If you already know what generator you want, skip this section.
Everyone else - stay with us, we're going to make your decision easier.
About half of all portable generator sales go to help homeowners weather a
storm or moderate-extended power outage. That means you probably aren't
needing to power your entire home with a dedicated standby unit. Our most
common request is for generators that let you run your refrigerator, power some
lights, and possibly a few appliances or room fan/heater.
Most Common Uses: Camping.
Tailgating. Lower power needs - quiet. Insulated.
Recreational /
Camping
Lowest Price
Editors Choice - Recreation
Quiet, 4.5 hour run time
Fuel
type = gas
3.5 HP, Low Noise
Fuel type = gas
Brand
UST
Coleman
Watts
1000
1850
Price
$149.99
$499.99
View Item / Buy Now
Recreational /
Camping
Recommended
Readers Choice - Performance
Super Quiet 6-hour run time
Fuel type = gas
Pulse Width Modulation
Delivers consistent power
Brand
Northern Industrial
Yamaha
Watts
1000
1000
Price
$429.99
$729.99
View Item / Buy Now
RV Generators - Made for RVs and
Campers - View RV Generator options
RV Generators
Value
Recommended
Rugged but portable. 10 hour run time. Onan
Quality.
Versatile, portable, powerful. 11 hour run time.
Brand
Onan w/Cummins Engine
Coleman Premium
Watts
4000
6250
Price
$799.99
$869.99
View Item / Buy Now
RV Generators
Integrated
Unlimited Power
Can power your RV's AC and more. Quiet, insulated.
Powerful industrial / RV rated. 16 gallon tank, massive power
Brand
Guardian
Generac
Watts
6500
22,500
Price
$2199
$2499
View Item / Buy Now
Other Factors To Help You Find the Right Emergency
Generator:
Start by adding up the individual
items you know you'll want to power.
Step 1: Determine how much Power you need
This is easier than you think. Ask yourself what electrical devices you
plan on typically powering at the same time. View our
Wattage Directory
to see how much juice the most common devices suck up.
Step 2: Decide what your other important factors are
If portability is critical, you may want to stay smaller. Most
mid-range 3000-6000 watt generators will weigh at least 75 pounds, but come on
wheels.
If cost is your most important item, you may have to balance your desire on
portability with brand name. Either way, be sure to get sufficient power
(wattage) and then balance portability and brand name appeal if cost is
critical.
Generator Types: Gas or Diesel
Generators
Portable generators are available in
both standard gasoline and diesel fuel formats. Both work extremely well,
although many sales reps recommend diesel fuel generators over gas as they tend
to have a longer lifespan - not unlike your car.
Generators operating continuously can create a lot of heat. That heat,
vibration, and motor operation adds up.
Portable diesel
generator types tend to cost a little more than standard gas
generators. If you're investing in a mid-range or larger generator and are
already spending $1000 - $2000, its worth it to go for diesel. If you're
going for a recreational generator or smaller economy model, its up to you.
Gas should service you just fine for moderate needs.
