The Best Whole House Generators For 2023

Katie Finn By, Katie Finn
Updated
Best Whole House Generators
Best Whole House Generators

Our Top Picks

1. Best Overall: Westinghouse 12500 Watt Generator

This generator is a 12,500 peak-watt generator with a 9,500 running-watt generator. It is powered by propane or gasoline and has an automatic gas shut-off safety feature. Read Review

2. Best For The Price: DuroMax XP12000EH Generator

DuroMax XP12000EH generators can run on propane or gasoline and provide a fuel-saving technology that automatically shuts the generator off when it detects the oil is low. Read Review

3. Best Powerful: DuroMax XP5500EH Electric Start Generator

This generator can manage a significant load from standard home appliances because it has a starting power of 5500 watts and a continuous running power of up to 4500 watts. Read Review

4. Best Effective: Champion Power Equipment 76533 Generator with Electric Start

You will like this product cause if there is a disruption in electrical power, this device's capacity to deliver electricity at 3800 watts is more than adequate to power essential home appliances. Read Review

5. Best Versatile: WEN DF1100T 11,000-Watt Generator

This WEN generator has a 457cc 4-stroke OHV engine that is easy to start with an electric start that powers the engine with just a key turn and provides up to 8.5 hours of run time on half load. Read Review

Are you looking for the best whole-house generator for your home? With the ever-increasing demand for reliable power during natural disasters and other outages, having a reliable generator for your home is essential. But with so many available on the market, knowing the best choice for your needs can be challenging. We've compiled this comprehensive guide to the best available whole-house generators.

We'll discuss the different types of generators available, the advantages and disadvantages of each, and provide our picks for the best whole-house generators on the market. Whether you're looking for a generator to provide emergency power during an outage or a permanent solution for your home, you'll find all the information you need here. So, let's explore the world of whole house generators and find the best one for you.

After hours of research on customer feedback & product specifications, We've concluded that the best whole house generators is Westinghouse 12500 Watt Generator. This generator is outfitted with a dependable electric push button start technology that makes it straightforward to start and stop the generator whenever required. If you desire extra features not included in this model, you might look into another one: DuroMax XP12000EH Generator. It could better suit your needs.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 Westinghouse 12500 Watt Generator
Our Score:
9.8
Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment

This generator is outfitted with a dependable electric push button start technology that makes it straightforward to start and stop the generator whenever required. To start the engine, all needed is a single push of a button, and it will begin operating with the choke already engaged. You can start and stop this generator from up to 260 feet away using a key fob with a remote start feature.

If you connect your generator to a Westinghouse ST Switch, you can activate its automatic start capabilities, providing electricity to electronic devices and home appliances such as refrigerators and sump pumps. The ST Switch is designed to rapidly activate the generator if there is a disruption in the power supplied by the utility. This will ensure that critical equipment has immediate access to backup power. However, this generator is quite difficult to get the plug in the first time, but you can get used to it after some use.

TOP Choice #2 DuroMax XP12000EH Generator
Our Score:
9.7
DuroMax

This generator can run on propane or gasoline, providing the freedom and flexibility of fuel choice. It can protect your investment by turning off the generator when it detects low oil levels. With a starting wattage of 12,000 and a running wattage of 9,500, this generator has much power. Additionally, this unit can manage significant loads, such as lights, a refrigerator, high-amperage power tools, and an air conditioner for the home.

Utilizing the DuroMax MX2 technology will allow you to obtain the utmost amount of power from each of the 120-volt outlets. You can run the generator at either 120 V or 240 V simultaneously or choose to run it at 120 V only and get the total output. Although it weighs 350 pounds and is rather hefty, it has wheels, making it easier to maneuver than otherwise.

TOP Choice #3 DuroMax XP5500EH Electric Start Generator
Our Score:
9.6
DuroMax

The DuroMax XP5500EH electric start generator can use gasoline or diesel as fuel. Regardless of which fuel source is more convenient, you can use gasoline or propane to power this machine. When it comes to the engine, the DuroMax XP5500EH electric start generator is driven by an OHV engine with 224 ccs of displacement. This engine provides the generator with adequate power to ensure a reliable supply of electricity.

Additionally, the MX2 technology provides the highest possible power output from each of the regular AC outlets of the generator, which operate at 120 volts. You can also switch the output to 240 volts, depending on your need. The DuroMax XP5500EH electric start generator has one 120/240 30A twist-lock outlet and two standard 120 volts GFCI outlets. This configuration makes it possible to run multiple appliances simultaneously. The only drawback is that the product must be assembled once delivered. Although the process is not very difficult, it needs some time and sweaty effort. 

4 Champion Power Equipment 76533  Generator with Electric Start
Our Score:
9.5
Champion Power Equipment

With the Champion Power 76533, you not only get the option of dual-fuel operation, giving you a choice between gasoline and propane but also the option of dual-fuel operation. It has a gasoline tank that holds 0.6 quarts of petrol, which, owing to the 224 CC engine that powers the device, is sufficient for around 9 hours of use.

