Best Gas Generators for Home Backup Power and Emergency Use
Having a reliable gas generator for your house is essential to maintain power during outages, emergencies, or outdoor activities. This article reviews the best portable and tri-fuel gas generators that combine power, versatility, and convenience for residential use. Below is a summary table highlighting key features of the selected generators for quick comparison.
| Generator Model | Power Output (Peak / Running Watts) | Fuel Types | Run Time | Start Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Westinghouse 14500 Peak Watt Tri-Fuel | Gas: 14,500 / 11,500 | Gasoline, Propane, Natural Gas | Up to 19 hrs on gas | Remote Electric |
| Westinghouse 12500 Watt Dual Fuel | Gas: 12,500 / 9,500 | Gasoline, Propane | Up to 12 hrs on gas | Remote Electric |
| DuroMax XP13000EH Dual Fuel | 13,000 Peak | Gasoline, Propane | Varies | Electric |
| Westinghouse 13500 Peak Watt Tri-Fuel | Gas: 13,500 / 10,500 | Gasoline, Propane, Natural Gas | Up to 19 hrs on gas | Remote Electric |
| Westinghouse 11000 Peak Watt Dual Fuel Inverter | Gas: 11,000 / 9,000 | Gasoline, Propane | Up to 17 hrs on gas | Remote Electric |
Westinghouse 14500 Peak Watt Tri-Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator
This Westinghouse tri-fuel generator serves as an excellent backup power source for larger homes and portable use. It delivers up to 14,500 peak watts and 11,500 running watts when using gasoline, with strong output on propane and natural gas as well. Powered by a heavy-duty 550cc 4-stroke OHV engine with a durable cast iron sleeve, it offers reliability and longevity.
Run times can reach up to 19 hours on a 9.5-gallon gas tank or 7 hours on a 20 lb propane tank. The unit features remote electric start, a built-in fuel gauge, and transfer switch readiness to easily connect to home power systems. Its multi-fuel capability adds valuable flexibility during fuel availability issues.
Westinghouse 12500 Watt Dual Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator
The Westinghouse 12500 dual fuel generator offers powerful running wattage of 9,500 on gas and 8,500 on propane, with peak watts up to 12,500 and 11,200 respectively. It includes a remote start key fob along with electric and recoil start options for convenience. Runtime on a 6.6-gallon tank reaches about 12 hours, monitored by a fuel gauge.
Outlets consist of two GFCI 120V household receptacles, transfer switch ready 120V 30A, and RV ready 120/240V 50A outlets with rubber covers for safety. The generator uses a 457cc 4-stroke OHV engine featuring a cast iron sleeve, automatic low oil shutdown, and digital hour meter, complemented by a VFT display for real-time voltage, frequency, and hours monitoring.
DuroMax XP13000EH 13,000-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator
The DuroMax XP13000EH provides 13,000 watts of dual fuel power to keep your entire home operational during storms or outages. Renowned for its versatility, DuroMax integrates advanced dual fuel technology with powerful gasoline and propane capabilities.
At the heart is a durable, powerfully engineered DuroMax engine designed for longevity and consistent performance. It supports whole-home backup, is transfer switch ready, and suitable for RV or emergency use. This model emphasizes durability and high output suitable for extended blackouts.
Westinghouse 13500 Peak Watt Tri-Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator
This Westinghouse tri-fuel generator offers up to 13,500 peak watts and 10,500 running watts on gasoline, with considerable output on propane and natural gas. It features remote start with key fob, electric and recoil start options, and can run up to 19 hours on a 9.5-gallon fuel tank.
Safety and convenience are prioritized with two GFCI standard household outlets, a 120V transfer switch ready outlet, and a 120/240V RV ready outlet, all protected with rubber covers. Powered by a 500cc Westinghouse 4-stroke OHV engine, it includes automatic low oil and carbon monoxide shutdowns, plus a digital hour meter.
Westinghouse 11000 Peak Watt Dual Fuel Portable Inverter Generator
The Westinghouse 11000 dual fuel inverter generator provides clean, stable power with less than 3% Total Harmonic Distortion, making it safe for sensitive electronics. It delivers 9,000 running and 11,000 peak watts on gasoline, with slightly lower output on propane.
This model includes remote electric start and multiple start options, with up to 17 hours of runtime on a 9.8-gallon fuel tank. Equipped with two GFCI household outlets, transfer switch-ready 120V and 240V outlets, and a digital LED data center displaying fuel level, power output, voltage, and runtime for precise energy management.
Buying Guide for Choosing the Best Gas Generator for Your Home
Choosing the right gas generator involves several key considerations to ensure it meets your home’s power needs effectively and safely:
Power Output
Assess your home’s total wattage requirement by listing the essential appliances and systems you want to power during an outage. Generators offer peak wattage (starting power) and running wattage (continuous power). Select a generator with sufficient peak and running capacity for heavy loads like refrigerators, HVAC units, and sump pumps.
Fuel Type and Flexibility
Generators fuelled by gasoline are common, but tri-fuel or dual-fuel models that accept propane and natural gas provide greater flexibility and availability, especially during emergencies. Consider local fuel access and storage safety before deciding.
Run Time and Fuel Tank Capacity
Longer run times reduce the need for frequent refueling. Evaluate fuel tank sizes and generator efficiency to ensure the device can run through typical outage durations. Some units also feature fuel gauges to monitor fuel remaining easily.
Starting Mechanism
Remote electric start adds significant convenience, especially for generators positioned outside or in basements. Ensure the model includes multiple start options like recoil (manual) as a backup.
Outlets and Compatibility
Look for a variety of outlets for household, RV, and transfer switch compatibility to power different devices safely. GFCI protection and weatherproof outlet covers enhance safety.
Noise Level and Portability
Consider generator noise especially if living in noise-sensitive neighborhoods. Portability features such as wheels and handles help move heavy units more easily.
Safety Features
Automatic low-oil shutdown, carbon monoxide detection, and overload protection safeguard both the generator and connected appliances. Digital monitoring displays provide real-time status updates to prevent mishaps.
By evaluating these factors relative to your power needs, budget, and fuel access, you can select the best gas generator that reliably powers your home in every situation.