Best Generators for Hurricane Season

As hurricane season approaches, it’s crucial to be prepared for power outages and the challenges they bring. A reliable generator can make a significant difference in keeping your home safe, comfortable, and powered during these trying times.

In this blog post, we will discuss the best generators for hurricane season to cater to various needs and budgets. We’ll cover essential factors such as power output, runtime, fuel consumption, safety features, noise levels among others so that you can confidently choose the right backup power source for your home during this critical period.

Key Takeaways

• Consider the type of generator you need for your power needs and budget; portable, inverter, or standby generators.
• Important factors to consider include runtime, starting options (recoil vs. electric), number and types of outlets, safety features like carbon monoxide detectors and individual breakers.
• Our top pick is the Duromax XP12000EH Dual Fuel Generator that has a powerful 12,000W output with dual fuel technology and multiple outlet options while being CARB compliant and EPA approved. Other great generator options are Honda EU7000iAT1 Portable Generator, Westinghouse WGen7500DF Champion Power Equipment 100692 Portable Inverter Generator, Generac 70432 Home Standby Generator depending on your specific needs.
• Always prioritize essential appliances such as medical equipment when sizing up your power requirements during hurricane season to ensure maximum comfort & safety levels throughout the emergency period.

How To Choose A Generator For Hurricane Season

Consider generator type, power needs, runtime, starting options, number and type of outlets, safety features, and noise level when choosing a generator for hurricane season.

Generator Type

As a potential customer, researching and understanding the different types of generators is essential for making an informed decision.

Portable generators are typically gas-powered and can be easily moved around your property as needed. They’re perfect for powering essential appliances during emergencies or outdoor events that require electricity – think tailgating parties or camping trips.

Inverter generators are more advanced versions of portable ones; they produce cleaner power with lower Total Harmonic Distortion (THD), allowing you to safely operate sensitive electronics like laptops, smartphones, and medical equipment without risking damage.

In addition, being quieter than traditional portable models makes them ideal for usage in close-knit neighborhood settings.

Consider the DuroMax XP13000HXT if versatility is what you seek – it’s a tri-fuel generator capable of running on gas, propane or natural gas! No matter which type best suits your needs this hurricane season, investing in one can be crucial in ensuring safety and convenience when weathering storms at home.

Power Needs

Understanding your power needs is a crucial step in selecting the right generator for hurricane season. As a potential customer, it’s essential to consider which appliances and devices you want to keep running during an outage caused by a hurricane.

For example, let’s say you want to power your refrigerator (600 watts), a small window air conditioner (1,000 watts), several lights (300 watts), and charge smartphones and other smaller devices (150 watts).

In this case, you’ll need at least 2,050 watts of running power just to cover the basics. It’s also important to account for starting wattage when calculating your overall power needs since some appliances require more energy when they first start up.

To ensure uninterrupted use throughout hurricane season without overloading your generator or causing frequent refueling breaks due to fuel consumption rates, invest in one with enough capacity not only to cover all necessary appliances but also providing room for occasional additional usage.

Runtime

A crucial factor to consider when selecting a generator for hurricane season is the runtime it offers. Runtime refers to the amount of time a generator can continuously provide power on a single tank of fuel.

For example, if your region experiences frequent blackouts during storms, investing in a generator with an extended runtime would be beneficial. The Westinghouse WGen7500DF stands out as it features up to 16 hours of continuous operation at half-load on gasoline or propane.

This gives you ample time to run necessary equipment like refrigerators, freezers, and air-conditioning units while waiting for power lines to be repaired.

Starting Options

When it comes to choosing a generator for hurricane season, starting options are an important factor to consider. The two most common types of starter mechanisms for generators are recoil and electric start.

Electric starters are preferred by many because they eliminate the need for manual labor, which can be especially advantageous during emergencies when time is critical.

However, it’s essential to ensure that the battery is always charged and in good condition in case of power outages.

Number And Type Of Outlets

When choosing a generator for hurricane season, it’s important to consider the number and type of outlets you need. Different devices require different power sources, so having multiple outlet options is crucial.

For example, the Duromax XP12000EH Dual Fuel has multiple outlets including four 120V GFCI outlets, one 120/240V 50A outlet, and one 120/240V 30A twist-lock outlet. The Honda EU7000iAT1 Portable Generator has four 120V outlets and one 120/240V outlet while the Westinghouse WGen7500DF has four 120V outlets, one 120/240V 30A outlet, and one RV outlet.

