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15 Best Portable Generators For Your Money (Updated)

Best Portable Generators

When the power goes out in your neck of the woods, it’s important to be prepared. Portable generators provide easily accessible power as well as peace of mind if and/or a crisis hits. From quiet generators to dual-fuel generators, this list has a generator to fit any need or budget.

That crisis may take the form of an overloaded power grid or a severe weather emergency such as a hurricane. Portable generators ensure that medical equipment operates safely, refrigerators and freezers remain cold, and that heating and cooling remain working. They come in handy when camping, tailgating, or working at a remote location. Generators come in small and mini sizes as well but those are meant more for camping and day trips. 

See our list of best portable generators below and save money while keeping the power on.

What Are the Best Portable Generators For Your Home?

Westinghouse WGen7500 Portable Generator Amazon Customer Reviews
  • Remote start
  • 11-hour run time at 50% load
  • Good value
Price: $849.00 Shop at Amazon Shop now Read our review
DuroMax XP12000EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator Amazon Customer Reviews
  • Keyed electric start
  • Steady, reliable operation
  • Big 457cc engine
Price: $1,199.00 Shop at Amazon Shop now Read our review
Pulsar 12,000-Watt Generator Amazon Customer Reviews
  • Decent price
  • Powerful
  • Simple control panel
Price: $899.99 Shop at Amazon Shop now Read our review
DuroMax XP4850EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator Amazon Customer Reviews
  • Good price for the power output
  • Gas and propane fuel capability
  • Mobility kit included
Price: $441.30 Shop at Amazon Shop now Read our review
DuroMax XP4400EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator Amazon Customer Reviews
  • Gas/propane fueled
  • Low oil shut off feature
  • Idle control
Price: $529.00 Shop at Amazon Shop now Read our review
DuroStar DS4000S Portable Generator Amazon Customer Reviews
  • Excellent value
  • Easy to start
  • 4-gallon gas tank
Price: $599.00 Shop at Amazon Shop now Read our review
Champion 3800-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator Amazon Customer Reviews
  • Hybrid
  • Affordable
  • CARB compliant
Price: $908.50 Shop at Amazon Shop now Read our review
A-iPower SUA4500 Portable Generator Amazon Customer Reviews
  • 3,500 running watts
  • 4-gallon tank
  • All steel construction
Price: $373.39 Shop at Amazon Shop now Read our review
WEN DF475T Dual Fuel Portable Generator Amazon Customer Reviews
  • 120v/240v output
  • Electric start
  • Wheel kit included
Price: $439.00 Shop at Amazon Shop now Read our review
WEN GN400i 4000 Watt Open Frame Inverter Generator Amazon Customer Reviews
  • Available with a cover
  • 212cc 4-stroke gas engine
  • Compact footprint
Price: $432.25 Shop at Amazon Shop now Read our review
Sportsman GEN4000 Gas Powered Portable Generator Amazon Customer Reviews
  • Runs on straight unleaded gas
  • Small size
  • Good power for RV use or emergencies
Price: $496.81 Shop at Amazon Shop now Read our review
Champions 7500 Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator Amazon Customer Reviews
  • Easy setup
  • Electric start
  • Durable
Price: $439.20 Shop at Amazon Shop now Read our review
A-iPower 12,000-Watt Dual-Fuel Portable Generator Amazon Customer Reviews
  • Good price
  • Powerful motor
  • Simple control panel
Price: $1,004.71 Shop at Amazon Shop now Read our review
Our Unbiased Reviews
  1. 1. EDITOR’S CHOICE: Westinghouse WGen7500 Portable Generator

    Pros:
    • Digital hour meter
    • GFCI protected outlets
    • 3-year residential warranty
    Cons:
    • Needs a more reliable battery
    • Close to 200 pounds
    • No 12v DC outlet

    The Westinghouse brand has been providing consistently reliable products for over 130 years and comes in a ton of different options which might be why the Westinghouse WGen7500 is such a top pick for anyone needing an extremely powerful portable generator. Whether needing to power a cabin, large worksite, or a house in an emergency, the Westinghouse WGen7500 can definitely handle it.

    The portable generator delivers 9,500 starting watts and 7,500 running watts for a large variety of appliances and power tools. It features a one-touch, push-button electric start. A unique remote start key fob is also included that may come in handy when needing to power the unit on and off multiple times on a job site. The run time for the Westinghouse WGen7500 Portable Generator is approximately 11 hours with a 50% power load which is right in line for this size of the unit. The size of the fuel tank is 6.6-gallons so the fuel economy is decent for the 420cc 4-stroke engine made by Westinghouse. This engine also features an automatic low oil shut down sensor and a stout steel tube frame with added reinforcement around the fuel tank, a nice touch. 

