When it comes to survival situations, having a reliable source of power is crucial. Whether it’s a natural disaster or a societal collapse, having a generator can mean the difference between life and death. However, not all generators are created equal, and choosing the right one for your needs can be challenging.
In this article, we’ll be discussing the best generator for SHTF (or “Shit Hits The Fan”) scenarios. These are situations where the power grid is down, and you need a generator to power your essential appliances and devices. We’ll be looking at different types of generators, including gas, propane, and solar-powered generators, and discussing their pros and cons.
When choosing a generator for SHTF scenarios, there are a few critical factors to consider. These include the generator’s fuel efficiency, power output, and noise level. Additionally, you’ll want to consider factors like portability, durability, and ease of use.
After hours of research and testing, we’ve identified the top generators for SHTF scenarios. Whether you’re looking for a generator that can power your entire home or a portable option for camping or bug-out situations, we’ve got you covered. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the best generator for SHTF scenarios.
Top pick
Champion Power Equipment 100416 10,000/8,000-Watt TRI Fuel Portable Natural Gas Generator
In my experience, the Champion Power Equipment 100416 10,000/8,000-Watt TRI Fuel Portable Natural Gas Generator is a reliable and easy-to-use generator that offers flexibility in fuel options.
The ability to operate on natural gas, propane, or gasoline means that you can use whatever fuel is available to you in an emergency situation. The electric start with battery included and Cold Start Technology ensures quick and easy starts, even in cold weather.
Editor’s choice
DuroMax XP13000EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator
This generator is a workhorse that can provide up to 13,000 starting watts and 10,500 running watts, making it capable of powering large appliances and central A/C systems.
Its dual fuel technology allows it to run on either propane or gasoline, giving you the freedom to choose the fuel that’s most convenient for you.
Best Generators for SHTF
When disaster strikes, having a reliable source of power can be a matter of life and death. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best generators for SHTF situations. Our team has extensively researched and tested these generators to ensure that they are durable, efficient, and capable of providing the power you need when you need it most. Whether you’re looking for a portable option or a larger generator for your home, we’ve got you covered. Read on to find the best generator for your needs.
Champion Power Equipment 100416 10,000/8,000-Watt TRI Fuel Portable Natural Gas Generator
If you’re looking for a reliable and versatile generator for emergency situations, the Champion Power Equipment 100416 10,000/8,000-Watt TRI Fuel Portable Natural Gas Generator is a great option to consider.
Champion Power Equipment 100416 10,000/8,000-Watt TRI Fuel Portable Natural Gas Generator
The Champion Power Equipment 100416 10,000/8,000-Watt TRI Fuel Portable Natural Gas Generator is a reliable and easy-to-use generator that offers flexibility in fuel options. The ability to operate on natural gas, propane, or gasoline means that you can use whatever fuel is available to you in an emergency situation. The electric start with battery included and Cold Start Technology ensures quick and easy starts, even in cold weather.
Pros
- The generator can operate on natural gas, propane, or gasoline, giving you flexibility in fuel options.
- The electric start with battery included and Cold Start Technology ensures quick cold-weather starts.
- The CO Shield technology monitors the accumulation of carbon monoxide (CO) and automatically shuts off the engine if unsafe elevated levels of CO gas are detected.
Cons
- The generator is quite heavy at 207 pounds, which may make it difficult to move around.
- The noise level is 74 dB, which may be louder than some other generators on the market.
- The generator is quite expensive compared to some other options.
The CO Shield technology is a great safety feature that gives me peace of mind when using the generator. It automatically shuts off the engine if unsafe elevated levels of CO gas are detected, which is a critical safety feature.
However, the generator is quite heavy at 207 pounds, which may make it difficult to move around. The noise level is also quite high at 74 dB, which may be louder than some other generators on the market. Additionally, the generator is quite expensive compared to some other options, which may be a consideration for some buyers.
Overall, I would recommend the Champion Power Equipment 100416 10,000/8,000-Watt TRI Fuel Portable Natural Gas Generator for anyone looking for a reliable and versatile generator for emergency situations.
DuroMax XP13000EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator
If you’re looking for a reliable generator that can power your home essentials during an emergency, the DuroMax XP13000EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator is a great option.
