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 15,500-Watt Portable Generator is a strong option for those wanting backup power for their entire home or large job sites. Its high power output of 15,500 running watts means it can handle multiple appliances and essential systems simultaneously. Fueled by gasoline with an efficient 816cc electronic fuel injection engine, it offers cleaner fuel use and dependable starts. The 5-gallon fuel tank provides around 11 hours of runtime, which is solid for extended outages.

Safety is addressed with built-in COsense technology that alerts users to dangerous carbon monoxide levels, adding an important layer of protection. Although it doesn’t include an automatic transfer switch (ATS) out of the box, it is compatible with transfer switches, allowing easy integration for seamless power transfer during outages. The generator is quite heavy at 450 pounds and fairly large, so it’s best suited for users who have space and can manage its size. Its rugged build with covered outlets and sturdy wheels makes it durable and easier to move than most generators this powerful.

One minor consideration is the noise level, as large gas generators like this are typically loud, which may be a factor if you have noise restrictions. This generator is a reliable, powerful choice for whole-house backup, especially if robust performance and built-in safety features are priorities, though it may require professional installation and sufficient space to operate comfortably.