    This generator has an intuitive control panel including a meter to read volts, frequency, and hours. An indicator light for the electric start battery is a nice touch. The outlet panel features two GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) 120v outlets and a 120v/240v twist-lock outlet. All the outlets are protected with rubber covers. There is no DC outlet on this generator however there is a battery charging port and a separate 12v battery charger.

    • Other nice features include oil and a funnel, and a tool kit.

  2. 2. RUNNER UP: DuroMax XP12000EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator

    Pros:
    • Fuel efficient
    • Large 8.3-gallon fuel tank
    • Stout chassis frame
    Cons:
    • Plastic wheels not strong enough for unit
    • No load indicator
    • It's really, really heavy

    This is the monster portable generator you’ve been looking for! Be ready for anything with the DuroMax XP12000EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator. This model provides the power that can be found in home standby units but in a portable package. Be aware, however, that this unit is BIG and some buyers have reported the need to upgrade to pneumatic tires.

    The DuroMax XP12000EH can power all of your home’s essential appliances (even central A/C) through power outages, storms, or emergency events. The hybrid fuel capability means that the portable generator runs on either gasoline or propane. There is a keyed electric start for the 457cc/18hp engine with an optional recoil start. This generator is a definite powerhouse offering a maximum of 12,000 watts (!) of power.

    This unit is designed primarily as a portable home standby generator and as such reduces the number of 120v household outlets in favor of larger connections. The panel includes two GFCI 120v/20a outlets, one 120v/30a twist-lock outlet, a 120/240v 30a outlet, and a 50a heavy-duty outlet to satisfy your large power needs. The panel also features a voltmeter, circuit breakers, low oil indicator, idle control, and a unique switch that doubles 120v amperage for heavy loads giving users the option to operate both 120 and 240 volts simultaneously.

    The all-metal frame has fully-isolated motor mounts and an oversized noise-reducing muffler with a built-in spark arrestor. DuroMax generators feature all copper windings which is a plus that should make the unit last for years with proper maintenance.

    Large-scale home standby generators cost many thousands of dollars more than this unit. While the DuroMax XP120000EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator tops out the “portable” category, its size, capabilities, and most importantly price makes this model an amazing option. 

  3. 3. Pulsar 12,000-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator

    Pros:
    • 6.6-gallon gasoline tank
    • Hybrid gas/propane operation
    • Switch and go fuel feature
    Cons:
    • Short propane hose
    • Requires gas start before propane use
    • No u-shape tow bar

    While not an immediately recognizable name brand for most people, Pulsar has created a well-designed line of portable generators. The Pulsar 12,000-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator offers many important features that anyone needing a generator is looking for. Generators are made to provide power and this model doesn’t disappoint.

    The Pulsar can be fueled with either gasoline or propane…or both. A “switch and go” feature allows for users to fire the unit with 6.6-gallons of gasoline and then switch over to propane (or vice versa) while the generator is running. This lengthens the time the motor can run for longer periods of power supply, maybe even 24 hours straight depending on your electrical draw. 12,000 peak watts and 9,500 running watts are provided with gasoline fueling while burning propane gives up 9,000 peak and 7,000 running watts. Be sure to calculate your load needs accordingly. Another item to note is you may want to look at a longer propane connection hose as the one included may make anything larger than a 5-gallon tank difficult to hook up. 

    This workhorse features a trustworthy 420cc, 15hp, 4-stroke, air-cooled engine with an electric push-start housed in a sturdy, steel tube frame. You’ll definitely hear it when it’s running! At close to 200 pounds, the Pulsar is fairly heavy however the mobility kit makes it easier to move the unit around. I’m not a fan of the “ski pole” type of fold-down handles and prefer the u-shape bars on these generators. Your preference might be different.

    There are plenty of outlets for you to plug devices into including four 120v outlets, a 120v/240v twist-lock outlet, and a 120v/240v 50a RV receptacle. There is no DC outlet however there is a screw-contact interface for 12v battery charging. And while some people feel the color scheme should be the last thing to consider when choosing a portable generator, I really like the grey/black combination of the Pulsar G10KBN.  All in all, a reliable, powerful, and classy machine.

