Imagine a sudden blackout. The lights go out, the fridge stops humming, and your cozy home turns dark and silent. That sudden silence can be stressful! Many homeowners worry about losing power during storms or outages. Choosing the right whole-house generator can feel like a huge puzzle with too many pieces.
Deciding on a generator involves tricky choices about size, fuel type, and installation costs. You need power that keeps your essential appliances running, but you do not want to buy something too big or too small. This decision impacts your comfort and your wallet.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down exactly what you need to know about whole-house generators. You will learn the key features to look for and how to match a generator perfectly to your home’s needs. Get ready to take control of your home’s power security.
Top Generators For Whole House Recommendations
- Remote Monitoring Anywhere: With Generac 7043 22kW Mobile Link Wi-Fi connectivity, effortlessly track generator performance from anywhere. Stay updated on status and maintenance alerts, ensuring peace of mind even when you’re away
- Whole House Protection: Enjoy comprehensive coverage with Generac's 200 Amp NEMA 3R smart switch, designed for outdoor use with an aluminum enclosure. This ensures that your home remains powered and protected during power outages
- Long-Term Assurance: Backed by a 5-Year Limited Warranty, this automatic transfer switch delivers lasting performance and peace of mind, ensuring your investment in a Generac transfer switch will serve you well for years
- High-Quality 22kW Power: True Power Technology delivers clean, stable 22,000 watts with under 5% harmonic distortion. Generac’s low-maintenance engines run quieter and use less fuel for efficient, reliable home power
- Crafted for Excellence: Proudly engineered and assembled in the USA, our generators stand as testament to quality and craftsmanship. The purpose-built G-Force Engine is designed to handle the demands of usage, ensuring reliability and reduced maintenance
- Switch between gasoline (14500 surge watts, 11500 running watts), propane (12500 surge watts, 10300 running watts), and natural gas (10500 surge watts, 8750 running watts) with a simple turn of the selection dial
- Operates at 120V and 240V, making it perfect for transfer switches and emergency backup
- The WEN Watchdog CO Shutdown Sensor helps protect both you and your family by automatically turning off the generator if dangerous levels of carbon monoxide are detected
- Electric start powers the 500c 4-stroke OHV engine with the turn of a key, while the 8.2-gallon tank provides up to 12 hours of half-load runtime
- Includes four 120V 5-20R outlet, a 120V/240V transfer-switch-ready NEMA L14-30R outlet, a 120V/240V transfer-switch-ready NEMA 14-50R outlet, a 12V DC automotive outlet, a bottle of oil, a 6-foot LPG connection hose, an NG quick-connect adapter, and a three-year limited warranty
- Remote Monitoring Anywhere: With Generac 7210 24kW Mobile Link Wi-Fi connectivity, effortlessly track generator performance from anywhere. Stay updated on status and maintenance alerts, ensuring peace of mind even when you’re away
- Whole House Protection: Enjoy comprehensive coverage with Generac’s model 200 Amp SER transfer switch, designed for outdoor use with an aluminum enclosure. This ensures that your home remains powered and protected during power outages
- Long-Term Assurance: Backed by a 5-Year Limited Warranty, this automatic transfer switch delivers lasting performance and peace of mind, ensuring your investment in a Generac transfer switch will serve you well for years
- High-Quality 24kW Power: True Power Technology delivers clean, stable 24,000 watts with under 5% harmonic distortion. Generac’s low-maintenance engines run quieter and use less fuel for efficient, reliable home power
- Crafted for Excellence: Proudly engineered and assembled in the USA, our generators stand as testament to quality and craftsmanship. The purpose-built G-Force Engine is designed to handle the demands of usage, ensuring reliability and reduced maintenance
- Perfect as a backup power source for larger homes or a dependable source of portable power
- 14,500 peak watts, 11,500 running watts (gasoline); 13,500 peak watts, 10,500 running watts (propane); 12,000 peak watts, 9,500 running watts (natural gas)
- Powered by a heavy duty 550cc 4-Stroke OHV Westinghouse Engine constructed with a durable cast iron sleeve; Runs for up to 19 hours on a 9.5 gal. fuel tank with built-in fuel gauge; up to 7 hours on a 20 lb. propane tank
- Engineered with low THD, so it's safe for sensitive electronics. Power phones, computers, TVs and more. Stay connected with people, news and entertainment during power outages, or on jobsites and campsites. Durable copper windings help your generator produce cleaner power, run cooler and last longer
