Best Generators for Home Backup of 2025

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

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Outdoor generators for home backup are an essential investment for homeowners who live in areas prone to power outages. These generators provide a reliable source of backup power when the main grid goes down, ensuring that critical appliances and systems like refrigerators, lights, and medical equipment remain operational. Outdoor generators come in various sizes and types, including portable and standby models, and can run on different types of fuel, such as gasoline or propane. They are designed to be durable, easy to use, and capable of generating enough power to meet the needs of most households during an outage.

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 14500 Peak Watt Tri-Fuel Generator Cover #TOP 2
Westinghouse 14500 Peak Watt Tri-Fuel Generator
ftb score rating icon 9.7
DuroMax XP13000EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator Cover #TOP 3
DuroMax XP13000EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Generators for Home Backup

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

Westinghouse 14500 Peak Watt Tri-Fuel Generator

WGen11500TFc
Blue
Westinghouse 14500 Peak Watt Tri-Fuel Generator Cover
Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment 14500 Peak Watt Tri-Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator, Remote Electric Start, Transfer Switch Ready, Gas, Propane, and Natural Gas Powered

The Westinghouse Tri-Fuel Generator is an ideal backup power solution for larger homes or for portable power needs. With a powerful output of 14,500 peak watts using gasoline, it ensures you have plenty of energy during outages. You can also use propane or natural gas, providing you with flexible fuel options. The generator boasts an impressive runtime of up to 19 hours on a single tank, giving you peace of mind during extended power interruptions. Powered by a robust Westinghouse engine, this generator is built for durability and reliability, making it a smart choice for your power needs.

What We Like
Multiple fuel options
Long runtime
High power output
Durable construction

DuroMax XP13000EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator

XP13000EH
Blue
DuroMax XP13000EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator Cover
DuroMax XP13000EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator 13000 Watt Gas or Propane Powered Electric Start-Home Back Up, Blue/Gray

The DuroMax XP13000EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator is a powerful and versatile generator that can run on either gasoline or propane. It features 13,000 starting watts and 10,500 running watts, and has a wide selection of outlets for maximum compatibility. It is EPA and CARB approved for use in all 50 states, and is easy to set up and use. Customers have praised its power and reliability, though some have experienced issues with oil consumption and damaged threads.

What We Like
13,000 starting watts and 10,500 running watts
Wide selection of outlets for maximum compatibility
EPA and CARB approved for use in all 50 states
Easy to set up and use
Powerful and reliable

PowerSmart 4450W Portable Inverter Generator

MB5040C-
4450 Watt
PowerSmart 4450W Portable Inverter Generator Cover
PowerSmart Portable Inverter Generator 4450W, Gas Powered, CO-Sensor, EPA Compliant, Lightweight & Quiet for Home Use and Emergency Backup, Camping

The PowerSmart Portable Generator is a powerful solution for your energy needs, boasting a starting wattage of 4450W and a rated wattage of 3680W. This means you can easily power your home appliances, RV, or job site tools without worry. With a generous 2.7-gallon fuel tank, you can enjoy up to 11 hours of runtime at half load, reducing the hassle of frequent refueling. Additionally, its quiet operation at just 76dB(A) makes it perfect for residential areas or camping, allowing you to enjoy your activities without disturbing others. Weighing 68.8 lbs and designed for portability, it's easy to take wherever you need power.

What We Like
High power output
Long runtime
Quiet operation
Portable design
#TOP 5

Westinghouse 28000 Peak Watt Generator

WGen20000c
Blue
28000W + CO Sensor
Westinghouse 28000 Peak Watt Generator Cover
Westinghouse 28000 Peak Watt Home Backup Portable Generator, Remote Electric Start with Auto Choke, Transfer Switch Ready 30A & 50A Outlets, Gas Powered, CO Sensor,Blue

The Westinghouse Portable Generator offers a powerful solution for your backup power needs, delivering 28,000 peak watts and 20,000 running watts. You'll appreciate the convenience of the remote start key fob and push-button electric start, making it easy to get the generator running without hassle. With an impressive run time of up to 11 hours on a full tank, you can rely on it during extended outages. The generator also features multiple outlets, including GFCI and heavy-duty options, ensuring you can connect various devices safely and efficiently. The user-friendly design means you can set it up quickly and get back to your activities with minimal interruption.

What We Like
High power output
Remote start capability
Long run time
Multiple outlet options

Champion Power Equipment 11,000-Watt Generator

201407
Yellow
Champion Power Equipment 11,000-Watt Generator Cover
Champion Power Equipment 11,000-Watt Wireless Remote Start Home Backup Portable Inverter Generator with Quiet Technology and CO Shield

The Champion 11,000-Watt Generator offers you the convenience of starting and stopping the unit from up to 80 feet away using a wireless remote. This feature is great for those times when you want to keep your distance, especially during inclement weather. With a powerful engine, this generator delivers 11,000 starting watts and runs for up to 15 hours on a full tank, ensuring you have ample power for your needs. Plus, its quiet operation at 64 dBA makes it suitable for residential areas. Additionally, the built-in Cold Start Technology ensures easy starting even in cold temperatures, providing you peace of mind when you need it most.

