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Favored Portable Generators for Backup Power Supply During Power Outage / Emergencies at Home When Power Goes Out

August 2, 2023 - With the advent of more and more storms that create power outages for us these days, it is really a wonderful thing to have a power generator to provide electricity in your home when the utility power goes out. If you don't know how to get electricity during a power outage then read this page about reliable portable power generators for your home emergencies.

Ideally it would be nice to have a whole house generator as a backup power supply, so you can have all your normal electrical conveniences available to you during the outage. However, that can be an expensive solution. Due to this expense and since power outages usually only last for a few hours to a few days, you may decide that there are only a few items in your house that you just can't do without and that a portable generator will meet your needs just fine during the short outage.

Most people want to keep their refrigerator and freezer going in order not to loose those expensive perisables of food in them. If someone in your household has medical devices that need power it is certainly important to keep those devices functioning.

Other people would like to keep a TV working in order to keep up with the weather or to keep the kids occupied. Having that morning cup of coffee is usually important to those people who drink coffee. Some electrical devices have more importance to some than others.

Take a walk through your home and first decide what items you would really like to keep running during a power outage / cut. Also keep in mind that you won't use something like the microwave all the time. So, you might choose to turn something else off for a few minutes while you cook or heat some food.

After you decide what appliances or other electrical devices you want to use you will need to know how many watts they require. Knowing What Wattage You Need will allow you to select a portable generator that will meet your electrical needs.

In addition to sufficient wattage you will be interested in other features like weight, noise level, size, fuel efficiency, wheels kits, remote start, etc. which will be covered in the reviews below for these top rated portable generators for power outages in your home.

If you chose a portable generator with an electric start feature you might also want to purchase one of the battery trickle chargers so that you won't find you have a dead battery when you go to start your generator during a power outage.

Home Generators for Power Outages - Reviews

Honda EM6500S Portable Generator for Power Outage, Emergencies and when power goes out.
Champion Electric Start Portable Generators to use when utility power is unavailable. Generac Quiet Portable Generator for Emergencies, Power Outage on Wheels. Westinghouse Portable Gas 7500 Watts Generator with wireless remote, electric start.
Duromax XP1200EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator.
Predator 4000 Watt Portable Generator for producing electricity during Home Power Outages / Cut.

Portable Generators At A Glance...

Top of the Line Honda EM6500S 6500-Watt Gas Portable Generator with Electric Start and GFCI Outlet Protection for Power Outage
Champion Power Equipment 100165 7500 Watt Dual Fuel Gas Propane Portable Genertor with Electric Start
Name Brand Generac 5943 GP7500E 7500 Running Watts Gas Powered Electric Start Portable Generator
Westinghouse WH7500e 7500 / 9000 Watt Gas Powered Portable Generator with Electric Start
Powerful DuroMax XP12000EH 12000 Starting Watts / 9500 Rated Watts 18hp Dual Fuel Gas Propane Portable Hybrid Beast Generator with Wheel Kit
Economical Predator 4000 Watt Air Cooled OHV Gas Engine Generator with Steel Roll Cage for Power Tools or Home Power Outage
Large Champion 100111 12,000 Running Watts, 15,000 Starting Watts Portable Gas Generator for Home Backup

Honda EM6500S 6500-Watt Gasoline Portable Generator with GFCI Outlet Protection and Electric Start

The Honda EM65000S can power a wide variety of appliances in your home, such as, Refrigerator, Freezer, Microwave, TV, Coffee Maker, Garage Door Opener, Well and Sump Pumps and more...

Honda's exclusive iAVR technology ensures a consistent flow of power regardless of the load. This provides stable power for sensitive equipment and a more reliable power source for you.


