Emergency home generators

Which home generator should I buy?

We researched the options and spoke with several experts to select the best home generators you can buy, including our best overall choice, the Briggs and Stratton PowerProtect 26kW Home Standby Generator, chosen for its versatility, power, and reliability.

Do I need a home generator?

The home generator you need depends on a variety of factors, including the type and wattage of the appliances you want to power. For example, if you want to power small appliances, such as a coffee maker or television, we recommend investing in a portable power station.

Should you buy a home generator if you have a power outage?

A power outage may leave you literally caught in the dark, but you can still be prepared by buying a home generator now. Here are the best home generators.

Should you buy a home standby generator?

“A home standby generator is the single best tool available to use as a source of backup power,” says Misha Kollontai, a test engineer who works in CR’s generator testing program. “But because of the costs, including installation, it’s also important to get a model that delivers steady, reliable power.”

How much does a home Generator cost?

Typically, home generators cost anywhere from around $500 for small models that can power a few appliances to over $1,500 for larger devices that can re-power your entire home. To help you select the best home generator for your needs, the This Old House Reviews Team put together this guide of the top home generators on the market.

How do I safely use my home generator?

Here are some critical steps you should take to ensure that you’re using your home generator safely: Don’t operate a gas generator in an enclosed area, such as a garage or shed, as this can lead to carbon monoxide buildup. Use a fuel stabilizer when you’re storing gasoline for an extended period of time, as destabilized gas can be a fire hazard.