When it comes to ensuring your home stays powered during outages, investing in a whole-home generator is one of the smartest decisions you can make. Whether you’re preparing for storm season or just want peace of mind, these generators provide an uninterrupted power supply, keeping your lights on, devices running, and appliances working. In this guide, we will explore the 5 best whole home generators of 2024, highlighting their features, pros, and cons to help you choose the right one for your needs.
1. Generac Guardian Series 24kW Whole House Generator
The Generac Guardian Series has long been a trusted name in home backup power, and their 24kW model stands out as one of the top choices for whole-home generators.
Key Features
Power Output: 24 kW, which is ideal for medium to large homes.
Fuel Type: Runs on natural gas or propane, giving you flexibility in fuel choice.
Automatic Transfer Switch: Provides seamless switching between grid power and backup power.
Quiet Operation: Its Quiet-Test mode reduces noise levels when the generator runs self-diagnostics.
Wi-Fi Connectivity: Monitor your generator remotely using the mobile app.
Pros
- Excellent power output for larger homes.
- Runs on two fuel types, providing fuel flexibility.
- Quiet operation ensures minimal noise disturbance.
- Easy to monitor and control through a mobile app.
Cons
- Installation can be expensive and may require professional help.
- Price is on the higher end, making it less affordable for smaller homes.
Why It’s Great
Generac’s Guardian Series 24kW generator is a solid choice for homeowners who want a reliable, powerful, and efficient system. The added benefit of Wi-Fi connectivity allows you to monitor your generator remotely, providing greater peace of mind.
2. Kohler 20RESCL Whole House Generator
Kohler has been in the business of reliable power generation for over 100 years. The 20RESCL model is a robust and compact whole-home generator that combines efficiency with advanced technology.
Key Features
Power Output: 20 kW, suitable for most homes with 2-3 bedrooms.
Fuel Type: Runs on liquid propane (LP) or natural gas.
Digital Controller: Provides real-time updates on the status of the generator.
Quiet Operation: Noise levels are as low as 60 decibels during operation.
Corrosion-Resistant Coating: Designed to withstand harsh weather conditions.
Pros
- Lower decibel level compared to other models, making it quieter.
- Corrosion-resistant, ensuring durability in different climates.
- Easy-to-use digital controller for monitoring.
Cons
- Slightly lower power output than some larger models, which might not be enough for very large homes.
- Requires a dedicated installation team.
Why It’s Great
The Kohler 20RESCL is an excellent option for those who need a balance of power and noise reduction. Its corrosion-resistant coating makes it a great option for areas with harsh weather conditions, and the quiet operation ensures your home remains peaceful.
3. Cummins RS20AC Whole House Generator
Cummins is renowned for making reliable, heavy-duty generators, and the RS20AC model lives up to that reputation. It’s a great choice for homeowners who want a generator that delivers power efficiently and reliably.
Key Features
Power Output: 20 kW, designed for homes with 2-3 bedrooms.
Fuel Type: Can run on natural gas or propane.
Fully Automatic: The generator switches on and off automatically during power outages.
Mobile Link Connectivity: Monitor the status of your generator from anywhere via a smartphone.
Quiet Operation: Designed to run quietly, reducing noise impact.
Pros
- Automatic operation provides ease of use.
- Mobile Link feature allows for remote monitoring.
- Low operating noise makes it less disruptive.
Cons
- Installation can be costly due to its high-end features.
- Slightly higher price point compared to similar models.
Why It’s Great
The Cummins RS20AC is ideal for homeowners who want both power and ease of use. The mobile connectivity feature is especially helpful for busy homeowners who may not always be at home to monitor the generator.
4. Briggs & Stratton 20kW Whole House Generator
Briggs & Stratton is another well-known name in the world of home generators. The 20kW model offers plenty of power, reliability, and a variety of features that homeowners will appreciate.
Key Features
Power Output: 20 kW, suitable for medium-sized homes.
Fuel Type: Runs on natural gas or propane.
Quiet Power Technology: This reduces engine noise, keeping the generator quieter than many competitors.
FlexPower: Variable speed technology that adjusts engine speed based on load.
10-Year Warranty: A long warranty ensures peace of mind.
Pros
- Quiet operation thanks to Quiet Power Technology.
- FlexPower reduces fuel consumption during lighter load usage.
- Comes with a generous 10-year warranty for added peace of mind.
Cons
- The 20kW power output may not be enough for larger homes with more energy-demanding appliances.
- Installation can be complex, requiring professional assistance.
Why It’s Great
The Briggs & Stratton 20kW generator is an excellent choice for homeowners who value quieter operation and efficiency. The FlexPower technology also makes it a cost-effective option, as it reduces fuel consumption during non-peak usage times.
5. Champion 14kW Whole House Generator
For homeowners looking for a more affordable option, the Champion 14kW whole house generator offers great value without compromising on performance. It’s ideal for homes with fewer energy demands.
Key Features
Power Output: 14 kW, suitable for smaller homes or apartments.
Fuel Type: Dual-fuel capability allows you to use either propane or natural gas.
Automatic Start: The generator starts automatically during an outage.
Cold Weather Start: Includes a cold start feature for wintertime reliability.
Comprehensive Warranty: Offers a 10-year limited warranty.
Pros
- Affordable compared to other whole-house generators.
- Dual-fuel capabilities for flexibility in fuel choice.
- Cold weather start feature ensures operation in winter.
Cons
- Power output is lower, making it unsuitable for larger homes with heavy energy needs.
- Some users report that installation instructions are not as clear.
Why It’s Great
Champion’s 14kW model is an excellent option for smaller homes or those on a budget. It provides reliable backup power without the high upfront cost of larger generators. The cold weather start feature also makes it suitable for homes in colder climates.
Conclusion
Choosing the best whole-home generator depends on your needs, budget, and the size of your home. For those seeking top-tier power and features, the Generac Guardian Series 24kW and Kohler 20RESCL are both excellent choices. If you’re looking for a more affordable, reliable option, the Champion 14kW model provides great value. The Cummins RS20AC and Briggs & Stratton 20kW are also solid contenders, offering reliability, efficiency, and innovative features.
Remember, when selecting a whole-house generator, it’s essential to consider your power needs, fuel preferences, noise tolerance, and budget. Professional installation is often required, so be sure to factor that into your decision. No matter which generator you choose, investing in a whole-home generator will keep your family safe and comfortable during power outages, ensuring that your home remains powered when you need it the most.
Related topics: