Don’t get caught off-guard the next time your power goes out.
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Winter weather isn’t normally associated with power outages the way a thunderstorm or hurricane is, but cold precipitation, like heavy, wet snow and ice can lead to conditions that cause power outages. No matter the season, though: When the power goes out, it pays to have a backup generator ready to go. It keeps your fridge cold, so food doesn’t spoil. It ensures that essential medical equipment continues to function, preventing an emergency. And, of course, it keeps the lights on. The moment your generator kicks on, you know that you and your family won’t have to struggle in the dark.
Here’s the thing: We love portable generators of all shapes and sizes, but most of them can’t fully restore power to your home. Reliable backup power, even for just the essentials, requires a large portable generator or a more permanent backup power setup. Either way, a good home generator is a big investment, so you want to be sure you’re getting the best option for your needs.
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Before running out to buy a generator, it’s important to think about how and where you’re going to use it. There are often laws, rules, and restrictions regarding their use in residential homes, with homeowners associations, at campgrounds, or on construction sites.
Picking the right one means you’ll be able to power up the appliances or equipment you need. Picking the wrong one, or using it improperly, could damage the generator or what is connected to it, at best—at worst, it could be dangerous, posing a risk of fire, electrocution, or carbon monoxide poisoning.
Picking a generator depends mainly on the size of your home and what you wish to power. The average house will take at least 5,000 to 7,500 watts to run only the most critical equipment—think fridge, heat, and water. Often, a portable home generator can get you through an outage, but there are also options that are capable of powering your entire house. If you’re looking for full power, you will want to invest in at least a 10,000-watt generator; this also goes for people with exceptionally large homes or families, which will use more power than, say, a two- or three-person household.
It’s also important to consider that while generators are certainly a hefty investment, they will pass the test of time. Most home standby generators can run anywhere from 10,000-30,000 hours. If you were to use it for 100 hours per year, it should last for 10- to 30 years.
Standby generators are permanently installed and connected to a home. These may power select critical circuits during a power outage, or may provide power for the whole home. Standby generators have systems that monitor power supplied by a utility and start automatically in the event of an outage.
Portable generators, sometimes called backup generators, are used to provide temporary power when and where it is needed. Portable is a relative term; some are more portable than others. While the smallest models can be picked up and carried, most have wheels and a handle to make transport easier.
However, at 100 plus pounds, picking them up to load or move may take two people. Appliances, power tools, or other devices can be plugged directly into standard outlets on the generator’s front panel. Additionally, many models have a twist-lock plug that can provide up to 240 volts and be used to power circuits in a home via a manual transfer switch.
Though inverter-type generators are typically portable, we put them under their own heading because they are significantly and technically different from the other two in terms of how they work. Like most generators, inverter generators provide 120/240 volts of AC power. They generate AC current just like the others, but it’s then converted to DC (Direct Current), and then inverted back to AC.
The conversion and inversion is controlled by circuitry which acts like a filter, flattens surges, and cleans up the sine wave (or oscillating wave) of the electrical current. Typical generators have varying degrees of distortion in the sine wave of the alternating current. This isn’t usually an issue for most electrical devices—the exception being sensitive electronics like tablets, laptops, televisions, and other smart devices, which can be damaged by current distortion or surges.
These devices will last longer with “clean” power and steady voltage. Because of the added complication, inverter generators can be significantly more expensive.
To pick the best home generators, we researched popular features, scoured consumer reviews, and talked with product engineers. We selected the portable and inverter models based on our experience using generators for backup power with and without transfer switches, on construction sites to run power tools and equipment, as well as running sound systems and lighting at outdoor events.
The Popular Mechanics test team put some of these units through a rigorous testing program. Test Editor Brad Ford measured sound levels of the generators idling with no load, and while running under load at 2 feet and 25 feet. He used an oscilloscope to observe the sine wave of the AC current generated by these machines, and a clamp meter to check voltage output.
Some examples of devices he used with large starting and running loads include a large air conditioner and a portable table saw. He evaluated these generators based on ease of starting, power response, sound levels, value, safety, and reliability to select the top performers.
In subsequent updates, contributor Nick Hilden has replaced outdated and unavailable products with new models that he’s tested, and have proven their quality over time. He tested each generator under a variety of circumstances, including full home backup tests during actual power outages.
We haven’t tested the standby models, but recommend them based on our experience using and reviewing other similar generators, research into the market, and consulting consumer reviews at online retailers. They offer a compelling price, design, or features that may meet your needs.
The Westinghouse WGen9500TFc is a heavy-duty portable generator that can provide a massive amount of power using three different fuel types. With a running wattage of 9,500W, it offers more than enough output to power a whole home. And thanks to its two high-wattage and four normal AC outlets, it’s a great power station for tools. Nick uses one to power up his RV, as well.
Gasoline is typically the go-to for running a generator, but having three fuel options makes it easier to make sure that you can keep power flowing. Running the generator with propane or natural gas will reduce its volume a bit, though it only hits a relatively quiet 74 decibels when running at load on gas, which is roughly the same volume as a vacuum cleaner.
