The Best Emergency Generators of 2023

Are you in search of the best emergency generator for your home? Or a generator you can use as a backup in your house? You may be flooded by the various generators available for backup at home and want the best one. If that is the case, you are in the right place.

Emergency generators are a backup power solution to your home whenever there is a power outage. They are capable of producing sufficient power supply to run all your appliances at home or anywhere.

Therefore, we’ve reviewed some of the best emergency generators that will meet your demands. This article will also provide some information that will help you find the perfect emergency generator.

Things To Look Out For When You Are Buying A Westinghouse Portable Generator

You may need clarification during the process of deciding on which emergency generator to buy. There are some factors that will help you to get the generator that will suit your home.

Here are some of the factors:

Parallel Capability

This is one of the factors to consider when buying a generator. Generators with parallel functions allow you to connect your generator with another generator to double the total power output.

Power

If you want a generator that can be used for emergencies, your priority in the generator must be the power output. Hence, you should buy a generator that can produce more power. Consider your appliances and the power needed to run them before buying a generator.

Clean Energy 

Another crucial factor to consider in a generator is the type of fuel the generator uses. Nowadays, most generators run on fuel like propane that reduces emissions – making it environment friendly.

Noise Level 

The noise level of a generator must be considered before buying it. Most emergency generators produce more noise due to their power output. Nevertheless, sound levels of around 70 dBA are still bearable.

Connection

Some generators offer various outlets that make it easy to connect certain devices simultaneously. The few essential outlets include 120/240, ST Switch, Parallel and RV-ready outlets.

Specifications and Comparisons of the best Emergency  Generators

Review Of the Best Portable Westinghouse Generator

Generac 7676 GP8000E

The first emergency generator on our list is Generac 7676 GP8000E. The generator has a built-in handle and never-flat wheels that make it easy to mobility. 

Moreover, its weight is around 198 pounds, which is fair considering the generator’s capacity. In terms of power, this generator delivers 10,000 peak watts and up to 8,000 running watts on gasoline.

Talking about its operation, the generator is noisy; it produces a 74 dB noise level which may be a bit loud. Nevertheless, the generator can be pardoned for its noise level since its power output is substantial.

Another feature of the Generac 7676 GP8000E generator is its runtime. With a tank capacity of 7.9 gallons (30 L), the generator can last up to 15 hours at 25% load on gasoline. It also comes with a fuel gauge to monitor fuel levels.

Lastly, the generator has an electric start which makes it easy to start with the press of a button. There is also a recoil start backup to have no delay during startup.

Pros

1. Power enough for small office and home use
2. Safe for powering all your home appliances.
3. Easy to move around with its fold-down handle and wheels.
4. Long runtime of up to 15 hours at 25% load. 

Cons

1. The generator can be a bit loud. 

DuroMax XP12000EH Generator

With the DuroMax XP12000EH’s powerful 457cc OHV engine at 3600 RPM, the generator is highly efficient and reliable. Depending on your preference or availability, the generator can run on gasoline or propane.

Furthermore, this generator has a peak of 12,000 watts when running on gasoline and 11,400 watts when using propane. It also has a running of 9500 wattage and 9025 wattage, respectively.

Another special feature of the DuroMax XP12000EH is its automatic oil shutdown function. This important safety feature protects the engine from damage and helps ensure a longer lifespan.

Regarding connectivity, the generator has multiple outlets, including a 120V/240V outlet which makes it capable of powering multiple devices together.

Apart from the significant amount of power the generator produces, it has a 74 dB noise level, which is tolerable for the environment. 

One other thing is the weight, which is around 224 pounds. Although the generator is a bit heavy, you have the wheels and handle to move around easily.

In conclusion, DuroMax XP12000EH has an impressive runtime of up to 19 hours at 25% load on gasoline and up to 14 hours at 25% load on propane. Additionally, the generator  comes with an electric start key switch for easy start-up

Pros

1. It has an automatic low oil shut-off system.
2. It generates clean energy while on propane.
3. Equipped with multiple outlets.
4. It can power heavy appliances.
5. It comes with a key switch start.

Cons

1. It is slightly heavy 
2. Noise level is manageable

Generac Guardian 24kW

The Generac Guardian 24kW is a versatile machine that can be fueled with either natural gas or liquid propane. This feature gives users a lot of flexibility to choose the type of fuel that is most readily available to them.

Moving on, the generator is capable of producing up to 24,000 watts of power when fueled with liquid propane and 21,000 watts when fueled with natural gas. This makes it an excellent choice for whole-house backup power, outdoor events, and powering large appliances.

Another feature of this generator is the system maintenance indicators. These indicators let the user know when the generator needs to be serviced or when an issue needs attention.

The LCD interface is also a good function, providing a user-friendly experience and allowing easy monitoring of the generator’s performance.

The generator also operates at a relatively quiet 67 dBA noise level. This feature is a big plus for anyone who doesn’t want a loud machine disrupting their peace.

Overall, the Generac Guardian 24kW is a good option for anyone needing a reliable backup power source. Its natural gas or liquid propane options and power make it a great choice for an emergency power supply.

Pros 

1. Easy to operate and monitor.
2. Capable of powering all home appliances.
3. It offers a quiet operation.
4. LCD display that allows you to monitor the battery status and other engine info.

Cons

1. It is comparatively an expensive generator.
2. It is heavy to move around.

DuroMax XP13000HXT

The DuroMax XP13000HXT is a high-performing generator that stands out from the rest with its Tri-Fuel function. This generator can run on either gasoline, propane, or natural gas.

