10 Best Generators For Home Use 2026 in the United States

The Generac Guardian 24kW Home Standby Generator is a powerful and reliable option for homeowners seeking whole-house backup power. Its 24,000-watt output is strong enough to keep essential appliances and systems running during outages, making it suitable for larger homes or those with higher electricity needs. This generator runs on natural gas or liquid propane, which offers flexibility depending on your fuel availability and preferences. It features an automatic electronic ignition with a 200-amp transfer switch, so power transfer during an outage is seamless and requires no manual intervention.

The Wi-Fi connectivity allows you to monitor the generator’s status and receive maintenance alerts remotely, which is a convenient safety and maintenance feature. Built with Generac’s G-Force engine, it is designed for durability and quieter operation than older models. As a standby generator, it is still fairly sizable and not portable since it weighs 455 pounds and is meant to be permanently installed by a professional electrician. Noise levels are generally lower than portable generators but still noticeable, typical for this power range.

Safety-wise, the unit includes a transfer switch to protect your home’s electrical system from overloads and backfeeding. Installation and maintenance require certified electricians, which can add to initial costs. This generator is an excellent choice for anyone wanting reliable, automatic whole-house power backup with modern monitoring features, provided you’re prepared for professional installation and the size of the unit.

The Westinghouse 28000 Peak Watt Home Backup Portable Generator is a powerful option for anyone needing reliable backup power at home. With a peak output of 28,000 watts and running wattage of 20,000, it’s capable of handling substantial loads, which is fantastic for powering multiple household appliances during an outage. Its 17-gallon fuel tank allows for an impressive runtime of up to 11 hours at 50% load, making it convenient for extended use.

One of the standout features is the electric start capability, including a remote key fob, which simplifies operation. The generator is designed with safety in mind, boasting automatic low oil and carbon monoxide shutdowns, plus rubber covers on outlets to prevent accidental contact.

In terms of portability, the generator weighs in at 599 pounds, which may be cumbersome for some users. However, it does come with reinforced steel handles for easier transport. Additionally, its dimensions (39.5”L x 27.3”W x 40.2”H) indicate it occupies a significant amount of space, which might be a consideration for those with limited storage. The generator is also EPA compliant, which is a plus for environmentally conscious users. This generator is a great fit for homeowners looking for robust backup power with excellent features and safety protocols. However, its weight and size may pose challenges for some users, especially those desiring a more portable solution. It's best suited for those who prioritize power output and safety in a home backup system.

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.