The Ultimate Generator Buying Guide: Everything You Need to Know About Choosing a Home Generator
Table of Contents
Home Generator Buying Guide?
What Generator Do I Need for my Home?
What Are The Types of Home Generators?
Portable Generators
Standby Generators
Inverter Generators
Portable Power Stations
How Do Generators Create Power? Home Generator Fuel Options
What Size Generator Do I Need for my Home?
Calculating How Many Watts Are Needed
How To Size A Whole of House Generator
What Type Of Generator Is Quietest?
How To Install A Home Generator?
How To Maintain A Generator?
Carbon Monoxide And Generators
Features To Consider in Home Generators
Home Generator Safety Considerations
How Much Does A Home Generator Typically Cost?
How to Choose The Right Generator For Your Home
Home Generator Buying Guide
Buying a home generator can be a daunting task. But don’t worry, we’re here to help.
A generator can be a lifesaver in an emergency and give you the freedom to live your life as you choose, but with all of the different types and sizes on the market, it can be tough to understand all the technical information and work out which generator is right for you.
That’s where we come in. We’ll help you figure out what you need to consider before making your purchase and put all the background information in one spot to make the research easy for you. This will help you understand our in-depth reviews which will help guide you to the best generator for your needs.
We’ll be adding more content over time. So join our emailing list to stay updated with our latest free research as it’s published.
What Generator Do I Need for my home?
So you are thinking that a generator would be great to provide power, but answering the question “what generator do I need?” is not an easy one and requires careful consideration.
To begin, start with the end in mind! What outcome do you want to achieve by using a generator? Think about these key areas as you are starting your research into generators:
- What will you use it for?
- How often are you likely to use it?
- What fuel sources are likely to be available when you will want to use a generator?
- How quiet do you want it to be?
- What is your budget?
When thinking about what you will use a generator for, here are a few of the main applications:
- For back-up power supply if the mains power supply fails.
- As an emergency generator if you live in an area prone to damage to power lines with severe storms.
- As a permanent source of power if you live in a property that is off the grid from mains power.
- To provide power when on the move such as when travelling in an RV, operating a food truck, on a boat or camping.
- For power when on construction sites and there is a need to operate power tools and lighting.
And when is the best time to purchase a generator?
It’s before you need one! Trying to buy one in the midst of a major storm season as everyone is also combing all the retailers is likely to see that you don’t get the choice of what you really need and will pay a premium price – if indeed you manage to find one at all. Being prepared beforehand by knowing what you need, puts you several steps ahead of the crowds.
What are the Types of Home Generators?
We’ll start with the basics. There are three main types: portable generators, standby generators and inverter generators. And we’ll also include portable power stations which are not technically a generator, but they do store power in batteries so you can use them to provide power.
Portable generators:

Image: DuroMaxPower
These are small, usually gasoline-powered, and can be used to power a limited number of appliances or electronic devices in the event of a power outage. They’re easy to transport and relatively inexpensive, making them a good option for emergency situations. They are operated manually so you need to be home to get them started.
For use, they are plugged into a transfer switch and connected with heavy-duty extension cords. Our detailed reviews will help you choose a portable generator for your home, RV or camping. Portable generators typically provide 3,000 to 8,500 watts of power and cost between $400 and $2,500.
Standby generators:

Image: Generac
These are larger than portable generators and are permanently installed outside your home. A standby generator is typically powered by natural gas or propane, and they kick in automatically in the event of a power outage. Standby generators are more expensive than portable generators, but they offer a more reliable source of backup power for your whole house.
They require installation by a professional and may require permits from the municipal council. They run a self-diagnosis so you get notified of when maintenance is needed. Our detailed reviews of models will help you choose a standby generator that meets your needs. The power output is typically 5,000 to 20,000 watts. Cost ranges from $2,000 to $6,000 plus installation.
