2024's Best Value Home Generator - Best Deal for You

For powering an entire house during a blackout, a whole house standby generator is typically the best option. Unlike portable generators, which require manual setup and refueling, whole house generators are permanently installed outside your home and connected directly to your electrical system. These generators are designed to automatically switch on within seconds of a power outage, ensuring uninterrupted power supply to your entire house. They run on natural gas or propane, offering a continuous and reliable power source without the need for constant refueling. Whole house generators come in various sizes to accommodate different household power needs, making them ideal for providing backup power to all essential appliances and systems, including heating and cooling systems, refrigerators, lights, and security systems.

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

The size of the generator needed to run your house depends on the total power consumption of your household appliances and electronics. To determine the appropriate size, you'll need to conduct a wattage calculation by adding up the power requirements (in watts) of all the devices you want to power simultaneously during an outage. This includes essential appliances like refrigerators, sump pumps, lights, heating and cooling systems, and communication devices. Once you have the total wattage, select a generator with a power output that exceeds this figure to ensure reliable operation without overloading the generator. As a general guideline, whole house generators typically range from 20,000 to 30,000 watts for average-sized homes, but larger homes with higher power demands may require generators with outputs exceeding 30,000 watts.

Is a whole house generator worth it?

Whether a whole house generator is worth it depends on your specific circumstances and priorities. If you live in an area prone to frequent power outages or if you rely heavily on electrical appliances and systems for comfort, safety, or work, then investing in a whole house generator can be highly beneficial. A whole house generator provides peace of mind by ensuring uninterrupted power supply during blackouts, preserving food in refrigerators, maintaining a comfortable indoor environment, and keeping essential medical equipment operational. Additionally, the automatic activation feature of whole house generators eliminates the need for manual intervention during power outages, offering convenience and reliability. While whole house generators involve a significant upfront investment, many homeowners find the long-term benefits and convenience outweigh the costs.

What is the most economical generator?

The most economical generator depends on various factors, including initial cost, fuel efficiency, maintenance requirements, and longevity. In general, portable gasoline-powered generators tend to be more affordable upfront compared to other types of generators. However, they may incur higher fuel costs over time, especially during extended power outages. On the other hand, diesel generators are known for their fuel efficiency and durability, making them a cost-effective option in the long run, despite their higher initial investment. Additionally, inverter generators, although typically more expensive initially, can save you money in the long term due to their fuel efficiency and ability to prevent damage to sensitive electronics, potentially reducing replacement costs. When considering the most economical generator, it's essential to weigh both upfront costs and long-term operational expenses to determine the best value for your needs.