Welding is a crucial process in many industries, and having a reliable generator is essential for powering the welder in remote areas. Choosing the best generator for running a welder can be a daunting task, especially for those who are new to welding. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of selecting the best generator to power your welder.
When choosing a generator for welding, there are several factors to consider. The first thing to look at is the generator’s power output. Welders require a lot of power, so it’s essential to choose a generator that can provide enough power to run your welder.
The second thing to consider is the generator’s portability. If you need to move the generator around frequently, you’ll want to choose a model that is lightweight and easy to transport. Finally, you’ll want to consider the generator’s noise level. Welding can be a noisy process, so you’ll want to choose a generator that is quiet enough not to interfere with your work.
We spent hours researching and testing several generators to identify the top models for running a welder. In the following sections, we’ll provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision.
Top pick
DuroStar Power Arc Welder and Generator
This generator is designed for farm/ranch, construction, maintenance, and emergency power outages.
It features a powerful DuroStar 420cc OHV engine that provides plenty of power, and it can handle welding with 50-210 Amp DC welding current adjustment.
The power panel includes three 120V AC power outlets and a 12V DC battery charger.
Editor’s choice
DuroMax XP13000EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator
This generator is a true workhorse, providing plenty of power for even the most demanding needs. It’s powered by a 500cc OHV DuroMax engine, which provides the power normally found in stationary home standby units but in a portable package.
With 10,500 watts of running power and the ability to surge up to 13,000 watts, this generator can power household essentials such as lights, large appliances, and central A/C systems.
Best Generators for Running a Welder
When it comes to welding, having a reliable and powerful generator is essential. Whether you’re working on a job site or in a remote location, a generator can provide the necessary power to run your welding equipment.
However, with so many options on the market, it can be difficult to choose the right one for your needs. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best generators for running a welder. Our selection includes generators with high power output, durability, and portability, so you can find the perfect one for your welding needs.
DuroStar Power Arc Welder and Generator
If you’re looking for a versatile generator that can also handle welding, the DuroStar Power Arc Welder and Generator is worth considering.
DuroStar Power Arc Welder and Generator
This generator is designed for farm/ranch, construction, maintenance, and emergency power outages. It features a powerful DuroStar 420cc OHV engine that provides plenty of power, and it can handle welding with 50-210 Amp DC welding current adjustment. The power panel includes three 120V AC power outlets and a 12V DC battery charger.
Pros
- Plenty of power for both welding and running high voltage appliances and heavy-duty power tools
- Easy-to-use arc starts for quick and efficient welding
- Complies with strict emissions standards to reduce environmental impact
Cons
- Tires are not very sturdy and may need to be replaced
- Battery placement can be inconvenient
- May not be suitable for continuous, heavy-duty use
One of the biggest advantages of the DuroStar Power Arc Welder and Generator is its versatility. It can handle both welding and powering high voltage appliances and heavy-duty power tools, making it a great option for a variety of applications. The arc starts are quick and easy to use, which can save time and increase efficiency.
However, the generator does have a few drawbacks. The tires are not very sturdy and may need to be replaced, and the battery placement can be inconvenient. Additionally, the generator may not be suitable for continuous, heavy-duty use.
Overall, the DuroStar Power Arc Welder and Generator is a solid choice for those looking for a versatile generator that can also handle welding. However, it may not be the best option for those who need a generator for continuous, heavy-duty use.
DuroMax XP13000EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator
If you’re looking for a powerful generator that can handle heavy loads, the DuroMax XP13000EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator is an excellent choice. It’s perfect for powering household essentials, large appliances, and central A/C systems. With the ability to surge up to 13,000 watts and run on either propane or gasoline, this generator provides the power you need in a portable package.
DuroMax XP13000EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator
This generator is a true workhorse, providing plenty of power for even the most demanding needs. It’s powered by a 500cc OHV DuroMax engine, which provides the power normally found in stationary home standby units but in a portable package. With 10,500 watts of running power and the ability to surge up to 13,000 watts, this generator can power household essentials such as lights, large appliances, and central A/C systems.
Pros
- Dual Fuel technology allows for the freedom and flexibility of fuel choice.
- Provides a whopping 13,000 starting watts and 10,500 running watts.
