The Best Outdoor Generators For 2024
By, Katie FinnUpdated
Our Top Picks
1. Best Overall: Westinghouse 12500 Watt Dual Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator
The Westinghouse 12500 Watt Dual Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator has a heavy duty 4-stroke OHV engine and a cast iron sleeve that makes it durable. It also has automatic low oil shutdown and a digital hour meter to let you know when it’s time for maintenance. Read Review
2. Best Bang For The Buck: DuroMax XP12000EH Generator
The DuroMax XP12000EH is a powerful portable generator with the ability to run on propane or gasoline. This generator is perfect for use as a back-up power supply for jobsites, construction sites and home use. It automatically shuts off when it senses that the oil is low, which protects your investment. Read Review
3. Best Reliable: Champion Power Equipment 100231 Dual Fuel Portable Generator
Champion Power Equipment's Dual Fuel Portable Generator is perfect for home backup power. Powered by either gasoline or natural gas, this generator has a fuel selector switch for quick and safe switching between fuel sources. The 100231 also features a voltage and run-time meter, along with easy-to-read gauges that monitor the engine’s performance. Read Review
4. Best Powerful: Westinghouse 4500 Watt Super Quiet Portable Inverter Generator
Westinghouse is proud to offer the most comfortable, most fuel efficient and virtually noiseless generator in the market. This 4500 Watt Super Quiet Portable Inverter Generator features economy mode for maximum fuel efficiency – as low as 52 dBA noise output and up to 18 hour run time on a 3.4 gallon gas tank. Read Review
5. Best Flexible: Champion Power Equipment Open Frame Inverter Generator
Champion Power Equipment's Open Frame Inverter Generator is ideal for powering all your household appliances as well as charging your RV's battery. This generator features a 120V 30A RV outlet, two 120V 20A household outlets with clean power (less than 3% THD), and two convenient USB ports. It also comes with a heavy-duty steel frame, rubberized feet, and a breakaway built-in cord reel to protect the power cord when the unit is bumped or lifted. Read Review
With the power outage and hurricane season right around the corner, now is the ideal time to get ready for when Mother Nature strikes. If you live in an area prone to frequent blackouts, or if you’re concerned about losing access to utilities as a result of natural disasters, it’s worth investing in an outdoor generator. Fortunately, generators are now more affordable and accessible than ever before.
In this blog post, we will share with you some of the best outdoor generators on the market right now. Whether you need a portable generator that can go anywhere or a stationary model that comes with its own fuel tank, there is something for everyone on this list. Let’s get started!
You can count on our team of experts who have spent over 13 hours conducting results through 4,537 real customer reviews. Because of this, We came to the conclusion that the best outdoor generators is Westinghouse 12500 Watt Dual Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator. And DuroMax XP12000EH Generator is another choice for you while keeping the product's quality and functionality.
RELATED: Review the 10 best electric generators for home use of 2024, researched by us. Read More.
Our Top Picks
It filters automatically oil Easy to carry everywhere thanks to the wheels Easy to start The machine runs quietly
It is heavy
Powered by a Heavy Duty 457cc Westinghouse 4-Stroke OHV Engine Featuring a Long-Lasting Cast Iron Sleeve With Automatic Low Oil Shutdown and Digital Hour Meter. VFT display gives you real time updates with the voltage output, frequency, and lifetime hours
Features Two GFCI 120V 5–20R Standard Household Receptacle, One Transfer Switch Ready 120V L14-30R, and One RV Ready 120/240V 14–50R; All Outlets Have Rubber Covers for Added Safety
Plug-and-Play: Comes With a Remote Start Key Fob, 12V Battery Charger, Oil, an Oil Funnel, a Tool Kit, and a User’s Manual to Get You Started Right Out of the Box (Minimal Assembly Required)
All Westinghouse Portable Generators are Functionally Tested in the Factory and May Contain Minimum Residual Oil and/or Fuel Odor; EPA and CARB Compliant; Backed by 3-Year Limited Service, Labor, and Parts Coverage with Nationwide Customer Service Network
9500 Running Watts and 12500 Peak Watts (Gasoline); 8500 Running Watts, 11200 Peak Watts (Propane); Remote Start With Included Key Fob, Electric and Recoil Start; Up to 12 Hours of Run Time on a 6. 6 Gallon Fuel Tank With Fuel Gauge
It turns off automatically when oil runs out of Powerful motor Easy to maintain It is safe to use
The bolts are pretty loosen
Please read the detailed safety instructions in the manual before operating.
