Best Backup Electric Generators for Reliable Home Power
When the power goes out unexpectedly, having a reliable backup electric generator ensures your home stays powered. This guide reviews top dual-fuel and tri-fuel portable generators that deliver plenty of wattage for whole-home backup, RV use, and emergency power. Each option offers features like electric start, transfer switch compatibility, and long run times on gasoline, propane, or natural gas.
| Product | Power Output (Watts) | Fuel Type | Electric Start | Additional Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DuroMax XP13000EH | 13,000 Peak | Gas & Propane Dual Fuel | Yes | Transfer Switch Ready, Whole Home Power |
| Westinghouse 12500 Dual Fuel | 12,500 Peak (Gasoline) | Gas & Propane Dual Fuel | Remote Electric Start | Fuel Gauge, Transfer Switch Ready, RV Ready |
| WEN Quiet 6800-Watt Dual Fuel | 6,800 Surge Watts | Gas & Propane Dual Fuel | Electric Start | CO Shutdown Sensor, RV Ready, Quiet Operation |
| Westinghouse 14500 Tri-Fuel | 14,500 Peak (Gasoline) | Gas, Propane & Natural Gas Tri-Fuel | Remote Electric Start | Long Run Time, Transfer Switch Ready |
| Westinghouse 13500 Tri-Fuel | 13,500 Peak (Gasoline) | Gas, Propane & Natural Gas Tri-Fuel | Remote Electric Start | CO Shutdown, Transfer Switch Ready, RV Ready |
DuroMax XP13000EH 13,000-Watt Dual Fuel Generator
The DuroMax XP13000EH provides a powerful 13,000-watt surge capacity designed to keep your entire home operational during outages. Its dual fuel capability supports running on both gasoline and propane, giving you flexibility in fueling options. The generator is built with a robust DuroMax engine engineered for durability and long-lasting performance. It features an electric start for ease of use and is transfer switch ready, allowing seamless integration with your home’s electrical system.
This model is popular for whole-home backup power, RV use, and emergency preparedness, providing reliable output through a full range of outlets designed for home and outdoor equipment.
Westinghouse 12500 Watt Dual Fuel Home Backup Generator
This Westinghouse 12500 Dual Fuel generator offers 9,500 running watts on gasoline and up to 8,500 running watts on propane, making it a solid choice for maintaining critical home functions. It includes a remote start key fob and electric plus recoil backup starting options. The generator can run for up to 12 hours on a full 6.6-gallon fuel tank and features a fuel gauge to monitor levels easily.
Outlet options include household standard GFCI receptacles, transfer switch ready, and RV ready plugs, all protected with rubber covers for safety. Its durable 457cc Westinghouse engine has a cast iron sleeve with automatic low oil shutdown and a digital hour meter for maintenance tracking. The VFT display offers real-time updates on voltage, frequency, and run hours.
WEN Quiet 6800-Watt Dual Fuel Electric Start Inverter
The WEN Quiet 6800-Watt inverter generator is an excellent option for those needing a lighter backup for RVs and smaller household needs. It runs on gasoline or propane (dual-fuel) and produces 6,800 surge watts and 5,100 rated watts on gasoline, with slightly less capacity on propane. Its bonded-neutral 240V configuration supports Level 2 charging for electric and hybrid vehicles, an advantage for EV owners.
Safety is prioritized with the built-in WEN Watchdog CO shutdown sensor that automatically turns off the generator if carbon monoxide reaches dangerous levels. This feature improves peace of mind during indoor or close-to-home operation. The generator is known for its quiet operation and efficient fuel use, making it suitable for camping and emergency use.
Westinghouse 14500 Peak Watt Tri-Fuel Home Backup Generator
The Westinghouse 14500 Tri-Fuel option supports gasoline, propane, and natural gas, allowing maximum fueling flexibility for home backup. It produces 14,500 peak watts and up to 11,500 running watts on gasoline, with slightly lower outputs on propane and natural gas. The heavy-duty 550cc 4-stroke OHV engine features a cast iron sleeve for longevity and durability.
Operating times can reach up to 19 hours on gasoline with a 9.5-gallon tank and 7 hours on a 20 lb propane tank. It’s transfer switch ready for easy integration with home electrical systems and ideal for supporting larger homes or extended power outages.
Westinghouse 13500 Peak Watt Tri-Fuel Backup Generator
The Westinghouse 13500 Peak Watt generator is another tri-fuel model enabling operation on gasoline, propane, or natural gas. It delivers 13,500 peak watts and 10,500 running watts on gasoline. This model offers remote electric start with included key fob and recoil backup.
It features multiple outlet types including GFCI household plugs, transfer switch-ready, and RV-ready connectors, all protected by rubber covers for safety. The heavy-duty 500cc engine has a cast iron sleeve with safety features such as automatic low oil and carbon monoxide shutdown, plus a digital hour meter to monitor usage.
Buying Guide: Choosing the Best Backup Electric Generator
Selecting the right backup generator requires balancing your household power needs, fuel preferences, and features essential for convenience and safety. Below are key considerations to help you make an informed purchase:
Power Output and Load Capacity
Determine the wattage needed to keep essential appliances and systems running during an outage. Whole-home backup typically requires a generator and fuel system rated above 10,000 running watts. For smaller homes or partial backup, units around 5,000 to 7,000 running watts suffice.
Fuel Type Flexibility
Generators may run on gasoline, propane, natural gas, or a combination (dual or tri-fuel). Dual and tri-fuel units provide versatility in fuel sourcing, which can be critical during emergencies when gasoline is scarce.
Start Mechanism
Electric start models with remote key fobs add convenience, especially during severe weather. Backup recoil or pull-start capabilities provide reliability in case battery or electric start systems fail.
Run Time and Fuel Tank Size
Longer run times reduce the frequency of refueling during outages. Consider the fuel tank capacity and generator’s fuel efficiency at typical loads to ensure continuous power delivery.
Safety Features
Look for features such as automatic low-oil shutdown and carbon monoxide sensors that protect equipment and users. GFCI outlets protect connected devices from electrical faults.
Transfer Switch Compatibility
Transfer switch ready generators can be easily connected to your home’s electrical panel, allowing selected circuits to be powered safely without back-feeding the grid.
Noise Level and Portability
Consider noise output if the generator will be used near living areas and portability if you plan to move it between locations, such as home, RV, or job sites.
By weighing these factors according to your specific needs, you can select a backup generator that provides dependable power and peace of mind during outages or remote operations.