The Best Portable Generator For Construction For 2024
By, Katie FinnUpdated
Our Top Picks
1. Best Overall: Westinghouse 12500 Watt Dual Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator
Westinghouse 12500 Watt Dual Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator is a 2-in-1 portable generator that can be used to power your home or RV. This generator is loaded with features and offers an AC output of 12,500 watts to power the essential appliances in your home or RV. Read Review
2. Best Bang For The Buck: DuroMax XP4400E Gas Powered Portable Generator
When you need an extra power boost, the DuroMax XP4400E gas powered portable generator is your go-to unit. With a wide selection of outlets for maximum compatibility in your applications including: 2 120V household GFCI outlets and 1 120/240V 30A twist lock outlet. The panel also includes a voltmeter and 12V DC charging posts for charging external batteries. Read Review
3. Best Reliable: Westinghouse 4500 Watt Super Quiet Portable Inverter Generator
Westinghouse portable inverter generators are among the most technologically advanced generators available. The 4500 watt Super Quiet Portable Inverter Generator features a rotating digital display that shows fuel level, power output, remaining run time, voltage output, and lifetime hours. It also includes a battery charger and built-in handles for convenient portability. Read Review
4. Best Durable: DuroStar DS4000S Portable Generator
DuroStar Portable Generators are perfect for on-site jobs where power is needed. With a low oil shutoff, plenty of power and a large fuel tank, this unit can handle heavy loads such as lights and a refrigerator to home air conditioners and high amperage power tools. Read Review
5. Best Flexible: WEN 56475 4750-Watt Portable Generator with Electric Start
The WEN 56475 4750-Watt Portable Generator with Electric Start is a powerhouse of power. This generator features electric start, low-oil shutdown, an automatic voltage regulator and overload protection to maximize safety. The 223cc engine provides 4,750 surge watt and 3,750 rated watts, while the generator's durable steel frame is designed for easy mobility. Read Review
Construction work is an industry that never stops. From contractors who build new homes and office buildings to renovation specialists who fix up old properties, the demand for construction services is constant. It cannot be postponed until conditions are more favorable. Even in inclement weather, a project must go forward as planned, or it will inevitably cost more in the long run.
Many contractors invest in portable generators to complete construction projects in a timely and cost-effective manner. These machines are ideal for sites that lack reliable access to power from the grid and can be used to supply electricity wherever it is needed most. Construction is one of the most common applications for portable generators because of their versatility and ease of use in remote locations with no existing power infrastructure. If you’re considering investing in a generator for your construction business, we’ve covered you with this guide to the best portable generator for construction on the market today.
After nearly hours of research, we were able to come up with many top products from prominent brands like Westinghouse outdoor power equipment, Duromax, Durostar, Wen, Pulsar, A-ipower, Generac, Tomahawk power, Simpson cleaning. Among them, We think the best portable generator for construction is Westinghouse 12500 Watt Dual Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator. Alternatively, if you're looking for another option, you may go with the DuroMax XP4400E Gas Powered Portable Generator.
Our article today focuses on guidelines and tips to buy the right product that best suits your needs. Explore with us right here.
RELATED: We've researched and tested the top 10 most powerful inverter generators and compiled them all in this article for you.
Our Top Picks
Easy to operate with an electric start Easy to filter oil Easy to control with remote Easy to move thanks to wheels
The wheels are small
- 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
- 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
- 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
The automatic turn-off function protects your machine Easy to charge the battery It creates safe energy for electronics Easy to set up
It is pretty heavy
- MX2 Technology - Get the maximum power from each of the 120-volt receptacles. Choose between operating the generator at both 120V and 240V simultaneously, or at 120V only with full power. Ideal for usage with RVs
- Fully Featured Power Panel – The power panel includes a wide selection of outlets for maximum compatibility in your applications including: 2 120V household GFCI outlets and 1 120/240V 30A twist lock outlet. The panel also includes a voltmeter and 12V DC charging posts for charging external batteries
- Low Oil Shutoff – Protects your investment by automatically shutting the generator off when it senses that the oil is low
- Powerful Engine – The DuroMax 210cc OHV engine is a workhorse that provides plenty of power to handle multiple jobs, from powering high voltage appliances to heavy duty power tools
- Plenty of Power – With 4,400 starting watts and 3,500 running watts, this unit can handle heavy loads, from lights and a refrigerator to a home air conditioner and high amperage power tools
Long working hours The engine runs quietly Easy to overfill the oil reservoir High Capacity
The idle-down function works ineffectively
Safely powers sensitive electronics such as laptop computers, cell phones and more
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
Led Data Center: Rotating Digital Display Shows Fuel Level, Power Output, Remaining Run Time, Voltage Output, and Lifetime Hours