A remote electric starter allows you to fire it up wherever you are when the power goes out, and it’s equipped with key safety and protection features like low-oil and CO2 shutdown. It’s easy to assemble, start, and maintain, and the brand’s durability is known for delivering years of issue-free operation.
It’s hard to oversell the capability of the Westinghouse WGen9500TFc. Nick has used it to power his entire house without hearing the telltale signs of overload. The only thing to keep in mind is that this generator weighs over 200 pounds: It has wheels and handles that make it somewhat movable, but it works best as a home backup.
Here’s a sample list of appliances the Westinghouse WGen9500TFc can run simultaneously: a refrigerator, a food freezer, an electric range, a coffee maker, four CFL lights, an LCD TV, a laptop, and a charger for a mobile device.
At half the size and less than half the weight of the other models in this guide, the Honda EU2200i is incredibly portable. It’s easy to pick up, move around, or pack in a vehicle—and since the generator is fully enclosed, it can slip into tight spaces without getting caught on anything.
That enclosure is an important feature as it protects the inverter electronics and helps contain noise—the EU2200i is remarkably quiet. In testing, we measured sound levels of 68.9 decibels at the generator under no load. When we switched it to “eco” mode, which reduces engine speed when power isn’t called for, sound was reduced to 67 decibels.
When we used an oscilloscope to look at the sine wave of the current generated, the curves were smooth and symmetrical, an indicator of “clean” power required by sensitive electronics. When we started and stopped things with bigger motors, like a table saw and air conditioner, the sine wave remained smooth. Running under these heavier loads, we measured the highest sound levels for the EU2200i at 81.2 decibels at the generator.
Aside from the clean enclosure, there are some other nice features on this generator. The vent on the gas cap can be closed, so that fumes, or fuel, cannot escape. So, if it’s been packed inside an SUV, the fuel or fumes associated with it won’t be released. Likewise, the power on/off switch doubles as a fuel shutoff so it can’t be forgotten.
Lastly, the EU2200i has ports for parallel operation. With the correct cable, it can be connected to a second EU2200i to double output to 4,400 starting watts and 3,600 running watts. The EU2200i is ideal for camping and other outdoor events where generator noise might be frowned on.
Here’s a sample list of appliances the Honda EU2200i can run simultaneously: a refrigerator, a box fan, four CFL lights, a radio, an LCD TV, a laptop, and a charger for a mobile device.
There are few pieces of equipment that have inspired such buyer loyalty as the Craftsman C0010020. You see them in garages and alongside RVs everywhere for good reason. They’re as sturdy as an anvil, intuitive to operate, and as portable as they are performant.
It’s a bit small for a home backup, but the test team found that the 1,700W running output can handle the essentials, including your lights, fridge and a few appliances, and does this while keeping quiet.
As far as we’re concerned, this is an essential tool for any homeowner, especially if you like to camp. It’s a lightweight, dependable generator that’s easy to pick up and bring wherever it’s needed.
Here’s a sample list of appliances the Craftsman C0010020 can run simultaneously: a refrigerator, two CFL lights, and a charger for a mobile device.
The Predator 9500 is a large inverter-style generator, capable of powering all the critical circuits in a modest-size home. To hit the running capacity, we powered two air conditioners, a portable heater, a table saw, and a planer. Despite the slew of devices it can run, we were able to easily have conversations around the generator; it’s that quiet.
With a generator this size, we can’t overstate the importance of the four wheels it sits on and the sturdy, fold-out handles that facilitate moving it. Brad was able to pull it around fairly easily by himself, despite the fact that it weighs over 250 pounds.
Finally, the Predator comes with two plug ends for 120-volt, 20-amp outlets and one 240-volt, 30-amp twist lock, in case your cables don’t match up or need converting—handy if you buy the 9500 in an emergency and get home to find your plugs don’t match. It costs a lot, but $2,300 is worth it for a generator with so much capability.
Here’s a sample list of appliances the Predator 9500W Inverter Generator can run simultaneously: a refrigerator, an electric range, a microwave oven, a coffee maker, four CFL lights, an LCD TV, a laptop, and a charger for a mobile device.
For around $2,000–very little for a standby generator–the Generac 69981 is fully capable of preventing the contents of your fridge from spoiling and keeping the inside of your house at a reasonable temperature. It can power up to eight circuits in your home, and runs significantly quieter than a portable generator.
Its durable aluminum shell will keep it protected from inclement weather. And if any issues do arise, it comes with a three-year warranty. The generator also features three removable sides, which allow for easy access should it require maintenance.
Keep in mind that standby generators are large and hook directly to your home’s power system. We recommend hiring professionals to handle the installation
Champion packed a lot of value in here, starting with the ability to run on either gas or propane. We’ve also verified that it produces clean, electronics-safe power. Monitoring the current when turning the saw or planer on, we saw a symmetrical sine wave. Total harmonic distortion held at 0 percent, though it blipped to 3.7 when we turned the saw on. With a 30-amp, RV-style plug, this generator is designed for powering a medium camper, and though it doesn’t have a 240-volt outlet, it will still come in handy during an emergency at home.