DuroMax XP13000EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator
This generator is a workhorse that can provide up to 13,000 starting watts and 10,500 running watts, making it capable of powering large appliances and central A/C systems. Its dual fuel technology allows it to run on either propane or gasoline, giving you the freedom to choose the fuel that’s most convenient for you.
Pros
- Dual fuel technology allows for flexibility of fuel choice
- Powerful 500cc OHV engine can handle heavy loads
- Fully featured power panel includes a wide selection of outlets for maximum compatibility
Cons
- Heavy weight of 234 pounds can make it difficult to move around
- Louder than some other generators on the market
- Some users have reported issues with the electric start
The XP13000EH is powered by a 500cc OHV engine, which can handle heavy loads with ease. Its fully featured power panel includes a push button start and a wide selection of outlets, including two 120V household GFCI outlets, one 120V 30A twist lock outlet, one 240V 30A outlet, and one 240V 50A outlet.
While this generator is heavy at 234 pounds, it comes with 10-inch wheels and a handle kit that makes it easier to move around. However, some users have reported that the electric start can be finicky and that the generator is louder than some other models on the market.
Overall, the DuroMax XP13000EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator is a reliable and powerful option for those looking for a generator to use during an emergency.
EF ECOFLOW Portable Power Station RIVER 2
If you’re looking for a reliable and portable generator for your off-grid adventures, the EF ECOFLOW Portable Power Station RIVER 2 is definitely worth considering.
EF ECOFLOW Portable Power Station RIVER 2
In my experience, the EF ECOFLOW Portable Power Station RIVER 2 is a reliable and efficient generator that provides enough power for my off-grid adventures. The X-Stream fast charging technology is a game-changer, as I can fully recharge the generator in just an hour using an AC outlet. With its lightweight design and built-in handle, it’s easy to carry around, making it perfect for camping trips and other outdoor activities.
Pros
- With its X-Stream fast charging technology, you can fully recharge the generator using an AC outlet in just an hour.
- With an output of up to 600W, you can run up to six essential appliances simultaneously without worrying about overloading.
- With its lightweight design and built-in handle, you can easily take it anywhere you need power.
Cons
- The solar charging cable is not included, so you’ll need to purchase it separately.
- The battery life may not be sufficient for extended use, especially if you’re running power-hungry appliances.
- The price tag may be a bit steep for some users.
One thing to keep in mind is that the solar charging cable is not included, so you’ll need to purchase it separately if you want to use solar power to recharge the generator. Additionally, the battery life may not be sufficient for extended use, especially if you’re running power-hungry appliances. However, for most users, the battery life should be more than enough to power essential appliances and devices.
Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable and portable generator for your off-grid adventures, the EF ECOFLOW Portable Power Station RIVER 2 is definitely worth considering. Its fast charging technology, lightweight design, and efficient power output make it a great choice for anyone who needs power on the go.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best generator for SHTF, there are several factors to consider. Here are some key features to look for when selecting a generator:
Power Output
The power output of a generator is measured in watts. You should choose a generator that can provide enough power to meet your needs during an emergency. Consider the appliances and devices you will need to power and their wattage requirements. Make sure to choose a generator with a higher wattage capacity than you need to ensure it can handle the load.
Fuel Type
Generators can run on different types of fuel, such as gasoline, propane, or diesel. Each fuel type has its own advantages and disadvantages. Gasoline is widely available, but it has a short shelf life and can be dangerous to store. Propane is a cleaner-burning fuel, but it requires a special tank. Diesel is more fuel-efficient, but it can be expensive.
Portability
You may need to move your generator around during an emergency, so portability is an important factor to consider. Look for a generator that is lightweight and easy to move. Consider the size and weight of the generator, as well as the type of wheels or handles it has.
Noise Level
Generators can be noisy, so consider the noise level when choosing a generator. Look for a generator with a decibel level of 60 or lower. This will ensure that the generator does not disturb your neighbors or attract unwanted attention during an emergency.
Run Time
The run time of a generator is the amount of time it can run on a single tank of fuel. Look for a generator with a long run time, especially if you anticipate being without power for an extended period of time. Consider the fuel consumption rate and the size of the fuel tank when evaluating run time.
Price
Generators can be expensive, so consider your budget when choosing a generator. Look for a generator that provides the features you need at a price you can afford. Remember that a higher-priced generator may provide more features or a longer lifespan, but it may not be necessary for your needs.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best generator for SHTF that meets your needs and budget.