Inverter generators:

Image: Honda Power Equipment
These are small, lightweight and quiet. They’re powered by gas, but they use an inverter to convert DC power to AC power, making them ideal for powering sensitive electronics like computers, TVs or smartphones without damaging them. They produce fewer emissions so do not create the same risk as a portable generator in regard to carbon monoxide but safety considerations should still be followed including using the generator outdoors.
Inverter generators are much quieter than conventional generators, so they’re perfect for camping or tailgating. Our detailed reviews of models will help you choose what is the best inverter generator for camping and RVs. Inverter generators typically provide 1,500 to 6,500 watts of power and cost between $300 to $4,000.
Portable Power Stations:

Image: Jackery
These are not truly a generator as they store power in an oversized lithium battery pack rather than make electricity. They are powered by a battery which is charged by plugging it into a powerpoint, into a DC power port in a car or through compatible solar panels. Not all portable power stations can be charged by solar panels and this is an important consideration as with a prolonged power outage, they will be useless if they cannot be charged. They have no engine meaning they are quiet and well suited to activities such as camping or travelling and do not create emissions.
They may also be referred to as indoor generators as they can be safely used inside unlike other types of generators. They are useful for medical equipment, smartphones, and small appliances during an emergency. They do not provide as much power as a portable generator. They may have standard AC outlets with USB ports so a range of devices can be powered at once. Portable battery stations typically produce 1,200 to 1,500 watts of power and cost between $750 to $3,000.
How do Generators Create Power? Home Generator Fuel Options
Generators can run on gasoline, diesel, natural gas, propane or solar. Each power source has its pros and cons which should be considered when working out the generator that best suits your needs. You also need to consider the availability of the fuel source where you are located and the likely access to the fuel type in an emergency. This is something people frequently fail to consider – and without access to fuel in an emergency, your generator will be useless.
The options for fuel for your generator are:
- Gasoline tends to be the common fuel type because it’s easy to find and relatively inexpensive. The shelf-life of gasoline is less than one year and using old fuel, can damage a generator. So you always need to have fresh gas on hand if you plan on using it as your primary fuel source. A stabiliser can be added to the gasoline to help prolong its storage. The amount of gasoline that is permitted to be stored is restricted by the US government due to its volatility. This means that you are likely to only have enough fuel to run a generator for 2 to 3 days. The availability of additional fuel beyond this time should be considered (power outages may result in gas stations also being impacted). As gasoline is highly flammable, you should also think about the practicality of refilling a fuel tank.
- Diesel is the most common fuel used in a standby generator as they run most efficiently saving money in running costs in the long term. However, they do not run as cleanly as gasoline, natural gas and propane and their run time may be restricted in some areas. Diesel generators also tend to be noisier. A fuel stabilizer will help to increase the shelf life of diesel.
- Natural Gas generators are powered by the same gas that powers your stove or furnace. If you have natural gas service at your home, a natural gas generator is a good option because you’ll never have to worry about transporting and storing gas yourself (assuming there is no damage to the gas lines in a natural disaster). You’ll need to have the generator properly connected to your gas lines by a professional. Natural gas generators run cleaner (so there are fewer emissions making them a good option if there are restrictions in your state) and are generally quieter compared to diesel and gasoline generators.
- Propane generators are similar to natural gas generators but they use propane tanks instead of being connected to a natural gas line. Propane is less efficient than gasoline and diesel but has the benefit that it has a long shelf life and is stored in metal canisters, making it an easier fuel option to stock up on to prepare for an emergency. This also makes propane a good option if you think you will rarely need to use a generator but want to have it for peace of mind to provide emergency power.
- Solar Generators are powered by the sun and are a clean and renewable source of energy. They’re quiet, emissions-free and require no fuel so provide clean power but they can be more expensive than other generator options.
- Hybrid Fuel Sources – Some generators also have the option of running on alternative fuel sources so you will be able to choose between multiple fuel sources. Bi-fuel or tri-fuel generators will typically give you the option to choose between gasoline and propane or gasoline, propane and natural gas. These hybrid generators tend to be portable generators and give you flexibility during unpredictable times of choosing to use the fuel that is most readily available.
