Power outages can be a real inconvenience, especially when they happen unexpectedly. That’s where generators come in handy. They provide power when the grid goes down, ensuring that you can keep your lights on, your food cold, and your electronics charged. In this article, we’ll be discussing the best generator for small homes.
When it comes to generators, there are several types to choose from, including portable, standby, and inverter generators. Portable generators are the most popular choice for small homes because they’re easy to move around and can be used for a variety of applications. They’re also more affordable than standby generators, which are permanently installed and automatically turn on when the power goes out.
When shopping for a generator for your small home, there are a few key things to keep in mind. First, you’ll want to consider the size of your home and the amount of power you’ll need to keep things running smoothly. You’ll also want to think about the noise level of the generator, as well as its fuel efficiency and runtime.
In this article, we’ve researched and tested several generators to identify the best one for small homes. We’ll be looking at factors like power output, noise level, and runtime to help you make an informed decision. So whether you’re looking for a generator to keep in your garage for emergencies or to take with you on your next camping trip, we’ve got you covered.
Top pick
DuroMax XP13000EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator
The DuroMax XP13000EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator is a reliable and powerful generator that can handle your most demanding needs. Whether you’re looking to power your home during a blackout or need a generator for your RV, this unit has you covered.
With its Dual Fuel technology, you can choose between propane or gasoline to power the generator, giving you the flexibility you need. Plus, with 13,000 starting watts and 10,500 running watts, you can power your essential appliances and tools with ease.
Editor’s choice
Westinghouse WGen9500DF Dual Fuel Portable Generator
The Westinghouse WGen9500DF Dual Fuel Portable Generator is a solid choice for anyone looking for a reliable and powerful generator for their small home. It’s easy to use, versatile, and packed with features that make it a great value for the price.
Best Generators for Small Homes
When it comes to powering your home during an outage or off-grid living, a reliable generator is a must-have. For small homes, finding the right generator that can provide enough power without taking up too much space can be a challenge. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best generators for small homes. Our selection is based on factors such as fuel efficiency, noise level, and overall performance. Whether you’re looking for a portable or standby generator, we’ve got you covered.
DuroMax XP13000EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator
If you’re looking for a powerful generator that can handle heavy loads, then the DuroMax XP13000EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator is a great choice. With 13,000 starting watts and 10,500 running watts, this unit can power your household essentials such as lights, large appliances, and central A/C systems. Plus, the Dual Fuel technology allows you to run the generator on propane or gasoline, giving you the freedom and flexibility of fuel choice.
DuroMax XP13000EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator
The DuroMax XP13000EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator is a reliable and powerful generator that can handle your most demanding needs. Whether you’re looking to power your home during a blackout or need a generator for your RV, this unit has you covered. With its Dual Fuel technology, you can choose between propane or gasoline to power the generator, giving you the flexibility you need. Plus, with 13,000 starting watts and 10,500 running watts, you can power your essential appliances and tools with ease.
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
- Can be noisy during operation
- Requires regular maintenance
One of the standout features of this generator is its fully featured power panel, which includes a push button start and a wide selection of outlets for maximum compatibility. The power panel includes 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 means you can connect a variety of appliances and tools to the generator without needing additional adapters.
However, it’s worth noting that the DuroMax XP13000EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator is quite heavy at 234 pounds, which makes it difficult to move around. Additionally, the generator can be noisy during operation, which may be an issue if you’re using it in a residential area. Finally, like all generators, the DuroMax XP13000EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator requires regular maintenance to keep it running smoothly.
Overall, if you’re looking for a powerful and reliable generator that can handle your most demanding needs, then the DuroMax XP13000EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator is a great choice. With its Dual Fuel technology, fully featured power panel, and plenty of power, this generator is well worth considering.
Westinghouse WGen9500DF Dual Fuel Portable Generator
If you’re looking for a reliable generator that can power your small home during an emergency, the Westinghouse WGen9500DF Dual Fuel Portable Generator is definitely worth considering.
Westinghouse WGen9500DF Dual Fuel Portable Generator
The Westinghouse WGen9500DF Dual Fuel Portable Generator is a solid choice for anyone looking for a reliable and powerful generator for their small home. It’s easy to use, versatile, and packed with features that make it a great value for the price.
Pros
- The generator produces up to 12,500 peak watts and 9,500 running watts, making it powerful enough to run most household appliances and electronics.
- With its dual fuel capability, you can choose to power it with either gasoline or propane, giving you more flexibility and options.
- The generator is easy to start, thanks to its push-button electric start and remote start key fob.
Cons
- The generator is quite heavy, weighing in at 211 pounds, which can make it difficult to move around.
- Some users have reported issues with the starter grinding on the flywheel or not meshing properly.
- The generator is quite loud when running, which can be a nuisance if you have close neighbors.
Champion Power Equipment 200951
If you’re looking for a portable generator that’s perfect for camping, tailgating, or powering small items around the RV, the Champion Power Equipment 200951 2500-Watt Portable Inverter Generator is an excellent choice. With its ultralightweight design, it’s one of the lightest 2500-watt inverters in the industry. Plus, it’s easy to use, thanks to Champion’s innovative design.
Champion Power Equipment 200951
This generator is perfect for those who want a reliable and easy-to-use generator for their outdoor adventures. Its ultralightweight design makes it easy to transport, and the quiet operation ensures that you won’t disturb your neighbors. With its clean power output, you can confidently connect your sensitive electronics without worrying about damage.
Pros
- Ultralightweight design makes it easy to transport
- Quiet operation at only 53 dBA from 23 feet
- Clean power with less than 3% THD
Cons
- Not recommended for emergency home backup
- Only runs up to 11.5 hours at 25% load
- Parallel kit not included
One of the best things about this generator is its innovative design. The Champion’s Inverter Technology includes smart Economy Mode, which can reduce the electrical load, providing quieter operation, extended engine life, and better fuel economy. This generator also features Cold Start Technology, which ensures a quick start in cold weather.
Overall, the Champion Power Equipment 200951 2500-Watt Portable Inverter Generator is an excellent choice for those who want a reliable and easy-to-use generator for their outdoor adventures. With its ultralightweight design, quiet operation, and clean power output, it’s sure to meet all of your needs.
Buying Guide
When choosing the best generator for a small home, there are several factors to consider. Here are some key features to look for:
Power Output
The first thing to consider is the power output of the generator. Calculate the wattage of the appliances and devices that will need to be powered during an outage. Look for a generator with a power output that can handle that amount of wattage.
Fuel Type
Generators can run on various types of fuel, including gasoline, propane, and diesel. Consider which fuel type is readily available in your area and which one is most cost-effective.
Runtime
The runtime of a generator refers to how long it can run on a single tank of fuel. Look for a generator with a runtime that can meet your needs during an outage.
Portability
If you plan on using the generator for camping or other outdoor activities, portability may be a key factor. Look for a generator that is lightweight and easy to move.
Noise Level
Generators can be noisy, so consider the noise level when choosing a generator for your small home. Look for a generator with a decibel level that is acceptable for your needs.
Price
Generators can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. Consider your budget when choosing a generator, but also keep in mind that a higher-priced generator may have more features and a longer lifespan.
Overall, when choosing the best generator for a small home, it’s important to consider power output, fuel type, runtime, portability, noise level, and price. By taking these factors into account, you can find a generator that meets your needs and provides reliable power during an outage.
