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10 Best Standby Generators 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Generac Guardian 22kW Home Standby Generator with 200 Amp Transfer Switch, Durable All Aluminum, WiFi Enabled with G-Force Engine, Easy to Use, Whole House Power Backup, Smart Outage Solution - Bisque

The Generac 7043 22kW Air Cooled Guardian Series Home Standby Generator offers powerful and reliable backup power for residential use. It provides a substantial 22,000 watts of power, which is sufficient to keep an entire household running during an outage. The generator operates on natural gas or LP gas, offering flexibility depending on your fuel source availability. The included 200-amp transfer switch ensures smooth and automatic transition during power failures, which is a crucial feature for uninterrupted home protection.

The Mobile Link Wi-Fi connectivity allows remote monitoring so you can keep track of its performance and maintenance needs from anywhere, adding convenience and peace of mind. Additionally, the generator features a robust G-Force engine, designed for durability and reduced maintenance, supported by a 5-year limited warranty. This highlights Generac's confidence in their product's longevity and reliability.

There are a few considerations to keep in mind. The generator is quite heavy, weighing 466 pounds, which could make installation challenging and will likely require professional assistance, as recommended by Generac. Although the generator is equipped with various safety features like overload protection and automatic shut down, it might be more expensive compared to smaller units due to its high power output and advanced features. This generator is a solid choice for homeowners looking for a high-capacity, reliable, and easy-to-monitor standby power solution.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Power Output (Wattage
The generator is quite loud but was able to run both my 5-ton AC units and all normal house parts during summer testing.
Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS)
The generator kicked off and ran just fine during unexpected power outages, providing electricity to the entire house and turning off automatically once power was restored. Very happy customer.
Noise Level
The generator is quite loud but was able to run both my 5-ton AC units and all normal house parts during summer testing.
Size and Installation
Solid heavy weight home generator. Easy to install fuel lines, but most buyers will need a 'permitted' electrician for the final panel hookup.
#2

Generac Guardian 10kW Home Standby Generator with 100 Amp Transfer Switch, Durable All Aluminum, WiFi Enabled with G-Force Engine, Easy to Use, Whole House Power Backup, Smart Outage Solution - Bisque

The Generac 7172 10kW Air Cooled Guardian Series Home Standby Generator is designed to provide reliable backup power for residential use. With a power output of 10,000 watts, it offers ample capacity to keep essential household appliances running during an outage. This generator operates on natural gas or LP gas, giving homeowners flexibility in fuel choice. The included 100-amp automatic transfer switch ensures a seamless transition when the power goes out, maintaining convenience and safety without manual intervention.

The generator boasts a low noise level, making it a quieter option suitable for residential areas. The True Power Technology ensures less than 5 percent total harmonic distortion, providing stable and clean power which is crucial for sensitive electronics. The unit also features Wi-Fi connectivity for remote monitoring, allowing users to keep tabs on performance and receive maintenance alerts from anywhere.

The size and installation require professional setup by a certified electrician, but once installed, it promises long-term reliability with minimal maintenance due to its G-Force Engine. The 5-year limited warranty further adds to the peace of mind. At 338 pounds and dimensions of 48” L x 25” W x 29” H, the generator is quite bulky and may require significant space for installation. The generator’s robust build and high-quality construction, proudly made in the USA, make it a solid choice for homeowners seeking dependable whole-house protection during power outages.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Power Output (Wattage)
Works as described! The generator handled both my 5 ton AC units during double start-up and all normal house loads during summer testing.
Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS)
Very happy customer. The generator kicked off and ran just fine during unexpected power outages, providing electricity to the entire house and turning off automatically after utility power came back on.
Noise Level
The generator is too loud to converse next to when running, but it operates smoothly and efficiently.
Size and Installation
Solid heavy-weight home generator. Installation requires a certified electrician for the final panel hookup, but instructions are easy to follow if you have some background.
#3

Generac 7.5kW Powerpact Home Standby Generator with 50 Amp Transfer Switch, Reliable for Whole House Use, Natural or LP Gas Powered, Long-Life Operation, Digital Controller with LED Indicators, Bisque

The Generac 69981 7.5kW Powerpact Home Standby Generator provides a solid option for those needing reliable backup power for home essentials. With a power output of 7.5kW, it is well-suited for powering critical items such as refrigerators and select appliances, ensuring your home remains functional during power outages. The included 50-amp lightweight transfer switch simplifies the automatic transfer to generator power, which is convenient during inclement weather.