Feature Summary
 
Definitions
  • 6500 watts max, 5500 watts rated, 7000 watts for 10 seconds to start larger equipment.
  • Electric start (battery included) and has recoil start as backup.
  • Operates at 73 dB (A) during rated load.
  • Dry weight 234 lbs., on wheels and has wide, positive lock folding handles for convenient transport and storage. Full frame protection.
  • Great for overnight power - Runs approximately 10.4 hours at half load and 6.9 hours at full load.
  • Fuel tank capacity - 6.2 gallons.
  • Intelligent Automatic Voltage Regulation (iAVR) technology ensures a consistent flow of power regardless of the load. Therefore stable power for sensitive equipment and a more reliable power source for you.
  • Protected by oil alert - shuts down engine when low oil is detected.
  • Electronic circuit breakers - protects the generator from being overloaded.
  • AC Output: 120 / 240V.
  • Receptacles - 20A 125V GFCI Duplex (2), 30A 125V Locking Plug, 30A 125 /250V Locking Plug.
  • DC Output - 12 Volt, 100W (8.3A)
  • Auto Throttle System - automatically reduces engine speed when all loads are turned off or disconnected. When appliances are turned on or reconnected, the engine returns to the rated speed.
  • SAE 10W 30 oil recommended for general use.
  • Honda engine horsepower - 2.8 HP (2.1 kW) @ 3,600 rpm.
  • Dimensions: 41.4" L x 27.8" W x 28.3" H
Honda EU6500SX 6500 watt quiet portable inverter generator with electric start for power outage use.Honda EU6500SX 6500 watt quiet portable inverter generator to cover that power outage with 30 amp outlet, 12 volt DC, automatic throttle system (idle control).

dB Comparisons

  • City traffic in side a car - 85 dB.
  • Normal Conversation at 3 to 5 feet - 60 to 70 dB.
  • Power Saw - 110 dB.
  • Trombone - 85-114 dB.
  • Toilet Flushing - 75 dB.

Weight Note - A gallon of gas will add approximately 6 pounds to the dry weight of a generator.

20A 125V GFCI Duplex Receptacle - these are typical receptacles used in bathrooms, kitchens, basement, outdoors of your home.

Ground Fault - A ground fault happens whenever electricity escapes the confines of the wiring in a light fixture, an appliance or power tool and takes a shortcut to the ground. When that shortcut is through a human, the results can be deadly. GFCI receptacles keep you safe from Ground Faults.

Available Online at:   Ebay.com
   

Champion Power Equipment 100165 7500 Running Watts / 9375 Starting Watts Dual Fuel Portable Generator

The Champion Power Equipment Dual Fuel Electric Start Portable Generator runs on gasoline or propane. You choose your fuel source simply by sliding the Fuel Selector switch. With the included portability kit transporting from job to job is easy.

Feature Summary
 
  • 7500 running watts / 9375 starting watts.
  • Rated watts LP: 6750
  • Electric Start, Easy pull recoil backup.
  • Noise Level - 74 dBA.
  • Net weight 220 lbs.
  • Fuel type: Gasoline, Propane.
  • Fuel usage, runs for 5 hours at a 50% load on a 20lb. (5 gallon) propane tank.
  • Gasoline Fuel tank capacity - 6.1 gallons.
  • Heavy duty 1.5" steel frame.
  • Isolation motor mounts provide smooth, quiet operation.
  • Intelligauge digital display monitors running hours, voltage and hertz.
  • Low oil shutdown offers protection.
  • Champion 439cc OHV engine with cast iron sleeve.
  • Includes 10" never-flat wheels and U-shaped handle.
  • 120 Volt AC, 30 Amp Twist-Lock Receptacle (NEMA L5-30R) - used to supply electrical power for the operation of 120 Volt AC, single phase 60 Hz electrical loads.
  • 120/240 Volt AC, 30 Amp Twist-Lock Receptacle (NEMA l14-30R)- May be used to supply electrical power for the operation of 120 and/or 240 Volt AC, single phase 60 Hz electrical loads.
  • Two 120 Volt AC, 20 Amp Duplex (GFCI 5-20R) - May be used to supply electrical power for the operation of 120 Volt AC, single phase 60 Hz electrical loads.
  • 31.25 Amps at 240 volts.
  • CARB / EPA Compilant.
  • Dimensions: 31 7/10" L x 23 " W x 24 1/5" H
  • Includes: Oil funnel, spark plug socket, Wheel and handle kit and LPG hose with regulator (3.3 ft.).
  • Horsepower: 15 hp.
  • Add a weatherproof Champion generator cover to protect your generator when in storage.
Champion 100165 7500 Running Watt Dual Fuel Gas or Propane Portable Generator with Electric Start.Champion 100165 Gasoline Propane Portable Generator with Electric Start.Champion Dual Fuel 100165 7500 Watt Electric Start Portable Generator

