10 Best Whole Home Natural Gas Generator We've Tested: Top Rate | SHR

Source: Amazon

Best Sale: Champion Power Equipment 201222 22 kW

For whole home coverage, the powerful and reliable Champion Power Equipment 201222 22 kW aXis Home Standby Generator is another good option. The 200A whole house switch allows for seamless power transfer when an outage occurs. It has higher abundance and therefore performs better with high-powered appliances. Its also extremely heavy and only professional help can install it. In short, it is a device that you can trust, and that is all any homeowner will want at this time. Champion Power Equipment 201222 22kW aXis Home Standby Generator Description High-reliability whole-house backup the most powerful and reliable backup generator -- the Champion Power Equipment 201222 22 kW aXis Home Standby Generator.

Best Overall: 14kW Standby Generator with 200amp TS

KOHLER 14 kW Home Standby Generator The KOHLER 14 kW Home Standby Generator is a reliable option for home backup power. This generator can run on liquid propane and delivers a reliable 14,000 watts and 240V output power to keep everything running smoothly when the power goes out. An automatic transfer switch with 200A quick power transfer, overload protection, and muffler with automatic idle control come as standard for added safety and efficiency. Weighing 370 pounds, it is one that must be professionally installed, but once set up correctly it will provide a reliable, silent source of power security for the home.

Best Budget: KOHLER Generators 12RESVL100 Amp Standby Indoor Generator

KOHLER 12RESVL 12 kW Standby Generator with a 100A automatic transfer switch with a 12-space load center for home backup power Capable of providing 12,000 watts of power, this is something that will keep your essential appliances running when the power goes out. It is intended for residential use and is rated for indoor locations, while automatic load management features make it a convenient option. It may take professional installation, but with the door opened, it delivers steady silence for peace of mind.

Best Simple: DuroMax XP15000E Gas Powered Portable Generator

Delivering a powerful 15,000 watts for home backup or RV use, the DuroMax XP15000E is one of the most versatile portable generators available. Equipped with a gas-powered engine, electric start, and 50-state approval, it's not difficult to use. It provides ample power for large appliances and tools, making the unit a good choice for emergencies and job sites. But at this size, it feels pretty hefty and takes up a lot of room in your gear closet. In short, it's dependable and effective power on-move for high-capacity needs.

Best Design: Champion Power Equipment 100837 14kW

This Champion Power Equipment 100837 14kW Home Standby Generator System is a reliable backup residential power option. The 200-Amp aXis automatic transfer switch allows for smooth transitions from regular power to back up power in the event of an outage. It has a 14kW output, which is more than enough to handle the essential household appliances and is comparatively much quieter. With a few professional help, installation is relatively easy, while its durability and performance ensure that it will provide years of reliable service for the home it secures.

The price of a proper whole-house natural gas generator varies based on factors like its size, brand, installation complexity, and decorative features. Generators usually cost $3,000-15,000 on average. The total cost, including installation, permits and extra accessories, can run between $5,000 and $25,000, however.

Small Whole-House Generators (7kW - 12kW): Usually priced at $3,000 to $5,000; accommodates smaller homes running just basics.

Cost about $5,000 to $10,000 Medium Whole-House Generators (13kW - 20kW): Can power most household needs.

Large Whole House Generators (22kW – 48kW or more): $10,000 to $15,000+, designed for large homes with high energy requirements.

Installation costs, including labor, electrical work, gas line extensions and permits, can range from $2,000 to $10,000. Hiring a professional guarantees adherence to safety codes and optimum efficiency.

How Big of a Gas Generator Do I Need for My Whole House?

To figure out what generator size you need, you must first make a calculation of how much power your home consumes in total (kW). A rough ballpark estimate is determined by size of home, amount of power used:

• 1,000 — 1,500 sq. ft.): Require approximately 7kW to 12kW.
• Medium (1,500 - 3,000 sq. ft. ft.): Require 13kW to 20kW.
• Large homes (3,000+ sq. ft.): 22kW to 48kW or more, especially if running HVAC systems, electric water heaters or many large appliances.

To find accurate figures, write down critical appliances and their wattage. Total it up and figure a generator at least 20% over and above that to handle startup spikes. It’s also a good idea to consult a licensed electrician to ensure you select the right caliber for your home’s needs.

How Much Natural Gas Does a Standby Generator Use?

Natural Gas Generator Fuel Consumption: Size, Load & Efficiency Here’s an estimate of how much natural gas is used:

• 10kW Generator: Consumes about 90 – 120 cubic feet per hour (CFH) @ full load
• 20kW Generator: Uses about 190 – 220 CFH.
• 30kW Generator: Approx 290 - 330 CFH.

For your reference, 1,000 cubic feet (1 CCF) of natural gas provides about $1-$2 worth of energy (varies with local utility cost). A 20kW generator running flat out for 24 hours would consume, for example, 4,500 - 5,200 CFH, which at $1.75 - $2.50 per CFH would cost between $5 and $10 hourly in fuel.

Yet fuel consumption is not constant, but varies with load demand. Gas usage will be much lower if the generator is only being utilized to power 50% of your home. Honestly, always refer to the manufacturer’s specs for exact fuel figures.