Power output is significantly reduced, but it can keep up with essential items in the event of a power failure.
CONSUMER REPORTS BEST PORTABLE GENERATORS GENERATOR
For a budget-friendly option, consider the Generac PowerPact 7,500 Watt Generator (view at Northern Tools). It offers the most power of all residential air-cooled generators and can be remotely monitored using Generac's Mobile Link Monitoring System. If you're looking for a well-equipped generator for your most commonly used appliances and conveniences, the Generac Guardian 24kW Home Generator (view at AP Electric & Generators) is a great option. In the event of a power failure, plug your most important devices and appliances into the outlets of the Yeti 1500X, which includes a pair of 120V AC outlets or USB ports.
There are no fuel gauges to monitor, maintenance to perform, or exhaust fumes to worry about. The Goal Zero Yeti 1500X isn’t equipped to replace a whole-home generator, but it can serve as a short-term power supply. Charge it up by connecting it to a solar panel, wall charger, or 12V car charger. While you might think that a portable power station lacks the juice to keep your home up and running in the event of a power failure, this top-of-the-line version from Goal Zero has enough power to operate a refrigerator for up to 28 hours. The Goal Zero Yeti 1500X is equipped with a lithium-ion battery that can store up to 1,500 watts of power. Lithium-ion batteries have limited lifecyclesįor an alternative to conventional home generators, consider using a portable power station. Keep in mind that this model doesn’t include a transfer switch, so you’ll need to purchase that separately. During regular operation, the generator is rated for 67 decibels, which is average operating noise but impressive for a generator of this power capacity. Generac also equipped this unit with a Quiet-Test weekly self-test mode that operates at just 57 decibels. The housing of the unit is 4 feet long and 2 feet wide, which is larger than the most compact generators available but on par with typical whole-home generators. This popular generator model maximizes power output but minimizes space requirements. It also offers Wi-Fi capabilities so you can keep tabs on the unit’s operation from anywhere. Homeowners looking for a generator that can handle increased power demands will appreciate this capable unit. The Generac Guardian 24kW is the largest air-cooled generator available, providing up to 24,000 watts of power when connected to a propane fuel supply. This type of generator offers simple maintenance and affordability. Significantly lower power output when using natural gasĪir-cooled generators are the typical choice for backup residential power. Here are the top home generators for maintaining essential functions during a power outage. Keep in mind that standby generators should always be installed with a transfer switch to prevent back-feed that can cause harm to your home’s electrical system, the generator, or serious injury and death to utility workers. These larger, permanently installed generators are capable of sustaining appliances, central heating or cooling systems, lights, devices, and more.
A portable generator is cost-effective and best for keeping essential items up and running, but the most power comes from a whole home generator. Based on the amount of power you need and your installation requirements, you can decide on the generator that is right for you. Home generators vary in type, size, watts, and fuel source (either propane or natural gas). While more costly to purchase and install, a standby generator eliminates the setup and headaches associated with the use of a portable generator-such as regular refueling, running many feet of extension cords, and listening to the constant hum of the engine.