Plenty of power: with 12,000 starting watts and 9, 500 running watts, This unit can handle heavy loads from lights and a refrigerator to a home air conditioner and high amperage power tools.
With Propane : Peak Wattage - 11,400., Running Wattage - 9,025., Running Amperage at 120V - 75.21., Running Amperage at 240V - 37.6., Runtime at 25% Load - 14., Runtime at 50% Load - 7
Dual fuel technology: the ability to run on propane or gasoline allows the freedom and flexibility of fuel choice. Protects your investment by automatically shutting the generator off when it senses that the oil is low
Engine Type: 4-Stroke
With Gasoline : Peak Wattage - 12,000., Running Wattage - 9,500., Running Amperage at 120V - 79.17., Running Amperage at 240V - 39.58., Runtime at 25% Load - 19., Runtime at 50% Load - 8
Powering everyone anywhere: like all DuroMax generators, the XP12000EH is EPA and CARB approved For use in all 50 States.
Maximum power: with DuroMax MX2 technology, get the maximum power from each of the 120 volt receptacle. Choose between operating the generator at both 120 V and 240 V Simultaneously, or at 120 only with full power.
Powerful DuroMax Engine: the XP12000EH is powered by a DuroMax, 457cc OHV engine.
It is safe to change the fuel Easy to control power output It produces clean power for electric devices Long cord
The handle is poor
Intelligauge – Keep track of voltage, hertz and run-time hours to easily monitor power output and track maintenance intervals
Fuel Safety Switch – Our patented fuel selector switch allows for quick and safe switching between fuel sources
Champion Support – includes 3-year limited warranty with FREE lifetime technical support from dedicated experts
Dual Fuel – Operate your 5500-watt portable generator right out of the box on either gasoline or propane, plus the unit holds 1.2-quarts of oil and has a low oil shut-off sensor
Outlets – One 120/240V 30A locking outlet (L14-30R) and four 120V 20A GFCI protected household outlets (5-20R)
Solid handle It is compatible with sensitive electronics Easy to operate thanks to remote start With Economy Mode, you can save the fuel when operating
The idle-down function works ineffectively
Extremely Quiet, Extremely Fuel Efficient: as Low as 52 dBA Noise Output and Up to 18 Hour Run Time on a 3. 4 Gallon Gas Tank – Features “Economy Mode” for Maximum Fuel Efficiency
Remote start (key fob) and push button start make this generator convenient to operate
All Westinghouse Portable Generators are Functionally Tested in the Factory and May Contain Minimum Residual Oil and/or Fuel Odor; EPA and CARB Compliant; Backed By 3-Year Limited Service, Labor, and Parts Coverage and Nationwide Customer Service Network
Features a 5–20R 120V Duplex Household Outlet, an RV-Ready Tt-30R 30 Amp Outlet and Two USB Outlets – Great Choice for Travel Trailers or Home Use – Strong Enough to Run All Your Essentials
3700 Rated Watts and 4500 Peak Watts at Less Than 3% THD – Telescoping Handle – Gas Powered – Remote Start With Included Key Fob, Electric and Recoil Start.Safely powers sensitive electronics such as laptop computers, cell phones and moreRemote start (key fob) and push button start make this generator convenient to operateAll Westinghouse Portable Generators are Functionally Tested in the Factory and May Contain Minimum Residual Oil and/or Fuel Odor; EPA and CARB Compliant; Backed By 3-Year Limited Service, Labor, and Parts Coverage and Nationwide Customer Service Network
Safely powers sensitive electronics such as laptop computers, cell phones and more
Led Data Center: Rotating Digital Display Shows Fuel Level, Power Output, Remaining Run Time, Voltage Output, and Lifetime Hours
Equipped with technology that reduces noise Easy to store Lightweight design Long working time
It sometimes leaks gas
Gasoline Starting Amps at 120V:35.4A.Gasoline Running Amps at 120V:29.2A
ADVANCED DESIGN: 50% quieter and 20% lighter than a traditional 4250-watt generator, plus Economy Mode saves fuel and extends engine life, and Intelligauge monitors voltage, frequency and operating hours
CLEAN ELECTRICITY FOR SENSITIVE ELECTRONICS: RV Ready with a 120V 30A RV, plus two 120V 20A household outlets with clean power (less than 3% THD) plus two convenient USB ports
Engine type: 4 Stroke
QUIET TECHNOLOGY AND EXTENDED RUN TIME: 64 dBA is great for RVs, tailgating, your next project or home backup, with 4250 starting watts and 3500 running watts for up to 22 hours run time on gasoline
