10 Best Generators For Home Use 2026 in the United States

The Generac Guardian 26kW Home Standby Generator is a solid choice if you want reliable backup power for your entire home during storms or outages. It delivers a strong power output of 26,000 watts, enough to keep most household appliances and systems running smoothly. It runs on natural gas or liquid propane, which are common and convenient fuel options that can keep the generator running for extended periods without refueling. While the exact runtime depends on fuel supply, the continuous fuel source options make it practical for long outages.

This generator is designed to be permanently installed outside with a sturdy aluminum enclosure that protects it from weather. Weighing over 500 pounds, it’s not portable at all, so it’s made as a fixed backup solution rather than a movable generator. It features an automatic electronic start system, so it powers on quickly and without manual effort during an outage. Noise levels are described as 'super quiet,' which means it won’t be too disruptive in your neighborhood. Safety-wise, it includes low oil shutdown to protect the engine, and the fully enclosed design keeps users safe from moving parts. The integrated 200 Amp transfer switch helps manage power delivery safely to your entire home.

A nice modern touch is the WiFi-enabled remote monitoring, allowing you to check the generator’s status and maintenance alerts from your phone anywhere, giving extra peace of mind. One downside is that installation requires a certified electrician, so you’ll need professional help, which adds to the initial cost. Also, its heavy weight and permanent setup mean it’s not suitable if you want a portable or temporary generator. This generator is ideal if you want a powerful, quiet, and automatic whole-house backup system with convenient remote monitoring and reliable fuel options. It is best suited for homeowners who want a long-term, hands-off solution for power outages and are ready to invest in professional installation.

The Westinghouse 12500 Peak Watt Dual Fuel Generator is a strong choice for home backup power, offering a robust 9500 running watts on gasoline and 8500 watts on propane, which means it can handle most household appliances during outages. Its dual fuel capability is a big plus, letting you switch between gasoline and propane depending on availability, adding flexibility. With up to 12 hours of runtime on a full 6.6-gallon tank, it can power your essentials through a typical outage without frequent refueling.

The generator weighs about 225 pounds, so it's not the easiest to move around, but it does come with a sturdy frame and front handles to help with portability. Noise-wise, it runs at around 74 decibels, which is noticeable but not overly loud for a unit of this power level. Starting is very convenient thanks to the remote electric start and included key fob, plus you have a manual recoil start if needed. Safety is well covered with features like a carbon monoxide sensor that shuts the unit off if dangerous gas levels build up, automatic low-oil shutdown to protect the engine, and overload protection.

It also includes multiple household and RV-ready outlets with protective covers. The generator comes with useful extras like a fuel gauge, hour meter, and USB ports for charging devices. One possible downside is its weight and size, which might be challenging if you need to move it frequently or have limited storage space. While it’s EPA compliant and reasonably quiet for its class, it’s not designed for noise-sensitive environments. This generator suits homeowners who want a reliable, flexible power source with strong safety features and easy starting, especially useful during extended power outages.

The Westinghouse 13500 Peak Watt Dual Fuel Generator is a solid choice for home backup power, especially if you need a reliable and flexible fuel option. It delivers strong power with 10,500 running watts on gasoline and 9,500 on propane, enough to keep essential household appliances running during an outage. The ability to switch between gas and propane adds convenience and fuel availability options. It runs up to 19 hours on a full 9.5-gallon tank, which means less frequent refueling during extended power cuts.

Starting the generator is easy, thanks to the remote electric start feature paired with a key fob, plus a recoil backup if needed. Safety is well-covered with a carbon monoxide sensor that can automatically shut the unit down if dangerous fumes build up, and all outlets have protective rubber covers. The generator is designed with durability in mind, featuring a heavy-duty 500cc engine and automatic low oil shutdown to prevent damage. Portability is a bit limited by its weight of 230 pounds, so while it’s portable, it might require some effort to move around, but this is typical for a generator of this size and power.

It supports transfer switch connections, making it easier to hook up directly to your home’s electrical system. The package includes helpful extras like a battery charger, oil, and tools to get started quickly. If power, dual-fuel capability, and safety features are priorities, this Westinghouse model is a dependable option for home backup, best suited for users who don’t need to move it frequently.