Wheel and handle kit is also included to make moving simple
- Comes with a 3-year limited manufacturer’s warranty
Don’t Break the Bank Protecting Your Home from Power Outage
A standby unit is always going to be the best generator for home use if you’re in an area prone to outage but we understand it’s not within everyone’s grasp financially. If you can’t do standby get the highest wattage portable generator you can find in your price range.
Remember, if you don’t pay attention to wattage load the purchase might be useless for what you want it to run.
Make a plan and write down all the appliances you would like to run in the best-case scenario. Then you can widdle that list down as you figure out the generators in your price range.
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