This product provides excellent value for the money because it comes with 0.6 quarts of fluid already included in the package. It will also perform an immediate shutoff when it detects that the oil level is dangerously low, protecting the generator and the engine's internal components from damage. To obtain an idea of the maintenance intervals, you can monitor not only the total output of the generator but also other elements such as the voltage, the number of run-time hours, and the hertz. Nonetheless, the oil change design should be improved.

The WEN DF1100T 11,000-Watt Generator is powerful enough for your outdoor needs. Whether connecting to a shore power outlet or running on gas, this generator is ready to power your home with its 457cc 4-stroke OHV engine. You can also choose the fuel type that best suits your needs, either gasoline or LPG, then activate the electric start with a key to get the generator going.

This generator can produce up to 9,500 surge watts and 7,500 running watts when fueled by propane, while gasoline can provide up to 11,000 surge watts and 8,300 running watts. To achieve a runtime of 8.5 hours with a half load, fill the gas tank with up to 6.6 gallons of gasoline. Alternatively, you can immediately use the provided 47-inch LPG hose to connect to propane tanks. Nevertheless, the voltage regulator could break after a significant amount of usage, but you can purchase another voltage.

The Pulsar G12KBN is an exceptionally robust whole-house generator explicitly developed for demanding situations. The maximum power output that this generator is capable of delivering is 12000 watts. The dual fuel capacity allows you to choose between gasoline and LPG as your vehicle's fuel source. This is beneficial in an emergency or natural disaster, when LPG may be easier to find and store than gasoline.

This generator's fuel tank holds 8 gallons, allowing it to run continuously for up to 12 hours before refilling. Its performance is unquestionably reliable and propelled by a gas-powered engine with a capacity of 457 cubic centimeters and four strokes. This product is a portable and mobile generator thanks to the 10-inch never-flat wheels offered on its chassis. The minor drawback is that it can be pretty noisy when working, but it is not a big deal.

7 A-iPower SUA12000E Generator
Our Score:
9.0
A-iPower

With the A-iPower SUA12000E Generator, you can power your tools at the building site, camping ground, or household appliances. The reliable performance of the generator is ensured by its robust 459 ccs OHV 4-stroke engine, which comes equipped with a low oil alert light and an automatic shutoff feature if the oil level becomes too low.

The big gasoline fuel tank with 7 gallons provides an average run time of 7 hours when operating at 100% load and 9 hours at 50%. It is included with Electric Start functionality, enabling you to start your generator whenever you need to quickly and conveniently. In the event of a disaster, the SUA12000e generator is an excellent choice for providing power to all of your essential home appliances, such as your air conditioner, refrigerator, and sump pump, in addition to the lighting and entertainment centers. The only issue is that this generator can be a bit difficult to operate when it is cold outdoors.

Powerful 500cc OHV Engine: At the heart of this generator resides a robust DuroMax engine designed to provide you with the most power.

Tri Fuel Technology: This generator runs on gasoline, propane, and natural gas, giving you the freedom and flexibility of fuel choice. Gasoline is a tried-and-true fuel option that’s readily available. Propane is a cleaner burning fuel that is cost effective, fuel efficient, and has a long shelf life. Natural gas has the benefit of providing you with unlimited fuel supply and hooks up directly to your home’s gas line, so you don’t have to worry about storing tanks and spills.

Advanced Computer Interface: We’ve upgraded this generator with the latest computer system and a large LED display so you can view the gas gauge, load gauge, as well as the voltage, frequency, and time at a glance.

100% Copper Windings: We utilize the highest quality materials to build our generators. Compared to aluminum windings that degrade quickly, copper is an excellent heat conductor and allows you to put out the same amount of power for longer, extending the life of your generator and ensuring it lasts you for years.

Front-Facing Fuel Interface: Switch between fuel types easily and effortlessly with our front facing fuel interface, now with quick connects. The flexible fuel line allows you to hook up your generator to propane tanks of all sizes, while the long, oversized 3/4 in. 5 meter hose will easily accommodate your generator and gas line setup.

Push Button Start and Remote Start: Turn on your generator with a simple push of a button, or use the remote to conveniently start your generator from a distance.

Home Power Backup Ready: With 13,000 watts of POWER, the XP13000HXT will power your lights, appliances, AC system and other household essentials with ease during a storm or power outage. It comes equipped with a 50 amp plug that hooks up directly to your home via a transfer switch.

Complies with Emission Standards: All DuroMax 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.

CO Alert: Protect your family from dangerous engine fumes. DuroMax offers the safest generators on the market with our CO Alert technology, which turns off the generator automatically when an unsafe level of carbon monoxide is detected.