  4. 4. DuroMax XP4850EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator

    Pros:
    • 4,850 starting watts and 3,850 running watts
    • Long runtime on the 4-gallon tank
    • Great size for general power needs
    Cons:
    • Ski pole handles tougher to use than U-bar
    • It's loud but all generators this size are going to be loud
    • Oil fill location is difficult to use, even with the included funnel

    The Duromax XP4850EH has a dual fuel system that operates on either standard gasoline or cleaner burning liquid propane which can more than double your generator’s run time. The Duromax XP4850EH Portable Generator features a 7HP air-cooled engine and is designed with a low-oil shutoff sensor to protect the motor.

    With 4,850 starting watts and 3,850 running watts, this unit can handle heavy loads from lights and a refrigerator to a home air conditioner and high amperage power tools. It operates both 120 V and 240 V circuits simultaneously or at just 120 V with full power. The front panel offers two 120V 20A household outlets, 120/240V 30A twist-lock outlet, voltmeter, DC 12V contact posts, and the main breaker.

    With the XP4850EH, operating on propane will not foul up your generator’s carburetor and will give you quick, reliable starts. It only takes a few seconds to switch over from regular gas to propane and with the flexible line, you can hook up any size propane tank including a standard 5-gallon bottle from your barbecue grill. 

    The DuroMax XP4850EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator features an electric start, an oil funnel, a spark plug wrench, tools set, wheels and handles kit, DC charging cables, and an owner’s manual.

  5. 5. DuroMax XP4400EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator

    Pros:
    • Wheel kit and folding handle included
    • Heavy-duty features for a mid-range capacity generator
    • Durable construction
    Cons:
    • Disappointingly short run time
    • Poor packaging susceptible to shipping damage
    • Operations manual not clear

    From operating your appliances during a power outage to powering your RV on a road trip, the DuroMax XP4400EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator is a mid-range portable generator unit in a heavy-duty package. With its 4-gallon fuel tank, the XP4400EH will run 9 hours on a single tank of gas. Run time is longer if switched over to propane power and is easier on the carburetor. The generator flexible line allows attachment to any size propane tank. Keyed electric start is a plus but the unit also features an easy recoil pull start. This model is also EPA and CARB approved for use in all 50 states.

    The XP4400EH is construction-site tough but also great for tailgating or camping. The unit weighs in at a large 128 pounds so the included no-flat, semi-solid wheel, and handle kit is absolutely necessary for portability. The power panel features an AV meter, circuit breakers, and a low oil indicator. There is also a feature unique to the DuroMax XP4400EH called the MX2: a switch that combines the two 15-amp 120V circuits into one 30-amp circuit, doubling 120V power for heavier loads like commercial power tools, electric pumps, refrigerators, and small air conditioners.

    Engine noise is reduced by a stout muffler and cushioned 4-point motor mounts for relatively quiet usage in public areas like campgrounds, neighborhoods, and parks. One great plus on the XP4400EH is an idle control that automatically lowers the RPM when the generator is not providing power to reduce noise and conserve fuel. All copper windings are a bonus, providing solid durability for years. The DuroMax XP4400EH Portable Generator is made to take a beating in a variety of difficult locations and provide reliable mid-range power needs. 

  6. 6. DuroStar DS4000S Gas Powered Portable Generator

    Pros:
    • Quality construction
    • Convenient fuel gauge
    • Great value
    Cons:
    • No 240v or DC power
    • Difficult to fill and change oil
    • No amp meter

    Good for camping, RV use, sporting events, emergency power for your home, job sites, and more, the DuroStar DS4000S Gas Powered Portable Generator has a 7.0hp air-cooled overhead valve engine with a recoil start that provides 3,300 running watts of power and 4,000 peak watts. The DS4000S is a reliable workhorse ideal for powering household appliances during an electrical outage or recreational use when you and your family are miles from town.

    DuroStar claims that this portable generator only has an 8-hour run time at 50% load but the reviews we’ve looked at say otherwise with users getting anywhere from 11 to 13 hours for basic needs on one 4-gallon tank. Construction is quality with a heavy-duty steel frame and four-point fully isolated motor mounts for smooth operation. The noise level is about average for this generator size. Heavy-duty power tools are no problem with the DS4000S on a job site. Other nice features include an easy-to-read fuel gauge and an automatic low oil shut-off sensor to protect the engine. The unit provides two 120V household outlets and a 120V, 30A twist-lock outlet. 

