Best Home Standby Generators
Top-Rated & Best-Selling Standby Generators
Nothing beats the peace-of-mind that comes with an automatic standby generator. But it can be hard to choose! That's why we put together the Best Standby Generators of 2022 based on our best-selling, highest-rated models with expert recommendations to ensure you get the perfect type for your needs.
If you're not sure what kind of standby generator you need, check out our Standby Generator Buyer’s Guide to get started and come back to the list for an expert recommendation. You can also peruse our other lists of Best Electric Generators.
Best Standby Generators List
You can scroll down through the full list of the best standby generators, or simply click on the one you want to see right away.
Best 10-12kW Standby Generator
1
$4,315.00
Expert Review
The Kohler 12RESVL 12kw is a powerful yet compact design that comes with PowerBoost technology for larger starting capacity. Will the help of the PowerBoost technology, this 12kw unit can start up a 5-ton central air conditioner while similar models can only start a 3-ton central air conditioner.
A Command Pro engine utilizes a forged crankshaft and hydraulic lifters, which results in low maintenance costs over the life span of the generator.
This small generator really packs a punch and is a great choice to back up a home!
Features
Includes 100-Amp Indoor ATS w/ 12-Space Load Center*
Kohler Series 7000 V-twin OHV Engine
- Powerful and reliable engine with hydraulic valve lifters
Powerful Performance w/ PowerBoost™ Technology
- Greater motor-starting ability for large electrical loads
Premium Power Quality (+/-1% Voltage Regulation)
- Protects sophisticated electronics with low distortion (<5%THD)
Fast Response Time
- Kohler™ generators restore power in as little as 10 seconds
Best 13-15kW Standby Generator
2
$5,110.00
Features
14kW (LPG) / 12kW (NG) Air-Cooled Standby Generator
- Protects your home and family during a power outage
Fully Automatic Operation - Includes Automatic Transfer Switch
RXT 200A Service Entrance Rated Outdoor Automatic Transfer Switch
- NEMA 3R Enclosure mounts between meter & main service panel
- Built-In Load Shed - Manage (2) HVAC + (4) Non-Essential loads***
Kohler Command PRO® OHV Engine
- Meets emission regulations for U.S. EPA & California
- Powerful and reliable engine with hydraulic valve lifters
New 100% Corrosion-Proof Aluminum Enclosure
- Aluminum base can be mounted on gravel or cement pad
- Meets 181 MPH wind rating; Impact-resistant down to -30° F
Best 16-19kW Standby Generator
3
$5,647.00
Features
18kw (LP) / 17kW (NG) Guardian® Air-Cooled Standby Generator
- Protects your home and family during a power outage
Includes Mobile Link™ Wi-Fi Remote Monitoring*
- Monitor generator status on a smart phone, tablet or PC
- *Requires internet connection and wireless router
5-Year Limited Warranty + 24/7-365 Customer Support
- Have your questions answered when it's convenient for you
200-Amp Service Entrance Rated Automatic Smart Switch
- Installs between main meter & service panel
- Allows for faster and less costly installation
Standard Smart A/C Management Module
- Allows for the Smart Control of (4) A/C units
- Great for homes with multiple Air conditioners (24 VAC controlled)
Best 20-24kW Standby Generator
4
$6,397.00
Features
24kW (LPG) / 21kW (NG) Guardian Air-Cooled Standby Generator
- Generac's largest air-cooled generator
- Digital Power Management (DPM) protects against overload
Includes Mobile Link™ Wi-Fi Remote Monitoring*
- Monitor generator status on a smart phone, tablet or PC
- *Requires internet connection and wireless router
200-Amp Service Entrance Rated Automatic Smart Switch
- Installs between main meter & service panel for faster & less costly installation
DPM technology allows for the Smart Control of (4) A/C units
- Great for homes with multiple Air conditioners (24 VAC controlled)
Add Up To (8) Smart Management Modules (SMM) (Sold Separately)
- Frequency (Hz) monitoring design, no control wire required
- Versatile design, easily prioritize loads & lock-out non-essential loads
Best Whole House Generator
5
$17,217.00
Expert Review
The Generac Protector 48kW generator is considered the "money is no object" whole-house generator. Yes, it's expensive. But, it's the ultimate whole-house solution for the following reasons.
1. The Generac QuietSource replaces all 200-amps of electricity supplied by the utility company. Sure, you may not use it all. But, it's there if you want it.
2. The Generac engine runs at half the speed, resulting in less fuel consumption, less wear and less noise.
3. The aluminum enclosure simply doesn't rust as quickly as steel. If you want your generator to last, aluminum is the way to go. If you want to be the envy of your gated community, everyone will go ga-ga over this baby.
Features
Protector® QS Premium-Grade Emergency Standby Generator
- Designed for luxury homes & small commercial buildings
*Automatic Operation Only*
- Requires automatic transfer switch (Not Included)
- Fully automatic operation when paired with Generac Smart Switch
5-Year Limited Warranty + 24/7-365 Customer Support
- Have your questions answered when it's convenient for you
Operates On Clean Burning, Efficient Natural Gas or LP (Vapor)
- Connects to your existing LP or natural gas fuel supply
Includes Mobile Link™ Wi-Fi / Ethernet Connectivity*
- Monitor generator status on a smart phone, tablet or PC
- *Requires internet connection
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