Top 10 Best Home Generators September 2015
1. DuroMax XP4400E 4,400 Watt 7.0 HP OHV 4-Cycle Gas Powered Portable Generator With Wheel Kit And Electric Start
6. Powermate PM0497000.04 8,750 Watt 389cc 13HP Honda GX390 Gas Powered Portable Generator
2. All Power America APG3014 2,000 Watt 4-Stroke Gas Powered Portable Generator
7. Yamaha EF6300iSDE 6,300 Watt 357cc OHV 4-Stroke Gas Powered Portable Inverter Generator With Electric Start
3. Honda Eu2000i Super Quiet Portable Gas Powered Generator Power Inverter 2000, 120v
8. Westinghouse WH7500E Portable Generator, 7500 Running Watts/9000 Starting Watts
4. Generac 5734 GP15000E 15,000 Watt 992cc OHVI Gas Powered Portable Generator with Electric Start
9. Wagan EL2546 Solar e Cube 1500
5. Yamaha EF2000iS 2,000 Watt 79cc OHV 4-Stroke Gas Powered Portable Inverter Generator
10. Reliance Controls 31410CRK Pro/Tran 10-Circuit 30 Amp Generator Transfer Switch Kit With Transfer Switch
To determine whether a generator is appropriate for your needs, you need to first add up the wattage of tools, appliances, and motors you want to run at the same time. Then select a generator with the running wattage rating to match or exceed the total load.
Here’s a sampling of power ratings for common household appliances.
Item
Running Watts
Surge Watts
Light Bulb
100
Fan
200
Sump Pump (1/2 HP)
1,000
1,000
Kitchen Appliance
750
Radio
200
Space Heater
1,000
Refrigerator / Freezer
500
500
Item
Running Watts
Surge Watts
Cell Phone Charger
10
Garage Door Opener
550
550
Security System
100
Window AC Unit
1,200
1,200
Furnace Fan (1/2 HP)
900
1,100
Microwave
800
Well Pump (1/2 HP)
1,000
1,000
1. DuroMax XP4400E 4,400 Watt 7.0 HP OHV 4-Cycle Gas Powered Portable Generator With Wheel Kit And Electric Start
List Price:
$599.99
Price: $377.38
You Save: $222.61 (37%)
4400 Watt Surge/3500 Watt Continuous
4 Gallon Gas Tank/8 Hour Run Time
Electric Key Start/Includes Battery
EPA Approved
Automatic Low Oil Shut Off
Safeguard your family as well as provide portable power for work and play with the DuroMax XP4400E gas-powered generator, which features a 7.0-horsepower air-cooled OHV engine that cranks out 3,500 constant running watts of power (and a peak of 4,400 watts; learn more about wattage needs below). It includes both a standard recoil start as well as an easy electric start.
This rugged workhorse is ideal for the jobsite where powering saws, drills, and other equipment is critical, but you can also depend on it for emergencies at home–insuring your essential appliances are running smoothly, reliably, and without interruption. It’s EPA approved with a rating of 69 dBA for quiet operation thanks to its super-quiet muffler, and it’s also safe to use in U.S. National Parks thanks to the super quiet exhaust with spark arrestor.
Note for California residents: This model is not CARB-compliant. Units sold to California must be CARB-compliant.
The XP4400E includes two 120-volt, 20-amp standard household outlets to supply power to all of your appliances as well as a powerful 120/240-volt, 30-amp twist lock outlet for high-powered tools. A 12-volt DC output with leads functions as a charger for batteries and other rechargeable devices. Overloads are never a problem with its dual 15-amp circuit breaker. A volt meter allows you to monitor your generator’s output range at all times, and the battery charge indicator light lets you know when the generator’s starter battery is charging.
The exclusive DuroMax RV Switch (voltage selector) allows you to get maximum power from each of the 120-volt receptacles as well as choose between operating the generator at both 120 and 240 volts simultaneously, or at 120 only with full power.
