10 Best Generac Generators 2026 in the United States

The Generac 7290 26kW Air Cooled Guardian Series Home Standby Generator offers robust and reliable power for home use, making it an excellent choice for residential backup power. The standout feature is its substantial 26kW power output, which ensures it can handle significant electrical loads. It operates on natural gas or LP gas, giving you flexibility depending on fuel availability.

Additionally, the generator includes a Quiet-Test self-test mode that runs at a lower RPM to reduce noise and save fuel, which is a significant plus for maintaining peace and quiet around your home. The electric start system enhances ease of use, and the mobile Link Wi-Fi connectivity allows you to monitor the generator remotely, adding convenience and peace of mind. The 5-year limited warranty underscores its long-term reliability, and the unit is designed for easy installation by a certified and licensed electrician.

On the downside, its hefty weight of 518 pounds makes it less portable, so it's best suited for stationary home use rather than for those needing a mobile generator. Also, while it’s engineered to be quiet during tests, its noise level during regular operation may still be a consideration for some users. The maintenance and service alerts provided via Wi-Fi are helpful, but the initial setup may require professional assistance. Despite these minor drawbacks, its high output, reliable performance, and convenient features make it a solid investment for comprehensive home backup power.

The Generac Guardian 26kW Home Standby Generator is a solid choice for homeowners needing reliable whole-house backup power during outages. It delivers a strong 26,000 watts, enough to keep most household systems running smoothly. The generator runs on natural gas or propane, which are convenient and commonly available fuel options. It features a durable all-aluminum housing designed to withstand outdoor conditions and operates quietly, making it less disruptive in residential areas. Starting is electronic and automatic, so it powers up quickly and without manual effort during power failures.

One standout feature is its Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing you to monitor performance and receive maintenance alerts remotely, which is helpful for peace of mind. The generator includes a 200-amp transfer switch, enabling seamless and safe power transfer to your home’s electrical system. However, it weighs 518 pounds and is not portable, meaning it needs professional installation and a fixed outdoor location.

The runtime listed as 12 minutes likely refers to a default test or limited load condition, so actual runtime depends on fuel availability and usage. Maintenance is simplified by the G-Force engine design, known for durability and lower upkeep needs, plus a low oil shutdown feature protects the engine. While it’s on the higher end in terms of size and investment, the 5-year limited warranty adds assurance. This generator is suited for homeowners who want an automated, whole-house backup system rather than a portable or temporary generator. For those seeking a dependable, quiet, and smartly connected standby generator that handles all essential home power needs, the Generac Guardian is a strong contender.

The Generac 8917 GP18000EFI is a robust gas-powered generator suitable for residential use, especially for whole-home backup. With a powerful 18,000-watt output and 22,500-watt starting wattage, it can handle heavy loads and multiple appliances simultaneously. The electric start feature is convenient and user-friendly, eliminating the need for manual pulling.

One of its standout features is the COsense technology, which provides crucial protection against carbon monoxide, enhancing safety during use. Additionally, the generator includes TruePower Technology, which ensures a stable power supply for sensitive electronics, making it versatile for various applications. The large capacity fuel tank offers up to 9 hours of runtime, reducing the frequency of refueling during extended power outages.

The Generac 816cc EFI engine is designed for efficiency and performance, but being a fuel-powered engine, it requires regular maintenance like oil checks and changes to keep it in top condition. Portability is a significant plus, thanks to the heavy-duty, never-flat wheels and durable steel tube cradle, although the generator's substantial weight of 443 pounds might still make it a bit challenging to move around. Some drawbacks include its noise level common to gas generators, which can be quite loud, and the initial cost, which might be on the higher side. A point of note is its compatibility with a Homelink Manual Transfer Switch, making it an effective alternative to a permanent home standby generator. Ideal for homeowners needing reliable power backup, the Generac 8917 GP18000EFI offers a blend of power, safety, and portability, albeit with the usual maintenance requirements and noise levels associated with gas generators.