It’s essential to ensure that your generator’s outlets match your device’s plug types as overloading a generator can cause damage or pose a safety hazard.

Safety Features

As you prepare for hurricane season, it’s crucial to consider the safety features of your generator. Look for a model with individual breakers for each outlet and fuel shutoff valves to prevent accidental leaks.

When operating the generator, make sure it is in a well-ventilated area and never leave it unattended while running. Turn off the engine when refueling and be careful not to spill gasoline on hot parts.

By selecting a generator with these safety features in mind, you can have peace of mind during power outages caused by hurricanes or other natural disasters.

Noise Level

The noise level of a generator is an essential factor to consider when choosing one for hurricane season. Quieter generators such as Champion Power Equipment 100692, Westinghouse WGen7500, and WEN 56380i are ideal options, especially for residential areas.

The Champion 100692 produces a clean sine wave with low Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) making it perfect for sensitive electronics such as laptops and smartphones. It has a decibel rating of only 58 dBA and can run up to eight hours at a quarter load on gasoline or propane fuel.

On the other hand, generators such as Westinghouse WGen7500DF and Duromax XP12000EH produce relatively high noise levels ranging between 72-78 dBA that may not be suitable in residential areas unless you use them far from any neighbors.

Best Overall: Duromax XP12000EH Dual Fuel

The Duromax XP12000EH Dual Fuel is an outstanding option for those in areas with frequent hurricanes, as it can run on either gas or propane and has a powerful 12,000W starting output.

Features & Description (Duromax XP12000EH Dual Fuel)

The Duromax XP12000EH dual fuel generator is a reliable and efficient choice for hurricane season. Here are some of its features and descriptions:

• Dual – fuel technology allows the generator to run on both gasoline and propane, providing flexibility in fuel choice.
• The starting wattage is 12000 (gasoline) and 10200 (propane), while the running wattage is 9500 (gasoline) and 8075 (propane).
• The XP12000EH has a durable steel frame with four-point fully isolated motor mounts that provide smooth and quiet operation.
• It has an 8.3 – gallon fuel tank, which provides up to 10 hours of continuous power at half load.
• With an electric start, it can be started with just a push of a button, but it also has a recoil starter as backup.
• The generator produces a noise level of only 72 dBA, making it one of the quietest generators in its class.
• It comes equipped with several outlets: two 120-volt GFCI outlets, one 120/240-volt 30-amp twist-lock outlet, and one 120/240-volt 50-amp heavy-duty outlet – each with individual breakers for added safety.
• The XP12000EH is CARB compliant and EPA approved; therefore, it meets all the environmental regulations concerning emissions standards.
• The generator has a powerful 457cc OHV engine that provides energy efficiently.

If you’re looking for a reliable generator that can handle heavy loads during hurricane season, then the Duromax XP12000EH dual fuel generator might be the perfect choice for you.

Pros & Cons (Duromax XP12000EH Dual Fuel)

I am glad to share with you the pros and cons of the Duromax XP12000EH Dual Fuel generator to help you make an informed decision.

Pros	Cons
Impressive power output – starting wattage of 12000 and running wattage of 9500	Heavy – weighs 269 pounds
Dual fuel capability – can run on both gasoline and propane	Higher price than some other generator options
Highly durable 457cc OHV engine with cast-iron sleeve	Noise level of 72 dB – may be loud for some users
Multiple outlet options, including a 120/240V 50A heavy-duty outlet	Limited runtime of up to 8 hours on a full tank of gasoline
Low-oil shutdown feature to protect the engine
EPA and CARB approved

As you can see, the Duromax XP12000EH Dual Fuel generator has many advantages, such as its impressive power output, dual fuel capabilities, and numerous outlet options. However, it is essential to consider its weight, noise level, and runtime when deciding if this generator is the best choice for your hurricane season preparedness.

Premium Pick: Honda EU7000iAT1 Portable Generator

The Honda EU7000iAT1 Portable Generator is a powerful inverter generator with 7,000 peak watts and excellent fuel efficiency, making it an ideal choice for those looking for top-of-the-line performance during hurricane season.

