Gas generators are indispensable during power outages, providing essential electricity for homes, businesses, and outdoor activities. These versatile machines offer reliability, power, and convenience when electricity is unavailable.
In this article, we’ll delve into the features, benefits, and considerations of gas generators for power outages, helping you choose the best option for your needs.
Whether for residential backup, camping adventures, or job site power, a gas generator ensures preparedness and peace of mind during emergencies.
Best Gas Generator for Power Outage
Discover unparalleled reliability and power backup with our selection of top-rated gas generators, ensuring uninterrupted electricity during power outages. Explore advanced features and superior performance to meet your emergency energy needs with ease.
1. Generac 8251 GP2500i 2,500-Watt Gas Powered Portable Inverter Generator
The Generac 8251 GP2500i is a robust portable inverter generator designed to meet your power needs wherever you go. Whether you’re camping in the wilderness or tailgating at your favorite sporting event, this generator offers a reliable and stable power source without disrupting your surroundings.
Featuring TruePower Technology, it delivers clean and consistent power that’s safe for sensitive electronics and appliances. Its compact and lightweight design, complete with a built-in handle, ensures easy transportation and setup.
With fuel-efficient Economy Mode and COsense Technology for carbon monoxide protection, it’s both eco-friendly and safe to use.
Equipped with LED indicators for monitoring oil levels, overloads, and readiness, along with a USB port for device charging and parallel-ready capability, the Generac 8251 GP2500i is a smart and dependable choice for portable power solutions.
Key Features
- Ideal for camping and outdoor activities.
- Delivers clean and safe power for sensitive electronics.
- Easy to transport and set up.
- Reduces fuel consumption and noise emissions.
- Protects against hazardous carbon monoxide.
- Equipped with LED indicators and a USB port for device charging.
PROs | CONs
| Pros | CONs |
|---|---|
| Portable | Limited wattage |
| Clean and stable power | Noise emission |
| Compact and lightweight design | |
| Fuel-efficient | |
| COsense Technology |
2. Westinghouse 12500 Watt Dual Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator
The Westinghouse WGen9500DF Dual Fuel Portable Generator offers robust backup power for residential use, ensuring your home stays powered during outages.
With 9500 running watts and 12500 peak watts on gasoline, and 8500 running watts and 11200 peak watts on propane, this generator provides ample power to keep your essential appliances running smoothly.
Featuring a convenient remote start with a key fob, electric and recoil start options, and up to 12 hours of run time on a 6.6-gallon fuel tank, this generator is designed for ease of use and extended operation.
Its intuitive control panel includes multiple outlets for versatile connectivity, including GFCI outlets for added safety.
The heavy-duty 457cc 4-Stroke OHV Westinghouse Engine ensures durability and reliability, while the VFT Data Center provides real-time updates on voltage output, frequency, and lifetime hours for easy monitoring.
With its portability and comprehensive warranty coverage, the Westinghouse WGen9500DF is a dependable choice for backup power needs.
Key Features
- 9500 running watts and 12500 peak watts (gasoline); 8500 running watts and 11200 peak watts (propane)
- Remote start with included key fob, electric and recoil start options
- Up to 12 hours of run time on a 6.6-gallon fuel tank with fuel gauge
- Multiple outlets including GFCI 120V 5–20R, Transfer Switch Ready 120V L14-30R, and RV Ready 120/240V 14–50R
- Heavy-duty 457cc 4-Stroke OHV Westinghouse Engine with automatic low oil shutdown
- VFT Data Center for real-time updates on voltage output, frequency, and lifetime hours
PROs | CONs
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Dual fuel capability | Heavy weight |
| Remote start with key fob | Minimal assembly |
| Up to 12 hours of run time | |
| Comprehensive warranty coverage | |
| Intuitive control panel with multiple outlets |
3. Pulsar 1,200W Carrying Handle, PG1202SA Gas-Powered Portable Generator
The Pulsar PG1202SA Gas-Powered Portable Generator offers reliable power in a compact and durable design, making it ideal for residential use, camping, and outdoor activities. With 1,200 peak watts and 900 running watts of power, this generator provides sufficient energy for various applications.
Its single-cylinder, 2-stroke engine with recoil start ensures easy operation, while the durable and portable design makes it convenient to carry and transport. The 1.1-gallon fuel tank provides up to 5 hours of continuous operation at half load, offering extended usage without frequent refueling.
Equipped with two 120V outlets and one 12V DC output, it offers ample space for power tools, devices, and appliances. Backed by a 1-year limited warranty, the Pulsar PG1202SA provides peace of mind and reliable performance for your power needs.
Please note that this generator is not designed to run AC units, and any customer misuse is not the responsibility of the manufacturer.
