Best Backup Generators of 2024

In the face of unexpected power outages, being prepared is key. This article not only introduces you to the world of backup generators, a steadfast solution for keeping your home powered and protected, but also provides a curated list of top-performing models. Get ready to explore how these power-packed allies can offer you peace of mind and uninterrupted comfort, ensuring you’re well-equipped for when the lights go out.

List of the Best Back Generators:

• Champion Power Equipment 14kW 100837 Home Standby Generator
• Champion Power Equipment 12.5-kW 100179 Home Standby Generator
• Champion Power Equipment 8.5-kW 100177 Home Standby Generator
• Generac 22Kw 7042 Standby Generator
• Generac 22kW 7043 Air Cooled Standby Generator

What Is a Backup Generator?

A backup generator is your home’s plan B for electricity during a power outage. It’s a portable unit that steps in to keep your lights, fridge, and other essentials running when the main power supply cuts off. Unlike its standby cousin that jumps into action automatically, a backup generator requires a hands-on approach. You’ll need to start it manually and connect it to your appliances using extension cords. It’s a straightforward, temporary solution to keep your household humming until the main power returns.

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1. Champion Power Equipment 14kW 100837 Home Standby Generator

The Champion Power Equipment 100837 Home Standby Generator represents a seamless blend of power, reliability, and advanced technology. Designed to deliver a robust 14 kilowatts of continuous power, this generator ensures that your home remains operational and comfortable, even during extended power outages. Operating on either propane or natural gas, it provides an eco-friendly power solution without the need for constant refueling. The inclusion of the aXis ATS200 Whole House Automatic Transfer Switch elevates the system’s capability, offering managed power for your entire home with Wi-Fi setup and advanced load management features. The generator’s quiet operation at 62 dBA, combined with a durable design that withstands extreme temperatures, makes it a top-tier choice for homeowners seeking uninterrupted power with minimal noise disruption.

2. Champion Power Equipment 12.5-kW 100179 Home Standby Generator

The Champion Power Equipment 12.5-kW 100179 Home Standby Generator is engineered to provide a seamless and robust power supply for your home, ensuring comfort and continuity even during unexpected power outages. This generator, equipped with the ATS100 Outdoor-Rated Automatic Transfer Switch, embodies reliability and efficiency. It boasts a substantial 12,500 watts of continuous power on propane and 11,000 watts on natural gas, meaning it’s ready to tackle the demands of your entire home without the need for manual refueling. The unit’s 24-volt starting system performs reliably in extreme temperatures, ranging from -22° F to 104° F, eliminating the need for a cold weather kit. Its quiet operation, thanks to advanced sound dampening and a low-tone muffler, ensures that your home’s tranquility is undisturbed.

3. Champion Power Equipment 8.5-kW 100177 Home Standby Generator

The Champion Power Equipment 8.5-kW 100177 Home Standby Generator is engineered for reliability and peace of mind, providing seamless 24/7 power to your home. This robust unit, powered by either propane or natural gas, delivers consistent and efficient energy without the need for manual refueling. Featuring the ATS50 – a 50 amp, 10 circuit, outdoor-rated automatic transfer switch – the system ensures your essential power needs are met with precision and ease. Designed to perform in extreme temperatures, ranging from -22º F to 104° F, and equipped with a sophisticated 24V starting system, this generator stands ready to face the harshest conditions. Its quiet operation, marked by a specially designed low-tone muffler and sound dampening liner, ensures that your home environment remains undisturbed.

4. Generac 22Kw 7042 Standby Generator

The Generac 22Kw 7042 Standby Generator stands as a paragon of resilience and reliability, offering an unrivaled power solution for residential use. With an impressive output of 22 KW, this generator ensures that your home remains a sanctuary of comfort and safety, even during extended power outages. It operates smoothly on either natural gas or LP gas, providing flexibility and convenience to suit your specific needs. Notably, the Generac’s True Power Technology delivers best-in-class power quality with less than 5% total harmonic distortion, guaranteeing the seamless operation of your sensitive electronics and appliances. The robust, all-weather aluminum enclosure is designed for durability, with three removable sides for ease of access during installation, service, and maintenance.

