The Best Natural Gas Portable Generator For Home in 2024: Reviews & Rankings

Determining the best whole house natural gas generator involves considering factors such as reliability, power output, efficiency, and brand reputation. Some top-rated options in the market include:

Generac Guardian Series: Generac is a well-known brand in the generator industry, and their Guardian Series offers a range of whole house natural gas generators with various power capacities and features. These generators are known for their reliability, quiet operation, and seamless automatic transfer switch integration.
Kohler Whole House Generators: Kohler is another reputable brand that offers whole house natural gas generators known for their durability and performance. Kohler generators come with advanced features such as remote monitoring and automatic load management, making them suitable for larger homes.
Briggs & Stratton Fortress Series: Briggs & Stratton's Fortress Series includes natural gas generators designed to provide reliable backup power for the entire home. These generators feature durable construction, quiet operation, and advanced electronics for seamless integration with your home's electrical system.

What size natural gas generator do I need for my house?

To determine the size of the natural gas generator needed for your house, you'll need to calculate the total wattage of all the appliances and systems you want to power during a blackout. Here's a general guideline:

Make a list of all essential appliances and systems, including lights, heating and cooling systems, refrigerators, sump pumps, and other critical devices.
Determine the wattage rating of each appliance and system. You can usually find this information on the appliance's label or in the owner's manual.
Add up the total wattage to find the minimum size generator you'll need to power your entire house.
Consider adding a margin of safety to account for potential power surges and future additions to your home.

Are portable natural gas generators any good?

Portable natural gas generators can be a good option for providing backup power in certain situations, but they have limitations compared to whole house standby generators. Here are some factors to consider:

Portability: Portable natural gas generators are typically smaller and lighter than standby generators, making them easier to move around. This can be advantageous if you need backup power in multiple locations or during outdoor activities such as camping or tailgating.
Power Output: Portable natural gas generators generally have lower power output compared to whole house generators, so they may not be able to power all essential appliances and systems in your home simultaneously.
Fuel Consumption: Portable natural gas generators tend to have higher fuel consumption compared to standby generators, which can result in more frequent refueling during extended power outages.
Noise Level: Portable generators can be louder than whole house generators, which may be a concern if you live in a densely populated area or need backup power for extended periods.

Can portable generators run on natural gas?

Most portable generators are designed to run on gasoline, but there are conversion kits available that allow some models to run on natural gas. These conversion kits typically involve installing a regulator and fuel lines to connect the generator to a natural gas source. However, it's essential to check the compatibility of your generator with a natural gas conversion kit and follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully to ensure safe and proper operation. Additionally, keep in mind that running a portable generator on natural gas may affect its performance and warranty.