2. All Power America APG3014 2,000 Watt 4-Stroke Gas Powered Portable Generator
List Price:
$396.99
Price: $211.00
You Save: $185.99 (47%)
2,000 Watts Surge/1,400 Watts Continuous
3 HP 4-Stroke Engine
Runs 9.5 hours at 50% load
Low Noise at 68dB
Non-CARB Compliant/Not For Sale In California
All-Power America is a power tool and power equipment manufacturer, major categories include power equipment (air compressors, generators, digital generators, electric pressure washers, and gas pressure washers) and power tools (a wide variety of cordless drills, saws, sanders, grinders, rotary tools, and screwdrivers; electric saws, grinders, sanders, drills, rotary tools, and heat guns). Additional categories include AC and DC powered home/shop appliances such as vacuums and mini-refrigerators. All-Power America ‘s power equipment product line is covered by an expansive service center network available throughout the continental US and Canada . Our service centers and repair facilities currently number in excess of 21,000 and will repair the products both during the manufacturer’s warranty as well as after the warranty has expired. Our service centers will keep our products operating in top condition for years of reliable service.
3. Honda Eu2000i Super Quiet Portable Gas Powered Generator Power Inverter 2000, 120v
Price: $1,190.00
Power for microwave, refrigerators, hair dryer, small AC units, and much more
Fuel efficient – runs up to 9.6 hrs on 1.1 gal. of fuel Thanks to our exclusive Eco-Throttle System, the EU2000i offers great fuel efficiency. Runs 4.0 to 9.6 hours on a single tank, depending on the load. This makes it great for overnight power.
Super quiet – less noise than normal conversation
Advanced inverter technology – reliable power for computers and other sensitive equipment
Lightweight and compact Weighing less than 47 pounds, the EU2000 is incredibly lightweight and portable, thanks to Honda’s inverter technology.
The EU2000i, lightweight generator which produces 2000 watts/16.7 amps @ 120V of maximum power. It is super quiet and perfect for tailgating, RVing, and other recreational activities. This generator is easy to carry, it weighs less than 47 lbs!! The advanced inverter technology provides reliable power to sensitive equipment.
4. Generac 5734 GP15000E 15,000 Watt 992cc OHVI Gas Powered Portable Generator with Electric Start
Price: $2,399.00
Generac OHVI engine incorporates full pressure lubrication with automotive style spin on oil filter for longer life engine
Electric start – battery included
Low-oil pressure shutdown automatically safeguards engine from damage
Hour meter with maintenance alerts and idle control to increase fuel efficiency
Hardened steel-tube cradle for added durability and strength
Featuring a compact, wheeled frame for easy transport, the Generac 15,000-Watt Portable Gas-Powered Generator with Electric Start provides a reliable power supply wherever you need it. A Generac OHVI (overhead valve industrial) engine delivers performance and power, while a sturdy steel-tube cradle protects the generator’s exterior. For safe and comfortable use, the circuit-breaker outlets prevent power overloads, and the low-tone muffler makes for ultra quiet operation.
A Durable Power Supply Wherever You Need It
The Generac 15,000-Watt Generator with Electric Start is an ideal portable generator to have at home, on the job site, or wherever you need power. Its compact frame–48.5 x 31 x 39.5 inches (LxWxH)–is fitted with lifting eye handles and pneumatic, all-terrain wheels for easy portability. And with its hardened steel-tube cradle, this rugged generator holds up well for frequent travel, allowing you to look forward to years of operation. Plus, this model features an electric ignition for fast, easy start-up.
Thanks to its versatile design, this generator adds comfort and possibility to any situation. Use it to keep your family safe and well-equipped through unexpected blackouts or make construction jobs faster and easier.
A Low-Maintenance, High-Performance OHVI Engine
Designed specifically for generators, the Generac 15,000-Watt Generator with Electric Start’s heavy-duty 992-cc OHVI (overhead valve industrial) engine boasts a host of features. An exclusive X-Torq governor maximizes the engine’s performance to keep it running without stalls. And so engine components continue moving smoothly, a pressurized lubrication system sends oil directly to critical areas.
Thanks to this full-pressure lubrication system, the engine can employ an automotive-grade, spin-on oil filter that sifts out dirt and other unwanted substances. The oil filter works alongside a dual-element air filter. Together, the two keep engine performance at a maximum and maintenance at a minimum.