Features & Description (Honda EU7000iAT1 Portable Generator)

The Honda EU7000iAT1 Portable Generator is an excellent choice for those in need of a reliable and efficient generator during hurricane season. Here are some of its key features:

• Smart electronic fuel injection system: This feature ensures optimal fuel efficiency and performance, making it an eco-friendly option.
• Eco-throttle system: The eco-throttle system adjusts the engine speed to match the power demands, which further enhances its fuel efficiency.
• Low noise level: With a noise range of 52-58 dB, it is one of the quietest generators available on the market.
• Powerful output: Its starting wattage is 7000 and running wattage is 5500, making it suitable for powering most household appliances during power outages.
• Multiple outlets: The generator has two 120V 20A GFCI outlets, one 120V 30A locking outlet, and one 120V/240V 30A locking outlet.
• Easy Starting options: It comes with both push-button electric start and a backup recoil start for convenience.
• Safety features: The low oil shutdown feature ensures that the engine doesn’t run when there’s not enough oil to prevent damage. Additionally, an overload circuit breaker prevents damage if there’s too much load on the generator.

With its many features that ensure safety, efficiency, and performance during hurricane season, the Honda EU7000iAT1 Portable Generator is undoubtedly a premium pick for those in need of reliable backup power.

Pros & Cons (Honda EU7000iAT1 Portable Generator)

When it comes to the Honda EU7000iAT1 portable generator, there are several pros and cons to consider. As a potential customer, evaluating these factors will help you make an informed decision. Here’s a breakdown of the advantages and disadvantages of this premium generator option:

Pros	Cons
Exceptional runtime of up to 18 hours at a quarter load	Heavier than other portable generators, weighing 262 pounds
Noise range of 52-58 dB, making it a quiet generator option	Higher price compared to other portable generators
Fuel-efficient with the eco-throttle system
Smart electronic fuel injection system for better performance
Starting wattage of 7000 and rated wattage of 5500, providing ample power
Multiple outlet options, including 120V/240V 50A, 30A, and 20A
Both electric and recoil start options for convenience
CARB and EPA certified, making it an environmentally-friendly choice

With these pros and cons in mind, you can decide if the Honda EU7000iAT1 portable generator is the right option for your hurricane season preparedness needs.

Budget Pick: Westinghouse WGen7500DF

The Westinghouse WGen7500DF is an affordable dual-fuel generator that can provide up to 9,500 peak watts and 7,500 running watts of power for up to 16 hours on a full tank of gas or propane.

Features & Description (Westinghouse WGen7500DF)

I recently came across the Westinghouse WGen7500DF while researching the best generators for hurricane season. Here are some of the features and descriptions that caught my attention:

• The WGen7500DF is a dual – fuel generator, meaning it can run on either gasoline or propane.
• It has a starting wattage of 9500 and a rated wattage of 7500, making it suitable for powering household appliances during an outage.
• This generator can provide up to 11 hours of runtime at 50% load from a 6.6-gallon gas tank or a 20-pound propane tank at 25% generator load.
• The compact size and weight of the WGen7500DF make it easy to move around and transport to different locations.
• The ultra-tough full wrap-around steel tubing frame and steel protection plates ensure durability and added protection for the generator.
• For convenience, this generator comes with a remote control fob that allows for starting from a distance of up to 109 yards.
• There are different types of outlets available on the WGen7500DF, including four household outlets, one Twist-Lock outlet, one RV outlet, and one transfer switch ready outlet for emergency backup power in the event of an outage.
• While the THD level of this generator is relatively high at 23%, it still produces clean energy that is safe for sensitive electronics.

Overall, I think the Westinghouse WGen7500DF is an excellent choice as a budget pick for those looking for reliable backup power during hurricane season. Its durable build, dual fuel capabilities, and range of outlets make it versatile enough to use in various settings and emergencies.

Pros & Cons (Westinghouse WGen7500DF)

The Westinghouse WGen7500DF offers a great balance between affordability and performance, making it an ideal choice for those who want to be prepared for hurricane season without breaking the bank. Below, we’ve outlined some of the key pros and cons of this generator to help you make an informed decision.