As expected, this generator produces varying power outputs for its different fuels. For gasoline, it can produce up to 13000 peak watts, 10500 running watts for propane, and 10000 peak watts for natural gas.

Furthermore, it has a 500cc OHV engine with a speed of 3600 RPM, which can provide consistent power to meet your needs.

The generator also has various outlets, including a 120/240V 50A heavy-duty outlet and a 120/240V 30A twist outlet, which are suitable for powering various devices. 

Another feature you will appreciate is the push-button start and remote control function. You also have the CO alert system that alerts you when carbon monoxide levels are too high to ensure environmental safety.

This Tri-Fuel generator is also RV ready, meaning that it is designed to work well with recreational vehicles. Its noise level of around 74 dB is fair enough for a generator of this size. 

Though the generator weighs 240 lbs, it has wheels and a handle for easy portability. For runtime, the generator can run for up to 17 hours at 25% load for gasoline and up to 13 hours for propane. 

Finally, the DuroMax XP13000HXTl reliable generator with high power output and fuel options to cater for your needs.

Pros

1. It comes with a push button start.
2. Outstanding Tri-Fuel option
3. CO sensor shutdown.
4. It is RV ready.

Cons

1.  It is relatively loud.

Westinghouse WGen9500

Westinghouse WGen9500 is also one of the best emergency generators on our list. The generator is a powerful and reliable machine with a power output of 12000 peak watts and 9500 running watts, providing enough power to run large appliances and other electronic devices. 

Furthermore, the runtime of up to 12 hours at 25% load on gasoline makes this generator perfect for use in homes, RVs, and small businesses.

This is evident with the number of outlets it provides. The generator includes two 120/240 V outlets, two USB ports, ST Switch, RV ready and transfer switch ready. 

For the startup process, you have electric, remote, and recoil start for user-friendliness. The overload protection feature lets the generator shut down automatically when overloaded or overheated. 

Finally, the generator’s 74 dB noise level is not encouraging. Also, its 208 lb weight tells it is not lightweight, but you have the never-flat wheels and handles, which makes it manageable for most people to move the generator around.

Pros

1. Design is pleasing with handle and never flat wheels.
2. Automatic low oil shutdown and overload protection
3. It  offers variety of start options
4. Power output is commendable.

Cons

1. It is a bit noisy machine.

Champion Power 11500

The Champion Power 11,500 is also dependable emergency with some great features. First, the generator has a rated peak power of 11,500 watts and 9200 running watts. With that, you get 10 hours of operation at 50% load.

Its powerful performance comes at the cost of 74 dBA noise level – a bit louder than a vacuum cleaner. 

When it comes to its outlet, this generator offers multiple options, including a 120/240V 30A locking outlet and a 120/240V 50A outlet. This provides you with a range of options for connecting various devices and appliances. 

To conclude, the Champion Power 11,500 comes with an electric start. You can easily start the generator with just the push of a button.

Pros

1. Great build quality and compack design
2. Good runtime
3. Push button for eay startup.

Cons

1.  
2. Noise can be a bit high

Generac 7043 22kW

If you ever need an emergency generator to provide reliable and uninterrupted power even in the harshest weather conditions, Generac 7043 is a worthy option. For power, the generator produces up to 22000 watts with liquid propane and up to 19500 watts with natural gas. 

The Generac generator is decently quiet at its incredible power output, with a noise level of just 67 dBA. The 200-Amp Transfer switch ensures the generator can power the most demanding electrical systems.

Another standout feature of this generator is its solid-state ignition system with magneto for an easy startup even in cold weather conditions. As expected, the generator is a bit heavy, weighing 515 lb. 

Finally, the Generac generator is designed with durability in mind, with the NEMA 3R enclosure that ensures it is weather-resistant and suitable for use in various outdoor conditions.

Pros

1. LCD display system monitoring and maintenance checks
2. Incredible power ouput
3. Capable of handling power sensitive appliances and electronics.
4. Very quiet operation

Cons

1. The generator is large and heavy.

Champion Power 100837

The Champion Power Generator is a powerful dual-fuel generator. This generator delivers up to 14,000 watts of power using propane and up to 12,500 watts with natural gas. With this, you have no worries about powering all your electrical devices and appliances in your house.

The generator makes it appealing with its incredibly low noise level of just 62 dBA. In terms of its dimensions, the Champion Power Generator is also surprisingly compact, considering its power. It measures 48 x 25 x 29 inches and has a heavy weight of 482 lbs.

Another impressive feature of the Champion Power Generator is its intelligent controller. This controller provides users with easy and intuitive control to adjust settings and easily monitor its performance.

There is also the NEMA 3R rating for impressive build quality. This means the generator is fit for outdoor installation and can withstand various environments and conditions.

To wrap things up, its 200-Amp feature equips the generator to handle high power to multiple devices and appliances.

Pros

1. Low noise level operation
2. Easy installation and setup
3. Easy display for operation monitoring.
4. Clean energy production

Cons

1. Not easily movable

How The Review Process Was Done 

We look at several factors and research to get the best emergency generator. Some of the processes include evaluating different brands with their brand reputation, customer service, and functionality of their products.

We also considered the average power that is ideal for an emergency generator. Next, we check each generator’s mechanical operation. This involves looking at safety checks and alert indicators, certifications, etc.

In addition to operation, we prioritize the environmental impact of each generator, evaluating emissions and noise levels. While generators may produce an incredible power supply, environmentally friendly ones are encouraged.

Lastly, we assess the ease of installation and setup with weight, dimensions, and startup features. By utilizing a range of factors and assessments, we can provide a list of the best emergency generators that meet general requirements.