Plus, this generator’s sturdy, 16-gallon resin tank ensures a full 10 hours of operation at a 50-percent load, letting you relax for hours of use. The automatic-idle control reduces fuel usage and noise, while the tank’s built-in fuel gauge lets you monitor fuel levels at a glance. Generac even provides you with your first supply of oil.
Plenty of Wattage to Run a Full Range of Appliances
The Generac 15,000-Watt Generator with Electric Start supplies 15,000 output watts and 22,500 maximum watts (for start-up of devices). It has an A/C voltage of 120/240 and a frequency of 60 hertz.
For unexpected blackouts, this is enough wattage to run home appliances such as security systems, computers, and electric stoves, as well as air conditioning systems and sump pumps. (A manual transfer switch is required to connect to air conditioning systems.) For construction and landscaping applications, it’s enough to support large devices such as lawn mowers, belt sanders, and table saws. And for camping and outdoor events, it can run portable stereos, outdoor lights, and electric grills.
5. Yamaha EF2000iS 2,000 Watt 79cc OHV 4-Stroke Gas Powered Portable Inverter Generator, CARB Compliant, Blue
List Price:
$1,099.00
Price: $989.10
You Save: $109.90 (10%)
1600 watt rated AC output, 2000 watt maximum AC output, 13.3/16.7 amps @ 120V
Super-quiet muffler with USFS-approved spark arrestor – 51.5 dBA at 1/4 load
Smart Throttle varies engine speed based on load – improves fuel economy and reduces noise
Inverter system with Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) control
CARB Compliant
Powerful, portable, and efficient, the Yamaha EF2000iS Gas-Powered Portable Inverter delivers maximum electrical output without sacrificing portability. Thanks to its innovative inverter system, the generator is able to generate up to 2,000 watts of clean AC power. It can run up to 10.5 hours continuously without refueling and uses premium technologies to maximize fuel efficiency.
Powerful Inverter System Delivers Cleaner Electricity
The EF2000iS is built around an innovative inverter system, which is able to deliver higher-quality, cleaner electricity than competing generators. It produces energy in the form of pure sine waves, which are cleaner and more reliable than most commercial power sources.
In simpler terms, this means that you’ll be able to confidently power delicate machinery without having to worry about the damage caused by unrefined energy. An electrical overload breaker is also included, to prevent generator damage in case of an unexpected overload.
Smart Technologies for Optimal Fuel Efficiency
The EF2000iS is exceptionally fuel efficient, able to run for up to 10.5 hours without refueling when in Economy mode. Its OHV engine runs reliably and dissipates heat efficiently, allowing for both a long life and optimal fuel consumption.
With its Smart Throttle Load feature, the generator is able to dynamically adjust engine speed depending on output, resulting in greater overall fuel efficiency. The generator also features an exclusive dual coil alternator stator, which lowers engine speed and reduces total fuel consumption.
Ergonomic, User-Friendly Design
Weighing 44 pounds, the generator is ultra-portable and features an easy-to-carry design. It has a convenient, centralized control panel, which allows you to easily access all of the generator’s features at the push of a button. It also starts up responsively due to its auto-decompression system, which reduces compression and makes start-up less difficult.
For added convenience, the EF2000iS is able to recharge batteries with its 8A12V DC output, making it ideal for RV, auto, and boat owners. You can even hook up two EF2000iS units for added output, thanks to TwinTech technology. And you won’t have to worry about engine damage due to low oil levels: an oil-watch warning system constantly monitors oil levels and lets you know when an oil change is needed.
Noise Reduction for Quiet Operation
The EF2000iS uses noise reduction technologies to ensure the quietest operation possible. Featuring a special sound-blocking design, the generator has noise-absorbing glass wool construction, which helps dampen noise even during heavy operation. Along with the EF2000iS’ super-quiet muffler and vibration-isolating feet, it helps keep noise to a minimum.
