When the power goes out, a reliable portable generator becomes more than just an appliance—it’s a lifeline for your home. It keeps the lights on, the refrigerator humming, and essential medical equipment running. Choosing the right one, however, can be a complex decision, balancing power output, fuel type, and portability to meet your specific household needs during an emergency.
This roundup simplifies that choice by showcasing ten of the best portable generators for home backup. From high-wattage dual-fuel behemoths capable of running your entire house to quiet, compact inverter models perfect for sensitive electronics, there is an option here to provide peace of mind for any situation and any home.
Our Recommended Portable Generators for Home Backup
- Westinghouse 12500 Watt Dual Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator
- Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 300, 293Wh Backup Lithium Battery
- Westinghouse 14500 Peak Watt Tri-Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator
- WEN 5600-Watt Portable Generator, Electric Start, 224cc
- WEN Quiet 6800-Watt Dual Fuel RV-Ready Electric Start Portable Inverter Generator
- MARBERO Portable Power Station 88Wh Camping Lithium Battery Solar Generator
- DuroMax XP13000EH 13,000-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator
- WEN 3600-Watt Portable Inverter Generator, RV-Ready, Quiet and Lightweight
- Honda 664240 EU2200i 2200 Watt Portable Inverter Generator with Co-Minder
- Champion Power Equipment 9375/7500-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator
Westinghouse 12500 Watt Dual Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator
For homeowners seeking substantial backup power, the Westinghouse 12500-watt model is a formidable choice. Its dual-fuel capability provides excellent flexibility, allowing you to run it on either gasoline or propane, depending on availability and your preference. With a robust 457cc engine and a digital hour meter for maintenance tracking, this generator is built for demanding, long-term use.
Convenience is a key feature, thanks to the remote electric start key fob that lets you power up the unit from the comfort of your home. It is also transfer-switch ready, making it simple to integrate with your home’s electrical system to power essential circuits. The inclusion of multiple outlet types, including a heavy-duty 50A RV outlet, ensures you can connect a wide array of appliances and tools directly.
Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 300
The Jackery Explorer 300 is not a traditional generator but a compact and silent power station ideal for short-term outages or powering essential electronics. Its 293Wh lithium battery provides clean, safe power that is safe for sensitive devices like laptops, phones, and medical equipment like CPAP machines. Weighing just over 7 pounds, it is highly portable and emits no fumes, making it safe for indoor use.
This unit excels in recharging speed, capable of reaching 80% capacity in just 2 hours via a wall outlet and its USB-C PD port simultaneously. With multiple output ports, including two pure sine wave AC outlets, it can charge up to six devices at once. For extended off-grid use, it can be paired with an optional solar panel, providing a renewable energy source for true energy independence during an emergency.
Westinghouse 14500 Peak Watt Tri-Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator
For the ultimate in fuel flexibility and runtime, the Westinghouse 14500-watt tri-fuel generator stands out. It can operate on gasoline, propane, or even natural gas, giving you multiple options to keep your home powered during an extended outage. When connected to a natural gas line, you gain access to a nearly limitless fuel supply, which is a significant advantage for prolonged emergencies.
With a peak output of 14,500 watts on gasoline, this generator can handle the demands of a large home, including central air conditioning units and well pumps. The powerful 550cc engine is designed for durability, and the large 9.5-gallon fuel tank provides up to 19 hours of run time. Like its smaller sibling, it features a remote electric start and is ready to connect to a home transfer switch for seamless backup power.
WEN 5600-Watt Portable Generator
The WEN 5600-watt generator strikes an excellent balance between power, price, and essential safety features. With 4500 running watts, it is capable of keeping your refrigerator, lights, fans, and a sump pump running during a blackout. The convenient electric start ensures you can get it running quickly and without the effort of a pull cord.
A standout feature is the integrated CO Watchdog carbon monoxide shutdown sensor. This safety system automatically turns the generator off if it detects dangerous levels of CO building up in an enclosed space, providing critical protection for your family and pets. It is also transfer-switch and RV-ready, adding to its versatility for both home backup and recreational use.
