There are two main classes of generators (gensets) for home use: standby and portable. If you know their details already, then scroll down to see our picks; otherwise please read on.
Standby generators are hardwired
to the house electrical system via a transfer switch and permanently connected to an external fuel source (such as LPG or natural gas). They
can provide continuous power in case of emergency for as long as the fuel is available (see
standby models review and ratings). You would just need to periodically turn them off for oil changes. A
portable generator is normally used for short-term powering selected AC loads. It connects via extension cords or via a special cable plugged to a manual transfer
switch. This type is generally cheaper than stationary, but most models get the fuel from an on-board tank and therefore need frequent
refueling. Some multi-fuel portables can also be connected to an external fuel source for extended runtime (see
portable models review and ratings). Street prices for residential gensets range from about $100 per kW to as much as $1000/kW. Here are
my picks of the popular models at discount prices in various genset categories.
NOTES:
The "best prices" shown above are automatically provided by Amazon.com
and relate to what you can buy from their site from various sellers.
These numbers do not include taxes and shipping, although Amazon
usually offers free shipping on the gensets they carry. Being a
discount retailer, it offers prices that in most cases are below the
respective manufacturer's list or MSRP. I do not imply of course that
other retailers are necessarily selling at MSRP, but these prices often
may be indeed the lowest ones you can find anywhere online at
authorized dealers. You should always do your own research though.
An average size single-family house typically needs 4 to 7 kW to power
essential items. Among cheap midsize portable generators,
Eastern Tools ETQ models along with Champion and Duro Star series feature one of the lowest cost on the
market. Many of their models are CARB and EPA complaint for California
and federal emission regulations. Northern Tool + Equipment used to
offer tri-fuel model NorthStar 8000TFG that worked on gasoline, propane
(LPG), and natural gas. It could be very handy during power outages
when gasoline was not available- you could switch fuel easily.
Unfortunately, this model is no longer available. There are bi-fuel
devices on sale though.
The homes with up to 4-5 ton central air conditioner would normally need a 15-17kW system (see our
sizing guide).
In this power range, you can probably get Generac GUARDIAN® models for
less dollars per kW than other top brands. I understand you can order
installation and service of your GUARDIAN® or Generac system from their
local dealer regardless of where you bought it, in other words even if
you did not buy from them. Note that while standby models are normally
listed by their continuous power, portable models are usually
advertised by their peak (starting) power.
For review and ratings of other top-ranking models, see our detailed comparison charts of
portable and
standby home generators review.
The characteristics and features (including ability to run a specific size of an air
conditioner) are based on manufacturer's specifications or seller's
description available at the time we compiled this review. All data
here are provided AS IS.
While efforts have been made to provide the most current and accurate
data - we are not responsible for any errors. For official
specifications and warranty info, you may contact the respective
product manufacturers. Although the models mentioned here have
generally positive user ratings at Amazon, no attempt was made to
analyze their actual reliability and the customer service. We suggest
you to do your own independent research before you buy any model to be
sure it will fit your application. This review is provided for
information purposes and reflects only the opinion of the author. The
sole responsibility when selecting a generator rests with the buyer-
see complete Disclaimer linked below.
This page contains affiliate links- see Compensation Disclosure.