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Permanent (stationary) generators are emergency backup power devices that are hardwired to your home electrical wiring and connected to an external fuel line. Automatic systems are also referred to as standby. These systems can detect a power outage, start up and power your home or business during an emergency without your involvement. This guide which may save you hours of research, provides comparison data and typical prices on some of the popular brands followed by recommendations to help you choose the best system for your home. The prices represent the best deals we found online at authorized dealers or other retailers at the time we compiled this review. Of course, prices and specs are subject to change without notice. For more information and current pricing at a leading online retailer visit the respective product link (if shown) or see our Discount Generators page.

Last updated July 2010

BUYING CONSIDERATIONS

Depending on the model, emergency gensets can run on natural gas (NG), liquefied propane gas (LPG) or diesel. Most residential models are bi-fuel and can run on both gas and propane, although they are shipped configured for a particular fuel, usually propane. You will need to do a simple adjustment to convert from one fuel to the other. Diesel models are more reliable, but they are the most expensive. Because of their high cost, they are more suitable for industrial applications. Standby systems under 20kW are usually air cooled. Gensets about 20kW are liquid cooled. For detailed information on standby systems see Home Generator guide. One of the most important things to determine when choosing your backup system is how much electrical power your home will need in emergency. See our sizing guide for recommendations. An average home with up to 4-ton central air conditioner would typically need a 14-15kW device. For 5-ton a/c you likely need at least a 15kW system, such as GUARDIAN® 17/16kW model 05873. Generally, as far as I can see, Generac's Guardian® series features one of the lowest cost per kilowatt among top brands in the power range 10-20 kW, and a model from this series can be a cost-effective solution for a typical private house or a small business. Generac Guardian® new units up to 30 kW are CARB-compliant, which is required for California. Note, that when new EPA requirements harmonized with CARB will soon come into effect, the same emission certification will be required nationwide. Among other popular systems is Kohler's 12RES. This model once received a "Best Buy" rating from a leading consumer magazine. Be careful with its part number though: 12RESNT includes a transfer switch, while 12RES does not.
If you don't need to power a central a/c or other large appliances, consider lower cost dual-mode Briggs & Stratton 7kW model #40248, which offers you flexible power options. Its included propane quick connect kit get you up and running immediately from two BBQ tanks, with the ability to connect to natural gas line when you choose to.

Note that the manufacturers usually state rated power for 60 ^oF (15.5 ^oC) at sea level. You need to derate available watts typically 3.5% for each 1000 ft (305 m) above sea level and 1.5% for each 10 ^oF (12.5 ^oC) rise in ambient temperature above 60 ^oF. So, a 15 kW device would provide only about 14.1 kW at 100 ^oF.
For more technical stuff, see How electric generators work.

WHERE TO BUY

. If you want to buy online at a discount, Amazon's Home Improvement Department may be a good place to start your search. It has a wide selection of Generac GUARDIAN®, Briggs & Stratton and other top ranking genset brands. They also often offer free shipping on gensets they carry. If you prefer to buy from a local dealer or an installer who might be able to handle both delivery and installation, complete our quote request form. Note that regardless on where you bought a GUARDIAN® system, you can normally order the installation and service from their local dealer, or hire your own contractor.

NOTES:
All listed devices provide split single-phase 120/240VAC 60 Hz output.
Prices in the chart do not include taxes and shipping (although you may get it with free shipping).
We included in this review one Generac's portable model because it can be used as a whole house generator due to its high power. The models compared here represent only a small sample of all available models. For other models as well as official specifications, datasheets and warranty info visit the websites of the respective generator manufacturers.

The data and features (including ability to run a specific size of central air conditioner) are based on the published specifications of the respective manufacturers.
No attempt was made to verify products compliance to their specs.
N/a means we could not find this info.
While all attempts are made to provide accurate, current, and reliable data, all info here is provided As Is- we assume no responsibility for any errors. Product reviews are provided for information purposes and reflects only the opinion of the author. The sole responsibility when selecting a product rests with you- see important Disclaimer linked at the bottom.

This page contains affiliate links- see Compensation Disclosure.