In today’s world, where power outages are becoming increasingly frequent due to extreme weather conditions, natural disasters, or grid failures, having a reliable backup power solution is essential for homeowners. An automatic home standby generator ensures that your household remains functional when the lights go out, providing comfort, security, and peace of mind. Unlike portable generators, which require manual setup and refueling, automatic standby generators kick in immediately when they detect a power loss, offering seamless, uninterrupted power.
This article explores the best automatic home standby generators, detailing their key features, pros and cons, and how they can meet different home needs.
How Automatic Home Standby Generators Work?
Automatic home standby generators are permanently installed outside your home and are connected to the electrical system. They detect power outages and automatically turn on, supplying power to essential circuits or the entire home, depending on the model. These generators typically run on natural gas or propane, though some can operate on diesel or dual fuels. The built-in automatic transfer switch (ATS) disconnects the home from the grid and powers the house via the generator. Once power is restored, the generator automatically shuts off.
Generac Guardian Series
Key Features
Power Output: Up to 24,000 watts
Fuel Type: Dual fuel options (natural gas and propane)
Smart Features: Wi-Fi remote monitoring for real-time system status and alerts
Automatic Transfer Switch: Yes
Ideal For
Large single-family homes
Whole-home backup power
Pros and Cons
Pros
Reliable Power: With up to 24,000 watts, the Guardian Series is capable of handling the power needs of most homes, including high-demand appliances.
Easy Maintenance: Generac’s self-diagnostic capabilities and remote monitoring make maintenance a breeze.
Quiet Operation: Thanks to sound-dampening features, it runs quietly during use.
Cons
Higher Cost: The performance and features come at a premium, which may be outside the budget of some homeowners.
Space Requirements: Larger models may need a bigger installation footprint.
Kohler 20RESCL with OnCue Plus
Key Features
Power Output: 20,000 watts
Fuel Type: Natural gas or propane
Smart Features: OnCue Plus remote monitoring for detailed system status and diagnostics
Automatic Transfer Switch: Yes
Ideal For
Medium to large single-family homes
Whole-home backup power
Pros and Cons
Pros
High Power Output: At 20,000 watts, this model is ideal for providing whole-home power, including high-demand appliances like HVAC systems.
Advanced Monitoring: The OnCue Plus system offers real-time data and remote diagnostics, keeping you informed of any issues.
Durable Construction: Kohler’s reputation for durable, long-lasting products extends to this generator, ensuring reliability.
Cons
Higher Price: The advanced features and high-quality construction come with a steeper price tag.
Size: The unit is relatively large, requiring ample space for installation.
Champion 12.5-kW Home Standby Generator
Key Features
Power Output: 12,500 watts
Fuel Type: Dual fuel options (gasoline and propane)
Smart Features: Yes, but more basic compared to competitors
Automatic Transfer Switch: Yes
Ideal For
Medium-sized single-family homes
Budget-conscious homeowners seeking an efficient backup power solution
Pros and Cons
Pros
Good Balance of Power and Price: Provides adequate power for most essential household needs at a relatively affordable price.
Quiet Operation: Known for operating quietly, even during extended periods of use.
Easy Installation: Its compact size and clear installation instructions make setup relatively simple.
Cons
Limited Fuel Options: While dual fuel is an advantage, it’s limited to gasoline and propane, unlike some other models that offer more fuel flexibility.
Basic Smart Features: Lacks the advanced monitoring features offered by higher-end models like Generac and Kohler.
Briggs & Stratton 20kW Standby Generator
Key Features
Power Output: 20,000 watts
Fuel Type: Natural gas or propane
Automatic Transfer Switch: Yes
Durability: Rugged and weather-resistant design
Ideal For
Large single-family homes
Whole-home backup power
Pros and Cons
Pros
Reliable Power: With 20,000 watts, it can power an entire home during an outage.
Low Maintenance: Briggs & Stratton generators are known for their easy upkeep and minimal need for frequent service.
Rugged Construction: Built to withstand harsh weather conditions, making it suitable for areas prone to storms.
Cons
Higher Cost: Like other premium generators, it comes with a significant upfront cost.
Installation Requirements: The generator’s size requires a professional installation, which adds to the overall expense.
Comparative Analysis
When comparing the four generators, key features such as power output, fuel options, and remote monitoring capabilities come to the forefront:
Power Output
The Generac Guardian Series offers the highest power output (24,000 watts), making it ideal for large homes. The Kohler 20RESCL and Briggs & Stratton 20kW both provide 20,000 watts, suitable for most single-family homes. The Champion 12.5-kW offers a more modest 12,500 watts, which may be sufficient for medium-sized homes.
Fuel Options
Both Generac and Champion offer dual fuel models, which provides flexibility in fuel choice (natural gas, propane, gasoline). Kohler and Briggs & Stratton are limited to natural gas or propane.
Smart Features
Generac and Kohler excel with their remote monitoring systems (Wi-Fi and OnCue Plus), allowing users to monitor their generators in real time. Champion offers more basic features, while Briggs & Stratton lacks advanced remote monitoring.
Cost
Champion stands out as the most cost-effective option, while Generac, Kohler, and Briggs & Stratton are more expensive, though they come with additional power and features.
Additional Tips for Choosing and Maintaining Your Generator
Fuel Type and Availability
Consider the availability of natural gas or propane in your area when choosing your generator. Dual-fuel generators offer more flexibility but may require more frequent fuel changes.
Regular Maintenance
Perform routine checks on your generator, including inspecting the battery, changing the oil, and ensuring that the transfer switch works properly.
Proper Storage
If your generator is not in use for extended periods, store it in a dry, ventilated area to protect it from weather conditions.
Safety Precautions
Always ensure proper installation by a licensed professional to avoid fire hazards. Never operate a generator indoors or in an enclosed space to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
Conclusion
Investing in an automatic home standby generator is a wise decision for homeowners who want uninterrupted power during an outage. Each model reviewed offers distinct advantages, from the high-output Generac Guardian Series to the cost-effective Champion 12.5-kW. The right choice depends on your home’s size, power needs, and budget. By considering the key features, pros, cons, and additional maintenance tips, you can make an informed decision that ensures your family stays safe, comfortable, and powered during any outage.