CARB Compliant Generators - CARB stands for California Air Resources Board. CARB is an agency that deals with environmental protection, specifically air pollution.

Added Weight - 1 gallon of gas will add approximately 6 pounds to the dry weight of a generator.

Surge Wattage - Surge wattage is the extra burst of power needed to start some electric driven equipment.

Twist Lock Receptacle and Plug - A power plug and receptacle in which the plug must be twisted after insertion to lock it in place in order to guard against the plug accidentally being knocked loose.

NEMA - National Electrical Manufacturers Association.

Single Phase - refers to a two wire AC (alternating current) power circuit. Typically there is one power wire and one neutral wire. In the US 120V is the standard single phase voltage with one 120V power wire and one neutral wire.

Available Online at:   Amazon.com and Ebay.com
   
 


Generac 5943 GP7500E 7500 Running Watts 9375 Starting Watts Gasoline Powered Electric Start Portable Generator

The Generac GP7500E offers 7500 Running watts, is gasoline powered and has a low-tone muffler which helps ensure quiet operation. With a 7.5 gallon steel fuel tank you can get continuous power for up to 11 hours at 50% load.

The Generac OHV offers increased fuel efficiency, a cooler running engine and reduced oil consumption. With the convenience of electric start, the GP7500E is a popular choice for emergency backup power, recreation and job site useage.

Feature Summary
   
  • 7500 running watts / 9375 starting watts.
  • Electric start with recoil backup, battery included.
  • Low tone muffler helps insure quiet operation.
  • Generac does not publish a db rating for their generators.
  • Unit weight 193 lbs.
  • Fuel usage, 11 hours at 50% load.
  • Fuel tank capacity - 7.5 gallon steel tank with conveniently positioned easy to read fuel gauge that provides at-a-glance fuel monitoring.
  • Ergonomic fold down locking handle to make transport and storage easy.
  • Covered, circuit breaker protected outlets provide added protecton from the environment and rugged working conditions.
  • Heavy duty 9.5" solid wheels for reliable portability.
  • Four 120-Volt 5-20R outlets and one 120/240 Volt L14-30R twist lock outlet are circuit breaker protected.
  • OSHA Required GFCI Outlets.
  • Low oil shutdown that detects a low oil level and shuts the engine down to prevent engine damage.
  • Not Carb Compliant.
  • A synthetic 5W-30 oil is the recommended oil for places with significant temperature changes, and can be used year-round, as it covers all temperature ranges
  • Dimensions: 28.8 " L x 26.8" W x 26" H
  • Hour meter tracks maintenance intervals.
  • Hardened 1 1/4" steel tube cradle for added durability and strength.
  • Plug-in battery charger jack keeps battery charged and ready to go.
Generac 7500 Watt Gasoline Powered Electric Start Portable Generator for use when utility power is out.Generac GP7500E  Gasoline Powered Quiet Electric Battery Start Portable Generator with muffler.

Muffler - A muffler is a device for decreasing the amount of noise emitted by the exhaust of an internal combustion engine.

Ergonomic - Intended to provide optimum comfort and to avoid stress or injury. User-friendly.

OSHA - Occupational Safety and Health Administration. OSHA is a federal organization that ensures safe and healthy working condition for Americans by enforcing standards and providing workplace safety training.