- All Westinghouse portable generators are gunctionally tested in the factory and may contain minimum residual oil and/or fuel odor; EPA compliant; Backed by 3-Year limited service, labor, and parts coverage and Nationwide Customer Service Network
- 9500 Running Watts and 12500 Peak Watts (Gasoline); 8500 Running Watts, 11200 Peak Watts (Propane); Remote Start with Included Key Fob, Electric and Recoil Start; Up to 12 Hours of Run Time on a 6. 6 Gallon Fuel Tank with Fuel Gauge
- Features Two GFCI 120V 5–20R 20A Standard Household Receptacle, One Transfer Switch Ready 120V L14-30R 30A, and One RV Ready 120/240V 14–50R 50A; All Outlets Have Rubber Covers for Added Safety
- Powered by a Heavy Duty 457cc Westinghouse 4-Stroke OHV Engine Featuring a Long-Lasting Cast Iron Sleeve with Automatic Low Oil Shutdown and Digital Hour Meter. VFT display gives you real time updates with the voltage output, frequency, and lifetime hours
- Plug-and-Play: Comes with a Remote Start Key Fob, 12V Battery Charger, Oil, an Oil Funnel, a Tool Kit, and a User’s Manual to Get You Started Right Out of the Box (Minimal Assembly Required)
- All Westinghouse Portable Generators are Functionally Tested in the Factory and May Contain Minimum Residual Oil and/or Fuel Odor; EPA Compliant; Backed By 3-Year Limited Service, Labor, and Parts Coverage and Nationwide Customer Service Network
- With 13,000 watts of power, the XP13000EH Dual Fuel generator will keep your whole home running during a storm or power outage
- DuroMax is the industry leader in Dual Fuel portable generator technology, with a full assortment ranging from digital inverters to generators that can power your entire home
- At the core of all our products resides a robust DuroMax engine. Designed for Power. Designed to Last
- The XP13000EH comes with a push button start, a front facing interface that allows you to change your fuel type in seconds, and a wide variety of outlets (including a transfer switch-ready 50 amp outlet)
- Constructed with a heavy-duty all metal frame and power panel - No plastic parts
- PrecisionPower Technology delivers best-in-class power quality with less than 5 percent total harmonic distortion for clean, smooth operation of sensitive electronics and appliances
- Generac's G-Force Engine is a purpose-built, pressure-lubricated engine capable of handling the rigors of generator use, resulting in power that’s more reliable and requires less routine maintenance than any competitive engine.
- Quiet-Test Self-Test Mode runs at a lower RPM for a five or twelve minute test, making generators significantly quieter than other brands while consuming less fuel.
- Smart, User-Friendly Controls. Honeywell Generator's Sync Controller features a multilingual LCD display that allows users to monitor battery status and track maintenance intervals to ensure your generator is always in top operating condition.
- Tough, Durable All-Aluminum Enclosures: Our RhinoCoat powder-coated finish helps make corrosion-resistant aluminum perfect for all weather conditions.
- Whole House Protection: Keep your family comfortable and connected during power outages. Avoid the disruption of losing refrigeration, heating/cooling, lights and connectivity of your devices with a Home Standby Generator that automatically detects an outage and delivers backup power to your home.
- Lowest Total Cost Of Ownership: Electronic fuel & ignition control optimizes fuel use for a more cost-efficient and lower emission back-up power solution* and financing options that offer you solutions that meet your budget *On average versus Generac Guardian Series standby generators
- Remote Monitoring & Control: Built-in Cellular Connectivity allows you to monitor performance and control your generator with Mobile Link app whether you're home or away. Provides real-time updates and maintenance alerts right on your device.* *Requires Mobile Link premium subscription
- Superior Reliability: Oil level sensors monitor oil level to help ensure generator readiness, support in cold climates with improved cold start performance and sloped roof & rear intake to reduce risk of ice or snow intrusion
- Compatible with the Generac Home Energy Ecosystem: Compatible with ecobee by Generac thermostats and Generac PWRcell battery systems to seamlessly monitor & control your home’s energy. Reviews on this project may contain feedback based on the 18 kW Generac Guardian Home Standby Generator.
Choosing the Right Whole-House Generator: A Simple Buying Guide
When the power goes out, a whole-house generator keeps your lights on, your fridge cold, and your family comfortable. Picking the right one can seem tricky. This guide breaks down what you need to know.
Key Features to Look For
A good whole-house generator needs several important features to work well when you need it most.
Power Output (Wattage)
- Know Your Needs: You must figure out how much power your home uses. Look at the running watts (what you need constantly) and starting watts (what you need for big things like A/C units to kick on).