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
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
The motor works great Easy to use User-friendly design The generator runs effectively and quietly
It doesn't have wheels
Low Oil Shutoff – Protects your investment by automatically shutting the generator off when it senses that the oil is low
Plenty of Power – With 4,000 peak watts and 3,300 running watts, this unit can handle heavy loads, from lights and a refrigerator to a home air conditioner and high amperage power tools
Complies with Emissions Standards – All DuroStar generators are both approved by the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) and CARB (California Air Resources Board) and follow strict guidelines to ensure our generators are as environmentally friendly as possible
Power Panel – The power panel includes a selection of outlets for maximum compatibility in your applications including: 2 120V household outlets and 1 120V 30A twist lock outlet. The panel also includes a voltmeter for measuring voltage output
Powerful Engine – The DuroStar 208cc OHV engine is a workhorse that provides plenty of power to handle multiple jobs, from powering high voltage appliances to heavy duty power tools
Low maintenance expenses It can turn off automatically when it has less oil Easy to transport with handles It meets requirements in many countries
The wheels are pretty weak
- Includes wheel kit and foldable handles for easy transport
- CARB and EPA III meet requirements for sale in all 50 states
- Features electric start, low-oil shutdown, an automatic voltage regulator and overload protection to maximize safety
- 223cc engine provides 4,750 surge watt and 3,750 rated watt
- Digital readout helps manage oil changes and maintenance schedule
10” never-flat wheels allow you to move it easily Easy to store thanks to drop-down handles It is compatible with sensitive electric appliances It can work continuously for up to 12 hours
It is noisy when working
A 8 gallon fuel tank gives you up to 12 hours of continuous operation at half load when running on gasoline
Dual fuel capability allows you to choose between gasoline & LPG fuel sources; great for emergency situations or natural disaster as LPG may be more readily available and easy to store
(4) 120V 20A AC outlets, (1) 120V/240V 30A twist-lock outlet, (1) 120V/240V 50A outlet, (1) 12V DC output provide ample space for powering appliances, tools, and other devices
Convenient drop-down handles and 10” never-flat wheels for added mobility and easy storage
Complete with low oil shut-off, 3-in-1 digital meter, and automatic voltage Regulation for less worry and hassle
The 457cc, single cylinder, 4-stroke, air cooled, OHV engine with electric start is protected by a durable powder coated frame
12, 000 peak watts/ 9, 500 Rated watts (gasoline) & 10, 800 peak watts/ 8, 550 Rated watts (LPG)
Includes propane hose & backed by a 1 Year limited
It is suitable for home emergency Thanks to Electric Start you can operate quickly It works stably Easy to filter oil
Charge the battery slowly
- The A-iPower SUA12000 produces 12,000 starting watts with 9,000 running watts to power your tools at the construction site, camping ground, or home appliances
- Complete with Electric Start capability allowing you to quickly, easily, and conveniently start up your generator whenever you need it
- Powerful 459 cc OHV 4 stroke engine with a low oil alert light and low oil automatic shutdown, helping keep your generator performing year after year
- Outlets include: 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). All outlets include rubber covers for an additional layer of safety.
- Large 7 gallon gasoline fuel tank provides average run time of 7 hours at 100% load and 9 hours at 50% load
10000 Starting Watts. 8000 Running Watts
Generac durable OHV engine with splash lubrication provides a long engine life
Featuring power Rush advanced technology – delivers over 30% more starting capacity allowing you to do more with less
Dimensions: 27.2" W x 27" D x 26.5 H | Weight: 198 lb
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)
Able to weld 1/3, 1/4, 3/8 inch
Inverter Generator with stable sine wave for the steadiest welding
TIG, Stick, and MMA Welding Versatility with 2 Year Warranty
Easily set amperage with Electronic Reader and Knob
Weld and Run Electric Tools all at once
8.0 gallon, large heavy duty all steel construction fuel tank provides up to 7 hours of run time at 50% load
680cc / 24HP OHV, twin-cylinder, air-cooled, 4-stroke engine with electric start
15,000 Starting Watts / 12,000 Running Watts
Pure Sine Wave Technology with less than 5% THD (total harmonic distortion) which allows to power sensitive electronics
High performance alternator provides greater peak wattage which allows motor driven appliances and tools to operate simultaneously.
What to Look For in a best portable generator for construction?
To buy any product seems easy, but to choose the best one is not straightforward. The time you take to research its outcome is significant. The same matter also comes to best portable generator for construction of 2024 that we include in this article. But you can relax instead of spending too much time learning the products. It’s our duty!
Here are the main features of best portable generator for construction that all of you guys should keep in mind when deciding to make a purchase:
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.
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.
Type
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.
Automatic Start
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.
FAQs
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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