Pros	Cons
Dual fuel capability: The WGen7500DF can run on both gasoline and propane, giving you more fuel options during a crisis.	Weight: At around 214 pounds, this generator is relatively heavy and may be difficult to move around.
Long runtime: With a runtime of 16 hours at 25% load on gasoline and 11 hours on propane, you’ll have plenty of power to keep your essentials running during an outage.	Noise level: The WGen7500DF can be quite noisy, which may be an issue, especially if you have neighbors close by.
Remote control fob: The generator comes with a remote control fob that allows you to start it from a distance of 109-yards, adding extra convenience.
Fuel shutoff valve: This feature helps prevent stale fuel issues when storing the generator for long periods, ensuring it’s ready to go when needed.
Automatic Voltage Regulator (AVR) and rugged build quality: These features help ensure reliable, consistent power and durability during rough weather conditions.

Best Inverter Generator: Champion 100263 Inverter Generator

The Champion 100263 Inverter Generator is a super quiet, lightweight option that packs a punch with its 2000W starting wattage and 1700W rated wattage. But it’s not just the power output that makes this generator stand out – its clean power delivery, low THD, portability, and parallel capability make it an excellent choice for powering sensitive electronics during hurricane season.

Features & Description (Champion 100263 Inverter Generator)

The Champion 100263 Inverter Generator is a dual fuel generator that runs on both gasoline and propane. Here are some of its features:

• Starting wattage of 3400 (gasoline) and 3060 (propane), running wattage of 3100 (gasoline) and 2790 (propane)
• Noise level of 59 dBA, making it relatively quiet
• Weight of 95.7 lbs and engine displacement of 192cc
• Runtime of 7.5 hours at 25% load on gasoline and 14.5 hours on propane
• Economy mode to conserve fuel and extend runtime
• Comes with a three – year warranty, standard among top generators on the market
• Highly portable for easy movement during hurricanes
• Built – in surge protector to prevent damage to electronics during use

The Champion 100263 Inverter Generator is one of the best generators to have during hurricane season, providing reliable power to keep you and your loved ones safe and comfortable.

Pros & Cons (Champion 100263 Inverter Generator)

The Champion 100263 Inverter Generator has some significant advantages and disadvantages that you should consider before making a decision. Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons:

Pros	Cons
Dual fuel capability allows flexibility in fuel choice (gasoline or propane)	At 95.7 lbs, it may be considered heavy for an inverter generator
Impressive runtime of 7.5 hours at 25% load on gasoline and 14.5 hours on propane	Noise level of 59 dBA might be a bit loud for some
Produces a clean sine wave with a <3% Total Harmonic Disruption (THD), making it safe for sensitive electronics	Fuel efficiency may decrease when operating at higher loads
Fuel shutoff valve helps prevent stale fuel issues during storage	Engine displacement of 192cc may not be as powerful as some other generators
Comes with a 3-year warranty for peace of mind	1.6-gallon fuel tank capacity may require more frequent refueling compared to larger tanks

Keep these factors in mind as you weigh the pros and cons of the Champion 100263 Inverter Generator, and decide if it’s the right choice for your hurricane preparedness plan.

Best Home Standby Generator: Generac 70432 Home Standby Generator

The Generac 70432 Home Standby Generator is a powerful and reliable choice for home backup power during hurricane season, with a capacity of up to 22,000 watts.

Features & Description (Generac 70432 Home Standby Generator)

The Generac 70432 Home Standby Generator is a high-quality generator that offers reliable backup power during hurricane season. Here are some of its key features:

• Power Capacity: The Generac 70432 has a starting wattage of 22000 and a running wattage of 19500, making it possible to power an entire home.
• True Power Technology: This feature ensures that the generator provides clean and stable power output, making it safe for sensitive electronics.
• Quiet-Test Feature: This runs the generator at a low speed for a few minutes to test its functionality without causing too much noise.
• Mobile Link Monitoring System: The mobile link system allows users to track the generator’s status remotely, so they can stay on top of maintenance and other tasks.
• Removable Front Panel: The front panel makes it easy to access the internal components of the generator for maintenance or repairs.
• Durable Enclosure: The aluminum enclosure is rust-resistant, designed to withstand harsh weather conditions.
• Low-Oil Shutdown: This feature automatically turns off the generator when the oil level is low, protecting it from damage.