5. Generac 22kW 7043 Air Cooled Standby Generator

The Generac 22kW 7043 Air Cooled Standby Generator is a fortress of reliability and high-performance, designed to keep your home operational and your mind at ease during power outages. With a substantial 22,000 watts of output, this generator is more than capable of powering an entire household, ensuring that everything from security systems to household appliances continues running smoothly. The integration of advanced features like Digital Display, Overload Protection, and Automatic Voltage Regulation, combined with the robust G-Force 1000 Series engine, makes this generator a pinnacle of power provision for residential use. The Mobile Link Wi-Fi connectivity feature allows you to monitor the generator’s performance remotely, adding an extra layer of convenience and control.

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Comparison Table of the Best Standby Generators

Features / Generator	Champion 14kW	Champion 12.5kW	Champion 8.5kW	Generac 22kW	Generac 22kW
Wattage	14,000 watts	12,500 watts	8,500 watts	22,000 watts	22,000 watts
Fuel Type	Propane / NG	Propane / NG	Propane / NG	Natural Gas / LP	Natural Gas / LP
Power Source	Battery Powered	Battery Powered	Battery Powered	NG or LP Gas	NG or LP Gas
Item Weight	482 Pounds	455.5 Pounds	394.1 Pounds	476 Pounds	466 Pounds
Voltage	24 Volts	120 Volts	120 Volts	240 Volts	240 Volts
Output Wattage	14,000 Watts	12,500 Watts	7,500 Watts	22,000 Watts	22,000 Watts
Special Features	Portable, Super Quiet	Portable	Super Quiet	Digital Display, Overload Protection, Fully Enclosed Design	Digital Display, Overload Protection, Fully Enclosed Design
Included Components	ATS, Flexible Fuel Line	ATS, Flexible Fuel Line	HSB Enclosure Keys, Flexible Fuel Line	Generator, Transfer Switch	Generator, Transfer Switch
Noise Level	63 dBA	63 dBA	59.5 dBA	67 dBA	67dBA
Automatic Transfer Switch	Yes (aXis ATS200)	Yes (ATS100)	Yes (ATS50)	Sold Separately	Sold Separately
Warranty	10 Years Limited	10 Years Limited	10 Years Limited	5 Years Limited	5 Years Limited

Reasons to Buy a Backup Generator

A backup generator is like your home’s trusty sidekick, ready to jump in when the main power takes an unexpected break. Here’s why having one is a bright idea:

• Imagine never having to scramble for candles during a blackout or worry about your freezer turning into a puddle. With a backup generator, the moment your power flickers off, it’s game on for the generator, keeping everything from your lights to your fridge up and running smoothly.
• Power outages can spring from anything – a fierce storm, a local mishap, or even an overworked AC on a scorching day. A backup generator acts like a safety net, ensuring that your comfort isn’t at the mercy of the next power hiccup.
• In our digital world, losing power could mean losing precious data. Whether it’s family photos or critical work files, a backup generator ensures your digital life stays intact, even when the power grid doesn’t.
• A generator is your fridge’s best friend during a blackout. It’s the hero that stops your ice cream from melting and keeps those special cuts of meat in your freezer just as fresh as you like them.
• For those relying on medical devices, a backup generator isn’t just convenient; it’s essential. It ensures that critical healthcare equipment keeps running, offering peace of mind and safety when it’s needed most.

In short, a backup generator isn’t just an appliance; it’s a resilience booster for your home, a guardian for your digital life, a defender of dinner, and a silent sentinel for your health and comfort.

Are Backup Generators Worth It?

Backup generators are a valuable investment for those who prioritize uninterrupted power, especially in areas prone to frequent outages or for homes with essential medical devices. They not only ensure the continuous operation of vital healthcare equipment but also maintain home security systems and internet connectivity during blackouts. This makes them indispensable for maintaining both the safety and comfort of your home, providing peace of mind in unpredictable circumstances.

Choosing the Perfect Backup Generator: Your Ultimate Guide

Choosing the right backup generator boils down to balancing your power needs, fuel preferences, and installation considerations. Start by assessing your power requirements – a cozy setup might need just a 5,000-watt generator, while powering your entire home could call for a heftier 20,000-watt unit. Remember to check both starting and running watt ratings, as starting appliances often need a power surge.

Next, think about fuel. Standby generators usually hook up to your home’s existing gas lines, so you’ll likely choose between natural gas and propane. While propane is efficient, it can be pricier and less readily available than natural gas.

