10 Best Generac Generators 2025 in the United States

The Generac 7210 24kW Air Cooled Guardian Series Home Standby Generator is a robust solution for ensuring your home stays powered during outages. With a power output of 24,000 watts, it's capable of handling substantial energy needs. It runs on either natural gas or LP gas, giving you flexibility depending on your available resources. The generator's runtime will vary based on fuel type and load, but it's designed for long-term use with an efficient engine. One of its standout features is the Mobile Link Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing you to monitor the generator's performance and receive maintenance alerts remotely. This feature is particularly useful for peace of mind when you're not at home.

The inclusion of a 200-amp transfer switch means it offers comprehensive whole-house protection, seamlessly switching power sources during an outage. Installation should be done by a certified electrician, ensuring proper setup and safety. The start type is electronic, simplifying the process of getting the generator running. Maintenance is made easier with the 5-year limited warranty and reduced maintenance needs of the purpose-built G-Force engine. However, the generator is quite heavy at 455 pounds, making it less portable and more of a permanent installation.

This generator is built with high-quality materials and assembled in the USA, which speaks to its durability and craftsmanship. For those needing reliable, high-capacity backup power for their homes, this generator is a strong contender, though it requires professional installation and is not designed for portability.

The Generac Guardian 26kW Home Standby Generator is a solid choice for homeowners needing reliable whole-house backup power during outages. It delivers a strong 26,000 watts, enough to keep most household systems running smoothly. The generator runs on natural gas or propane, which are convenient and commonly available fuel options. It features a durable all-aluminum housing designed to withstand outdoor conditions and operates quietly, making it less disruptive in residential areas. Starting is electronic and automatic, so it powers up quickly and without manual effort during power failures.

One standout feature is its Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing you to monitor performance and receive maintenance alerts remotely, which is helpful for peace of mind. The generator includes a 200-amp transfer switch, enabling seamless and safe power transfer to your home’s electrical system. However, it weighs 518 pounds and is not portable, meaning it needs professional installation and a fixed outdoor location.

The runtime listed as 12 minutes likely refers to a default test or limited load condition, so actual runtime depends on fuel availability and usage. Maintenance is simplified by the G-Force engine design, known for durability and lower upkeep needs, plus a low oil shutdown feature protects the engine. While it’s on the higher end in terms of size and investment, the 5-year limited warranty adds assurance. This generator is suited for homeowners who want an automated, whole-house backup system rather than a portable or temporary generator. For those seeking a dependable, quiet, and smartly connected standby generator that handles all essential home power needs, the Generac Guardian is a strong contender.

The Generac 8917 GP18000EFI is a robust gas-powered generator suitable for residential use, especially for whole-home backup. With a powerful 18,000-watt output and 22,500-watt starting wattage, it can handle heavy loads and multiple appliances simultaneously. The electric start feature is convenient and user-friendly, eliminating the need for manual pulling.

One of its standout features is the COsense technology, which provides crucial protection against carbon monoxide, enhancing safety during use. Additionally, the generator includes TruePower Technology, which ensures a stable power supply for sensitive electronics, making it versatile for various applications. The large capacity fuel tank offers up to 9 hours of runtime, reducing the frequency of refueling during extended power outages.

The Generac 816cc EFI engine is designed for efficiency and performance, but being a fuel-powered engine, it requires regular maintenance like oil checks and changes to keep it in top condition. Portability is a significant plus, thanks to the heavy-duty, never-flat wheels and durable steel tube cradle, although the generator's substantial weight of 443 pounds might still make it a bit challenging to move around. Some drawbacks include its noise level common to gas generators, which can be quite loud, and the initial cost, which might be on the higher side. A point of note is its compatibility with a Homelink Manual Transfer Switch, making it an effective alternative to a permanent home standby generator. Ideal for homeowners needing reliable power backup, the Generac 8917 GP18000EFI offers a blend of power, safety, and portability, albeit with the usual maintenance requirements and noise levels associated with gas generators.