With extreme weather events becoming more frequent, home generators have become fairly common. Anyone who lives in a suburban area often hit with power outages after storms is familiar with the sound of dozens humming throughout the neighborhood. And you don’t have to commit to a big unit sitting fixed in your backyard if you don’t want to; there are portable models that you can deploy when needed and bring with you for camping and cookouts With prices coming down, generators are becoming more attainable for just about anyone who wants to keep one handy.
FOR WARM CLIMATES
Generac Protector QS Standby Generator
Wattage: 22 kW | Size: 63 x 29 x 30 in. | Warranty: 5 years
Protector QS Standby Generator
This generator features a liquid-cooled engine. Liquid-cooled engines manage temperature better, they’re also generally quieter then air-cooled models—this makes it a great choice for residential areas where you don’t want to disturb your neighbors. Since it is a 22-kW model, it can power most homes, but because of the wattage and cooling system, it is also quite expensive. A liquid-cooling system may require more maintenance than an air-cooled system, but if you are willing to put in the work, it can be a lifesaver in a summer power outage.
FOR SMALL HOMES
Briggs & Stratton PowerProtect Standby Generator
Wattage: 12 kW | Size: 37 x 26 x 28 in. | Warranty: 5 years
This little guy only puts out 12,000 watts, so it won’t be able to power an entire house. But it can juice the essentials in a small one. This generator is a great option if you want a power backup for a few necessities but wince at the thought of spending upwards of $4,000. Sure, it’s still an investment, but it comes with a five-year warranty which covers parts, labor, and travel. And it does automatic weekly power checks at a low RPM to ensure that it’s working correctly when you need it without using more fuel than is necessary.