WEN Quiet 6800-Watt Dual Fuel RV-Ready Inverter Generator
This WEN model combines the benefits of an inverter generator with the flexibility of dual-fuel operation. Inverter technology means it produces clean, stable power that is safe for sensitive electronics like televisions, computers, and smartphones. Its quieter operation compared to conventional open-frame generators makes it a more considerate choice for residential areas.
Running on either gasoline or propane, it delivers substantial power for home backup, with 5100 rated watts on gasoline. A particularly modern feature is its bonded-neutral 240V configuration, which allows for Level 2 charging of plug-in hybrid and electric vehicles—a major benefit for EV owners during a power outage. It also includes the essential CO Watchdog safety sensor for added peace of mind.
MARBERO Portable Power Station 88Wh
The MARBERO Portable Power Station is an ultra-compact and lightweight solution for small-scale power needs. Its slim design, weighing just 3.2 pounds, makes it incredibly easy to store and move around the house. It’s perfect for keeping your phones, tablets, LED lights, and small electronics charged during a short-term outage.
Despite its small size, it offers a surprising number of output ports—eight in total—allowing you to charge multiple devices simultaneously. It can be recharged quickly via a wall outlet in about two hours, and it is also compatible with optional solar panels for off-grid recharging. This makes it a versatile and affordable entry point for emergency preparedness.
DuroMax XP13000EH 13,000-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator
The DuroMax XP13000EH is a powerhouse designed for whole-home backup. With 13,000 peak watts, it has the capacity to run multiple large appliances simultaneously, including central air conditioning units, water heaters, and well pumps. Its reputation in the dual-fuel category means you get proven performance and reliability when you need it most.
You can choose to power it with gasoline or propane, giving you fuel options during a crisis. The unit is built around a powerful and durable DuroMax engine, engineered for long-lasting performance. It comes equipped with an electric start and is transfer-switch ready, making the process of connecting it to your home’s electrical panel straightforward.
WEN 3600-Watt Portable Inverter Generator
For those who prioritize quiet operation and clean power, the WEN 3600-watt inverter generator is an excellent option. Weighing only 46 pounds, it is significantly lighter and more portable than conventional generators, making it easy to store and transport. Its inverter technology ensures the electrical output is safe for charging laptops, phones, and other delicate electronics.
With 2900 rated watts, it provides enough power to run essential household items like a refrigerator, a television, and some lights. Its quiet performance makes it suitable for use in neighborhoods without causing a disturbance. The fuel shut-off feature is a nice touch, as it helps stabilize the carburetor for easier long-term storage.
Honda EU2200i 2200 Watt Portable Inverter Generator
Renowned for its legendary reliability and super-quiet operation, the Honda EU2200i is a top-tier choice for powering sensitive electronics and essential small appliances. Its inverter technology produces exceptionally clean and stable power, while its noise level is lower than a normal conversation, making it ideal for use in crowded areas or at night.
While its 2200-watt output is best for smaller loads, its true versatility shines with its parallel capability. You can connect two EU2200i units together with an optional cable to double your power output, providing a flexible and scalable solution for your backup power needs. Honda’s reputation for quality and durability ensures this is a generator you can depend on for years.
Champion Power Equipment 9375/7500-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator
Champion Power Equipment is a trusted name in the generator market, and this 9375/7500-watt dual-fuel model is a popular choice for robust home backup. It provides ample power to keep a significant portion of your home running during an outage, and the dual-fuel capability offers the convenience of switching between gasoline and propane.
This generator is designed with user convenience in mind, featuring a simple electric start and a clear, intuitive control panel. It is built to be durable and reliable, with a robust engine that can handle extended use. Like many modern generators, it is also transfer-switch ready, allowing for a safer and more integrated connection to your home’s electrical system.
Buying Guide: How to Pick the Right Portable Generator for Your Home
When the power goes out, having a portable generator can be a total game-changer, keeping your lights on and fridge running. But with so many models out there, how do you pick the right one? I’ve learned that it’s not just about grabbing the biggest or cheapest option. It’s about matching the machine to your actual needs. Let’s walk through the key things I consider before making a purchase.
