The Most Efficient Home Generator For 2024

Scott Nelson By, Scott Nelson
Updated
Most Efficient Home Generator
Most Efficient Home Generator

Our Top Picks

1. Best Overall: Westinghouse Portable Generator

The Westinghouse Portable Generator is a great addition to any home. With a remote start with included key fob, this generator features up to 12 hours of run time on a 6.6 gallon fuel tank, Automatic Low Oil Shutdown and Digital Hour Meter to make your life easier. Read Review

2. Best Bang For The Buck: DuroMax XP12000EH Generator

The DuroMax XP12000EH generator provides 12,000 watts of power and features a patented oil-life indicator that ensures the generator is not damaged by running out of oil. Dual fuel technology automatically shuts the generator off when it senses that the oil is low. This powerful machine can handle high-amperage power tools, making it perfect for homeowners with large homes or who have frequent outages. Read Review

3. Best Efficient: Champion Power Equipment 100891 Generator

With the new Champion Power Equipment 100891 Generator, you will never be left in the dark. This generator can handle any power outage with ease, ensuring that your home remains at the perfect temperature no matter what. The generator is equipped with a plethora of features to meet your needs and ensure safety, such as a Volt Guard built-in surge protector to prevent overloads. Read Review

4. Best Reliable: DuroStar DS4000S Portable Generator

The DuroStar DS4000S is a powerful and reliable generator. With a 4500 watt surge capacity and 4000 watt rated capacity, this inverter generator can handle heavy loads and high amperage power tools. It also has an environmentally friendly design, which complies with EPA regulations. Read Review

5. Best Energy Efficient: WEN 56475 Generator

The WEN 56475 Generator is a powerful and reliable unit that includes electric start, low-oil shutdown, and includes wheel kit and foldable handles for easy transport. The digital readout helps manage oil changes and maintenance schedule. Read Review

The home generator is an electrical device that helps you keep your home powered in the event of a power outage. When storms or other natural disasters knock out electricity, a home generator can provide backup power and keep you safe, comfortable, and connected to the world around you. If you live in an area prone to extended power outages, or if you simply want to be prepared for any kind of emergency, it’s a good idea to consider investing in a home generator.

A reliable generator offers peace of mind and can even save you money on your monthly utility bills. However, there are several different types of generators available with different features and uses. You’ll need to consider several factors before making your final purchasing decision. Here is our list of top 10 efficient home generator that can suit your needs!.

We think the most efficient home generator available now is Westinghouse Portable Generator. If you were wanting another option, you can check the DuroMax XP12000EH Generator as an alternative. You may relax knowing that its quality is also good per what we researched.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 Westinghouse Portable Generator
Our Score:
9.9
Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment

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

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

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

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

Engine Type: 4-Stroke

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.

Please read the detailed safety instructions in the manual before operating.

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

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.

Powering everyone anywhere: like all DuroMax generators, the XP12000EH is EPA and CARB approved For use in all 50 States.

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

Powerful DuroMax Engine: the XP12000EH is powered by a DuroMax, 457cc OHV engine.

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

TOP Choice #3 Champion Power Equipment 100891 Generator
Our Score:
9.6
Champion Power Equipment

INTELLIGAUGE: Keep track of voltage, hertz and run-time hours to easily monitor power output and track maintenance intervals

CHAMPION SUPPORT: Includes 3-year limited warranty with FREE lifetime technical support from dedicated experts

ELECTRIC START: Power up the 439cc Champion engine with the handy rocker switch, battery included

POWERFUL: At 9375 starting watts and 7500 running watts on gasoline and 8400 starting watts and 6750 running watts on propane, trust Volt Guard built-in surge protector to prevent overloads

Gasoline Starting Amps at 120V: 78.1A.Gasoline Starting Amps at 240V:35.1A.Gasoline Running Amps at 120V:62.5A.Gasoline Running Amps at 240V:31.3A

DUAL FUEL: Operate your 7500-watt portable generator right out of the box on either gasoline or propane, plus the unit holds 1.2-quarts of oil (included) and has a low oil shut-off sensor

4 DuroStar DS4000S Portable Generator
Our Score:
9.4
DuroStar

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

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

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

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 Oil Shutoff – Protects your investment by automatically shutting the generator off when it senses that the oil is low

5 WEN 56475  Generator
Our Score:
9.3
WEN

223cc engine provides 4,750 surge watt and 3,750 rated watt

Features electric start, low-oil shutdown, an automatic voltage regulator and overload protection to maximize safety