What Size Generator Do I Need for my Home?
A generator’s power output is measured in watts or kilowatts (kW) – one kW equals 1000 watts.
The home generator size you need depends on a variety of factors, including:
- The number of appliances or devices you want to run at the same time.
- The power or the wattage requirements of those appliances or devices.
- The length of time you want to run power to an appliance/ device.
- Whether you want to use your generator as a backup in case of an outage, to run your house on an ongoing basis (if you live off the grid) or for recreation (camping, tailgating, etc.).
Calculating How Many Watts are Needed
To find the wattage that each device uses, you can check the product manual or the manufacturer’s website or you can calculate how many watts are needed with a wattage calculator.
When calculating the wattage required, you should consider the:
- Starting wattage which is an initial surge in power when an appliance starts up or runs through its cycle. This is the peak capacity.
- Running wattage is the continuous wattage needed to keep an appliance operational over a long period of time.
For example, for a refrigerator the continuous wattage requirements may be around 800w however the surge wattage could be around 1200w. This means that whenever the fridge starts up or the condenser runs through its cycle, 2000w of power is required for this. In order to calculate the wattage required for a generator, you must take into account any requirements for surge power and the running wattage for your refrigerator. In this case, 2000w would need to be factored into your needs.
You can also use our wattage calculator to figure out your power needs which cover typical surge power and continuous power requirements. Just enter the number of devices you want to run and our calculator will do the rest. Once you know your total wattage, you can choose a generator that meets or exceeds that number.
As a guideline, you could expect generators of the following sizes to deliver the following needs.
- 1,000 watts = run a few lights, rechargeable batteries, and portable digital devices.
- 3,000 watts = power several household lights and one or two appliances such as a fridge, microwave or sump pump).
- 9,000 watts = normally this is sufficient to run an average family home.
How to Size a Whole of House Generator
If you are looking for a whole of house generator, you should first be clear as to whether this will meet your ongoing power requirements because you are off grid or are you after backup power for example in an emergency.
Next, really consider what it is that you need to power. The price and weight of a generator translate directly to the electrical output. So rather than looking to replace all electrical devices with a generator, we’d suggest you prioritise what’s important to have operational.
What are the most important devices including medical aids, lighting, refrigerator/ freezer, cooking, computing, space heaters, sump pump, etc. What are the things you can do without particularly if there is a budget constraint you are working to?
Our recommendation is to choose a generator that can handle the wattage of the devices you want to run plus some extra for good measure. It’s a good rule of thumb to add 20% to your total wattage needs as a buffer.
It’s better to err on the side of buying a generator that’s too big rather than one that’s too small. Purchasing a generator that is too small will mean it will have to work harder which will shorten its lifespan and decrease its efficiency whilst also possibly not meeting your power needs.
Generator Noise Levels
Noise is an important consideration when purchasing a generator. You don’t want to disturb your neighbours or draw unwanted attention. Be sure to check the decibel rating of the generator before you buy it. When looking at the decibel ratings, also consider what power output it is being measured at. For example, if the decibel ratings are only given when the generator is running at 25% of its capacity, it would be expected that it would be louder when running at a higher output.
If noise is a major concern for you, look for a generator that has a sound-dampening enclosure. This will help to reduce the noise that the generator makes. There may also be the option to have a silencer or muffler on the exhaust pipe to help suppress the noise.

What Type of Generator is Quietest?
This is a difficult question to answer as it depends on a number of factors, including the generator’s size, make, and model. That said, some of the quietest generators on the market are inverter generators which are designed to run more quietly than traditional generator models and use less fuel, making them ideal for camping trips, RVs or tailgating parties. If you’re looking for a generator that won’t disturb your peace and quiet, an inverter generator is definitely worth considering.
If your power requirements are not too great, a portable battery pack may also meet your needs – and as they do not have an engine, they are quiet.
How to Install a Home Generator
The installation requirements for generators depend on the type of generator.
