10 Best Standby Generators 2025 in the United States

The Generac 7043 22kW Air Cooled Guardian Series Home Standby Generator offers powerful and reliable backup power for residential use. It provides a substantial 22,000 watts of power, which is sufficient to keep an entire household running during an outage. The generator operates on natural gas or LP gas, offering flexibility depending on your fuel source availability. The included 200-amp transfer switch ensures smooth and automatic transition during power failures, which is a crucial feature for uninterrupted home protection.

The Mobile Link Wi-Fi connectivity allows remote monitoring so you can keep track of its performance and maintenance needs from anywhere, adding convenience and peace of mind. Additionally, the generator features a robust G-Force engine, designed for durability and reduced maintenance, supported by a 5-year limited warranty. This highlights Generac's confidence in their product's longevity and reliability.

There are a few considerations to keep in mind. The generator is quite heavy, weighing 466 pounds, which could make installation challenging and will likely require professional assistance, as recommended by Generac. Although the generator is equipped with various safety features like overload protection and automatic shut down, it might be more expensive compared to smaller units due to its high power output and advanced features. This generator is a solid choice for homeowners looking for a high-capacity, reliable, and easy-to-monitor standby power solution.

The Westinghouse 28000 Peak Watt Home Backup Portable Generator is a robust solution for residential power backup needs. With 28,000 peak watts and 20,000 running watts, it provides substantial power for various household appliances and devices. It is gas-powered, which is readily available but might require consistent refueling during extended outages. The generator features an electric start and auto choke for user-friendly operation, including a remote start option for added convenience.

The automatic transfer switch readiness with multiple 30A and 50A outlets ensures compatibility with most homes' power systems. Safety is enhanced with CO sensing technology and automatic low oil shutdown, which can prevent potential hazards during operation. With a 17-gallon fuel tank, it can run up to 11 hours at 50% load, making it suitable for prolonged use. However, the size and weight of the generator might make it challenging to move and install without assistance.

This generator is a solid choice for those needing a reliable and powerful standby generator, but users should be prepared for the potential challenges in noise and mobility.

The PowerSmart 2500-Watt Gas Powered Portable Inverter Generator is a viable option for those in need of a portable power solution, especially for camping, tailgating, or home emergencies. Its 2500 starting wattage and 1900 running wattage are sufficient for small to medium power needs, while its gas-powered 4-stroke engine promises reliable performance. The generator can run up to 11 hours at 25% load, making it suitable for prolonged use in low-demand scenarios.

Safety features like the automatic CO shutoff with a CO sensor add an extra layer of protection, which is beneficial for indoor or semi-enclosed use. Additionally, it has a noise level of 69dB at 23 feet, which is relatively quiet for generators, ensuring minimal disturbance during operation. One standout feature is its parallel capability, allowing users to connect two units for double the power if needed. This flexibility can be particularly useful for those requiring more wattage occasionally.

The generator includes multiple outlets: two AC 120V, one DC 12V, and two 5V USB ports, offering versatility for different devices and appliances. However, as a portable generator, it falls short in providing the consistent, higher power output typical of larger standby generators, and its 2500-watt peak is on the lower side for whole-home backup power. Weighing 39 pounds and featuring a foldable handle, it is designed for easy transport, but installation and use in a stationary, long-term setup might not be straightforward. It is EPA compliant, which ensures it meets certain environmental standards. In summary, the PowerSmart 2500-Watt Generator is a strong choice for portable, short-term power needs, excelling in mobility, safety, and noise levels, but may not be suitable for those looking for a permanent home standby generator solution.