Digital readout helps manage oil changes and maintenance schedule

CARB and EPA III meet requirements for sale in all 50 states

Includes wheel kit and foldable handles for easy transport

6 Pulsar G12KBN Generator
Our Score:
9.1
Pulsar

Includes propane hose & backed by a 1 Year limited

(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

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

A 8 gallon fuel tank gives you up to 12 hours of continuous operation at half load when running on gasoline

Convenient drop-down handles and 10” never-flat wheels for added mobility and easy storage

12, 000 peak watts/ 9, 500 Rated watts (gasoline) & 10, 800 peak watts/ 8, 550 Rated watts (LPG)

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

7 WEN DF475T Generator
Our Score:
9.0
WEN

Electric start powers the 224cc 4-stroke OHV engine with the turn of a key

Includes two 120V GFCI outlets (5-20R), a 120V/240V NEMA 30A twist lock (L14-30R), a 12V DC cigarette-lighter-style plug, a bottle of oil, a wheel and handle kit, a 47-inch LPG connection hose, and a 2-year warranty

Voltage easily goes from 120V to 240V, perfect for transfer switches and emergency backup

4-gallon tank provides up to 11 hours of half load run time

Switch between gasoline (4750 surge watts, 3800 running watt) and propane (4350 surge, 3500 running) with the simple turn of the selection dial

8 A-iPower SUA12000E Generator
Our Score:
8.8
A-iPower

Large 7 gallon gasoline fuel tank provides average run time of 7 hours at 100% load and 9 hours at 50% load

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

Complete with Electric Start capability allowing you to quickly, easily, and conveniently start up your generator whenever you need it

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.

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

9 GENMAX Portable Generator
Our Score:
8.6
GENMAX

【Parallel Capability】 Voltage Transfer switch allows you parallel both 120v or 240v. Simply use parallel cord to connect two GM9000iED inverters together to double your power to 18,000 peak watts and 15,200 running watts. (parallel kit sold separately).

【Extremely Quiet, Extremely Fuel Efficient】As Low as 62 dBA Noise with 25%loading at 23 feet distance. Features “LOW IDLE Mode” for Maximum Fuel Efficiency.

【DUAL FUEL OUTPUT】 458cc 4-stroke OHV engine produces 9000 peak watts and 7600 rated watts with 6.9 gallon fuel tank; Gas or Propane Powered ,giving you the freedom and flexibility of fuel choice. This generator is perfect for emergency home power, job site use or camping with your RV.

【 EASY TO CARRY AND USE】 Strong steel handle and 2 rolling wheels for easy travel; 5 in 1 Digital Data Center(Hours, Voltage, Loading,Gas fuel meter, Frequency) ,Remote Start With Key Fob.

【CO DETECT】 Automatically turns off the generator when an unsafe level of carbon monoxide is detected.

10 Generac Generator
Our Score:
8.5
Generac

Takes up 70% less space (when compared to competitive output products)

Using PWRview you could save enough to pay for your generator

Save up to 8,000 dollars in product and installation costs (when compared to competitive output products)

PWRview, Generac's home energy management system, allows generator owners to monitor and manage home energy usage, leading to a reduction in electric utility bills of up to 20%

What to Look For in a most efficient home generator?

The most efficient home generator is the standard appliance in your life. Seeing that the item is introduced with many models with distinct functions and features, several challenges in selecting. However, anything has its solution, not except for that. We, the high-qualified expert in this area, will be available here to give you support.

Of course, looking for the most efficient home generator which suits you most requires many criteria to consider. You are projected to think carefully about each of the features below so that your choice will be appropriate:

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.

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.

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 52024 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Look through again. The brand of product you choose will affect the options available to you. Moreover, pricer models will offer more customization options. We've covered top-scoring models varying at some price. So you have more choices to consider. Furthermore, our staff will update the info related to most efficient home generator with the newest data. Let check our site more regularly to get the latest options.

If you want to take practical support from our expert, don't hesitate to give us feedback. Please feel free to contact us. Hopefully, with our buying guide, you can have a happy shopping for the product.


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About Scott Nelson

Scott Nelson

Scott Nelson is a freelance writer who specializes in camping and wildlife topics for CampFireHQ. He has written for several outdoor magazines and websites, and he enjoys nothing more than spending a weekend in the woods with his family. Scott is an experienced camper and backpacker, and he has also spent considerable time studying the behavior of bears and other large mammals.

Read Scott's full bio