CHAMPION SUPPORT: Includes 3-year limited warranty with FREE lifetime technical support from dedicated experts
PARALLEL READY: Increase your power output by connecting up to two 2800-watt or higher inverter or digital hybrid with the optional Parallel Kit (sold separately)
The automatic low oil shutdown helps you control fuel when it runs out of Easy to install Great battery lifetime You can start it quickly
It causes loud noises when operating
Powered by a 420cc Westinghouse 4-Stroke OHV Engine Featuring a Long-Lasting Cast Iron Sleeve With Automatic Low Oil Shutdown and Digital Hour Meter
Plug-and-Play: Comes With a Remote Start Key Fob, 12V Battery Charger, Oil, an Oil Funnel, a Tool Kit, and a User’s Manual To Get You Started Right Out of the Box (Minimal Assembly Required)
All Westinghouse Portable Generators are Functionally Tested in the Factory and May Contain Minimum Residual Oil and/or Fuel Odor; EPA and CARB Compliant; Backed by 3-Year Limited Service, Labor, and Parts Coverage with Nationwide Customer Service Network
7500 Rated Watts and 9500 Peak Watts (Gasoline); 6750 Rated Watts and 8550 Peak Watts (Propane); 6.6 Gallon Fuel Tank With Fuel Gauge; Electric Push-Button Start With Remote Key Fob
Intuitive Control Panel Features Two GFCI 5–20R 120V Household Duplex Outlets and One L14-30R 120/240V 30A Twist-Lock Outlet; Outlets Have Rubber Covers for Added Safety
Compact design It works quieter than traditional models It creates powerful energy for electric appliances You can carry it everywhere thanks to the lightweight design
It has no wheels
Includes two three-prong 120V receptacles, one 12V DC receptacle, two 5V USB ports, and a two-year warranty
Our 79cc 4-stroke OHV engine operates at an extremely quiet 51 decibels at quarter load, quieter than a window air conditioner or the average conversation.
Produces 2350 surge watts and 1900 rated watts of clean power for safe charging of sensitive electronics (phones, tablets, televisions, computers, etc.)
Extremely quiet operation comparable to the sound of a normal conversation according to the US Department of Health and Human Services
Designed to mirror a pure sine wave, this generator limits total harmonic distortion to under 0.3 percent at no load and under 1.2 percent at full load, making it safe to run laptops, cellphones, monitors, tablets and other sensitive electronics.
Ultralight body weighs in at a mere 39 pounds for easy transport and storage
Maximize fuel economy by engaging the eco-mode switch. This allows the generator's engine to automatically adjust its fuel consumption as items are plugged into and unplugged from the panel, preventing the unnecessary usage of gasoline.
Fuel shutoff maximizes the generator’s lifespan by using up the remaining fuel in the carburetor before shutting down
All Westinghouse Portable Generators are Functionally Tested in the Factory and May Contain Minimum Residual Oil and/or Fuel Odor; EPA and CARB Compliant; Backed by 3-Year Limited Service, Labor, and Parts Coverage with Nationwide Customer Service Network
Powered by a 212cc Westinghouse 4-Stroke OHV Engine Featuring a Long-Lasting Cast Iron Sleeve with Automatic Low Oil Shutdown
Plug-and-Play: Comes with Oil, an Oil Funnel, a Tool Kit, and a User's Manual to Get You Started Right Out of the Box (Minimal Assembly Required)
Features One 5-20R 120V Household Duplex Receptacle, One RV-Ready TT-30R 30 Amp Receptacle, and One L5-30R 30 Amp Receptacle; All Outlets Have Rubber Covers for Added Safety
3600 Running Watts and 4650 Peak Watts; Recoil Start; 4 Gallon Fuel Tank with Fuel Gauge; Up to 14 Hours of Run Time Per Tank
Featuring power Rush advanced technology – delivers over 30% more starting capacity allowing you to do more with less
Generac durable OHV engine with splash lubrication provides a long engine life
Large-capacity steel fuel tank with incorporated fuel gauge provides durability and up to an 11 hour run-time at 50% load
Electric start Model for easy operation (Battery included)
10000 Starting Watts. 8000 Running Watts
Dimensions: 27.2" W x 27" D x 26.5 H | Weight: 198 lb
Easy Start – Start Stop Choke dial makes starting the generator quick and easy
Built In Handle – Allows you to carry the generator with one hand for easy mobility
Ultra Quiet Design – With fully enclosed case
Steady Power – Inverter technology produces safe, clean power, ideal for sensitive electronics and tools
Automatic RPM Control – Adjusts engine speed, reducing consumption and sound levels
What to Look For in a best outdoor generators?
