The Best Generator For The House: Buyer's Guide in 2024

For home use, standby generators are often considered the best option for providing reliable backup power during outages. Standby generators are permanently installed outside the home and are connected directly to the electrical system. They automatically kick in when the power goes out, restoring electricity to your home within seconds. These generators are powered by natural gas, propane, or diesel fuel, offering convenience and peace of mind for homeowners. Standby generators are designed to deliver consistent power to your entire house, making them ideal for residential use.

How big of a generator do I need to run a house?

The size of the generator needed to power a house depends on various factors, including the square footage of your home, the number of appliances you intend to power simultaneously during an outage, and your specific power requirements. A professional assessment by a certified electrician or generator dealer is recommended to accurately determine the size of the generator needed for your home. However, as a general guideline, whole house generators typically range from around 20 kW to 48 kW, with larger homes requiring higher capacity generators to ensure adequate power supply.

What is the most reliable generator?

Determining the most reliable generator involves considering factors such as brand reputation, build quality, performance, and customer reviews. Several brands are known for producing reliable generators, including Generac, Kohler, Briggs & Stratton, and Cummins. Generac, in particular, has gained widespread recognition for its robust generators specifically designed for residential use. It's essential to research each brand and model thoroughly, read customer reviews, and consider factors such as warranty coverage and available service and support to determine the most reliable generator for your needs.

How do I pick the right generator for my house?

To pick the right generator for your house, consider the following steps:

1. Assess your power needs: Determine which appliances and systems you need to power during an outage and calculate their combined wattage.

2. Consider your budget: Set a budget for your generator purchase, including installation costs and any necessary accessories.

3. Choose the type of generator: Decide whether you want a portable or standby generator based on factors like convenience, installation requirements, and power output.

4. Calculate the generator size: Based on your power needs assessment, determine the appropriate size of the generator required to meet your household's electricity demands.

5. Research brands and models: Research different generator brands and models, considering factors such as reliability, performance, warranty coverage, and customer reviews.

6. Consult with professionals: Seek advice from certified electricians or generator dealers to ensure you select the right generator size and type for your home.

By following these steps and conducting thorough research, you can pick the right generator to ensure your home has reliable backup power during outages.