First and most importantly, you need to figure out how much power you actually need. This is all about wattage. I make a list of the essential appliances and devices I want to run during an outage—things like the refrigerator, a few lights, my phone charger, and maybe a fan or space heater. Each of these has a starting wattage (the surge it needs to turn on) and a running wattage (what it needs to keep operating). Add up the running watts of everything you plan to use simultaneously, and make sure your generator’s running wattage can handle that total. It’s always smart to have a little extra cushion, so I never max out the generator’s capacity.
Next, think about the runtime and fuel type. Most portable generators run on gasoline, but you’ll also find dual-fuel models that can use propane. Gasoline is easy to find but doesn’t store well for long periods. Propane can be stored for much longer without degrading. I look at the generator’s fuel consumption rate to see how long it can run on a single tank at half-load. If a storm knocks out power for a day or two, a generator that only runs for five hours means I’ll be refueling it in the middle of the night, which isn’t ideal.
One of the biggest modern upgrades is inverter technology. Inverter generators are generally quieter, more fuel-efficient, and provide “clean” electricity that is safe for sensitive electronics like laptops, TVs, and gaming consoles. If you’re powering anything with a microchip, an inverter is the way to go. Conventional generators are often more powerful and budget-friendly but can be louder and produce power that might harm delicate gadgets.
Finally, don’t forget about the practical features. Look for a model with multiple outlet types, including standard 120V household outlets and possibly a 240V outlet for larger appliances. Electric start is a fantastic convenience, especially on a cold, dark night. Portability matters, too—check the weight and see if it has wheel kits and a handle. And always, always follow safety guidelines: operate the generator outside and far away from windows to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning, and never back-feed your house by plugging it into a wall outlet. Using a transfer switch installed by a professional is the only safe way to power your home’s circuits. Taking the time to think through these points will help you find one of the best portable generators for home backup that’s perfectly suited for you.
FAQ
What size portable generator do I need to run a refrigerator and a few lights?
This is probably the most common starting point. A modern refrigerator typically needs around 600-800 running watts, but it can have a starting surge of up to 1200-1500 watts. Add in a few LED lights (10-20 watts each) and charging phones, and you’re looking at a total running load of around 700-900 watts. To be safe and account for the startup surge, I’d recommend a generator with at least 2000 running watts. This gives you a comfortable buffer and might even let you power a small TV or fan at the same time.
Can I just plug a generator into a wall outlet to power my house?
Absolutely not. This is extremely dangerous and is called “back-feeding.” It can electrocute utility workers who are trying to restore power and poses a serious fire risk in your home. The only safe way to connect a generator to your home’s electrical system is through a professionally installed transfer switch. This device isolates your home from the utility grid, ensuring everyone’s safety.
How long can I continuously run a portable generator?
This depends entirely on the model and its fuel capacity. Most models are designed to be refueled periodically. You’ll see runtimes listed on the spec sheet, usually based on a 50% load. For example, a generator might run for 8-12 hours on a tank of gas at half capacity. It’s not generally recommended to run a standard portable generator for days on end without giving it a break for maintenance and cooling. For extended outages, you’ll need to plan for a refueling schedule.
What’s the difference between an inverter generator and a conventional one?
The main difference is in the quality and stability of the electrical output. A conventional generator runs the engine at a constant speed to produce electricity, which can lead to power fluctuations (dirty power). An inverter generator produces AC power, converts it to DC, and then inverts it back to a clean, stable AC signal. This makes it safe for sensitive electronics, plus inverter gens are quieter and more fuel-efficient. For most homeowners looking for the best portable generators for home backup, an inverter model is the superior choice for powering modern electronics.
Is it safe to run a portable generator in my garage if I leave the door open?
No, running a generator in a garage, even with the door open, is not safe. Generators produce deadly carbon monoxide (CO) gas, which is odorless and colorless. This gas can quickly build up in enclosed or semi-enclosed spaces and can seep into your home. You should always place the generator outside, well away from windows, doors, and vents. A good rule is to keep it at least 20 feet from your house.