Reliable power backup has become all but indispensable in these times of frequent power outages from weather emergencies and other crises. Whether at home or in the office, power cuts can wreak havoc if you have no backup, because so much of what we do at home or in the office involves the use of electrically-powered devices and systems. For this reason, our team looked through the best home generator units and other power sources on the market, to compile this review of the best backup generator units.
Our reviewers have chosen the following seven of the best backup generator units from leading brands. Whether from Firman, Champion Power Equipment, Powermate or Generac, these units are all multipurpose, suitable for use at home or elsewhere, due to their power capacity, portability and ease of storage.
One of the most popular backup generators, the Firman H08051's features include dual fuel, 14-hour running time (extended run time), and eight-gallon fuel tank with integrated fuel gauge. This package also includes a 5ft propane hose for convenience should you require to use the generator off an external propane tanks. Made primarily of steel, and weighing 221lbs, this is nevertheless a compact and easily stored appliance.
Next up in our backup generator review is the 8000w gasoline-powered Generac 6954, a portable machine that is an all-purpose winner, whether you intend to use it for the home or for work/major home improvement projects, or even camping and other outdoor leisuretime activities.
The Generac 6954 has a 7.5-gallon fuel tank and it can run continuously for up to 12 hours, quietly thanks to its low-tone muffler feature.
Transport of this generator is easy thanks to its fold-down locking handle and wheels, while its covered circuit breaker and outlets make it as safe as houses to use, regardless of weather conditions. This generator has electric start with recoil backup.
The Firman P08003 Performance Series generator has a Firman four-stroke 439cc 15HP engine that provides 10,000w (starting) and 8,000w (running) of power. The machine runs at a noise level of 74dBA. With recoil/electric start (and a remote start feature), the Firman P08003 has no fewer than six outlets, and provides up to 11 hours on a 50-percent load and a full eight-gallon fuel tank.
Staying with Firman for the time being, we turn now to the Firman P03603. Another in Firman's Performance Series, this gasoline-powered portable generator with a remote start feature is as compact and user-friendly as it is powerful and practical.
Powered by an OHV engine for longer life and enhanced performance, this generator has the largest tank in the portable generator sector, with its integral tank gauge enabling users to keep an eye on fuel levels.
Powermate's DF3500E is one of the company's Dual Fuel Series, which can run on liquid propane or gasoline, making it a true ‘best of both worlds’ proposition for generator users. All machines in the Dual Fuel Series, including the DF3500E, boast innovative features and ergonomic design touches that enhance the overall user-friendliness of the Powermate power backup experience.
The generator's fold-down locking handle enhances portability and mobility and makes the appliance easy to stow away. This generator is all purpose, suitable for everything from camping trips and outdoor events, to RV road trips and emergency home backup. The generator is covered by a two-year limited warranty.
The Champion 100297 is one of the best backup generator appliances from Champion Power Equipment, and one of the best backup generators, period! Ready for use straight out of the box, this dual fuel 8000w portable generator runs on either gasoline or propane, and the electric start functionality means you'll be able to power up the 459cc engine with a handy toggle switch.
The ‘intelligauge' enables you to keep an eye on voltage, herz and remaining run-time. Overall, with 10,000 starting watts and 8,000 running watts, and a built-in surge protector that prevents overloads, the Champion 100297 has been designed never to let you down.
The generator comes with a three-year limited warranty, and free lifetime technical support from dedicated Champion experts.
Rounding off this review of the best backup generators, we finished as we started, with Firman, and this time the Firman H03651. This Hybrid Series 3650w dual fuel electric-start generators runs either on gasoline or propane, giving the user great flexibility, especially if you're taking it away from home on a campaign trip, or during an emergency outage at home or the office.
Despite the power of this generator, it's surprisingly lightweight—134lb—and has wheels that make it even more portable, a useful feature whether at home or one the road.