Home Backup Power
Pick the right portable generator for outages in three steps: work out your watts, choose the generator type and fuel, then compare models on their spec sheets.
Guides, in order
Backup PowerWhat Size Generator Do I Need? Home Backup Wattage CalculatorAdd up running and starting watts for your outage list and see which generator class fits.Updated Oct 17, 2026
Backup PowerInverter vs. Dual-Fuel Generators for Home Backup: Which One Fits Your House?Inverter and dual-fuel aren't opposites. We compare four popular models to show which type fits your house.Updated Oct 17, 2026
Backup PowerBest Inverter Generators for Home Backup: Spec-by-Spec ComparisonSix inverter generators from 1,800 W to 9,000 W compared on running watts, propane, 240V, weight and run time.Updated Oct 17, 2026
Backup PowerBest Dual-Fuel Generators for Home Backup: Open-Frame vs Inverter, Spec by SpecFive dual- and tri-fuel generators from 3,500 W to 9,500 W compared on propane output, CO shutoff, 50A outlets and weight.Updated Oct 17, 2026Want gas and propane (or natural gas) in an open-frame or inverter unit? Start with our dual-fuel generator comparison, which covers propane output, CO shutoff and 30A vs 50A transfer-switch outlets.
Running watts at a glance
Gasoline running-watt ratings for the inverter generators in our comparison, straight from each maker's spec page.
Safety first
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission says to never run a portable generator inside a home, garage, basement, crawlspace, or shed, to keep it outside and away from windows, doors, and vents, and to keep a working carbon monoxide alarm in the house (CPSC). Connecting a generator to house wiring needs a transfer switch or interlock installed to code; ask a licensed electrician.