Built in house generator

Can a generator power a whole house?

Large whole-house generators can power an entire average home, while smaller units provide power for key appliances. These are the best standby models from CR's tests.

What is a whole house generator?

A whole house generator, also known as a standby generator, is a device that provides backup electrical power to an entire house in the event of a power outage. It operates automatically and is designed to restore power quickly and seamlessly, allowing you to maintain essential functions and appliances in your home even when the grid power is down.

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.

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.

Can I use a portable generator for my home?

You can use a portable generator for your home for short-term and limited power needs. This dual-fuel whole house generator from WEN can be easily converted to operate on propane fuel with the twist of a dial and can produce up to 4,750 surge watts and 3,800 running watts when powered by gasoline.

What makes a good whole-house generator?

While the noise level doesn’t affect the generator’s function, it can be a nuisance. The best whole-house generators operate at a lower decibel to keep your home as quiet as possible. If quietness is important to you, look for a generator with a rating of less than 65 dBA. A good warranty is a crucial feature of any home appliance.