Generators are a crucial investment for anyone who wants to ensure an uninterrupted power supply in case of an outage. While many generators are designed for short-term use, some are built to last for years without any hiccups. In this article, we’ll be discussing the best generator for long-term use.
When it comes to generators, there are two primary types: portable and standby. Portable generators are designed to be moved around and are ideal for powering small appliances or tools. Standby generators, on the other hand, are stationary and are meant to power an entire house or building. For long-term use, standby generators are the best option as they are built to last and can provide a consistent power supply for years.
When purchasing a standby generator, there are a few critical things to consider. The first is the generator’s power output. You’ll want to ensure that the generator can provide enough power to meet your needs. The second is the fuel source. Most standby generators run on natural gas or propane, so you’ll want to choose the one that is most readily available in your area. Finally, you’ll want to consider the generator’s warranty and maintenance requirements to ensure that it will last for many years.
After researching and testing several standby generators, we’ve identified the best generator for long-term use. This generator provides a reliable power supply, has a high power output, and is easy to maintain.
Top pick
DuroMax XP13000EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator
This generator is powered by a 500cc OHV DuroMax engine, which provides 13,000 starting watts and 10,500 running watts.
With the ability to run on either propane or gasoline, you have the freedom and flexibility to choose the fuel that works best for you.
Editor’s choice
GROWATT VITA550 Portable Power Station
The VITA550 is an all-in-one power station that can power up to 11 devices at the same time with the Watt+ feature up to 1050W output.
With 1 wireless charging pad, 3 USB-A (1 quick charge), 2 DC 5521, 1 USB-C PD, 3 AC outlets, and 1 car port, this solar generator can drive for more than 95% of home and outdoor appliances.
Best Generators for Long Term Use
When it comes to choosing a generator for long term use, it’s important to consider factors such as fuel efficiency, noise level, and durability. Whether you’re looking for a backup power source for your home or a reliable generator for your RV or camping trip, we’ve compiled a list of the best generators for long term use. These generators have been carefully selected based on their performance, features, and customer reviews, so you can be confident in your purchase.
DuroMax XP13000EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator
If you’re looking for a powerful generator that can handle heavy loads and provide long-term use, the DuroMax XP13000EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator is a great choice.
DuroMax XP13000EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator
This generator is powered by a 500cc OHV DuroMax engine, which provides 13,000 starting watts and 10,500 running watts. With the ability to run on either propane or gasoline, you have the freedom and flexibility to choose the fuel that works best for you.
Pros
- Dual fuel technology allows for flexibility in fuel choice.
- Plenty of power with 13,000 starting watts and 10,500 running watts.
- Fully featured power panel with a wide selection of outlets for maximum compatibility.
Cons
- Heavy, at 234 pounds.
- Loud, with a noise level of 72 dB.
- Requires regular maintenance to keep running smoothly.
The power panel includes a wide selection of outlets, including a 120/240V 50A heavy-duty outlet, a 120/240V 30A twist-lock outlet, a 120V 30A twist-lock outlet, and two 120V 20A household outlets. This makes it easy to connect a variety of appliances and power tools.
One downside to this generator is its weight, which comes in at 234 pounds. This can make it difficult to move around, especially if you need to transport it to different locations. Additionally, the noise level is fairly high, at 72 dB, so it may not be the best choice if you need a generator that runs quietly.
Overall, if you’re looking for a powerful generator that can handle heavy loads and provide long-term use, the DuroMax XP13000EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator is a great choice. Just be prepared for its weight and noise level, and make sure to perform regular maintenance to keep it running smoothly.
GROWATT VITA550 Portable Power Station
If you’re looking for a reliable and safe power station for outdoor activities or home backup power, the GROWATT VITA550 Portable Power Station could be the right choice for you.
GROWATT VITA550 Portable Power Station
The VITA550 is an all-in-one power station that can power up to 11 devices at the same time with the Watt+ feature up to 1050W output. With 1 wireless charging pad, 3 USB-A (1 quick charge), 2 DC 5521, 1 USB-C PD, 3 AC outlets, and 1 car port, this solar generator can drive for more than 95% of home and outdoor appliances.