    The DuroStar DS4000S Gas Powered Portable Generator is a solid, basic, economic model without frills, bells, or whistles. DuroStar has created a loyal following of customers by fabricating a portable generator that provides rugged dependency at a low price.

  7. 7. Champion 3800 Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator

    Pros:
    • Push-button electric start
    • Surge protector
    • Fuel efficient
    Cons:
    • Short tow handle
    • Requires inordinate maintenance
    • Really loud; up to 89 db

    When the Champion Power Equipment 3800 Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator is delivered to your door, it comes straight out of the box ready to operate using gasoline or propane. Depending on your situation, being given a choice of fuel is a great perk but be aware: this portable generator will produce 4750 starting watts and 3800 running watts running on gasoline and 4275 starting watts and 3420 running watts using propane. Plan ahead for your conditions!

    Since propane has such a long stable shelf life, it is definitely worth having a tank or two on hand during an emergency in case gasoline isn’t readily available. Run times of 9 hours on a full 3.4-gallon tank of gasoline or 10.5 hours on a 20-pound propane tank at 50% load are average. The fuel selector switch is very easy to use, quick and safe.

    The generator’s look definitely evokes that “safety equipment” look with the bright yellow paint job and bold control panel. The generator is housed in a durable steel frame and, while weighing in at 119 pounds, is portable via a folding handle and never-flat tires. One great feature that I really enjoyed was the “Intelligauge” on the front panel measuring volts, Hz, and hours to easily monitor power output and track maintenance intervals.

    The Champion 3800-Watt Portable Generator comes equipped with a battery for a push-button electric start. It features a built-in surge protector that protects your appliances from spikes in voltage above a safe threshold. It comes travel-ready with a standard 30A RV outlet with enough power to start and run a 15,000-BTU air conditioner. This unit also comes with 120v 30a RV, 120v 30a locking, and two 120v 20a household outlets.

  8. 8. A-iPower SUA4500 4,500-Watt Gasoline Powered Portable Generator

    Pros:
    • Digital hour meter for measuing run times
    • Wheel kit included
    • Great price
    Cons:
    • No electric start
    • Weighs 111 pounds
    • Average fuel consumption

    It’s good to have a budget-conscious option when looking at any tool and the A-iPower SUA4500 Gasoline Powered Portable Generator definitely fits that bill. This manual start unit provides 4,500 watts of starting power and 3,500 watts of running power ideal for construction job sites, recreational use, and emergency home power. The 208cc/7hp OHV engine is capable of powering limited household items (lights, TV, refrigerator, small appliances) and also capable of running one or two power tools. A large 4-gallon, heavy-duty fuel tank made of steel features a built-in fuel gauge and an average run time of 11 hours at 50% load.

    The portable generator features a compact, ergonomic control panel for simple access and good visibility. A very large plus with this model is a voltage selector allowing the user to choose 120v and 240v power when needed. Another bonus is an hour meter to measure run time and plan refueling. The included wheel kit adds mobility and is a nice touch to the package.

  9. 9. WEN DF475T Dual Fuel Portable Generator

    Pros:
    • Seamless propane to gasoline transition
    • 47 inch LPG hose included
    • 224cc, 4-stroke engine
    Cons:
    • Some assembly required
    • Average fuel economy
    • Shipments reported as having missing or incorrect pieces

    The WEN DF475T really has everything a homeowner would need in a portable generator. It runs on gasoline or propane, provides 120v and 240v and 12v DC power, has an electric start, included wheel kit, and a 47-inch LPG connection hose for your propane tank…all for a really great price. This generator provides 4,750 surge watts and 3,800 running watts making it a solid entry-level unit ideal for emergency or recreational use.

    The WEN DF475T weighs in at almost 110 lbs but the included wheel kit makes mobility a breeze. Other manufacturers would be wise to adopt this practice. The noise level is what you would expect from an economy generator. The transition between gasoline and propane is seamless as is the switch between 120v and 240v. The control panel layout is well designed and easy to follow.

     

  10. 10. WEN GN400i 4000 Watt Open Frame Inverter Generator

    Pros:
    • Electric start
    • Parallel-ready panel to allow connection of any two WEN inverter generators for more wattage
    • Mobility kit included
    Cons:
    • You may want to pick up the metal dipstick upgrade
    • Broken spark plug connector is common
    • It's weighs a lot

    The WEN GN400i RV-Ready 4000-Watt Open Frame Inverter Generator provides necessary energy when you need it that’s free of voltage spikes and drops to make it safe to use with laptops, phones, and other sensitive electronics. The 212cc 4-stroke OHV engine produces up to 4,000 surge watts and 3,500 rated watts of power.