Installing a Standby Generator
If your home generator is a standby generator, it will need to be professionally installed. If you attempt to install the generator yourself, you could void the warranty and potentially damage the generator.
Second, make sure to follow all local building codes when installing your generator. Failure to do so could result in hefty fines or even cause your insurance company to deny coverage in the event of an accident. Make sure you check any local requirements prior to proceeding.
Once you’ve considered these factors and chosen a professional installer, the actual generator installation process is relatively simple. The generator will be delivered to your home and installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Once the generator is in place, your installer will connect it to your home’s electrical system. Finally, they’ll test the generator to ensure that it’s running properly.
How to Install a Portable Generator
If you’ve never installed a portable generator before, don’t worry – it’s not as difficult as it may seem.
First, of course, is the generator itself. You’ll also need fuel – either gasoline or propane – and a way to connect the generator to your home’s electrical system. We recommend working with an electrician to help with this part.
Once you have all of your supplies, you’re ready to start the installation process. First, find a level spot outdoors to place your generator. Then, use the included instructions to connect the generator to your fuel source. Next, connect the generator to your home’s electrical system using the appropriate cables. Finally, start up the generator and test it out by plugging in a few appliances or lights.
This process will see that your new generator is up and running in no time – providing much-needed power during an outage or other emergency situation.
How to Maintain a Generator
As with any machinery, it is important to regularly maintain a generator. This means regularly checking the oil and air filter and making sure there is no build-up of dirt or debris around the generator. A generator that is not properly maintained can be a fire hazard, so it is important to be vigilant.
To get the most out of your generator, follow these maintenance tips:
– Check the oil level every month and change it according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
– Inspect the air filter monthly and clean or replace it as needed.
– Keep the generator clean and free of debris to prevent overheating.
– Have a qualified technician service your generator annually.
By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your generator will be there for you when you need it. So, don’t wait until the power goes out to think about generator maintenance – get ahead of the game and be prepared!
How Long can a Generator be Used For?
The length of time a generator can be used for will depend on the model and make of the generator. Some generators are designed for prolonged use, while others are not. It is important to consult your generator’s owner’s manual to see how long it can run for before needing a break. In general, most generators can run for around 12 hours before needing to be refuelled or serviced.
How Often Should a Generator Be Used?
Again, this will depend on the model of generator you have. Some generators need to be used more frequently than others in order to keep them running properly. However, as a general rule of thumb, it is recommended that you use your generator at least once a month for 30 minutes to an hour.
Carbon Monoxide and Generators
One of the dangers of generator use is carbon monoxide poisoning. Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colourless, odorless gas that can be deadly if inhaled. That’s why it’s important to never use a generator indoors in your home, garage, or any other enclosed space. This also means that you should not use a generator in the garage even if you leave the garage door open as it is not well ventilated.
When using a portable generator, ensure adequate ventilation by making sure it is at least 20 feet away from your home and any open windows. The exhaust should point away from the home or other structures including the neighbours’ house. Never leave generators unattended while running.
By following these simple safety tips, you can help prevent CO poisoning and keep yourself and your family safe.
Features to Consider in Home Generators
Automatic Start: If the generator is going to be used as a backup power source, you’ll want one that starts automatically in the event of a power outage.
Electric Start: Many generators have a pull-start, which can be difficult to use if you have limited upper body strength or mobility. An electric start generator is easier to use.
Multiple Outlets: You’ll want to make sure the generator has multiple outlets so that you can power more than one thing at a time.
Transfer Switch: A generator with a transfer switch is easier to use than one without, as it will automatically turn off the generator when power is restored.
Carbon Monoxide Inbuilt Sensor: With the risk presented by carbon monoxide poisoning, that’s why it’s important to make sure that your generator has an inbuilt sensor that can detect carbon monoxide levels and has an automatic CO shutoff to stop the generator if necessary. Be aware that if you are buying older or more basic models of generators including second-hand purchases, they may not contain this important safety feature. Separate detectors can be purchased.
Alternative Fuel Capacity: Some generators can run on multiple types of fuel, such as gasoline, propane, or natural gas. This is helpful in the event that one type of fuel is not available.
