Like Noah preparing for the flood, we’ve all faced those moments when the lights flicker and panic sets in. Power outages don’t just interrupt our Netflix binges—they can genuinely impact our safety and comfort. We’ve tested dozens of generators to find the five that truly deliver when storms hit or grids fail. From gas-powered workhorses to silent solar options, these picks balance power, price, and practicality for any small home. Want to know which one might save your next power emergency?
WEN 4,750-Watt Portable Generator with Wheel Kit (DF475T)
- Switch between gasoline (4750 surge watts, 3800 running watt) and propane (4350 surge, 3500 running) with the simple turn of the selection dial
- Voltage easily goes from 120V to 240V, perfect for transfer switches and emergency backup
- Electric start powers the 224cc 4-stroke OHV engine with the turn of a key
- 4-gallon tank provides up to 11 hours of half load run time
- Includes two 120V GFCI outlets (5-20R), a 120V/240V NEMA 30A twist lock (L14-30R), a 12V DC cigarette-lighter-style plug, a bottle of oil, a wheel and handle kit, a 47-inch LPG connection hose, and a 2-year warranty
When it comes to powering your small home during outages, the WEN 4,750-Watt Portable Generator offers versatility that’s hard to beat. We’ve found its dual fuel capability to be a game-changer—run it on gasoline for up to 11 hours or switch to propane for cleaner operation.
What we really appreciate is its practical design. The electric start means no more wrestling with pull cords, and at 105.8 pounds with included wheels, it’s movable without breaking your back. It’s not the quietest option out there, but honestly, the flexibility of powering everything from refrigerators to power tools makes this slight drawback worth overlooking. The 4,750 surge watts have proven more than adequate for most small homes.
Best For: Homeowners seeking a versatile, mid-range power solution for emergency outages, job sites, or outdoor events who value fuel flexibility over premium features like quiet operation.
Pros:
- Dual fuel capability allows switching between gasoline (4,750 surge/3,800 running watts) and propane (4,350 surge/3,500 running watts)
- Electric start system with multiple outlet options, including 240V compatibility for higher-powered applications
- Practical mobility features with included wheel kit and handles for a generator weighing 105.8 pounds
Cons:
- Not an inverter generator, resulting in potentially noisier operation than premium models
- Some users report issues with battery longevity requiring replacement
- At 4 gallons, the fuel tank capacity limits maximum runtime compared to larger generators in its class
Champion Portable Generator with Wireless Remote Start (10,000-Watt)
- Start and stop with ease from up to 80 feet away with the included wireless remote key fob, plus, features CO Shield carbon monoxide auto shutoff system
- At 10,000 starting watts and 8000 running watts, enjoy up to 10 hours of run time on a full tank of gasoline with a noise level of 74 dBA from 23 feet
- Trust the reliable 458cc Champion engine with its battery-included electric start feature and built-in Cold Start Technology for easy starts in cold weather
- Two 120V 20A GFCI household duplex outlets, a 120/240V 30A locking outlet and a 120/240V 33.3A outlet, plus Volt Guard built-in surge protector prevents overloads and keeps your equipment safe
- Includes 3-year limited warranty with FREE lifetime technical support from dedicated experts
If you need serious power for your small home during emergencies, the Champion 10,000-Watt Portable Generator with Wireless Remote Start is a top contender that deserves your attention. We’re impressed by its ability to run essential appliances for up to 10 hours on a single tank at 50% load.
What really sets this generator apart, though, is its wireless remote start feature—imagine firing up your power from 80 feet away when storms hit! The CO Shield safety system automatically shuts off if carbon monoxide levels get dangerous, which gives us peace of mind. And with multiple outlet options and that robust 8,000 running watts, you’ll keep your home functioning when the grid fails.
Best For: Homeowners seeking a powerful emergency backup power solution that can run multiple essential appliances simultaneously while offering convenient remote operation and important safety features.