Available Online at:   Ebay.com
   

Westinghouse WH7500E, 7500 Running Watts / 9000 Starting Watts, Gas Powered Portable Generator with Electric Start

Westinghouse has taken years of expertise and created a powerful package in the WH7500E Gas Powered Portable Generator to be used at your home during utility power outages. This generator has one of the longest run times compared to other generators.

Feature Summary
   
  • 7500 running watts / 9000 starting watts.
  • Westinghouse One-Touch Electric Start System and Recoil for backup.
  • Quiet operation via our Pulse-Flo muffler, creating one of the quietest generators on the market.
  • Operational Noise Level: 71 db
  • Net weight: 211 lbs.
  • Fuel usage, 11 hours at 50% load.
  • Fuel tank capacity - 6.6 gallons.
  • Fuel type: Gasoline
  • Westinghouse cast iron sleeved 420 cc engine.
  • 5-20R 120V (Quantity 4).
  • L14-30R 120/240 Twist Lock (Quantity 1).
  • Voltage-regulating VR system.
  • EZ start color-coded touch points.
  • Wheel kit, Assembly tools and Oil and Funnel Included with generator.
  • Fuel gage.
  • Not CARB Compliant.
  • Dimensions: 21.5" L x 31" W x 23.25" H
  • Low Oil Shutdown
  • 12.8 hp
  • Easy to operator with a simplified power control center.
  • Add a Westinghouse generator cover to protect your generator from dirt and grim while in storage.

Westinghouse WH7500E 7500 Running Watts 9000 Starting Watts Gas Powered Portable Generator for Emergencies and When Utility Power is Off.Westinghouse Portable Generators for Power Outages

 

Engine Power - Engine displacement is the volume of an engine’s cylinders, a general indicator of its size and power. The displacement figure represents the total air displaced by the pistons in all of an engine’s cylinders and is expressed in liters, cubic centimeters or cubic inches. The size of these cylinders loosely defines the size of the explosion within, which is why displacement suggests an engine’s power. That said, many other factors affect an engine’s output, including the number of cylinders, the compression ratio within the cylinders and the induction system.

On electric start generators it is wise to keep keep a 12v battery trickle charger hooked to your generator battery, so it will not drain down on you while sitting for months not being used.

 

Available Online at:   Amazon.com and Ebay.com
   

DuroMax XP12000EH Max 12000 Watt Rated 9500 Watts 18 hp Dual Fuel Gas Propane Beast Portable Generator with Wheel Kit

With Max 12,000 Watts the DuroMax Hybrid Dual Fuel XP12000EH will have you prepared for any home power outages. The dual-fuel, gas or propane fuel source generator, nicknamed the BEAST, will provide you power normally found in home standby units but in a portable package.

Feature Summary
   
  • 9500 rated AC Output ( Watts ) / 12000 Max AC Output ( Watts ).
  • Electric Start System with Recoil for backup.
  • Heavy duty frame with four point fully isolated motor mounts for smooth quiet operation.
  • Operational Noise Level: 72 db
  • Noise reducing muffler also uses a spark arrestor making the "Beast" EPA approved for safe use in   U. S. National Parks.
  • Run time Gas @ 50% Maximum Output = 10 hrs.
  • Run Time Propane @ 50% Maximum Output = 20 hrs.
  • Fuel tank capacity (Gasoline) - 8.3 gallons.
  • Dual Fuel: Gasoline / Propane
  • 18 Hp DuroMax Air Cooled 457cc OHV Engine.
  • 120V 20 Amp Receptacles (Quantity 2).
  • 120V 30 Amp Twist Lock Receptacle (Quantity 1).
  • 120V / 240V 50 Amp Heavy Duty Outlet (Qty. 1).
  • 10A 12V Utility connection for charging a battery or running 12V devices.
  • Wheel kit, Tool Kit and Operating Manual Included with generator.
  • EPA and CARB Compliance / 50 State Status
  • Amps - 79.2A / 39.6A.
  • Full power panel with oil warning light, volt meter, power outlets and individual circuit breakers to prevent overloading and keep everything safe.
  • DuroMax Generators are perfect for any application where portable power is needed, whether it is camping in the woods or because of a natural disaster.
  • Item weight: 269 lbs.

