10 Best Whole House Generators 2026 in the United States

The Generac 7210 24kW Air Cooled Guardian Series Home Standby Generator is designed to offer reliable power for residential use during outages. With a noteworthy power output of 24,000 watts, it ensures that even larger homes can stay powered, making it a strong candidate for whole-house protection. One of its standout features is the 200-amp automatic transfer switch, which ensures seamless power switching, allowing for uninterrupted service during outages. Additionally, the Smart Controls and Mobile Link Wi-Fi connectivity enable users to monitor the generator’s performance remotely, which is a big plus for peace of mind.

The generator operates on natural gas or LP gas, offering flexibility based on user preference. With Generac’s True Power Technology, the generator promises clean and stable power, minimizing the risk of damage to sensitive electronics. The 5-year limited warranty adds an extra layer of reassurance regarding the product's reliability and long-term performance.

Potential buyers should consider a few drawbacks. The generator's weight of 455 pounds could pose challenges during installation, which requires a certified electrician. Additionally, its size may not be suitable for all outdoor spaces, requiring ample installation area.

The Westinghouse 13500 Peak Watt Dual Fuel Generator is a strong option for anyone needing reliable whole-house backup power. It delivers up to 13,500 peak watts and 10,500 running watts on gasoline, and slightly less on propane, which should be enough to power essential appliances and even multiple circuits during an outage. The dual fuel capability is a big plus, allowing you to choose between gasoline and propane depending on availability or preference. With a 9.5-gallon fuel tank, it can run up to 19 hours on gasoline, providing long-lasting power without constant refueling.

It includes a remote electric start with a key fob, making it easy to operate without manual effort, and it’s transfer switch ready, which simplifies hooking it up safely to your home’s electrical system. Safety features like automatic low oil and carbon monoxide shutdown add peace of mind. The generator is quite heavy at 230 pounds and has a sturdy metal frame, meaning it’s more of a semi-permanent set-up rather than something you’d frequently move around. Noise level isn’t specifically listed, but portable generators of this size typically produce moderate noise, so expect it to be noticeable but not overwhelming.

Installation requires some planning due to its size and weight, but it comes with helpful accessories and clear instructions to get started. This Westinghouse model is well suited for homeowners looking for dependable, flexible power backup with convenient features and safety protections, though it might be more than needed if you only want to power a few small devices.

The Generac Guardian 26kW Home Standby Generator is a strong choice for homeowners looking to power an entire house during outages. With a solid power output of 26,000 watts, it can handle most household appliances and systems easily. It runs on natural gas or propane, which are common and convenient fuel options for standby generators. The included 200 Amp automatic transfer switch ensures your home switches over to generator power automatically and safely without manual effort.

One highlight is the WiFi-enabled remote monitoring, allowing you to check status and receive maintenance alerts from anywhere, adding convenience and peace of mind. The generator is housed in a durable aluminum casing that’s built for outdoor use and designed to run quietly, which is helpful if noise is a concern in your neighborhood. Installation requires a licensed electrician, which is typical for whole-house units but adds to initial setup cost and complexity.

Weighing 518 pounds and measuring about 4 feet long, it’s a sizable unit but fairly compact for the power it delivers. Backed by a 5-year warranty and supported by Generac’s reputation, this generator delivers reliable, low-maintenance performance for whole-house backup. For those seeking consistent, automatic power and remote monitoring with a well-regarded brand, this model is a suitable fit, though professional installation is recommended.