Fuel consumption is another factor – more power output usually means more fuel burnt. Expect an 8.5 kW generator to use about 1 gallon of NG or 98 cubic feet of LP per hour at half-load, and double that for a 20 to 22-kW generator.

Lastly, installation isn’t a DIY affair. It can involve permits, professional electricians, and ensuring a level installation spot. A good rule of thumb is to budget around 75% of the generator’s cost for installation. So, weigh these aspects carefully to find the perfect backup generator that meets your needs and ensures your home stays powered, safe, and comfortable.

What’s the Price Tag on Backup Generators?

Installing a backup generator is a significant investment that not only includes the cost of the unit itself but also professional installation and additional components. Here’s a breakdown to give you a clearer picture:

1. Backup Generator Cost by Size: The generator’s price mainly hinges on its power output. For the models discussed, expect to pay between $3,200 and $5,500. However, prices can vary widely based on capacity. Smaller units for minimal critical devices can start as low as $300, while comprehensive whole-house systems or commercial generators with up to 48 kW can reach up to $25,000.

2. Installation Costs: The labor cost for installation ranges between $1,500 and $5,000. This variance is due to factors like the generator’s size and the installation’s complexity. Remember, a professional must complete this job to ensure safety and compliance with local codes.

3. Additional Costs:

• Concrete Pad: If your generator requires a concrete pad, this can add $50 to $75 per square foot to your total cost.
• Transfer Switch: Essential for safely connecting the generator to your home’s electrical system, a transfer switch installation can add another $800 to $2,000.

When considering a backup generator, it’s crucial to factor in these costs to get a comprehensive view of your investment. While the initial outlay might seem substantial, the peace of mind and comfort during power outages can make it a worthwhile investment.

All in all Conclusion

In conclusion, selecting the ideal backup generator is a strategic decision that hinges on understanding your specific power requirements, fuel preferences, and the logistics of installation. Whether your goal is to power essential appliances or maintain the full functionality of your home during an outage, there’s a generator tailored to your needs. The choice between natural gas and propane will influence both the operational efficiency and the long-term running costs of the unit. Furthermore, considering the fuel consumption against the generator’s output ensures you find a balance between power availability and fuel economy. Installation, while a significant factor in terms of cost and complexity, is a critical step that guarantees safety and optimal performance of your backup power system. With a thoughtful approach to these key factors, you can secure a reliable, efficient, and fitting backup generator that will keep your home powered and comfortable through unforeseen power outages and beyond.

Related Articles:

• Best Home Generators
• Best Whole House Generators 2024

FAQs

1. Can I power my entire home with a backup generator, or just essential appliances?
   You can choose either, depending on the generator’s capacity. Smaller units can keep essential appliances running, while larger ones (around 20,000 watts) can power your entire home.
2. How do I determine the right size generator for my home?
   Calculate the total wattage of the appliances and devices you want to power during an outage. Add a buffer for starting wattage requirements, especially for appliances like refrigerators and AC units.
3. Are backup generators noisy, and can I reduce the noise?
   Backup generators do produce noise, but models vary in sound levels. Look for generators with built-in mufflers or sound-dampening technology. Installing the generator away from windows and using sound-attenuating enclosures can also reduce noise.
4. How often should I run my backup generator to ensure it’s in good condition?
   It’s recommended to run your generator at least once a month for about 30 minutes to charge the battery for the electric starter and ensure the system is functioning correctly.
5. What’s the difference between running watts and starting watts?
   Running watts are the continuous watts needed to keep appliances running. Starting watts are the extra watts needed for two-to-three seconds to start motor-driven products like a refrigerator or AC unit.
6. Can I install a backup generator myself?
   While it’s technically possible, generator installation can be complex and requires adherence to local building codes and safety standards. It’s usually best to have your generator professionally installed.
7. How do backup generators handle sensitive electronics?
   Modern generators often feature inverter technology or clean power with low total harmonic distortion (THD), making them safe for sensitive electronics like laptops, smartphones, and medical equipment.
8. What maintenance does a backup generator require?
   Regular maintenance includes checking oil levels, changing oil and filters, ensuring the battery is charged, and running the generator periodically to ensure it’s ready for use.

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