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Generator Guide

Power outages can happen everywhere. An auxiliary source of electricity is essential for every family's comfort and security. Buying a portable generator can be a confusing process because there are many different types available. The purpose of this quick buyer guide is to help you choose the best device for your needs and possibly save you hours of research.

Generators of course are used for a broad range of purposes. So, the first thing to do is to determine how you'll use it, and then pick the right wattage. Note that what is sold as a generator is actually a genset- a combination of an engine and an electric generator head. The main difference between the gensets is in type of fuel their motor is using. The main three motor types for portable models are gasoline, diesel and propane.

You may read a detailed guide to choosing portable generators, but our quick selection recommendations are the following. If you are not expecting to use your device frequently, you may consider a gasoline-fueled genset, which is the cheapest among all types. If you plan to use your genset frequently, such as on jobsite, your best bet is a diesel model. It may cost twice more than a gas model, but diesels have the highest efficiency and reliability. Finally, if you don't want to store by your home large amount of gasoline or diesel, and prefer a fuel with practically unlimited shelf life which can be available during a blackout, I would consider a propane engine. There are dozens of genset manufacturers to choose from. Based on the customer reviews at Amazon, major US brands such as Generac and Briggs & Stratton do not necessarily have better reliability than less known brands manufactured in China. If you are looking for best prices, in the power range up to 8,000 watts consider ETQ generators from Eastern Tools & Equipment, Champion line made by Champion Power Equipment, and DuroStar. Based on their characteristics, cost and buyer reviews, they provides good value at low cost.

Gasoline DuroStar DS4000S 4000 W peak/ 3300 W rated portable. 120 V outlets, 8 hours run time per tankful at half load; EPA compliant OHV engine. Low noise level of 69dB.

Diesel ETQ DG4LE 4,900 watt peak/ 3,500 W run. Includes wheel kit and automatic voltage stabilizer (AVS). Outlets: 120V 20 Amp GFCI duplex, 120/240V 30 Amp L14-30R twist-lock outlet, and 120V 30 Amp L5-30R twist-lock.

Propane PG30P11 3,500 starting watt/ 3000 running watts. Includes Low Oil Sensor. AVS with ETQ’s Sine Power ™ delivers clean voltage waveform with low THD<5%. Outlets: 120V L5-30R twist-lock and 120V 20A 5-20R duplex. Accepts 20lb BBQ tank (not included).

Note that a portable genset is intended to be hooked up to your appliances via extension cords. If you want to connect it to your home wiring to energize lights, wall outlets and other hard-wired devices, the safest way to do is to install a transfer switch (unless you are off the grid).

The above review is based solely on the analysis of the model's characteristics and prices. Although these models have generally positive user reviews at Amazon, no attempt was made to determine their actual reliability and customer service. All the information here is provided "AS IS" and do not constitute a professional or a legal advice: always do your own research. The sole responsibility when buying a product rests with you, the buyer: see complete Disclaimer and Disclosure linked below.