Overall, The Generac 70432 Home Standby Generator is an excellent choice for anyone looking for reliable backup power during hurricane season. With its powerful features and durability, this generator can provide peace of mind in case of power outages caused by natural disasters.

Pros & Cons (Generac 7043 Home Standby Generator)

Taking into consideration the important facts we’ve gathered, let’s dive into the pros and cons of the Generac 70432 Home Standby Generator.

Pros	Cons
Powerful 22 kW capacity	Relatively noisy at 67 decibels
Runs on natural gas or liquid propane	Expensive compared to other standby generators
Mobile link remote monitoring for real-time control
Durable aluminum enclosure for harsh weather conditions
Automatic transfer switch for quick activation
Two-line LCD for status and maintenance alerts
Low oil shutdown feature for safety

With these pros and cons in mind, you can make a well-informed decision on whether the Generac 7043 Home Standby Generator is the right choice to keep you powered during hurricane season.

Generator Safety And Usage Tips During Hurricane Season

When using a generator during hurricane season, it’s crucial to ensure proper placement and storage, have adequate ventilation and carbon monoxide safety measures in place, handle fuel carefully and connect the generator to your home’s electrical system correctly.

Proper Placement And Storage

As hurricane season approaches, it’s important to know the proper placement and storage of your generator. It should be placed at least 20 feet away from your home and in a well-ventilated area when in use.

It’s also essential to properly store fuel for your generator. Fuel should be kept in an approved container that is designed for gasoline or diesel fuel, stored away safely from any heat sources or open flames.

Make sure to label each container with its contents and the date it was filled, as stale fuel can clog up your engine and cause problems down the road.

Ventilation And Carbon Monoxide Safety

It’s crucial to ensure proper ventilation when using a generator during hurricane season. Carbon monoxide poisoning is a real risk, and generators should be placed at least 20ft away from the home during operation.

Overloading the generator can cause overheating and increased carbon monoxide emissions, so it’s vital that the control panel has individual breakers for each port to prevent overload.

In addition, backfeeding should be avoided as it can create dangerous electrical currents that could harm people or damage property.

Handling Fuel And Refueling

Handling fuel and refueling is an essential part of maintaining your generator during hurricane season. You should always use fresh octane fuel, and you must turn off the generator before refueling to avoid spills or accidents.

Spilling fuel on hot parts of the generator should also be avoided as this can lead to fires or explosions.

Another crucial tip is never to plug your generator into a home outlet, as this can cause electrocution hazards. Instead, ensure that the generator is correctly grounded and positioned at least 20ft away from windows and doors when in use during a storm.

Connecting To Your Home’s Electrical System

It is important to know how to safely connect your generator to your home’s electrical system during a hurricane. Connecting the generator directly to your home’s wiring without an appropriate transfer switch can be dangerous and potentially fatal for workers attempting to restore power in the area.

A transfer switch is a device that isolates the generator from the power lines, preventing electricity from flowing back into them, which could damage appliances or injure utility personnel.

Another essential aspect of connecting your generator is ensuring that it matches your electrical system’s voltage requirements and has sufficient capacity supply for all connected devices.

It cannot power every device in the house at once; hence it would be best if you prioritize what needs powering immediately before using it as an energy source.

Preparing Your Generator For Hurricane Season

Regular maintenance and testing of your generator before hurricane season can be essential to ensure it is in good condition; stock up on fuel and supplies beforehand, such as oil, gasoline, propane tanks, spark plugs and filters.

Regular Maintenance And Testing

Regular maintenance and testing of your generator is crucial to ensure that it can provide power during a hurricane. Before the season starts, make sure to check your generator’s oil level, air filter, spark plugs, and fuel supply.

To prevent contamination in the fuel system, add fresh octane fuel every 6 months or use a stabilizer if you won’t be using it for a while.

It’s also essential to test your backup power source regularly before the storm hits. Check all cords and connections for damage or wear and tear before connecting them into outlets.

Don’t forget to have spare parts like fuses on hand in case of an emergency situation.

Stocking Up On Fuel And Supplies

During hurricane season, it’s essential to have emergency supplies stocked up, especially when it comes to fuel and other generator supplies. It’s recommended that you keep at least a week’s worth of fuel on hand for your generator so that you can use it if power outages last for an extended period.

Additionally, keeping a supply of extra spark plugs, oil filters, and air filters is also recommended as they could become scarce during a storm.