Low Carbon Monoxide Engine: Carbon monoxide is a deadly gas that can be emitted by generator engines. Look for a generator with a low carbon monoxide engine to keep you and your family safe.
Gauges: A fuel gauge shows you how much fuel a portable generator has left in the tank. Some units also have an hour meter, which keeps track of how many hours the unit has run and lets you know when it’s time for an oil change or other routine maintenance.
Low Oil Shutoff: If the oil gets too low, the generator will automatically shut off protecting it from damage.
Home Generator Safety Considerations
How far should a generator be from your house?

Image: Packed With Power
You should run your generator at least 20 feet from your house and need to ensure that fumes are moving away from doors and windows. Use the wind to your advantage to evacuate the exhaust fumes. Keep your neighbours in mind when running your generator to ensure they will not be affected by your running generator.
- Never Run the Generator Indoors. Carbon monoxide poisoning is a real risk with generators and always run the generator in an open, outdoor space. Never use them in a garage even if the door is left open.
- Use a CO Detector. Instal battery-operated CO detectors on every level of your house and ensure batteries are regularly tested. to reduce the risk of CO poisoning.
- Keep the Generator Dry. Don’t run a generator in wet conditions. If using it in the rain, ensure it is covered by a canopy or specially designed generator tents.
- Use the Proper Power Cords. If you don’t have a transfer switch, plug your appliances into the generator properly using heavy-duty extension cords designed for outdoor use. Make sure the cord is in good condition and has no cuts or tears. The cord should also have a three-prong plug. You should also check the amp or watt rating of the extension cord to make sure it is at least as high as the total wattage of all the appliances you are hooking up to it.
- Never Back-Feed. Back feeding is dangerous and involves plugging a generator directly into one of your home’s wall outlets. Because it bypasses the circuit board of the house, it can damage electrical appliances or start a fire. It also creates a risk of electrocution to neighbours using the same power transformer.
- Avoid Overloading the Generator. Make sure you are aware of the number of appliances and total wattage that can be safely run from your generator simultaneously. Otherwise, you risk overheating and damage to your generator.
- Cool It Down Before Refuelling. Do not refuel a generator while it is running. When the fuel tank needs to be refilled, turn the generator off and let it cool down before adding more gas. Failure to do this presents the risk of burns.
- Store the Fuel Safely. Always use the type of fuel recommended for your generator and ensure extra fuel is stored in approved containers in a well-ventilated area. Only store the amount of fuel that you are permitted to under fire regulations.
How Much Does a Home Generator Typically Cost?
The cost of generators can range widely, from around $500 to upwards of $2000. However, the average generator typically costs between $1000 and $1500. The specific generator you purchase will affect the overall cost. For example, a generator that is powered by natural gas will typically be more expensive than one that runs on gasoline.
Additionally, the size of the generator will also affect the price. A generator that is capable of powering a small home will be more expensive than one that is only meant to power a few appliances. When considering the cost of a generator, it is important to keep in mind what you will be using it for and how often you intend to use it. Purchasing a generator that is too small for your needs will be frustrating, while buying one that is too large will be a waste of money.
How to Choose the Right Generator for Your Home
Now that you know a little bit more about generators, you might be wondering how to choose the right one for your needs.
Work through these steps to help you decide what will best suit your needs:
1. Decide what you will be using it for. Is it for backup power supplies or ongoing power supply? How often are you likely to use it?
If you plan to use it frequently either because it is a permanent source of power or if you live in an area regularly impacted by the poor power supply, a standby generator would be an ideal option assuming you have the space available for it to be installed and the budget to cover the cost and installation. Having the generator automatically come on will be much more convenient than taking a portable generator into place if you need to regularly use it.
2. Decide what size generator you need through our wattage calculator.
3. Determine what fuel sources are likely to be available when you need them (including periods of supply issues). A bi or tri-fuel generator gives you some flexibility to use different fuels which can help to navigate your way through supply challenges.