6. Powermate PM0497000.04 8,750 Watt 389cc 13HP Honda GX390 Gas Powered Portable Generator
List Price:
$1,663.18
Price: $1,317.43
You Save: $345.75 (21%)
7,000 Running Watts/8,750 Maximum Watts
13 HP Honda GX390 OHV gas engine with low-oil shutdown
8 gallon gas tank with fuel gauge that runs up to 12.3 hours @ 50% load
Control panel includes: (4) 120V outlets, (1) 120/240V twistlock outlet, and circuit breaker protection
Non-CARB Compliant/Not For Sale In California
This 7000 Watt Generator is great for home backup situations or power at a jobsite. It features an easy-starting Honda GX 13 HP OHV gas engine with low-oil shutdown protection. The 8 gallon gas tank with fuel gauge provides up to 12.3 hours run time @ 50% load. The control panel includes (4) 120V outlets, (1) 120/240V twistlock outlet, and circuit breaker protection. It is equipped with pneumatic wheels and dual-folding handles for convenient portability.
This 7000 Watt Generator is great for home backup situations or power at a jobsite. It features an easy-starting Honda GX 389 CC OHV gas engine with low-oil shutdown protection. The 8 gallon gas tank with fuel gauge provides up to 12.4 hours run time at 50% load. The control panel includes (4) 120V outlets, (1)120/240V twistlock outlet, and circuit breaker protection. It is equipped with 10 inch Flat-Free wheels and dual folding handles for convenient portability. Built in Kearney, Nebraska, USA.
Features:
Honda GX Series 389cc OHV gas engine.
7000 Running Watts/ 8750 Surge Watts.
8-Gallon Gas Tank with Fuel Gauge.
Runs up to 12.4 hours at 50% Load.
Control Panel Includes (4) 120V Outlets, (1) 120/240V Twistlock outlet and circuit breaker protection.
1) Powerful Premium OHV engine made by Honda provides consistent power for multiple applications.
2) Fuel Gauge allows user to keep track of gasoline levels.
3) Includes AVR (Automatic Voltage Regulator) to keep equipment protected from voltage surges.
4) Never-Flat wheels allow for easy transportation (included with portability kit).
5) Dual folding handles make for easier mobility.
7. Yamaha EF6300iSDE 6,300 Watt 357cc OHV 4-Stroke Gas Powered Portable Inverter Generator With Electric Start (CARB Compliant)
List Price:
$4,099.00
Price: $3,681.68
You Save: $417.32 (10%)
6,300 Watt Maximum AC Output/5,500 Watt Rated AC Output
Pure Sine Wave (Pulse Width Modulation) Inverter System – Run electronic equipment, appliances, variable-speed power tools and computers.
Smart Throttle – Automatically adjusts engine speed to match power demand, reduces noise, fuel consumption and engine wear.
Wireless Remote Control (optional) – Start and stop the generator from up to 66 feet away.
Power Meter – See how much power is being used and how much power is available.
Crank out up to 6300 watts of pure sine wave inverted power, its fully enclosed casing makes it run ultra quiet. And with sophisticated capabilities like dual 120-volt and 240-volt power, you can run almost any type of equipment with total confidence. Excellent fuel economy and efficiency means a run time of 13 hours at a constant one-quarter load on just a single tank of gas. Warranty: 3 Years
The EF6300iSDE is everything you’d expect from Yamaha in one beautiful, powerful and clean package. Every advanced feature we could pack into the EF6300iSDE, including electric start and wireless remote control, makes it a pleasure to use. Noise Block – Quiet, pleasant to use. Pure Sine Wave (Pulse Width Modulation) Inverter System – Run electronic equipment, appliances, variable-speed power tools and computers. Smart Throttle – Automatically adjusts engine speed to match power demand, reduces noise, fuel consumption and engine wear. Electric Start – Effortless starting (battery included). Automatic Choke – Effortless starting. Wireless Remote Control (optional) – Start and stop the generator from up to 66 feet away. Low Oil Shutoff – Protects engine from low oil damage. Fuel Level Gauge – See fuel level at a glance. Dual Voltage 120/240 Volt – Versatile, operate variety of 120V and 240V tools and appliances. Power Meter – See how much power is being used and how much power is available. Hour Meter – Shows accumulated running time for refueling and service scheduling. Lightweight – Easy transport. Twin Bar – Aid lift, transport and provide security point. Stylish Design – Nice appearance and Modern design. California Air Resources Board Tier III Compliant – Low emissions. CARB and EPA Highest Rating Given – Long engine life, low exhaust emissions.