Pros:
- Wireless remote start capability allows you to power up the generator from up to 80 feet away without venturing outside in dangerous weather conditions
- CO Shield technology provides critical safety protection by automatically shutting down if dangerous carbon monoxide levels are detected
- Versatile power output with multiple outlet types and substantial 8,000 running watts can support essential home systems during extended outages
Cons:
- At 204 pounds, the unit is quite heavy and may be difficult to move without assistance or proper equipment
- 74 dBA noise level is relatively loud and may disturb neighbors in close proximity during operation
- The 7.7-gallon tank requires frequent refueling during extended power outages when running at full capacity
Aceup Energy 1,200W Portable Gas Generator
- 1200 peak watts and 900 running watts
- Frequency 60Hz , 120V household outlet, equipped with one American-style duplex socket, one AC overload protection, one 12V DC power supply, one DC overload protection and one indicator light
- Powered by a 71cc Aceup Single Cylinder, 2 Cycle Engine with air cooling system and a recoil start, 35.3 lb weight
- This generator uses (50:1) mixing oil, so it's no need for oil change. And 1.1 gallon tank can operate for 6 hours at half load
- All Aceup Energy small portable generators are functionally tested; EPA and CARB compliant; Backed by a 1 year limited warranty with free lifetime technical guidance from Experts
The Aceup Energy 1,200W Portable Gas Generator stands out as one of the most versatile options for homeowners who need occasional backup power without breaking the bank. At just 35 pounds, it’s remarkably portable—perfect for moving around your property or taking camping.
We love that it delivers 900 running watts, which is enough to keep essentials like lights, smartphones, and small appliances running during outages. The 6-hour runtime at half load means you’ll have power through most short blackouts.
One thing to remember—it does require a 50:1 gas-oil mixture, which, um, might be a bit annoying, but that’s the trade-off for such an affordable, lightweight generator.
Best For: Campers, homeowners needing occasional backup power during outages, and those who need a lightweight portable power source for small devices and appliances.
Pros:
- Extremely portable at just 35.3 pounds with a comfortable grip, making it easy to transport
- Provides sufficient power (900 running watts) for essential devices and small appliances
- EPA & CARB compliant with safety features like automatic shutdown and overload protection
Cons:
- Requires 50:1 gas-oil mixture preparation, which adds complexity to refueling
- Limited fuel capacity of 1.1 gallons means more frequent refilling during extended use
- Produces noticeable exhaust odor and noise, requiring placement away from people
Jackery Solar Generator 1000 v2 with 200W Solar Panel
- Powerful yet Compact: Boasting a 1,500W AC output and a 3,000W surge peak, the Solar Generator 1000 V2 can power multiple appliances, including AC units, fridges, and electric pots. With a 1,070Wh capacity and a lightweight build of only 23.8 lbs, along with a foldable handle, it makes an excellent companion for outdoor camping, road trips, and emergencies.
- One Hour Fast Charging: Charge your Explorer 1000 v2 Portable Power Station from 0% to 100% battery level in just one hour with emergency charging activated via the Jackery App. It defaults to 1.7 hours for a full charge to optimize battery health. Engineered with advanced ChargeShield 2.0 technology, this power station charges safer, faster, and smarter.
- 10 Year Lifespan: The Explorer 1000 v2 portable power station is equipped with a durable LFP battery, maintaining over 70% of its original capacity even after 4,000 charge cycles, offering longevity exceeding 10 years.
- Tailored for Versatility: Featuring two USB-C ports, one USB-A port, one DC car port, and three pure sine wave AC ports, along with LED lights, the Solar Generator 1000 V2 is capable of charging multiple devices simultaneously, meeting power needs in various scenarios. PD 100W fast USB-C charging ensures a rapid charging speed, even without power adapters.
- Smart App Control: Effortlessly switch between different charging modes with Jackery’s App—including one hour emergency charging from 0 to 100%, 30 dB quiet overnight charging mode, and energy efficiency mode. Maximize the freedom to adjust the power station to meet your needs.