Key Features
- 1,200 peak watts and 900 running watts of power
- Single-cylinder, 2-stroke engine with recoil start
- Durable and compact design
- 1.1-gallon fuel tank for up to 5 hours of continuous operation
- Two 120V outlets and one 12V DC output
- Backed by a 1-year limited warranty
PROs | CONs
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Compact and portable | Limited wattage |
| Durable design | Short warranty |
| Easy recoil start | |
| Suitable for camping | |
| Ample outlets for connectivity |
4. A-iPower SUA2000iD 2000 Watt Portable Inverter Generator Gas & Propane Powered
The A-iPower SUA2000iD Dual Fuel Portable Inverter Generator is a reliable power solution for residential use, camping, RVing, or emergencies.
With 2000 starting watts and 1600 running watts on gasoline, and 1800 starting watts and 1500 running watts on propane (LPG), this generator provides sufficient power for various needs.
Featuring A-iPower’s inverter technology, it delivers safe and clean power for sensitive electronics like phones, televisions, and laptops.
The lightweight and portable design, weighing only 55 lbs, makes it easy to transport for camping trips or tailgate parties. Its super quiet operation at only 52 decibels ensures effective operation without disturbing your surroundings.
Each SUA2000iD includes a set of parallel cables, allowing users to link two units together for a combined power output of 4000 starting watts and 3200 running watts. With its versatility, efficiency, and quiet operation, the A-iPower SUA2000iD is an excellent choice for portable power needs.
Key Features
- Dual fuel capability (gasoline and propane)
- 2000 starting watts and 1600 running watts on gasoline; 1800 starting watts and 1500 running watts on propane
- Inverter technology for safe and clean power for sensitive electronics
- Lightweight and portable design, weighing only 55 lbs
- Super quiet operation at 52 decibels
- Includes parallel cables for linking two units together
- Ideal for residential use, camping, RVing, or emergencies
PROs | CONs
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Dual fuel capability | Limited running watts |
| Inverter technology for clean power | |
| Lightweight and portable | |
| Super quiet operation | |
| Parallel capability for increased power output |
5. A-iPower SUA12000E 12000 Watt Portable Generator Heavy Duty Gas
The A-iPower SUA12000E Portable Generator is a heavy-duty power solution designed to handle the demands of job sites, RVs, and whole-house backup emergencies.
With 12,000 starting watts and 9,000 running watts, this generator provides ample power to run your tools at construction sites, appliances at home, or essential devices during emergencies.
Its powerful 459cc OHV 4-stroke engine features a low oil alert light and automatic shutdown to ensure reliable performance year after year.
The large 7-gallon gasoline fuel tank offers an average run time of 7 hours at 100% load and 9 hours at 50% load, providing extended operation without frequent refueling. Equipped with electric start capability, starting up the generator is quick, easy, and convenient.
The SUA12000E includes multiple outlets for versatile connectivity, including duplex GFCI outlets, an L14-30R outlet, a 14-50R outlet, and a multifunction port USB ready automotive-style outlet, all with rubber covers for added safety.
Whether you’re at a job site, camping ground, or facing a power outage, the A-iPower SUA12000E is a reliable and powerful solution.
Key Features
- 12,000 starting watts and 9,000 running watts
- Powerful 459cc OHV 4-stroke engine with low oil alert and automatic shutdown
- Large 7-gallon gasoline fuel tank for extended run time
- Electric start capability for quick and convenient startup
- Multiple outlets including GFCI, L14-30R, 14-50R, and USB ready automotive style outlet
- Ideal for jobsites, RVs, and whole-house backup emergencies
PROs | CONs
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| High power output | Heavy weight (206 pounds) |
| Reliable performance | Loud operation at full load |
| Electric start capability | |
| Versatile outlets for connectivity | |
| Suitable for various applications |
Conclusion
When considering the best gas generator for power outages, it’s essential to balance power output, portability, and features. The A-iPower SUA12000E impresses with its robust performance, offering 12,000 starting watts and 9,000 running watts, ideal for comprehensive backup needs.
Conversely, the A-iPower SUA2000iD Dual Fuel Inverter Generator provides versatility with its dual fuel capability and quiet operation, making it suitable for various settings.
For lighter power requirements, the Pulsar PG1202SA Gas-Powered Portable Generator offers a compact and affordable solution. Ultimately, the choice depends on individual needs, ensuring uninterrupted power during emergencies or outdoor adventures.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it’s not safe to run a gas generator indoors due to the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
Regular maintenance, such as oil changes and filter replacements, should be done as recommended by the manufacturer or after every 100 hours of use.
It’s recommended to use a transfer switch installed by a qualified electrician to safely connect your generator to your home’s electrical system.
Starting watts refer to the initial surge of power needed to start appliances while running watts indicate the continuous power required to keep them running.
Yes, but it’s advisable to use an inverter generator with clean power technology to prevent damage to sensitive electronics.