Top 5 Best Whole House Generators 2024
Looking for the best whole house generators to keep your home running smoothly during power outages? You’re in the right place! In this comprehensive review, we’ll explore the top five generators that stand out for their reliability, power output, and advanced features. From powerful performance to exceptional ease of use, these generators are designed to provide uninterrupted electricity, ensuring your household stays comfortable and functional no matter the circumstances. Read on to discover the best options that meet all your backup power needs.
Our Top Picks 5 Best Whole House Generators
Champion 8.5-kW Home Standby Generator | Check Price On Amazon |
Generac 70422 Home Standby Generator | Check Price On Amazon |
Generac 7043 Home Standby Generator | Check Price On Amazon |
Westinghouse 12500 Peak Home Backup Portable Generator | Check Price On Amazon |
Generac 7210 24kW Air Cooled Guardian Series Home Standby Generator | Check Price On Amazon |
Champion 8.5-kW Home Standby Generator
The Champion 8.5-kW Home Standby Generator is an excellent choice for keeping your home powered up during any outage. With a robust 8,500-watt output and the ability to run on both propane and natural gas, it offers flexibility to suit your fuel preferences. One of its standout features is its super-quiet operation, thanks to the low-tone muffler and sound-dampening liner—perfect for maintaining peace and quiet in residential settings.
Installation and maintenance are a breeze with the generator’s innovative gullwing enclosure, which provides easy access for service. Plus, its 24V starting system ensures reliable performance even in frigid temperatures as low as -22º F. This generator also comes with a 50 amp, 10 circuit automatic transfer switch (ATS50) for seamless power transitions without manual intervention.
Included with the generator are essential components like battery cables, an oil drain pan, and flexible fuel lines. And with a 10-year limited warranty, you can have peace of mind knowing that Champion Power Equipment stands behind their product. Whether you’re preparing for unexpected outages or looking for a dependable backup power solution, this generator is a solid choice.
Pros:
- High Power Output: 8,500 watts for reliable home power.
- Dual Fuel Capability: Operates on both propane and natural gas.
- Quiet Operation: Low-tone muffler and sound-dampening liner reduce noise.
- Cold Weather Performance: 24V starting system works down to -22º F.
- Easy Maintenance: Gullwing enclosure allows for simple access and service.
- Automatic Transfer Switch: Includes a 50 amp, 10 circuit ATS for seamless power switching.
- Long Warranty: 10-year limited warranty for peace of mind.
- Included Components: Comes with battery cables, oil drain pan, flexible fuel lines, and other essentials.
Cons:
- Heavy: Weighs 394.1 pounds, which may require professional installation.
- Limited Voltage: Operates at 120 volts, which may not be sufficient for all applications.
- Propane & NG Only: Doesn’t run on gasoline, limiting fuel options.
- Initial Cost: High upfront cost compared to portable generators.
- Size: Large footprint might be challenging for small or limited spaces.
Generac 70422 Home Standby Generator
The Generac 70422 Home Standby Generator is a powerhouse designed to keep your home running smoothly when the grid goes down. With an impressive 22,000-watt output, this generator is more than capable of handling your entire home’s power needs. It runs on either natural gas or LP gas, giving you flexible fuel options.
One of the standout features is its Mobile Link Wi-Fi connectivity, which lets you monitor the generator’s performance from anywhere. You can easily check its status and receive maintenance alerts, ensuring you’re always informed and prepared. The Quiet-Test self-test mode is another great touch—it operates at lower RPMs during testing, which saves fuel and keeps things quiet.
Generac’s True Power Technology ensures that you get clean, stable power with less than 5 percent total harmonic distortion. This means you can safely run sensitive electronics without worry. Built with a fully enclosed design, the generator operates quietly and comes with a 5-year limited warranty for peace of mind.
Weighing in at 466 pounds, it’s a solid investment, though it does require professional installation by a certified electrician. Proudly made in the USA, this generator combines reliability with advanced technology, making it a top choice for reliable home backup power.
Pros:
- High Power Output: 22,000 watts to cover all home needs.
- Dual Fuel Capability: Runs on natural gas or LP gas for flexibility.
- Remote Monitoring: Mobile Link Wi-Fi connectivity for performance tracking and alerts.
- Quiet Operation: Quiet-Test mode runs at lower RPMs, reducing noise and saving fuel.
- Clean Power: True Power Technology delivers stable, low-distortion power.
- Durable Warranty: 5-year limited warranty for long-term assurance.
- Made in the USA: Engineered and assembled with high-quality craftsmanship.
- Fully Enclosed: Reduces noise and protects components.
Cons:
- Heavy: Weighs 466 pounds, requiring professional installation.
- High Initial Cost: Higher upfront investment compared to smaller or portable generators.
