Best Backup Generators for an All-Electric House
Having a reliable backup generator is essential for an all-electric house to maintain power during outages. This guide reviews top portable and home backup generators suited for larger electric homes, offering diverse fuel options and high wattage capacities. Below is a summary table featuring key specs of the most relevant models.
| Generator | Running Watts (Gas) | Peak Watts (Gas) | Fuel Options | Run Time (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Westinghouse 14500 Peak Tri-Fuel | 11,500 | 14,500 | Gasoline, Propane, Natural Gas | Up to 19 hours |
| DuroMax XP13000EH Dual Fuel | 13,000 | 13,000 | Gasoline, Propane | Varies |
| WEN Quiet 6800-Watt Dual Fuel | 5,100 | 6,800 | Gasoline, Propane | Varies |
| Westinghouse 12500 Watt Dual Fuel | 9,500 | 12,500 | Gasoline, Propane | Up to 12 hours |
| Westinghouse 13500 Peak Tri-Fuel | 10,500 | 13,500 | Gasoline, Propane, Natural Gas | Up to 19 hours |
Westinghouse 14500 Peak Watt Tri-Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator
This Westinghouse model provides 14,500 peak watts and 11,500 running watts on gasoline, making it ideal for larger all-electric homes. Its tri-fuel capability allows operation on gasoline, propane, and natural gas. Powered by a robust 550cc 4-stroke OHV engine with a cast iron sleeve, it delivers durability and up to 19 hours of runtime on a 9.5-gallon fuel tank. Additional benefits include remote electric start, transfer switch readiness for seamless power integration, and a built-in fuel gauge for monitoring. This versatility and power capacity ensure it can handle various household appliances and systems simultaneously during outages.
DuroMax XP13000EH 13,000-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator
The DuroMax XP13000EH offers 13,000 watts of power, running on both gasoline and propane. Its engine is designed for durability, making it effective for whole-home backup during emergencies. The generator is electric start and transfer switch ready, simplifying setup when you need power fast. DuroMax’s reputation in dual-fuel technology ensures efficient fuel flexibility. This model supports high-load devices, ideal for maintaining an all-electric household’s critical power needs during extended outages or storms.
WEN Quiet 6800-Watt Dual Fuel Electric Start Inverter Generator
The WEN Quiet 6800-Watt Dual Fuel offers quieter operation with 6,800 surge watts and 5,100 running watts on gasoline. It runs on gasoline or propane, enabling flexibility for backup scenarios. A key feature is the CO Watchdog sensor which automatically shuts down the generator if carbon monoxide reaches dangerous levels, improving safety in residential use. Its bonded-neutral 240V output supports Level 2 charging for electric and hybrid vehicles, a plus for homes with electric cars. While it has lower wattage than others listed, it suits smaller all-electric house loads efficiently.
Westinghouse 12500 Watt Dual Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator
This Westinghouse dual fuel generator delivers 9,500 running watts and 12,500 peak watts on gasoline. It features remote and electric start options for ease of use. Up to 12 hours runtime on a 6.6-gallon tank with fuel gauge enhances long usage. The inclusion of multiple outlets, including transfer switch ready and GFCI protection, makes it suitable for comprehensive home backup. Its 457cc heavy-duty OHV engine with cast iron sleeve ensures reliability, and safety features like automatic low oil shutdown further protect the generator and connected appliances.
Westinghouse 13500 Peak Watt Tri-Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator
The Westinghouse 13500 Peak generator provides 13,500 peak watts and 10,500 running watts (gasoline), with tri-fuel capability supporting natural gas alongside propane and gasoline. It offers remote start with key fob, electric and recoil start options, and up to 19 hours of run time on a 9.5-gallon tank. With a heavy-duty 500cc engine featuring cast iron sleeve and CO shutdown system, it combines power, safety, and efficiency. Multiple GFCI outlets and transfer switch readiness ensure it’s a dependable option for powering an all-electric home during outages.
Buying Guide for Backup Generators for All-Electric Houses
When selecting a backup generator for an all-electric house, several key factors should guide your decision:
- Power Output (Running and Peak Watts): Calculate your home’s starting and running watt requirements. All-electric houses generally have higher demands; models offering at least 9,000 running watts or more are recommended.
- Fuel Flexibility: Tri-fuel or dual-fuel generators provide versatility, allowing you to use whichever fuel is most accessible—gasoline, propane, or natural gas—especially important in emergency scenarios.
- Run Time and Fuel Tank Size: Longer run times reduce refueling frequency. Large fuel tanks with accurate fuel gauges enhance convenience during outages.
- Starting Mechanism: Remote electric start offers ease of use, particularly in adverse weather or low light conditions compared to manual recoil starters.
- Outlets and Transfer Switch Compatibility: Having multiple and varied outlets including RV-ready, 120/240V, and transfer switch ready ports allows powering critical appliances and integration with home’s electrical system safely.
- Safety Features: Automatic low oil shutdown, carbon monoxide sensors, and GFCI outlets protect both the generator and users by preventing damage and hazardous situations.
- Noise Level: Consider generators known for quieter operation if your home is in close proximity to neighbors or you require reduced noise pollution.
- Build Quality and Engine Durability: Engines with cast iron sleeves and reliable OHV technology tend to last longer and offer consistent performance.
Weigh these aspects based on your house size, power needs, fuel availability, and safety preferences to select the best backup generator for your all-electric home.