    The 1.85-gallon tank provides over 7 efficient hours of half-load run time. Its control panel is packed with two three-prong 120V NEMA 5-20R receptacles, two 5V USB ports, and one 120V RV-ready TT-30R receptacle. Want to squeeze out as much juice as you can from your tank? Engage the eco-mode switch to automatically adjust fuel consumption as items are added and taken away from the panel to prevent unnecessary gasoline use.

  11. 11. Sportsman GEN4000 Gas-Powered Portable Generator

    Pros:
    • Four 120v standard outlets and a 120v RV hookup
    • Run time is 10 hours with gas; 12 hours with propane
    • Rugged construction
    Cons:
    • Difficult to fill oil and read dipstick
    • A little loud but so are most generators
    • Needs two people to move a 90-pound generator

    The Sportsman GEN4000 Gas-Powered Portable Generator is ideal for powering your RV while camping or keeping essential appliances running during a loss of power. This generator runs on straight unleaded gasoline; no mixing of oil and gas is necessary. Capable of 4,000 starting and 3,500 rated watts, this portable generator can handle the needs of most contractors, homeowners, and recreational activities.

    This unit comes equipped with four 120v outlets, a single 120v RV outlet, and a 12v DC outlet for battery charging. With a 50 percent load, the Sportsman GEN4000 Gas-Powered Portable Generator can run for 10 hours on a full tank of gasoline (3.6 gallons). The 7 HP engine runs at around 69db which is more than within acceptable expectations for a gas-powered generator.

    This model is capable of providing power to a refrigerator, computer, television lamps, and microwave simultaneously in the event of an emergency. The Sportsman GEN4000 Gas-Powered Portable Generator is a unit that performs incredibly well when a temporary power outage happens.

  12. 12. Champion 7500-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator

    Pros:
    • Well designed control panel
    • Durable
    • Excellent documentation
    Cons:
    • No main circuit breaker
    • Fuel must be shut off for unit to power down when running off propane
    • Heavy

    The Champion Power Equipment 7500-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator should be on your list of reliable, powerful backup generators to take a look at. It’s immediately ready to operate using gasoline or propane right out of the chute. The power supply is a fat 7,500 running and 9,375 starting watts on gasoline. That goes slightly down to 6,750 running and 8,400 starting watts when using propane for fuel. Even with that lower electrical capability, propane has a long, stable shelf life making it worthwhile to have a tank or two on hand in case of an emergency. The Champion 7500 Watt Portable Generator will provide approximately 8 hours on a full 6-gallon tank of gasoline and will run for 5.5 hours when using a 20-pound propane tank, all at a 50% load.

    The generator’s look definitely evokes that “safety equipment” look with the bright yellow paint job and bold control panel. The generator is housed in a durable steel frame and, while weighing in at over 200 pounds, is portable via a folding handle and never-flat tires. 

    The Champion 7500-Watt Portable Generator comes equipped with a battery for a push-button electric start. A separate on/off switch for the start battery is a great option. It features a built-in surge protector that protects your appliances from spikes in voltage above a safe threshold. This unit provides a 120v 30a twist-lock outlet, a 120v/240v 30a twist-lock outlet, and four GFCI-protected 120v 20a household outlets. Unfortunately, there is no DC output of any kind.

  13. 13. A-iPower SUA12000ED 12,000-Watt Dual-Fuel Portable Generator

    Pros:
    • 6.6-gallon gasoline tank
    • Hybrid gas/propane operation
    • Switch-and-go fuel system
    Cons:
    • Requires gas start before propane use
    • Outlet panel housing may interfere with extension cord
    • Short propane hose

    A-iPower is not a recognizable name brand for most people, but they have created a nice line of portable generators despite the fact. The A-iPower 12,000-Watt Dual-Fuel Portable Generator offers up many important features that anyone needing a generator is looking for. Generators are made to provide power and this model doesn’t disappoint.

    This portable generator can be fueled with either gasoline or propane…or both. A “switch and go” digital control pad allows for seamless switching between fuel sources. Start with 6.6-gallons of gasoline then switch over to propane (or vice versa) while the generator is running. This lengthens the time the motor can run for longer periods of power supply, potentially 24 hours straight depending on your electrical draw.