- Sizing Up: A small home might need 10,000 watts, while a large home with central air might need 20,000 watts or more. Always buy slightly more power than you think you need.
Fuel Type
- Natural Gas: This fuel comes directly from a utility line. It runs for a very long time without refueling. This is often the best choice for long outages.
- Propane (LP): This fuel is stored in tanks outside your home. It is easy to install but requires you to monitor the tank level.
- Diesel: Diesel engines are very durable. They are often used in very large or commercial settings.
Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS)
This switch is crucial. When the main power fails, the ATS automatically senses the outage and starts the generator. When utility power returns, it safely shuts the generator off. This feature makes the whole process hands-free.
Important Materials and Construction
The quality of the materials affects how long your generator lasts and how well it performs in bad weather.
Engine Quality
Look for engines made by well-known brands. A strong, reliable engine starts quickly and runs smoothly under a heavy load. Many good units use air-cooled or liquid-cooled engines. Liquid cooling generally lasts longer.
Enclosure (The Housing)
- Weatherproofing: The outer case must protect the internal parts from rain, snow, and debris. Look for corrosion-resistant metal, like powder-coated steel.
- Noise Level: Generators produce noise. High-quality units feature sound-dampening insulation inside the enclosure. Measured in decibels (dB), a lower number means a quieter machine. Anything under 70 dB is generally considered quiet.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes one generator better than another? It often comes down to testing and smart design.
Quality Improvements
- Testing Standards: Generators tested and listed by organizations like UL (Underwriters Laboratories) meet strict safety and performance standards. Always choose UL-listed equipment.
- Voltage Regulation: Good generators maintain a steady voltage output. Unstable voltage can damage sensitive electronics like computers and modern TVs.
Quality Reducers
- Cheap Components: Some budget models use lower-grade wiring or plastic parts that break down quickly when exposed to the elements or heat.
- Lack of Maintenance Features: If the oil and filter are hard to reach, routine maintenance becomes difficult. Easy access improves long-term quality.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you plan to use the generator shapes your best choice.
The “Set It and Forget It” User
If you want the generator to handle everything automatically while you are at work or on vacation, you must choose an automatic transfer switch model powered by natural gas. These systems require professional installation but offer the best peace of mind.
The Emergency User
If you only need power for critical items (like a sump pump or a few lights) during short outages, a smaller, perhaps manually started, propane unit might save you money upfront. However, remember you must start it yourself.
Whole-house generators offer great security. By focusing on reliable fuel sources, strong engines, and automatic features, you ensure your home stays powered through any storm.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Whole-House Generators
Q: How much does a whole-house generator cost?
A: The cost varies widely. You can expect to pay between $3,000 and $12,000 for the unit itself. Installation by an electrician and plumber adds several thousand dollars more to the total price.
Q: Do I need a permit to install one?
A: Yes, almost always. Generators connect directly to your home’s electrical system and often to a gas line. Local building codes require permits and inspections to ensure safety.
Q: How far away from my house should the generator sit?
A: Local codes usually require a minimum safe distance, often 5 to 10 feet, to prevent carbon monoxide fumes from entering the home or garage. Always follow the manufacturer’s specific distance requirements.
Q: How often do I need to run the generator for testing?
A: Most modern automatic generators run a short self-test cycle once a week. This test keeps the engine lubricated and ensures the system is ready if a real outage occurs.
Q: Can a whole-house generator power my central air conditioner?
A: Yes, many can, but this requires a large starting wattage capacity. Make sure the generator’s starting (peak) watts rating is higher than the A/C unit’s required starting load.
Q: What is the typical lifespan of a whole-house generator?
A: With regular maintenance, a quality standby generator can last 20 to 25 years or more. The lifespan depends heavily on how often it runs and the quality of the engine.
Q: Is it better to use natural gas or propane?
A: Natural gas offers unlimited runtime as long as the utility is working. Propane is great if you are far from a gas line, but you must have enough fuel stored in your tanks to last the whole outage.
Q: What is “load shedding”?
A: Load shedding is a smart feature in smaller standby generators. If the generator is overloaded, it temporarily shuts off non-essential appliances (like the water heater) so that the critical items (like the fridge) keep running.
Q: Can I use a portable generator instead of a whole-house unit?
A: You can, but it is not the same experience. Portable generators must be started manually, require you to run extension cords outside, and usually cannot power large appliances like central A/C safely.
Q: What is the warranty typically like?
A: Most good whole-house generators offer a warranty of three to five years. Read the fine print; sometimes, the warranty length depends on how many hours per year the unit is allowed to run.