What We Like
Wireless remote operation
Long run time
Quiet performance
Cold weather starting
#TOP 7

EF ECOFLOW DELTA 2 Max Generator

EFD350
Black&Grey
EF ECOFLOW DELTA 2 Max Generator Cover
EF ECOFLOW Portable Power Station DELTA 2 Max, 2400W LFP Solar Generator, Full Charge in 1 Hr, 2048Wh Solar Powered Generator for Home Backup(Solar Panel Optional)

The EF ECOFLOW DELTA 2 is a powerful portable power station that offers impressive charging capabilities. You can achieve an 80% charge in just 43 minutes using a combination of solar input and AC power, making it ideal for quick energy needs. Its long-lasting LFP battery provides up to 3000 cycles before dropping to 80% capacity, ensuring a reliable energy source for years. With expandable capacity, you can increase its power from 2kWh to 6kWh, allowing you to customize it based on your requirements. Additionally, it can power 99% of household devices with its 2400W output, accommodating all your essential appliances.

What We Like
Fast charging capabilities
Long-lasting battery life
Customizable energy capacity
Powers most household devices

Bailibatt DW601S Portable Power Station

bailibatt
DW601S
Orange
Bailibatt DW601S Portable Power Station Cover
Bailibatt Portable Power Station 600W,293Wh Portable Generator for Home Use, Quiet Generator for Camping Travel Emergency CPAP Survival Backup Outdoor Apartment,100W PD & 110V Pure Sine Wave AC Outlet

The Bailibatt Portable Power offers a robust 600W output, perfect for running your essential appliances up to 600W. You can easily power multiple devices at once, thanks to its ability to charge up to 8 devices simultaneously through various ports, including USB-C and AC outlets. Weighing just 7.7 lbs, this power station features a 293Wh lithium battery, making it highly portable for camping trips or emergencies. Additionally, it provides safety with a built-in management system that monitors voltage and temperature, ensuring reliable performance during your outdoor adventures.

What We Like
High power output
Multiple charging ports
Lightweight and portable
Safety monitoring system
#TOP 9

EF ECOFLOW DELTA 2 Portable Power Station

EFD330
Black
EF ECOFLOW DELTA 2 Portable Power Station Cover
EF ECOFLOW Portable Power Station Delta 2, 1024Wh LiFePO4 (LFP) Battery, 1800W AC/100W USB-C Output, Solar Generator(Solar Panel Optional) for Home Backup Power, Camping & RVs

The ECOFLOW DELTA 2 Power Station is a fast-charging, expandable, and versatile portable power station that can power almost anything. With 7x faster charging, it can be charged up to 80% in just 50 minutes and up to 100% in only 80 minutes with AC input. Its standalone portable design with 1kWh capacity can be expanded up to 3kWh, making it perfect for camping, RVs, and off-grid living. With 1800W output, it can power 90% of your appliances, making it a cleaner and greener alternative to outdoor generators. It also features up to 500W of solar panel input, making it an ideal solar generator. The ECOFLOW DELTA 2 is built to last 6x longer with its LFP battery chemistry, offering a 3000+ cycle life. It comes with a sophisticated BMS to ensure safety. It also includes a plug-and-play design that enables you to connect it directly to your home's power inlet box* with a generator cord for partial home backup, making it an easy solution for power outages.

What We Like
Fast-charging
Expandable capacity
Powerful output
Clean and green charging
Built to last
#TOP 10

Westinghouse 2550 Peak Watt Generator

iGen2550
Blue
Westinghouse 2550 Peak Watt Generator Cover
Westinghouse 2550 Peak Watt Super Quiet & Lightweight Portable Inverter Generator, RV Ready 30A Outlet, Gas Powered, Parallel Capable, Long Run Time,Blue

The Westinghouse Portable Generator is a powerful and lightweight solution for your energy needs. With 2550 peak watts and 1900 rated watts, it can easily handle your essential home appliances during a power outage. Weighing just 42.4 lbs, it's easy to transport wherever you need it. You’ll appreciate the quiet operation, producing only 52 dBA, making it perfect for camping or RV use. Plus, with a run time of up to 12 hours on a single tank, you can enjoy peace of mind without frequent refueling. The user-friendly LED display keeps you informed about fuel levels and power output.

What We Like
Lightweight and portable
Quiet operation
Long run time
Multiple outlet options
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What size generator do I need for home backup?

Add up the Total Watts to determine how much power your home is likely to use during an outage. Divide the Total Watts by 1000 to find kilowatts. Multiply kilowatts x 1.25 to add a margin of safety and for future power needs. This is the minimum Generator Capacity required for your home.

2. Is there a generator that can power a whole house?

A few of the top whole house generators on the market are: Generac 24kW home standby generator (US$6,935,49, Amazon) Generac 22kW/19.5kW home standby generator (US$5,727 (Was US$6,147), Amazon) Champion 8.5-kW home standby generator (US$3,149, Amazon) (more info on this economical model below)

3. Can I run my whole house on a portable generator?

Small generators can power an appliance or two, while a whole-home generator (sometimes called a home standby generator) can power an entire house.

Editor's Notes

During our generator for home backup research, we found 24 generator for home backup products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 200,255 customer reviews through our big data system to write the generators for home backup list. We found that most customers choose generators for home backup with an average price of $1,223.88.

The generators for home backup are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of generators for home backup, including Westinghouse, DuroMax, PowerSmart, Champion Power Equipment, EF ECOFLOW. 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.