Making sure you have enough food and water on hand is also crucial during hurricane season. The CDC recommends having at least three days’ worth of non-perishable food and one gallon of water per person per day stored up.

Along with the basics like bread, canned goods, and peanut butter, consider purchasing freeze-dried meals or MREs (meals ready-to-eat) which can be prepared without electricity or running water in case the situation gets dire.

Having A Backup Plan In Case Of Generator Failure

Preparing for a hurricane involves more than just buying the best generator. It is essential to have a backup plan in case your generator fails during the storm. One of the easiest ways to prepare for this situation is by having extra fuel on hand.

During an emergency, gas stations may be closed or inaccessible, so it’s crucial to stock up before the storm hits. Additionally, consider purchasing a secondary generator or alternative power sources like solar panels or batteries as part of your contingency plan.

Remember that even with extra supplies and equipment, there are still some things you cannot control during a hurricane season. Being prepared means staying vigilant and following safety guidelines to keep yourself out of harm’s way.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size generator do I need for a hurricane? Is it necessary to buy a durable generator for hurricane season? When should I start the generator during a hurricane? How to protect a generator during a hurricane? These are some of the most common questions people ask when considering buying a generator for hurricane season, and we’re here to provide you with the answers.

What Size Generator Do I Need For A Hurricane?

Before purchasing a generator for hurricane season, it’s essential to determine your power needs. The size of the generator you need will depend on what appliances and electronics you plan to power during an outage.

For example, if you want to keep your refrigerator and a few lights powered, a 3000-4000-watt generator should suffice. However, if you plan to run larger appliances like air conditioners or sump pumps, you’ll need a larger generator with at least 5000-7500 watts of starting power.

Keep in mind that having too small of a generator can cause it to overload and potentially damage the equipment or cause injury.

Is It Necessary To Buy A Durable Generator For Hurricane Season?

Yes, it is necessary to buy a durable generator for hurricane season. The last thing you want during an emergency is a generator that fails or does not provide enough power to keep your home running.

A durable generator can withstand the rigors of a storm and provide reliable power for days or even weeks if needed.

For example, the Generac 7043 Home Standby Generator is designed specifically for severe weather conditions, with features such as corrosion-resistant aluminum casing and an all-weather steel enclosure.

This standby generator automatically turns on when the power goes out and provides clean power free of voltage spikes or drops that can damage sensitive electronics.

When Should I Start The Generator During A Hurricane?

To ensure that you have power when the storm hits, it’s best to start your generator before the winds and rains become too strong. In general, it is recommended to start your generator as soon as you lose power.

However, always remember safety first – keep windows and doors secured, and ensure there’s proper ventilation for carbon monoxide safety. Keep in mind that standby fuel should be on hand to avoid last-minute trips to the gas station during a hurricane.

Once you’ve started your generator, make sure to only plug in essential appliances like refrigerators or lights as most generators can’t handle powering an entire household for extended periods of time.

How To Protect A Generator During A Hurricane?

Protecting your generator during a hurricane is crucial for ensuring it remains in good condition and continues to provide power when you need it. One of the best ways to protect your generator is by placing it in a safe location away from water and other hazards.

Additionally, avoid overloading the generator as this can damage both the appliance and any devices connected to it. Always ensure that you are using an appropriate extension cord that’s rated for outdoor use, heavy-duty enough for your wattage needs – check out Westinghouse WGen7500 or DuroMax XP12000EH generators – along with avoiding backfeeding electricity into your home’s electrical panel while local utility workers repair damaged lines nearby.

Conclusion

In conclusion, investing in a reliable generator is crucial during hurricane season to ensure you and your family have access to power when the grid goes down.

Consider factors such as power output, runtime, starting options, and safety features when choosing the best generator for your needs. From our list of top picks including the Duromax XP12000EH Dual Fuel, Honda EU7000iAT1 Portable Generator, Westinghouse WGen7500DF, Champion 100263 Inverter Generator and Generac 70432 Home Standby Generator there are plenty of great options available that offer quiet operation and efficient fuel consumption.

Prioritize preparing an emergency stock with non-perishable food items like canned goods alongside fresh water supplies and gasoline so that you can be ready ahead of time rather than scrambling at the last minute.

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