When it comes to ensuring your home remains powered during an outage, choosing the best generator for your entire home is crucial. Whether you live in an area prone to storms or simply want peace of mind, a reliable generator can keep your lights on, your fridge running, and your family comfortable. In this article, we’ll explore the key factors to consider when selecting a generator, the different types available, and some top recommendations to help you make an informed decision.
What is a Home Generator?
A home generator is a device that provides backup power during an electrical outage. It works by converting fuel (such as gasoline, propane, or natural gas) into electricity, which is then distributed to your home’s electrical system. Generators come in various sizes and capacities, and the right one for your home depends on your power needs, budget, and preferences.
Types of Generators for Home Use
Portable Generators
Portable generators are smaller, mobile units that can power essential appliances during an outage. They are typically powered by gasoline or propane and are ideal for short-term use. However, they require manual setup and cannot power an entire home unless paired with a transfer switch.
Pros
- Affordable
- Easy to move and store
- Good for powering a few appliances
Cons
- Limited power output
- Requires manual operation
- Not suitable for whole-home power
Standby Generators
Standby generators are permanently installed outside your home and automatically turn on when the power goes out. They are connected to your home’s electrical system and can power your entire house for days or even weeks, depending on the fuel supply.
Pros
- Automatic operation
- High power output
- Can power an entire home
Cons
- Expensive to purchase and install
- Requires professional installation
- Higher maintenance costs
Inverter Generators
Inverter generators are a type of portable generator that produces clean, stable power suitable for sensitive electronics like laptops and smartphones. They are quieter and more fuel-efficient than traditional portable generators but are generally not powerful enough to run an entire home.
Pros
- Quiet operation
- Fuel-efficient
- Safe for sensitive electronics
Cons
- Limited power capacity
- Higher cost than traditional portable generators
- Not ideal for whole-home power
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Generator
Power Output
The most important factor is the generator’s power output, measured in watts. To determine the right size, calculate the total wattage of the appliances and systems you want to power during an outage. For example:
Refrigerator: 600-800 watts
Central AC: 3,000-5,000 watts
Lights: 60-100 watts per bulb
Sump pump: 750-1,500 watts
Add up these numbers to find the total wattage you need. For whole-home power, a standby generator with at least 10,000-20,000 watts is recommended.
Fuel Type
Generators can run on gasoline, propane, natural gas, or diesel. Each fuel type has its pros and cons:
Gasoline: Easily available but has a short shelf life.
Propane: Clean-burning and stores well but requires large tanks.
Natural Gas: Convenient if you have a gas line but may not be available in rural areas.
Diesel: Efficient and long-lasting but noisy and expensive.
Runtime
Runtime refers to how long a generator can operate on a full tank of fuel. For extended outages, choose a generator with a long runtime or one that can be connected to an external fuel source.
Noise Level
Generators can be noisy, especially portable models. If noise is a concern, look for a generator with a low decibel (dB) rating or consider an inverter generator.
Transfer Switch
A transfer switch is a device that connects your generator to your home’s electrical system. It ensures safe operation by preventing backfeed, which can damage your appliances or harm utility workers. Standby generators come with automatic transfer switches, while portable generators require manual transfer switches.
Top Generator Recommendations for Entire Home
Generac 70432 Home Standby Generator
The Generac 70432 is one of the most popular standby generators on the market. It offers 22,000 watts of power, making it suitable for large homes. It runs on natural gas or propane and features an automatic transfer switch for seamless operation.
Key Features
- 22,000 watts of power
- Runs on natural gas or propane
- Quiet-Test mode for reduced noise
- 5-year limited warranty
Kohler 20RESCL-200SELS
The Kohler 20RESCL-200SELS is a high-quality standby generator with 20,000 watts of power. It is known for its durability and reliability, making it a great choice for homeowners who want long-term performance.
Key Features:
- 20,000 watts of power
- Runs on natural gas or propane
- Advanced diagnostics for easy maintenance
- 5-year limited warranty
Champion 14-kW Home Standby Generator
For those on a budget, the Champion 14-kW Home Standby Generator offers excellent value. It provides 14,000 watts of power and includes a 200-amp automatic transfer switch.
Key Features
- 14,000 watts of power
- Runs on natural gas or propane
- Affordable price
- 10-year limited warranty
Westinghouse WGen9500DF Portable Generator
If you prefer a portable option, the Westinghouse WGen9500DF is a powerful choice. It delivers 9,500 running watts and 12,500 peak watts, making it suitable for powering essential appliances during an outage.
Key Features
- 9,500 running watts
- Runs on gasoline or propane
- Electric and recoil start options
- 3-year limited warranty
Installation and Maintenance Tips
Professional Installation
Standby generators require professional installation to ensure they are correctly connected to your home’s electrical system and fuel source. Improper installation can lead to safety hazards or damage to your generator.
Regular Maintenance
To keep your generator in top condition, perform regular maintenance tasks such as:
- Checking and changing the oil
- Inspecting the air filter
- Testing the battery (for standby generators)
- Running the generator periodically to ensure it works when needed
Fuel Storage
If you use a portable generator, store fuel safely in approved containers and rotate your supply to keep it fresh. For standby generators, ensure your propane or natural gas supply is sufficient for extended outages.
Conclusion
Choosing the best generator for your entire home is a significant decision that requires careful consideration of your power needs, budget, and preferences. Standby generators like the Generac 70432 and Kohler 20RESCL-200SELS are excellent choices for whole-home power, while portable options like the Westinghouse WGen9500DF are ideal for smaller needs. By understanding the different types of generators and their features, you can make an informed choice that ensures your home stays powered during any outage.
Remember to prioritize safety by using a transfer switch and performing regular maintenance. With the right generator, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing your home and family are protected, no matter what happens.
