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Best Residential Backup Generator in 2024: In-depth Reviews

Richard Brown
  May 11, 2024 5:13 AM

It's not a matter of if, but when. A power outage can happen to anyone, anytime. That's why it's important to have a backup generator in your home.

So, what is the best residential backup generator for your needs? In this article, we'll review three of the top-rated generators on the market and help you decide which one is right for you. Stay safe and powered up!


How to choose

How to choose the best residential backup generator

There are many factors to consider when choosing the best residential backup generator for your home. The size of the generator, the type of fuel it uses, and the price are all important factors to keep in mind.

1. The size

The first thing you need to do is determine the size of the generator you need. This will be based on the amount of power you want to generate and the size of your home.

If you have a small home, you may only need a generator that can provide enough power for a few appliances.

However, if you have a large home or one with many appliances, you will need a generator that can provide more power.

2. The type of fuel

The next thing you need to consider is the type of fuel the generator uses. There are two types of fuel-efficient generators: propane and natural gas.

Propane is less expensive than natural gas, but it can be more difficult to find in some areas. Natural gas is more expensive, but it is easier to find and usually provides a longer runtime.

3. The price

Finally, you need to consider the price of the generator. The size and fuel type will both affect the price, so you need to make sure you get a generator that fits your budget.

You can find some great deals on residential backup generators online, so be sure to shop around before making your final decision.

Types of the best residential backup generator

The best residential backup generator will depend on your specific needs, but there are a few different types that are worth considering. Here are a few of the most popular options:

1. Portable generators:

These are ideal for people who need a little extra power on hand for occasional power outages or camping trips. They're small and easy to transport, and they can be used with a variety of different appliances.

2. Standby generators:

These are larger than portable generators and are designed to be permanently installed at your home. They automatically kick on when the power goes out, so you don't have to worry about setting them up or running extension cords.

Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 240, 240Wh Backup Lithium Battery, 110V/200W Pure Sine Wave AC Outlet, Solar Generator (Solar Panel Not Included) for Outdoors Camping Travel Hunting Emergency

3. Solar generators:

These are becoming increasingly popular as an alternative to traditional backup generators. Solar generators use the power of the sun to generate electricity, so they're environmentally friendly and very quiet.

4. Fuel-cell generators:

These are a newer type of generator that uses hydrogen to generate electricity. They're very efficient and have a very long run time, but they're also quite expensive.

5. Wind turbines:

These are other renewable options for generating electricity. Wind turbines use the power of the wind to generate electricity, and they can be used in conjunction with solar panels to provide an even more sustainable source of power.

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    10.0
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    Champion Power Equipment
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    Jackery
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    Generac
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    Jackery
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    Jackery
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    Generac
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    Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment
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    BALDR
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Last update on 2024-05-11 / Affiliate links / Images, Product Titles, and Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API

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Top picks

Best power: Champion Power Equipment 100177

Be prepared for power outages with the Champion 8.5-kW Home Standby Generator with a 50-Amp Outdoor-Rated Automatic Transfer Switch.

This totally automatic generator kicks in seamlessly when the power goes out, providing up to 8 circuits of emergency power for your home.

It's also one of the quietest generators in its class, operating at just 59.5 dBA for a residential-friendly noise level.

Plus, it's reliable in any weather conditions, with a 24-volt starting system that works in extreme heat or cold (-22° F to 104° F) without the need for a warming kit.

The generator also performs weekly self-diagnostics to ensure it's always ready to go when you need it.

Best rating: Jackery ‎Explorer 300

The Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 300 handy little device is perfect for camping, travel, hunting, or even in the event of a blackout.

It features a powerful 293Wh lithium-ion battery pack and can provide up to 110V/300W of pure sine-wave AC power. It also has a USB-C port for fast charging your devices.

Best of all, it can be recharged in just 2 hours via the included AC adapter or through the car outlet when you're on the go. 

Generac Guardian 24kW Home Standby Generator with PWRview Transfer Switch Wi-Fi Enabled

Best overall: Generac 7210

The Generac Guardian 24kW Home Standby Generator is the most advanced and affordable generator on the market.

With its PWRview Transfer Switch Wi-Fi Enabled, this generator can save you up to 8,000 dollars in product and installation costs. Additionally, it takes up 70% less space than competitive output products.

Finally, PWRview allows generator owners to monitor and manage home energy usage, leading to a reduction in electric utility bills of up to 20%. With all of these amazing features, the Generac Guardian is sure to be the best investment for your home.

Best Feature: Jackery Solar Generator 240

If you're looking for a reliable and efficient solar generator, look no further than the Jackery Solar Generator 240. This versatile and powerful generator is perfect for camping, hunting, emergencies, and more.

With a 240Wh backup lithium battery, 110V/200W pure sine wave AC outlet, and solar panel compatibility, this generator has everything you need to keep the power flowing in any situation.

Plus, the built-in MPPT controller ensures maximum efficiency when charging from the solar panel. And with two alternative ways to recharge - via wall outlet or car outlet - you'll always be prepared. So why wait? Order your Jackery Solar Generator today!

The perfect portable power stationJackery Portable Power Station Generator

The Jackery Explorer 240 is the perfect portable power station for those who love spending time outdoors. With a 240Wh lithium-ion battery pack, this lightweight generator is easy to carry around and provides enough power to keep your devices charged while you're away from home.

Whether you're camping, hiking, or just enjoying a day at the park, the Explorer 240 is a great way to make sure you always have power when you need it.


Final words

When it comes to finding the best residential backup generator for your home, there are a lot of factors to consider. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide, complete with in-depth reviews of some of the top models on the market.

We hope that this information will help you make an informed decision about which generator is right for you and your family.

If you have any questions or need additional assistance, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re always happy to help our customers find the perfect product for their needs. Thanks for choosing our site as your source for all things backup generator-related!