DuroMax 12000 Watt Powerful 18hp Portable Hybrid Bi-Fuel Gas Propane Generator for RV Home Standby for Power Outages.DuroMax XP12000EH Powerful Dual Fuel Portable Generator, 30 Amp Twist Lock, 50 Amp Heavy Duty Outlet.

 

Heavy Duty Frame Powerful DuroMax Generator Dual Fuel ( Gas / Propane ) 12000 Watts with Electric Start System.

DuroMax Generators are powerful generators manufactured by DuroPower, a California based engine and power tool making company.

Unlike most brands, DuroPower actually build their own engines thus, ensuring quality.

If you need a 30 Amp generator extension cord to safely connect your generator to your home or RV, then check out this one from GearIT.

 

Available Online at:   Amazon.com and Ebay.com
   

Predator Peak 4000 Watts 3200 Running Watts Air Cooled OHV Gas Engine Portable Generator with Steel Roll Cage

With 3200 Running Watts and 4000 Peak Watts this sturdy built, reasonably priced portable generator has powered necessities like the fridge, TV, Fans and more for those going through power outages due to storms and hurricanes. This generator is also ideal for job site use, recreation, heating and cooling and more...

Feature Summary
   
  • 3200 Running Watts / 4000 Peak Watts.
  • Easy Recoil start.
  • Operational Noise Level: 72 db at 3 feet
  • Run time Gas @ 50% Maximum Output = 10 hrs.
  • Fuel tank capacity (Gasoline) - 4 Gallons.
  • 6.5 Hp Predator Air Cooled single piston 212cc OHV Gas Engine.
  • GFCI Outlet Protection.
  • 120V 20 Amp Receptacles (Quantity 2), 3 prong.
  • 240V 30 Amp Heavy Duty Twist Lock Outlet (Qty. 1), 4 prong.
  • 12V DC outlet (Quantity 1).
  • Heavy Duty 1 inch steel roll cage.
  • Low oil indicator / low oil shutdown.
  • If you plan to move this generator around a lot you may want to buy a wheel and handle kit as well.
  • Item weight: 99 lbs.
  • Good for RV Trailers and Power Outages duing emergencies.
  • Not CARB Complient.
  • EPA III Certification.

Predator 4000 Watt Gas Portable Generator for House4000 watt Predator Generator for House, RV.

 

Heavy Duty Steel Roll Cage Predator 4000 Generator for Power Outages, RV Trailers, Campers and more.

C & R Industries are the manufacturer of Predator Power Products. A range of petrol and diesel driven equipment ranging from water pumps and pressure cleaners to petrol powered generators.

 

 

Available Online at:   Amazon.com and Ebay.com
   

Portable Generators For Power Outage Comparison Chart

Brand
Wattage
Weight
Noise Level
Fuel Tank
Fuel Efficiency
Special Features
Honda EM6500S 5500W Run / 6500W Start 234 lbs. 73 dB 6.2 Gal. 10.4 hrs 1/2 Load iAVR Technology
Champion 100165 7500W Run / 9375W Start 220 lbs. 74 dB 6.1 Gal.   Dual Fuel
Generac GP7500E 7500W Run / 9375W Start 193 lbs. Not Supplied 7.5 Gal. 11 hrs. 50% Load Electric Start
Westinghouse WH7500E 7500W Run / 9000W Start 211 lbs. 71 db 6.6 Gal. 11 hrs. 50% Load Pulse-Flo Muffler
DuroMax XP12000EH 9500W Run / 12000W Start 269 lbs. 72 db 8.3 Gal. 10 hrs. 50% Load Dual Fuel
Predator 4000 3200W Run / 4000W Start 99 lbs. 72 db 4 Gal. 10 hrs. 50% Load Steel Cage

If you have not read the section on Generator Safety please do so before purchasing.

 


Portable Generator Reviews
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