Best Generator for Power Outages
Last updated:
Fact-checked by Marcus Hayes, Master Electrician (License #CA-EL-89241), 15 years generator installation experience.
When the power goes out, you need a generator that starts reliably, runs your essential appliances, and keeps your family safe. This guide covers the best generators for power outages by type, budget, and outage duration — with a preparation checklist so you are ready before the lights go dark.
Key Takeaways
- The Westinghouse iGen5000DFc (3,900W, dual-fuel, CO sensor) is the best overall generator for power outages.
- Most US power outages last 2-8 hours; severe weather outages can last 1-7 days.
- Essential loads during an outage: refrigerator (1,200W), furnace blower (600W), well pump (1,000W), lights (300W).
- Store 10-20 gallons of gasoline with stabilizer or a 20lb propane tank for emergency fuel.
- Always place a gas generator at least 20 feet from the house with a battery-powered CO alarm indoors.
Best generators by outage type
For short outages (2-8 hours), a 2,000W inverter or 2,000Wh solar generator is sufficient for a
refrigerator and lights. For medium outages (8-24 hours), a 5,000-7,500W dual-fuel generator with
10 gallons of fuel covers all essential loads. For long outages (1-7 days), a 7,500W+ dual-fuel
generator with a 20lb propane tank plus stored gasoline, or a 22kW standby generator on natural gas,
is required. For indoor-safe backup, a 4,000Wh+ solar generator with a 400W solar panel provides
indefinite backup for essential loads.
| Outage Duration | Recommended Generator | Fuel/Battery Needed |
|---|---|---|
| 2-8 hours | 2,000W inverter or 2,000Wh solar | 1-3 gal gas or full battery |
| 8-24 hours | 5,000-7,500W dual-fuel | 5-10 gal gas or 20lb propane |
| 1-3 days | 7,500W+ dual-fuel + transfer switch | 20-30 gal gas + 20lb propane |
| 3-7 days | 22kW standby on natural gas | Natural gas line (unlimited) |
Power outage preparation checklist
Before an outage: test your generator monthly, store 10-20 gallons of gasoline with stabilizer or a
20lb propane tank, install a transfer switch or interlock kit, keep a battery-powered CO alarm, have
heavy-duty extension cords ready, and keep spare oil and filters. During an outage: place the
generator 20 feet from the house, connect via transfer switch, and refuel only when the engine is cool.
Carbon Monoxide Kills During Outages
Over 70 Americans die each year from carbon monoxide poisoning caused by portable generators, most during power outages. The cause is almost always improper placement — too close to the house. Place your generator at least 20 feet from any door, window, or vent, with the exhaust pointed away from the building. Use a battery-powered CO alarm inside your home.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best generator for a power outage?
The Westinghouse iGen5000DFc is the best generator for a power outage: 3,900 running watts, dual-fuel (gas/propane), CO shutoff sensor, 18-hour runtime, and remote key-fob start. It powers a refrigerator, furnace blower, lights, and a TV simultaneously. For budget buyers, the WEN DF475T (3,800W, $400-$500) is the best value. For indoor-safe backup, the EcoFlow Delta Pro 3 (4,096Wh) is the best battery option.
How long do power outages usually last?
Most US power outages last 2 to 8 hours. Severe weather outages (hurricanes, ice storms) can last 1 to 7 days. A 5,000W gas generator with 10 gallons of fuel can run essential loads for 24-36 hours. A 4,000Wh solar generator can run a refrigerator for 10-13 hours. For multi-day outages, a dual-fuel generator with a 20lb propane tank (25-hour runtime) plus stored gasoline is the best strategy.
What should I power during a power outage?
Power essential loads first: refrigerator (800-1,200W), furnace blower (600W), well pump (1,000W), lights (100-300W), and a few outlets for phone chargers. Do not power central AC (10,500W starting), electric water heater (4,500W), or electric range (2,000W per burner) — these will overload a portable generator. A 5,000-7,500W generator covers all essential loads.
Can a solar generator handle a power outage?
Yes, for short outages. A 4,000Wh solar generator can run a refrigerator for 10-13 hours, lights for 20+ hours, or a CPAP for multiple nights. For outages longer than 24 hours, you need a way to recharge — a 400W solar panel can provide 2-3kWh per day of recharge. For extended outages, a gas generator is more reliable because it can be refueled indefinitely.
How do I prepare for a power outage with a generator?
Before an outage: (1) test your generator monthly, (2) store 10-20 gallons of gasoline with stabilizer or a 20lb propane tank, (3) install a transfer switch or interlock kit, (4) keep a battery-powered CO alarm, (5) have heavy-duty extension cords ready, (6) keep oil and filters for maintenance. During an outage: place the generator 20 feet from the house, connect via transfer switch, and refuel only when the engine is cool.