8. Westinghouse WH7500E Portable Generator, 7500 Running Watts/9000 Starting Watts
List Price:
$999.00
Price: $911.96
You Save: $87.04 (9%)
Portable gas-powered generator with 4-stroke, 420cc overhead valve engine; electric and manual start
7,500 running watts and 9,000 starting watts
Quiet operation via Pulse-Flo muffler; simplified control center; LCD hour meter
Full enclosure protects electrical connections from debris and weather; four 120-volt and one 120/240-volt twist outlets
Non-CARB Compliant/Not For Sale In California
Model WH7500E includes the Westinghouse, 420 cc, OHV engine with electric start that has been designed for power, durability and quiet operation; it comes with an oversized muffler and catalyst. All Westinghouse generators come with EZ start, color-coded starting controls and access to a friendly and knowledgeable customer service group that can be reached at 1-855-WH-HELP-1 (944-3571). This model can be assembled very quickly and is easy to operate with a simplified power control center and is backed by an industry leading 3-year limited warranty. Other items included are never-flat tires, high-leverage handles, tool kit, one liter bottle of oil and a funnel to get you started right out of the box.
Safeguard your family as well as provide portable power for work and play with the Westinghouse WH7500E gas-powered generator, which delivers 7,500 running watts of power and a maximum starting output of 9,000 watts while providing the owner with many features and benefits usually found on more expensive models. The WH7500E is also easy to start thanks to its one-touch electric start system, and it includes an LCD hour meter.
The WH7500E provides quiet operation via Westinghouse’s Pulse-Flo muffler, includes four standard household outlets ready to conveniently power your devices, and is easy to operate thanks to the simplified control center. It also includes everything to get started right out of the box, including a wheel kit and handle kit, oil, funnel, and tool kit. This generator is backed by a three-year limited warranty, and it’s EPA-approved.
Powered by a high output, durable 420cc Westinghouse XP Series engine, the WH7500E features an overhead valve design for excellent performance, cast iron cylinder sleeves for low oil consumption, and forged pistons and connecting rods for proven strength. The three position electric start allows for easy operation, and it’s complemented by a Comfort Grip manual recoil handle, compression release, and transistorized ignition. The efficient engine gives you up to 13 hours of run time at 50 percent load with its 6.6-gallon tank.
The low loss, high efficiency alternator laminations increase electrical output and decrease fuel consumption. Automatic voltage regulation provides reliable and precise voltage control for demanding applications. Its cast iron fan guard ensures safe operation, while the Maintenance free brush excitation ensures zero down time operation.
Featuring an all-steel construction and fully enclosed electrical connections, the WH7500E can withstand the harshest environments and weather. It features two 120 volt pushbutton circuit breakers for over current protection, a toggled mainline 240 volt circuit breaker for safe operation, and a quarter-turn Nema twist lock connector that provides a secure connection for available power cord and other devices.
9. Wagan EL2546 Solar e Cube 1500
List Price:
$1,299.00
Price: $1,039.21
You Save: $259.79 (20%)
5 solar panels (16 Watts each) unfold and slide out from the power cube
1500 Watts AC inverter (3600 peak surge power): 2 AC outlets to power appliances such as radio, portable stereo, laptop computer, television, microwave, conventional refrigerator/freezer
2 USB power ports (5 Volts 2.1 ampere total) to charge/operate iPad/tablet, Kindle/e-reader, MP3 player, cell phone, laptop, etc. plus 2 DC 12 Volt outlets
Includes AC and DC adapters to recharge its 55 AH AGM/gel hybrid battery
Does not require any extra assembly; this all in one ready to use solar cube is ready to use out of the package, plus it can be expanded with additional solar panels and/or batteries if more power is required in the future
Wagan’s Solar e Power Cube is the ultimate portable power source. Simply charge the internal battery using its 5 total solar panels, which fold out from the top and roll out from each side, and use the power to run your AC, USB or DC devices from anywhere. Recharge the built-in 55 AH AGM/gel hybrid battery faster using the included home AC or vehicle DC outlet. This renewable power source is extremely user friendly. This simple all in one unit is ready to be used out of the box; just charge the battery. No assembly or connections required. Features an AC power inverter with 1500 Watts continuous and 3600 Watts peak surge power, two 115 Volts AC outlets, two 12 Volts accessory outlets for powering DC appliances, two USB power ports (5 Volts 2.1 ampere total), and a digital LED voltmeter display for checking battery status. It is ideal for deep cycle applications. Initial AC charge takes up to 24 hours. Allows up to 18 hours direct sunlight to fully charge it via solar panels only. Each solar panel is 16 Watts, so 80 Watts of solar panels are already built in. These mono crystalline solar panels run on 17 percent efficiency. Sample applications include 3 Watts LED light bulb, radio, wireless router, portable stereo, laptop computer, thermo fridge/warmer, TV, refrigerator/freezer, microwave, cell phone, etc. Also includes several other useful built-in features. Separate solar panels and batteries can be connected for even more power. The front of the cube has two terminals for solar panel expansion, if it is needed in the future. A convenient fold out storage compartment is built into the side, useful for additional accessories. It has collapsible handle and wheels to easily transport it to your next sunny destination. This plug and play solar generator harnesses the sun’s energy and provides instant access to AC power that is fume and noise free. This item is covered by a 2 year limited warranty.
