Best Automatic Generators of 2025

Steven Taylor Avatar
Steven Taylor
Last Updated: Jan 6, 2025

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Automatic outdoor generators are a reliable and convenient solution for power outages caused by severe weather or other unforeseen circumstances. These generators are designed to automatically start up and provide electricity to your home or business when the power goes out. They come in a range of sizes and power capacities, allowing you to choose the perfect fit for your needs. With automatic outdoor generators, you can rest easy knowing that you'll never be left in the dark during a blackout.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Westinghouse 12500 Peak Watt Dual Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator Cover #TOP 1
Westinghouse 12500 Peak Watt Dual Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Westinghouse 12500 Peak Watt Generator Cover #TOP 2
Westinghouse 12500 Peak Watt Generator
ftb score rating icon 9.7
KOHLER 12RESVL100 12 kW Standby Generator Cover #TOP 3
KOHLER 12RESVL100 12 kW Standby Generator
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 7 Automatic Generators

Westinghouse 12500 Peak Watt Dual Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator

WGen9500DF
- CARB Compliant
WGen9500DF
Westinghouse 12500 Peak Watt Dual Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator Cover
Westinghouse 12500 Watt Dual Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator, Remote Electric Start, Transfer Switch Ready, Gas and Propane Powered

Get up to 12 hours of run time with the Westinghouse 12500 Peak Watt Dual Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator, which comes with a remote start key fob, electric and recoil start, and a 6.6-gallon fuel tank with fuel gauge. The generator features two GFCI 120V 5–20R standard household receptacles, one transfer switch ready 120V L14-30R, and one RV ready 120/240V 14–50R. It is powered by a heavy-duty 457cc Westinghouse 4-stroke OHV engine, which has automatic low oil shutdown and digital hour meter. The generator is EPA and CARB compliant, and comes with a 3-year limited service, labor, and parts coverage with nationwide customer service network.

The Westinghouse 12500 Peak Watt Dual Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator is perfect for those who live in areas with frequent power outages. It is easy to set up and start, and comes with a remote control for added convenience. Customers have praised the generator's dual fuel feature, which allows them to use either gasoline or propane to power the generator, and its ability to power multiple household appliances and electronics during power outages. The generator is also suitable for use in RVs and on construction sites, making it a versatile investment for anyone in need of reliable backup power.

What We Like
Reliable and well-built
Dual fuel capability
Powerful performance
Easy to set up and operate
Useful for power outages
#TOP 2

Westinghouse 12500 Peak Watt Generator

WGen9500DFc
Blue
Westinghouse 12500 Peak Watt Generator Cover
Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment 12500 Peak Watt Dual Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator, Remote Electric Start, Transfer Switch Ready, Gas and Propane Powered, CO Sensor

The Westinghouse Dual Fuel Generator offers impressive power options, delivering 9500 running watts and 12500 peak watts when using gasoline, or 8500 running watts and 11200 peak watts with propane. You can enjoy the convenience of a remote start with an included key fob, allowing you to start the generator from a distance. With a 6.6-gallon fuel tank, it runs for up to 12 hours, making it ideal for extended use during outages. Additionally, it features multiple outlets, including GFCI and RV-ready options, ensuring you have the right connections for your needs.

What We Like
Dual fuel capability
Remote start convenience
Long run time
Multiple outlet options
#TOP 3

KOHLER 12RESVL100 12 kW Standby Generator

12RESVL-100LC12
Cashmere
12kW
KOHLER 12RESVL100 12 kW Standby Generator Cover
KOHLER Generators 12RESVL100 Amp Standby Indoor Generator, 12-Space with Load Center Automatic Transfer Switch, 12000-watt

The KOHLER 12 kW Generator is designed to keep your home running smoothly during power outages. With its automatic transfer switch, it seamlessly takes over when the grid goes down, ensuring your appliances, heating or cooling systems, and security devices stay operational. Its power boost technology allows it to handle large appliances without sacrificing power to others, making it ideal for your household needs. Additionally, the generator's premium power quality protects your sensitive electronics from damage, thanks to its precise voltage and frequency regulation. This combination of features offers peace of mind and convenience during unexpected outages.

What We Like
Automatic transfer switch
Power boost technology
Protects sensitive electronics
Reliable during outages
#TOP 4

Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment ST Switch

ST Switch
Black and White
Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment ST Switch Cover
Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment ST Switch with Smart Portable Automatic Transfer Technology Home Standby Alternative, For Sump Pumps, Refrigerators, and More, Black and White

The Westinghouse ST Switch is a DIY smart portable automatic transfer switch that offers a cost-effective power solution for your home. With its 20A 120V 5-20R outlets, it can run essential appliances like security systems, sump pumps, refrigerators, furnaces, and more, providing up to 2400 watts of power. Installation is a breeze, as it is compact, lightweight, and requires no electrician. The utility power lines and LED indicator lights ensure seamless power transfer during outages. The ST Switch also features standby utility power monitoring, which allows it to start your generator immediately while charging the battery, ensuring uninterrupted power for your household appliances. Compatible with select Westinghouse Portable Generators, the Westinghouse ST Switch is a reliable and versatile power solution.