Pros
- Safe and reliable LiFePO4 battery with long-lasting durability
- Outstanding charging performance with 1.6 hour AC wall charger from 0 to 100%
- Pro-grade solar performance with up to 99% MPPT efficiency
Cons
- Some users reported the battery didn’t hold a charge as expected
- The wireless charging range could be improved
- The price point is higher than some competitors
The advanced UPS function keeps you powered during outages or other power failure scenarios, delivering a reliable power supply when you need it most. With an enhanced Battery Management System (BMS), VITA550 ensures the stability and safety of the battery, preventing issues such as overcharging, over-discharging, and short circuits.
This portable power station features a compact design, making it easy to carry and store. With its lightweight construction and folding handle, it won’t weigh you down, allowing for effortless transportation wherever you need power.
If you’re looking for a safe and reliable power station with excellent charging and solar performance, the GROWATT VITA550 Portable Power Station could be a great choice for you.
MARBERO Portable Power Station
If you are looking for a portable power station that can meet different needs of appliances and electronics, the MARBERO Portable Power Station is a great option to consider. With its compact and convenient design, this mini generator will save a lot of space in your bag or luggage, which is really convenient for camping, hiking, fishing, business trips, tailgating parties, and more.
MARBERO Portable Power Station
The MARBERO Portable Power Station is a reliable and versatile power supply that can be used not only for daily life charging but also for outdoor activities or wherever energy is needed in case of urgency. The 24-month warranty and 24-hour customer service after purchase offer peace of mind.
Pros
- The ultra-bright LED light has 3 lighting modes and 4 levels of brightness, making it an essential kit for night lighting and emergency work.
- With 2QC3.0 USB ports, 2USB C (PD3.0, 18W/30W Max), 1DC ports, and 1AC output, this portable generator can charge multiple devices at the same time.
- The Battery Management System (BMS) allows for voltage control, temperature control, and more advanced safety operations, ensuring the safety of your devices.
Cons
- The power capacity of 83Wh may not be sufficient for heavy-duty appliances or electronics.
- It may take some time to fully charge the power station using solar panels.
- The leather handle design may not be as durable as other materials.
Overall, if you need a portable power station for your next outdoor adventure, the MARBERO Portable Power Station is definitely worth considering.
Buying Guide
When looking for a generator for long-term use, there are several factors to consider. Here are some key features to look for:
Power Output
The power output of a generator is measured in watts and determines how much electricity it can produce. Consider the appliances and devices you need to power and choose a generator with a wattage output that can handle the total load. It’s important to note that some appliances, such as refrigerators and air conditioners, require a higher wattage to start up than they do to run continuously.
Fuel Type
Generators can run on a variety of fuels, including gasoline, diesel, propane, and natural gas. Each fuel type has its own advantages and disadvantages, so consider which one will work best for your needs. For example, gasoline is widely available but can be expensive and has a short shelf life. Diesel is more efficient but can be more expensive upfront. Propane and natural gas are cleaner-burning but require a separate fuel tank and may not be as widely available.
Run Time
The run time of a generator refers to how long it can operate on a single tank of fuel. Look for a generator with a long run time if you need it to run for extended periods of time without refueling. Keep in mind that the run time will vary depending on the load and the fuel type.
Portability
Consider how portable you need your generator to be. If you plan on using it for outdoor activities or in remote locations, a portable generator may be the best option. However, if you plan on using it as a backup power source for your home, a larger, stationary generator may be more appropriate.
Noise Level
Generators can be noisy, so consider the noise level when choosing a generator for long-term use. Look for generators with a low decibel rating if you need it to operate in a residential area or if you plan on using it for camping or other outdoor activities.
Other Features
Other features to consider include electric start, multiple outlets, and safety features such as automatic shut-off if the oil level is low or if the generator is overloaded. Consider your specific needs and choose a generator with the features that will work best for you.
In summary, when choosing a generator for long-term use, consider the power output, fuel type, run time, portability, noise level, and other features that are important to you. By doing so, you can ensure that you choose a generator that will meet your needs and provide reliable power for years to come.