Get instant access to renewable power anywhere you go. Wagan’s Solar ePower Cube is the ultimate portable power source. Simply charge the internal battery using its 5 total solar panels, which fold out from the top and roll out from each side, and you will have enough power to run your AC, USB or DC devices from anywhere. It can also be recharged with a home AC or vehicle DC outlet.
The side of the solar power cube has a convenient fold out storage compartment, which is useful for additional accessories. Taking the cube with you is as easy as pulling a suitcase at the airport. Simply use the collapsible heavy duty handle and roll the all terrain wheels to your next sunny destination.
An All-In-One Renewable Portable Solar Solution. This portable and renewable power source is extremely user friendly. Unlike other solar products, this product is ready to use soon after it’s taken out of its box. It doesn’t require the user to assemble anything else or connect multiple parts. This simple all in one unit is ready to be used as soon as it is charged.
Capable of Serving All Your Power Needs. This Solar ePower Cube features a 1500 watt power inverter, two 115V AC outlets, two 12V accessory outlets for powering DC appliances, two USB power ports (5V 2.1 amp total), and a digital LED voltmeter display for checking battery status. Includes both AC and DC adapters to recharge the built-in 55 AH AGM/gel hybrid battery. It is ideal for deep cycle applications. Its continuous AC output power capacity is 1500 watts with 3600 watts peak surge of power.
Save Money and Go Green. Initial AC charge takes up to 24 hours. Allow up to 18 hours direct sunlight to fully charge it via solar panels only. Each solar panel is 16 watts, so it has 80W of solar panels already built in. These monocrystalline solar panels run on 17% efficiency.
10. Reliance Controls 31410CRK Pro/Tran 10-Circuit 30 Amp Generator Transfer Switch Kit With Transfer Switch, 10-Foot Power Cord, And Power Inlet Box For Up To 8,000-Watt Generators
Price: $399.00
10-circuit, 30 Amp transfer switch for enabling generator
For use with 8000-watt generator with NEMA L14-20 or L14-30 power outlets
Includes 30 Amp 10-circuit prewired loadside reliance transfer switch with wattmeters
Includes 30 Amp 10-foot generator power cord, extra L14-20 cord end
CUL1008 listed; 5-year warranty
The Reliance Controls Corporation 10-circuit 30 Amp transfer switch kit is a complete turn-key kit with everything needed to make a professional transfer switch installation in a home or office. It is designed to enable the wiring system of the building to accept the full power of a portable generator, which can run multiple electrical appliances and devices during a power outage. Use this transfer switch for up to 8000-watt generators equipped with NEMA L14-20 or L14-30 power outlets. The kit includes a 30 Amp 6-circuit prewired loadside reliance transfer switch with wattmeters; 30 Amp outdoor power cord inlet box, a 30 Amp 10-foot generator power cord with L14-30 ends, and an extra L14-20 cord end for smaller generators. This unit is cUL1008 listed and is covered by a 5-year warranty.
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Copyright 2015 Kelly Downing