What We Like
DIY installation
Compact and lightweight
Smart power monitoring
#TOP 5

GENMAX GM7250iEDC Portable Generator

GM7250iEDC
GM7250iEDC
GENMAX GM7250iEDC Portable Generator Cover
GENMAX Portable Generator, 7250W Super Quiet Dual Fuel Portable Engine with Parallel Capability, Remote/Electric Start, Ideal for Home backup power.EPA &CARB Compliant (GM7250iEDC)

The GENMAX Portable Generator is a versatile power solution for various needs. With a dual fuel capability, you can choose between gas and LPG, providing you with 7250 starting watts and 6000 running watts for gas, or 6000 starting watts and 5500 running watts for LPG. The powerful control center features a digital display that shows essential information like running hours, load levels, and fuel status, helping you manage your power usage effectively. Additionally, the automatic transfer switch readiness makes it easy to connect to a compatible system, ensuring a seamless transition during power outages. For safety, it includes a CO detection feature that automatically shuts down the generator if dangerous carbon monoxide levels are detected.

What We Like
Dual fuel capability
Digital display for monitoring
Automatic transfer switch ready
CO detection for safety
#TOP 6

WEN 4750-Watt Portable Generator with Electric Start

WEN
56475
Yellow and Black
WEN 4750-Watt Portable Generator with Electric Start Cover
WEN 56475 4750-Watt Portable Generator with Electric Start and Wheel Kit, Yellow and Black

The WEN 4750-Watt Portable Generator with Electric Start and Wheel Kit is a reliable power source for your outdoor activities. Its digital readout helps you manage oil changes and maintenance schedule effortlessly. It features a low-oil shutdown, automatic voltage regulator, and overload protection to ensure maximum safety. The generator is CARB and EPA III compliant, making it suitable for sale in all 50 states. Its wheel kit and foldable handles make it easy to transport, and the 223cc engine provides 4,750 surge watt and 3,750 rated watt.

What We Like
Easy to transport with wheel kit and foldable handles
Digital readout helps manage oil changes and maintenance schedule
Low-oil shutdown, automatic voltage regulator, and overload protection ensure maximum safety
#TOP 7

Yamaha EF2200iS Generator

EF2200iS
Blue
Yamaha EF2200iS Generator Cover
YAMAHA EF2200iS Inverter Generator, 2200 Watts, Blue

The Yamaha Inverter Generator offers impressive power with its robust 79cc engine, ensuring you have the energy you need for various applications. Thanks to Yamaha's Quiet Technology, it operates quietly, making it ideal for camping or residential use without disturbing the peace. The standard RV outlet eliminates the hassle of finding adapters, allowing you to connect your RV effortlessly. Plus, the illuminated multi-function LED display keeps you informed about the generator's status, whether it's day or night, providing you with peace of mind during use.

What We Like
High power output
Quiet operation
Standard RV outlet
Easy-to-read display
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How much does a whole house automatic generator cost?

The average whole house generator cost nationwide is $15,000, but several options can raise or lower this cost based on your home's needs.

2. What size generator do you need to run an entire house?

How Big of a Generator Do I Need to Run a House? With a generator rated at 5,000 to 7,500 watts, you can run even the most critical household equipment, including things such as refrigerator, freezer, well pump, and lighting circuits. A 7500-running watt generator can run all these appliances at once.

3. How much does it cost to install a Generac whole house generator?

The total cost can be around $12,000 to $15,000 to buy and install a whole-house Generac generator. Home Depot and Lowes offer financing options for their generator installation services, but interest can increase the total cost you pay.

4. Are permanent generators worth it?

It could be worth buying a home generator to keep your refrigerator and freezer running smoothly to avoid food spoilage. Additionally, it is useful to power your office if you work from home and also to prevent the outage of any necessary medical devices.

Editor's Notes

During our automatic generator research, we found 24 automatic generator products and shortlisted 7 quality products. We collected and analyzed 179,810 customer reviews through our big data system to write the automatic generators list. We found that most customers choose automatic generators with an average price of $564.78.

The automatic generators are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of automatic generators, including Westinghouse, KOHLER, GENMAX, WEN, YAMAHA. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Steven Taylor Avatar

Steven Taylor grew up in a small town called Beaufort in South Carolina and his passion for building and woodworking has led him to master the latest garden gadgets. He always holds every chance to patch up or sand down his beloved garden. There are various novel technologies in his articles.