Power outages won’t leave you in the dark with Jackery’s Solar Generator 1000 v2 with 200W Solar Panel, a perfect solution for small homeowners who need reliable backup power. We’re impressed by its LiFePO4 battery that lasts over 10 years with 4,000+ charge cycles—that’s serious longevity!
What we love most is its versatility. At just 23.8 pounds, it’s portable enough to move around your home yet powerful enough to run essential appliances. The 1500W output (with 3000W surge) can handle your fridge, lights, even medical devices during emergencies. And honestly, the solar charging option is a game-changer for extended outages when grid power isn’t available.
Best For: Homeowners seeking reliable backup power during emergencies who want a portable, solar-capable solution that can run essential appliances without requiring permanent installation.
Pros:
- Exceptional battery longevity with LiFePO4 technology offering 4,000+ charge cycles and 10+ years of useful life
- Versatile charging options including fast charging (0-100% in as little as 1 hour) and solar compatibility for extended off-grid use
- Lightweight (23.8 lbs) and compact design with multiple output ports for powering several devices simultaneously
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to some competing portable power stations
- Solar charging is highly dependent on weather conditions and may be slow on cloudy days
- 1070Wh capacity may be insufficient for powering multiple high-wattage appliances for extended periods
WEN 5600-Watt Portable Generator with Electric Start (GN5602X)
- Keep your family safe with 5600 starting watts and 4500 running watts of power
- Electric start functionality turns the 224cc engine on with the press of a switch
- The WEN Watchdog CO Shutdown Sensor helps protect both you and your family by automatically turning off the generator if dangerous levels of carbon monoxide are detected
- 4.3-gallon gas tank provide up to 12.5 hours of half-load run time
- Includes a wheel kit, two standard 120V 5-20R 20-amp outlets, one RV-ready 120V 30-amp TT-30R outlet, one transfer-switch-ready 120V 30-amp NEMA L5-30R twist lock receptacle, and a three-year limited warranty
Compact yet mighty, the WEN 5600-Watt Portable Generator strikes an impressive balance between power and portability for homeowners with limited space. With 4,500 running watts, it’ll keep your essentials running during outages without overwhelming your storage area.
We’re particularly impressed by the safety features—that WEN Watchdog CO sensor could literally save your life by shutting down when carbon monoxide reaches dangerous levels. The electric start is, well, a game-changer when you’re fumbling around in the dark during a storm.
For a 120-pound unit, it delivers remarkable performance. You know what’s great? The data meter that shows exactly how much power you’re using and how long you’ve been running.
Best For: Homeowners seeking a reliable backup power solution during outages that offers substantial power capacity while remaining manageable in size and featuring essential safety features.
Pros:
- Features the WEN Watchdog CO Shutdown Sensor that automatically turns off the generator when dangerous carbon monoxide levels are detected
- Offers versatile power output with multiple outlet types including RV-ready and transfer-switch-ready options
- Provides up to 12.5 hours of run time at half load with its 4.3-gallon tank, making it suitable for overnight power needs
Cons:
- At 120 pounds, it’s still relatively heavy and may require two people for safe lifting and positioning
- Some users report CO sensor shutdowns in certain environmental conditions, requiring careful placement
- Requires regular maintenance including oil changes every 24 hours of runtime for optimal performance
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Generator for Small Homes
When we’re picking a generator for small homes, we need to weigh several essential factors that’ll make or break our purchase decision. We should start by calculating our power needs, considering fuel type options, and evaluating noise levels – all while balancing our budget against must-have features. And let’s not forget about space constraints – a compact generator that’s easily stored might be worth more than a bulky powerhouse that’ll take up half your garage!
Power Needs Calculation
Determining the right generator size begins with understanding your home’s electrical demands during outages. We recommend listing all essential appliances you’ll need during a power failure, then calculating their combined wattage. Don’t forget to account for starting watts, which can be two to three times higher than running watts—especially for refrigerators and heating systems.