The best outdoor generators is a product type that many customers feel hesitant to select because of the challenges in evaluating its features. It comes to trust! When studying a significant purchase, many factors must be considered. Our best outdoor generators knowledge will help you make an ideal decision.
Our article here will highlight some outstanding items and provide solutions to FAQs and guides to buying. You should keep in mind some main criteria of best outdoor generators below:
Size
Be aware that the clearance between your home and generator may be determined by local codes or model specifications. A small generator may require only 18 inches of clearance.
Type
Warranties
Certain warranties may also include travel expenses for technicians to visit the generator and fix it. However, this depends on which manufacturer you are using.
Wattage
However, this number does not represent the entire picture. Wattage is made up of three parts: power needed to turn on an appliance and power required to maintain it running. It also includes power necessary to sustain a power surge, which is when regular juice returns to normal and all appliances start to work again. Many appliances use more power for startup than their run energy consumption. You could overload your generator when you turn on appliances and other devices. If the generator can't provide enough power, it could overload. You need to know how many watts your generator can generate, depending on whether it is powering just one item or the whole house.
An increase in generator costs is generally associated with a higher wattage. Most people agree that it's better to have enough power than not to be able to run your fridge or keep cool by a fan.
Automatic Start
Fuel Source
The majority of portable generators run on gasoline and can generally keep fridges and lights running for several hours. These generators can't be relied upon for long-term power backups, such as when there is no electricity for several days.
Propane and natural gas are used more often for large home-standby generators. These fuels can be used for larger home standby generators as they are cleaner-burning and offer on-demand power.
Solar or battery-powered power sources are an alternative to traditional fuel-powered generators. These machines have different capabilities, and their run time can vary widely. However, they might be the best match for you if your power requirements are less than minimal. They are typically used for camping only, not home.
FAQs
Can I Use The Generator During Inclement Weather?
Although you can use your generator in any weather or temperature, protect it from the elements whenever it is not being used to stop it from shorting out and rusting. It is not recommended to run the generator indoors.
Where Is The Best Place To Put Your Home Generator?
Natural gas generators do not produce as much fumes than natural gas ranges. Gasoline-powered generators can produce carbon monoxide exhaust fumes, which is why it's important to select the ideal location. These are the reasons why utility companies and local codes often have specific requirements for placement.
A generator should generally be located at least 5ft from any windows or doors. While some generators are able to be mounted as close as 18inches from the house, it is still important that the generator is at least 5ft away from any air intake areas on the property.
It is not advisable to use portable generators in an indoor environment, such as a garage. This type of generator is best placed outdoors, away from windows and doors.
Does The Portable Generator Need To Be Grounded?
Yes. It is important that the generator be correctly grounded in order to protect your safety. The generator must be grounded properly to avoid electrocution. Grounding is a subject matter that must be adhered to by all authorities, federal and state.
How Do You Safely Run A Home Generator?
A whole-home generator or standby generator must be connected to a switch. This disconnects your circuit panel and the electrical grid, allowing power to flow through the circuits from the generator.
You must manually start the power transfer for portable generators. These products have different safety requirements.
Can I Vent The Exhaust Out Of An Enclosed Area?
No. The generator should not be used in enclosed areas or homes. The portable generators can only be run outdoors where there is adequate ventilation. As with all gasoline engines exhaust, generators contain poisonous carbon monoxide.
What Regular Maintenance Should Be Performed On A Home Generator?
You should get basic maintenance information from the manufacturer of any generator that you buy. However, most generator models will work fine if you follow these guidelines.
Run the generator at least 30 minutes per month or perform a weekly self test
When storing a gasoline-powered generator, add fuel stabilizer.
Regular oil changes are a must for your generator.
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