While the 3,650W output is somewhat modest, it’s plenty for a small home or to keep the essentials going in a larger house. We also appreciate its squared design, which makes it easy to store when not in use. On the plus side, a small generator is a mobile generator, and this one’s wheels and handles make it relatively easy to move around.
Here’s a sample list of appliances the Champion 4,650-Watt Dual Fuel Generator can run simultaneously: a refrigerator, a microwave, a coffee maker, four CFL lights, an LCD TV, a laptop, and a charger for a mobile device.
Battery banks work well as a home backup power source. You can use solar panels to keep the generator powered, so there’s no need to purchase fuel. You can store them inside, and they’re often relatively compact. And they’re better for the environment than a gas generator. If you’re thinking about a solar option, we like the Bluetti AC500, which delivers the high output you need for a home backup, and features an expandable capacity so you can scale your system to meet your needs.
The base AC500 offers an admirable capacity of 3,072Wh, which is plenty for helping you keep the essentials going through a roughly day-long outage. You can double that by connecting a B300S backup battery (6,144Wh), or triple it by adding two. In fact, the AC500 can support up to six B300S units, so a “full” system can store up to a whopping 18,432Wh of power. (Individually, the batteries cost about $1,800 apiece, so we recommend figuring out how much power you really need to store and buying a bundle if possible.)
The AC500’s 5,000W output is more than enough to power most homes. It also charges fast—as rapidly as 1 hour when plugged into a wall socket via a (not included) 50A charging adapter cable. Solar charging time will vary, depending on the size of your solar panel setup, but it can take in up to 8,000W of input, so it’s ready to pair with permanent panels.
The DuroMax XP13000HX checks all the boxes we look for in a dual fuel generator. It offers the convenience of choosing between powerful gas and slightly more quiet and eco-friendly propane, and more than enough output to power an entire home.
It’s easy to use–so easy that Nick’s non-tech savvy, 76-year-old mother feels comfortable with it. It’s also incredibly durable: Nick’s mom lives in a stormy area and has to fire hers up many times a year, and sometimes runs it for a week at a time with few breaks. It keeps on trucking, year after year, without issue.
The digital display is a nice touch, which provides info like output and a countdown to recommended maintenance. It’s a very heavy generator, but the stout handles and burly wheels make it surprisingly easy to move if necessary. As we’ve seen throughout the guide, if weight is your only meaningful concern, then you’ve got a solid generator on your hands.
If you have especially large power demands and you’re willing to make a major investment to ensure the power stays on no matter what, a large standby generator like the Generac 7043 is the way to go. Churning out a massive 22,000W, it’s more than enough for all but the largest of homes. This package includes a 200A switch that will automatically start the generator in the event of municipal power loss, so it’s ready and waiting to help you wait out the blackout in comfort.
You’re going to need an electrician to install this generator, but once it’s in place you can more or less forget about it. It plugs directly into your natural gas system, so there’s no tank to refill. It starts automatically in the event of a power outage, so there’s no need to worry about operating it. The unit is reliable, so beyond recommended maintenance, there really isn’t much for you to do at all. And that’s the point. You want a standby generator to provide peace of mind no matter how the wind blows, and that’s exactly what this unit delivers.
How can you tell if your generator is overloaded?
When you start to see dimming or flickering lights, or sluggish performance in appliances, that’s usually a sign that your generator is overextended. You may also notice that your generator sounds like it’s working extra hard to keep up.
We’d recommend turning off non-essential devices or even giving the generator a rest right away if you notice it overloading. If you overwork a generator for too long, it may begin to overheat, produce smoke, or cause it to power down. If it stays overloaded for long, you may seriously damage a generator or even start a fire, so consider this an urgent issue.
How long can a home generator run continuously?
A generator can typically run as long as its fuel capacity allows, and its efficiency is determined by electrical demands. The bigger the tank or capacity and the lower your power usage, the longer you can keep things running.
With gas and propane generators, make sure to turn them off when it’s time to fill the tank. Failing to do so could start a fire. Solar power stations and inverters, on the other hand, can almost always be charged while in use.
Where should you position a home generator?
Never run a gas or propane-fueled generator indoors. Set it up outside, at least 5 to 20 feet from your home and away from any sheds or exterior walls. Try to place it far from any windows, doors, and vents, and always direct exhaust away from your home. Ensure that your generator is always properly ventilated. Avoid placing it in places where snow may pile up around it.
Nick keeps his generator near his home power box, which is located on a windowless side of his home so the exhaust won’t drift indoors. It stands about 5 feet from the wall, with plenty of space on all sides, but close enough to sit under the roof peak overhang 20 feet above.
Nick Hilden is a writer, globetrotter, and jack-of-many-talents who has written gear reviews for the likes of Runner’s World, Popular Science, Men’s Health, Thrillist, the Daily Beast, the Los Angeles Times, Greatist, and the Manual, and his lifestyle, culture, and tech writing has also appeared in Scientific American, Afar, Salon, Vice, Healthline, and many others. Before entering journalism some 15 years ago, he worked as a bartender, brewery manager, sound engineer, recording and touring musician, cook, teacher, and in a variety of other trades. These days, he lives all over the world, performs music sporadically, and spends a lot of time thinking how to best improve his Honda Element conversion.
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