Generac 7043 Home Standby Generator
The Generac 7043 Home Standby Generator is a top-notch choice for ensuring your home stays powered up during any outage. With a robust 22,000-watt output, it provides ample energy to keep your entire household running smoothly. It operates on natural gas or LP gas, offering flexibility depending on your fuel source.
One of the standout features is the Mobile Link Wi-Fi connectivity. This allows you to monitor the generator’s performance from anywhere, keeping you informed with real-time updates and maintenance alerts. For added convenience, the generator comes with a 200-amp NEMA 3R smart switch, providing whole-house protection with its durable aluminum enclosure.
Generac’s advanced True Power Technology ensures clean and stable power with less than 5 percent total harmonic distortion, making it safe for sensitive electronics. The generator’s digital display and various protections, such as overload and short circuit protection, enhance safety and ease of use.
With a fully enclosed design, it operates quietly and is built to last, backed by a 5-year limited warranty. Although it weighs 466 pounds and requires installation by a licensed electrician, the investment in this generator offers peace of mind and reliable power for years to come. Proudly made in the USA, it combines quality craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology.
Westinghouse 12500 Peak Home Backup Portable Generator
If you’re looking for a reliable backup power solution, the Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment 12500 Peak Watt Tri-Fuel Portable Generator is a top contender. This powerhouse is designed to keep your home running smoothly during outages with its impressive 12500 peak watts and 9500 running watts on gasoline, 11200 peak watts and 8500 running watts on propane, and 9500 peak watts and 7500 running watts on natural gas.
One standout feature is its versatility, offering electric and recoil start, plus a remote start with the included key fob. Its 6.6-gallon fuel tank provides up to 12 hours of run time, making it perfect for extended power needs. Safety is a priority, with automatic voltage regulation, carbon monoxide shutdown, and rubber outlet covers.
The heavy-duty 457cc Westinghouse 4-stroke OHV engine ensures durability, while the digital hour meter keeps you informed. This generator is plug-and-play, coming with everything you need: a 12V battery charger, oil and funnel, a tool kit, and a user manual.
Westinghouse backs this generator with a 3-year limited service, labor, and parts warranty, plus nationwide customer support. Whether you’re preparing for emergencies or need a reliable power source for outdoor activities, this generator won’t disappoint.
Pros:
- High Power Output: Up to 12500 peak watts.
- Tri-Fuel Capability: Runs on gasoline, propane, and natural gas.
- Long Run Time: Up to 12 hours on a full tank.
- Safety Features: Includes automatic voltage regulation and CO sensor.
Cons:
- Heavy: Weighs 208.34 pounds.
- Noise: Can be louder than smaller generators.
Generac 7210 24kW Air-Cooled Guardian Series Home Standby Generator
The Generac 7210 24kW Air-Cooled Guardian Series Home Standby Generator is a top-tier choice for reliable home power backup. With a powerful 24,000-watt output, this generator can handle a wide range of household needs, ensuring you’re well-prepared for any outage.
Running on natural gas or LP gas, it offers flexible fuel options to suit your setup. One of the standout features is the Mobile Link Wi-Fi connectivity, which lets you monitor the generator’s performance from your smartphone or tablet. This feature provides real-time updates and maintenance alerts, so you can stay informed even when you’re not at home.
The included 200-amp transfer switch ensures seamless power transfer and comprehensive coverage for your home. Built with an aluminum enclosure, the generator is designed to withstand outdoor conditions, while its True Power Technology guarantees clean and stable power with less than 5 percent total harmonic distortion.
Engineered and assembled in the USA, the 7210 boasts a purpose-built G-Force Engine for durability and minimal maintenance. It comes with a 5-year limited warranty, giving you confidence in its long-term reliability. Although it requires professional installation and has a significant initial cost, the Generac 7210 is a robust and dependable investment for keeping your home powered during emergencies.
Pros:
- High Power Output: 24,000 watts to handle extensive household needs.
- Dual Fuel Capability: Operates on natural gas or LP gas for flexibility.
- Remote Monitoring: Mobile Link Wi-Fi for real-time performance tracking and alerts..
- Made in the USA: Engineered and assembled with high-quality craftsmanship.
- Long-Term Warranty: 5-year limited warranty for added assurance.
Cons:
- Heavy: Weighs 455 pounds, requiring professional installation.
- High Initial Cost: Significant upfront investment compared to smaller models.
Conclusion
Choosing the right whole-house generator is crucial for ensuring your home remains powered during outages. The five models reviewed here offer a range of features and capacities to meet various needs and preferences. Whether you prioritize fuel efficiency, noise reduction, or ease of use, there’s a generator on this list that fits the bill. Investing in one of these top-performing generators will provide peace of mind, knowing your home will stay comfortable and functional during any power interruption.
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