Fully Loaded Power Panel: This generator comes equipped with a variety of outlets to suit your needs, including 4 120V 20A GFCI outlets, 1 120V 30A twist lock, 1 120 / 240V 30A twist lock, and 1 120 / 240V 50A HEAVY DUTY outlet.

POWERFUL DUROSTAR ENGINE: The DS10000E is Powered by a 18HP 440cc OHV Durostar Engine.

Idle Control – Lowers the RPMs of the generator when not in use, saving fuel and reducing noise. Ideal on the job site where power is used intermittently

Powerful Engine – The DuroStar 439cc OHV engine is a workhorse that provides plenty of power to handle multiple jobs, from powering high voltage appliances to heavy duty power tools

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, (1) 120V 30A twist lock outlet, (1) 240V 30A outlet, and (1) 240V 50A outlet. The panel also includes a voltmeter and 12V DC charging posts for charging external batteries

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

10 Generac 7043 Home Standby Generator
Our Score:
8.5
Generac

Generac evolution controller features LED indicators for generator status, utility power presence or maintenance required

Tough, durable all-weather aluminum enclosure offers 3 removable sides for easy access for installation, service and maintenance

True power technology delivers best-in class power quality (less than 5% thd) for Smooth operation of sensitive electronics and appliances

Battery not included. Generac Battery 7043 5819 Sold Separately.

Includes a 200 amp NEMA 3 (indoor/ outdoor rated) whole house Smart transfer switch

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

A Simple Way To Choose The best whole house generators For You

Would you like to know how to select the best whole house generators to purchase in 2023? We have a straightforward solution for you. First, consider your own requirements. For instance, should you need something that could be used during workouts, look for products that are made of high-quality materials and are resistant to water.

Consider the price range next. Some people prefer low prices, while others prefer to invest additional money on better quality items, so weigh both choices once making a decision.

Eventually, reading reviews is a simple way to select the best whole house generators to buy. Please read our research below before purchasing anything and follow that guide to select your best whole house generators.

Fuel Source

Generators are generally powered by either gasoline, natural gas or propane.
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.

Wattage

A generator's wattage is the measure of its ability to provide power for whatever it plugs into. This information is crucial to understand about any generator that you are considering.
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

Whole home generators can automatically start when power goes out. This allows the generator to automatically start supplying power when there is no electricity from the utility. This feature is usually only available on standby generators, and not portables. These systems can provide peace of mind and may be more expensive than the security that your generator will automatically turn on without interrupting vital systems like heating and cooling.

Type

You need to decide which generator type is best for you: a portable or standby generator. This will help you decide if you just want the lights to stay on or if you need to power other electrical components such as the refrigerator, window, central air conditioner, and the fridge.

Size

Installing home generators requires space. So make sure that you consider the dimensions of all models. You can find generators in a variety of sizes, from smaller units measuring less than 3ft to more large units measuring 5ft or more. A general rule of thumb is that the generator with the highest power rating will be larger.
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.

Warranties

A warranty is usually included with the purchase of a generator. The warranty covers both labor and parts for most residential inverter and portable generators. For standby generators which can be larger investments, you will usually get a 3- to 52023 warranty period.
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.

FAQs

What is a whole house generator?

A whole house generator is a stationary generator that is connected to your home's electrical system to provide backup power in the event of a power outage. It is designed to provide power to all of the circuits in your home, making it ideal for keeping your essential systems running during an emergency.

How much does a whole house generator cost?

The cost of a whole house generator depends on the size and type of unit you choose. Generally, you can expect to pay between $2,000 and $10,000 for a whole house generator.

How often should I maintain my whole house generator?

It is recommended that you have your whole house generator serviced and inspected at least once a year to ensure it is in good working condition. This will help to extend the life of your generator and ensure it is ready when you need it.

What type of fuel does a whole house generator use?

Most whole house generators are powered by either natural gas or propane. It is important to choose the fuel type that is best suited to your home and budget.

How long will a whole house generator run on a single tank of fuel?

The amount of time a whole house generator can run on a single tank of fuel depends on the type and size of generator you choose, as well as the type of fuel and how much power you are using. Generally, you can expect to get between 8 and 20 hours of runtime from a single tank.

Conclusion

We hope this blog has provided you with useful information about selecting the best whole house generators to buy. If you're still unsure, consider why you're purchasing a product in the first place.

Here you can select the Generac 70432 Home Standby Generator if you are unable to select one of the available items above. Consider whether any of our suggestions aided you in deciding which products to purchase. Please do not hesitate to contact us at any time!


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About Katie Finn

Katie Finn

Katie Finn is a freelance writer who loves to explore the world and go camping. She's also an editor for CampfireHQ, where she enjoys writing about wildlife and camping tips. She also has a passion for reading and learning new things, which she often incorporates into her writing.

Read Katie's full bio