For a small home, you might need to power basics like your fridge (700W), some lights (20-60W each), and maybe a space heater (1500W). Actually, scratch that—maybe a space heater isn’t necessary if you have alternative heating.
We’ve found that using a wattage calculator really simplifies this process. Once you’ve tallied everything up, add about 20% as a safety buffer—better to have a little extra capacity than not enough!
Fuel Type Options
Choosing the right fuel type for your generator is certainly one of the most critical decisions you’ll make when shopping for backup power. We’ve found that each option comes with its own set of pros and cons.
Gasoline generators typically pack more punch with higher wattage output—great if you’re running power-hungry appliances. But honestly, they’re a bit high-maintenance since gasoline degrades over time.
Propane, on the other hand, is our go-to for convenience. It has practically forever shelf life and runs cleaner, though it won’t deliver quite the same power as gas.
Can’t decide? Well, dual fuel generators might be your best bet. They’re like the Swiss Army knife of generators, letting you switch between fuels depending on what’s available during an emergency.
Noise Level Assessment
The peaceful atmosphere around your home can quickly vanish once a noisy generator kicks into action. When selecting a generator for your small home, noise level is, well, actually one of the most essential factors to take into account.
We recommend looking for models that produce less than 70 dBA, which is about as loud as normal conversation. This is especially important if you’re in a suburban area where neighbors might be close by. Remember that a generator rated at 74 dBA might not sound too bad on paper, but trust me, it’ll feel much louder when it’s running just 23 feet from your patio!
Many newer generators feature noise-reduction technology that’s worth the extra cost. And don’t forget to check your local noise ordinances—you don’t want to get fined during a power outage!
Budget Versus Features
While searching for the perfect generator for your small home, striking a balance between budget and features can feel like walking a tightrope. We’ve found that focusing solely on the lowest price tag often backfires in the long run.
Sure, higher wattage generators cost more upfront, but they’ll power multiple appliances simultaneously—kind of like buying one really good Swiss Army knife instead of several mediocre tools. Electric start, dual fuel options, and quieter operation might bump up the price, but they’re game-changers for daily use.
Don’t overlook safety features like CO shutdown systems. Actually, I think—I mean, we think—these aren’t places to cut corners. And comparing warranties is essential; a longer warranty often justifies paying a bit more initially, especially when you consider potential repair costs down the road.
Space and Storage
Because living in a small home means maximizing every square inch, storage considerations for your generator shouldn’t be an afterthought. We’ve found that size truly matters—some compact models measure just 15.7 × 14.5 × 14.1 inches, while larger ones can take up nearly twice that space.
Weight is another vital factor. Trust me, there’s a world of difference between handling a 35-pound portable generator versus lugging around a 200-pound beast! You’ll want to, um, think about where you’ll actually keep this thing.
Don’t forget about ventilation needs. Gasoline generators require proper airflow—no closets or tight spaces, please! And noise level? Well, a generator humming at 74 dBA isn’t exactly a quiet roommate. Consider how close it’ll be to your living space when deciding where to store it.
Conclusion
After reviewing these five standout generators for small homes, it’s clear that reliable backup power doesn’t need to break the bank or take up your entire garage. Each model offers something different—whether you prioritize quiet operation, fuel efficiency, or raw power output. The right choice ultimately depends on your specific needs: how many appliances you need to run, how long you anticipate outages lasting, and your budget constraints.
Don’t wait until you’re fumbling for flashlights during the next blackout. Investing in a quality generator now means comfort and security when the grid goes down. Check local regulations before purchasing, consider your power requirements carefully, and remember that sometimes spending a bit more upfront saves headaches down the road.
Grab one of these reliable generators today—your future self will thank you the next time the lights go out and your home stays cozy and connected while the neighborhood goes dark.