The generator operates on natural gas or LP gas, giving flexibility in fuel options. Additionally, the True Power Technology offers clean and stable power delivery which is crucial for safe appliance operation. It features several useful protections such as low oil shutdown and automatic voltage regulation, enhancing its reliability and longevity. Generac emphasizes easy installation, recommending a certified electrician, which may reduce setup complications for homeowners.

The Generac 69981 stands out with its three-year limited warranty and high-quality construction, proudly engineered in the USA. This generator is a fitting choice for residential use, particularly for those seeking an affordable yet reliable backup power solution.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Power Output (Wattage)
Obviously a large generator, too loud to converse next to it, but it ran both my 5-ton ACs and all normal house parts during summer testing.
Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS)
The generator kicked off and ran just fine during unexpected power outages, turning off automatically once power was restored. Very happy customer.
Noise Level
Obviously a large generator, too loud to converse next to it, but it ran both my 5-ton ACs and all normal house parts during summer testing.
Run Time
Money well spent. The generator worked flawlessly during multiple power outages, providing electricity to the entire house.
Size and Installation
Solid heavyweight home generator. Easy to install fuel lines, but most buyers will need a certified electrician for the final panel hookup.

Buying Guide for the Best Standby Generators

Choosing the right standby generator is crucial to ensure you have a reliable power source during outages. Standby generators are permanently installed and automatically provide power to your home or business when the main power supply fails. To make an informed decision, you need to consider several key specifications that will determine the generator's suitability for your needs. Understanding these specifications will help you select a generator that provides adequate power, operates efficiently, and fits your specific requirements.
Power Output (Wattage)Power output, measured in watts (W), indicates the amount of electricity the generator can produce. This is important because it determines how many and what type of appliances and systems you can run simultaneously during a power outage. Generators are typically categorized into three segments: small (up to 7,500 watts), medium (7,500 to 15,000 watts), and large (over 15,000 watts). To pick the right one, list the essential appliances and their wattage requirements, then choose a generator that can handle the total load with some extra capacity for safety.
Fuel TypeStandby generators can run on various fuel types, including natural gas, propane, diesel, and gasoline. The fuel type is important because it affects the generator's efficiency, cost of operation, and availability of fuel during emergencies. Natural gas and propane are popular for their clean-burning properties and continuous supply through utility lines, while diesel and gasoline are known for their high energy density. Choose a fuel type based on availability in your area, storage capabilities, and personal preference.
Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS)An Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS) is a device that automatically switches the power source from the main supply to the generator during an outage. This is important for convenience and safety, as it ensures a seamless transition without manual intervention. ATS systems come in different sizes and capabilities, so it's essential to choose one that matches your generator's power output and your electrical system's requirements. Consider your need for automatic operation and the complexity of your electrical setup when selecting an ATS.
Noise LevelThe noise level of a generator, measured in decibels (dB), indicates how loud the generator will be during operation. This is important for maintaining a comfortable environment, especially if the generator is located near living or working spaces. Generators can range from very quiet (below 60 dB) to quite loud (above 80 dB). If noise is a concern, look for models with lower decibel ratings or additional noise-reducing features. Consider the placement of the generator and local noise regulations when making your choice.
Run TimeRun time refers to how long a generator can operate on a full tank of fuel or continuous fuel supply. This is important for ensuring that you have power for the duration of an outage without frequent refueling. Run times can vary widely, from a few hours to several days, depending on the generator's fuel efficiency and tank size. Assess your typical power outage duration and choose a generator with a run time that meets your needs, keeping in mind the availability of fuel for extended outages.
Size and InstallationThe physical size and installation requirements of a standby generator are important considerations for ensuring it fits in the designated space and complies with local codes. Generators come in various sizes, and larger units may require more space and specific installation procedures. Evaluate the available space for installation, including clearance requirements, and consult with a professional to ensure proper setup. Consider the ease of maintenance and access to the generator when choosing the size and installation type.

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