- Fully-featured power panel includes a push-button start and a wide selection of outlets for maximum compatibility in your applications.
Cons
- At 234 pounds, this generator is quite heavy, making it difficult to move around.
- Can be quite loud when running at full capacity.
- The generator may require frequent maintenance to keep it running smoothly.
One of the standout features of the DuroMax XP13000EH is its Dual Fuel technology, which allows it to run on either propane or gasoline. This provides the freedom and flexibility of fuel choice, which is especially useful during power outages when gasoline may be difficult to come by.
The fully-featured power panel includes a push-button start and a wide selection of outlets for maximum compatibility in your applications, including 2 120 V household GFCI outlets, 1 120 V 30 A twist lock outlet, 1 240 V 30 A outlet, and 1 240 V 50 A outlet.
While the DuroMax XP13000EH is a powerful and reliable generator, it does have a few downsides. At 234 pounds, it’s quite heavy, making it difficult to move around. It can also be quite loud when running at full capacity, which may be a concern for some users. Additionally, the generator may require frequent maintenance to keep it running smoothly.
Overall, if you’re looking for a powerful and reliable generator that can handle heavy loads, the DuroMax XP13000EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator is an excellent choice. Its Dual Fuel technology, powerful engine, and fully-featured power panel make it an ideal choice for powering your home during power outages or for use on job sites.
A-iPower SUA12000E Portable Generator
If you’re looking for a reliable generator to power your tools at the construction site, camping ground, or home appliances, the A-iPower SUA12000E Portable Generator is worth considering.
A-iPower SUA12000E Portable Generator
In my experience, the A-iPower SUA12000E Portable Generator is a reliable and powerful option for those in need of a generator for heavy-duty tasks. The low oil alert light and automatic shutdown feature help keep the generator running smoothly, while the large fuel tank provides ample run time.
Pros
- The powerful 459 cc OHV 4 stroke engine with a low oil alert light and low oil automatic shutdown helps keep the generator performing year after year.
- With its large 7-gallon gasoline fuel tank, the generator provides an average run time of 7 hours at 100% load and 9 hours at 50% load.
- The generator comes with Electric Start capability, allowing you to quickly, easily, and conveniently start it up whenever you need it.
Cons
- The generator is quite heavy, weighing in at 206 pounds, which may make it difficult to move around.
- Some users have reported fuel leakage problems, which can be frustrating and potentially dangerous.
- The generator is also quite loud, which may not be ideal for those looking for a quieter option.
The Electric Start capability is also a convenient feature, making it easy to start up the generator when you need it.
However, the generator’s weight and noise level may be drawbacks for some users, and the reported fuel leakage problems should be taken into consideration. Overall, if you’re in need of a powerful and reliable generator, the A-iPower SUA12000E Portable Generator is a solid choice.
Buying Guide
When it comes to buying a generator for running a welder, there are several factors that you need to consider. Here are some of the key features that you should look for when choosing the best generator for your welding needs:
Power Output
The power output of the generator is one of the most important factors to consider. You need to make sure that the generator can provide enough power to run your welder. The power output of the generator is measured in watts or kilowatts. Look for a generator that provides at least 5,000 watts of power.
Fuel Type
Generators can run on gasoline, diesel, propane, or natural gas. Gasoline generators are the most common and are generally the most affordable. Diesel generators are more fuel-efficient and can provide more power, but they are also more expensive. Propane generators are a good option if you want a cleaner-burning fuel, but they are also more expensive than gasoline generators.
Portability
If you need to move your generator around frequently, then you should look for a portable generator. Portable generators are generally smaller and lighter than stationary generators, making them easier to move around. Look for a generator with wheels and a handle for easy transportation.
Noise Level
Generators can be noisy, so if you plan to use your generator in a residential area, then you should look for a generator with a low noise level. Look for a generator that produces less than 70 decibels of noise.
Runtime
The runtime of the generator is how long it can run on a single tank of fuel. Look for a generator with a long runtime if you need to use it for extended periods of time. A generator with a runtime of at least 8 hours is recommended.
Price
Generators can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. Look for a generator that fits your budget and provides the features that you need.
In summary, when choosing the best generator for running a welder, consider the power output, fuel type, portability, noise level, runtime, and price. By taking these factors into consideration, you can find a generator that meets your welding needs and fits your budget.