    12,000 peak watts and 9,500 running watts are provided with gasoline fueling while burning propane gives up 10,800 peaks and 8,550 running watts. Be sure to calculate your load needs accordingly. Another item to note is you may want to look at a longer propane connection hose as the one included may make anything larger than a 5-gallon tank difficult to hook up. 

    This workhorse features a trustworthy 459cc, four-stroke, air-cooled engine with an electric push-start housed in a sturdy, steel tube frame. You’ll definitely hear it when it’s running! At over 200 pounds, this A-iPower unit is heavy however the included mobility kit makes it easier to move the unit around. The U-shaped carry bar is nice to move this generator.

    There are plenty of outlets for you to plug devices into including four 120v outlets, a 120v/240v 30a twist-lock outlet, and a 120v/240v 50a RV receptacle. There is no DC outlet however there is a screw-contact interface for 12v battery charging.

Why Do I Need A Portable Generator?

Portable generators provide electricity to appliances, systems, and tools when the need for electric power arises. They typically run on ordinary unleaded gasoline but there are units that may additionally be fueled by propane as well. We’re dealing with combustion engines that create exhaust here so keep in mind that portable generators must ALWAYS operate outdoors with an extension cord or exterior electrical hookup.

Our planet’s climate is changing and creating severe weather disturbances that are growing in size and frequency. Hurricanes and tornadoes create power outages all over the world and when that happens, you’re going to be happy to have a portable generator to power your essential needs.

You could lose hundreds of dollars of food if your refrigerator and freezer lose power for more than a few hours. Basement sump pumps require electricity to keep working to prevent flooding from heavy rains. People who live in rural areas need power for electric pumps to transfer water from wells to their homes. 

Apart from dire emergency situations, portable generators allow for modern conveniences while recreating far away from home. Your average generator provides electricity to a camper or RV anywhere you wish to park it. Camping is a lot more fun with a mini-fridge, lights, microwave ovens, cooktops, and climate control systems!

What if you're working where there isn’t any power? You’re going to need electricity if you’re constructing a shed, fence, or even a barn away from your house. A portable generator will allow you to get your project completed in no time with fully powered tools.

What Should I Look For In A Portable Generator?

When looking for a generator for sale, you should first consider what you’ll primarily use it for. Will you be working as a do-it-yourselfer remotely? Is it for use in an emergency? Outdoor recreation?

Perhaps it’s a combination of all those things. Make a list of all the items you wish to provide power to along with the energy requirements. There are wattage calculators online that can help you figure up your total power load to make an educated decision on how large a unit to purchase.

Take a look at what makes the most sense to you and your living conditions. How portable do you need the generator to be? Do you require an electric start for the motor? What sort of outlets will you need?

Options such as a fuel gauge, a voltmeter, and weatherproofing are worth considering as well. How will you handle refueling, oil changes, and other maintenance items? Also, consider where you'll store your generator when it's not being used. Think about picking up a generator cover for protection.

Keep in mind that the power used to start up appliances is much higher than it is to run them consistently. You’re going to need to look at starting watt capability as well as running watt capability on the portable generator you’re looking at.

It’s important to point out that while small generators are more portable and useful for camping, an average home will require at least 5,000 watts to power essential devices consistently.

Also consider if you wish to fuel the machine with gasoline, propane, or both. A gas generator will provide longer operation times and higher energy output but crisis situations sometimes make obtaining gasoline difficult.

On top of that, gasoline doesn’t store well unless treated and propane has a long, stable shelf life. A dual fuel generator will give you the best of both worlds. Plan accordingly!

What Do I Do Now That I Have A Portable Generator?

Once you make an informed decision and your portable generator arrives at your home, make sure that you don’t wait until the power goes out to learn how to safely use it! Open up the box and get to work right away in breaking your machine in. Pay close attention to the operations manual and follow the instructions. 

Dependability, reliability, and convenience are three important things to consider with looking at portable generators. If purchased primarily to use in emergencies, there is a good chance that months if not years go by between uses.

Generators require maintenance at specified intervals such as changing out the oil. Educate yourself now so that if an emergency happens you aren’t caught off guard!

It’s important (and somewhat obvious) to point out that portable generators MUST ALWAYS be used outdoors due to the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Place your generator as far away from your home or workplace as you can. Some units feature a carbon monoxide cutoff switch however you shouldn’t need that if you observe proper safety precautions.