Top-Rated Portable Generators for Backyard Power During Outages

When the power goes out, especially during severe weather or emergencies, a portable generator can be a lifesaver. It provides a reliable backup power source for your home, allowing you to keep critical appliances running, such as your refrigerator, lights, and even your air conditioner. For those who live in areas prone to power outages or are looking for a convenient way to ensure power during a blackout, a portable generator is a must-have.

In this guide, we will explore the top-rated portable generators for backyard power during outages. We'll dive into their key features, what makes them stand out, and what to consider when choosing the best generator for your needs.

Why You Need a Portable Generator for Backyard Power During Outages

Power outages are unpredictable and can last anywhere from a few hours to several days, especially during storms or natural disasters. In these situations, having a portable generator on hand can keep your home running smoothly. Here are a few reasons why a portable generator is essential for emergencies:

1. Essential Backup Power

During a power outage, having electricity is vital for a wide range of tasks, from keeping food fresh in the refrigerator to maintaining heating or cooling systems. A portable generator provides the power you need to keep your home running during these disruptions.

2. Versatility

Portable generators are highly versatile. They can be used to power a variety of devices, from basic household appliances to more powerful tools and equipment. This flexibility makes them ideal for both emergency and non-emergency use.

3. Ease of Use

Unlike permanent backup power solutions, portable generators are easy to set up and operate. They are designed for convenience, and many models can be started with the push of a button, ensuring you have power without a complicated setup.

4. Cost-Effective Solution

Compared to permanent home standby generators, portable generators are more affordable. They provide excellent value for homeowners looking for an emergency backup power source without the need for a large upfront investment.

5. Portability

As the name suggests, portable generators are designed to be easily moved from one location to another. This makes them ideal for use in different areas of your backyard or outdoor spaces. Whether you need power for a family barbecue or a worksite, a portable generator can be relocated as needed.

Key Features to Look for in a Portable Generator

Selecting the right portable generator for your needs is crucial for ensuring that it provides the power you need during an outage. Here are the most important features to consider when purchasing a portable generator:

1. Power Output (Wattage)

The most important factor in choosing a portable generator is the power output. You need to calculate how many watts your critical appliances require during an outage. These include:

• Refrigerator: 600-800 watts
• Lights: 100-300 watts (depending on the number of lights)
• Heater or Air Conditioner: 1,500-2,000 watts
• Microwave: 1,000-1,500 watts
• Sump Pump: 1,000-1,500 watts

Once you have an idea of your power needs, choose a generator with a power output that exceeds your requirements. A general rule of thumb is to add up the wattage of all the appliances you plan to power and then select a generator that provides at least 20-25% more than that total.

2. Fuel Type

Portable generators typically run on gasoline, propane, or diesel. Each fuel type has its pros and cons:

• Gasoline: The most common fuel type, gasoline is easy to find and generally affordable. However, it has a shorter shelf life, and keeping enough gasoline on hand for an extended outage may be difficult.
• Propane: Propane burns cleaner than gasoline and has a longer shelf life. However, propane tanks can be bulky and may require additional storage space.
• Diesel: Diesel generators tend to be more fuel-efficient, but they can be louder and more expensive. Diesel fuel also has a long shelf life and is commonly used for larger generators.

Consider which fuel source will be the most convenient and available to you in the event of an emergency.

3. Run Time

The runtime of a portable generator is the amount of time it can operate on a single tank of fuel. This is especially important during extended outages. Ideally, look for a generator with a long run time that can power essential appliances for an entire day or longer without needing to be refueled.

The runtime will vary depending on the load you place on the generator. The more appliances you run, the shorter the runtime. However, some generators are designed to be more fuel-efficient, allowing them to run longer even with a heavy load.

4. Noise Level

Generators can be quite loud, and during a prolonged outage, the noise can become a nuisance. When selecting a portable generator, check the decibel rating. Look for a generator with a noise level of around 60-70 decibels for minimal disturbance. In general, inverter generators tend to be quieter than traditional models.

5. Portability

While all portable generators are designed to be moved, some models are lighter and more compact than others. If you plan to transport the generator regularly, consider a lightweight model with built-in handles or wheels for easy maneuverability.

6. Ease of Use

Look for a generator that is easy to start, especially if you'll be using it in stressful situations. Many modern portable generators come with electric start functions, eliminating the need for manual pulling. Additionally, models with user-friendly control panels and clear instructions will help make the setup process easier.

Top-Rated Portable Generators for Backyard Power During Outages

Here are some of the best portable generators available on the market, based on their performance, features, and reliability. These models are perfect for powering your backyard and ensuring you have the backup power you need during an outage.

1. Honda EU2200i Portable Inverter Generator

• Key Features:

  • Power Output: 2,200 watts (starting), 1,800 watts (running)
  • Fuel Type: Gasoline
  • Run Time: Up to 8.1 hours at 25% load
  • Noise Level: 48-57 dB
  • Portability: Lightweight (47 pounds), compact design

• Why It's Great: The Honda EU2200i is a highly portable, fuel-efficient, and quiet generator ideal for small to medium-sized households. Its inverter technology makes it suitable for sensitive electronics, such as laptops and phones. With a long runtime and quiet operation, it's one of the best options for backyard power during outages.

2. Westinghouse WGen7500 Portable Generator

• Key Features:

  • Power Output: 7,500 watts (starting), 6,000 watts (running)
  • Fuel Type: Gasoline
  • Run Time: Up to 16 hours at 25% load
  • Noise Level: 72 dB
  • Portability: Built-in wheels, 211 pounds

• Why It's Great: The Westinghouse WGen7500 is a powerful, heavy-duty generator capable of running larger appliances or multiple devices at once. It's perfect for those who need a reliable source of backup power for extended periods. Its long runtime and large power output make it ideal for serious outages.

3. Champion 2000-Watt Ultralight Inverter Generator

• Key Features:

  • Power Output: 2,000 watts (starting), 1,600 watts (running)
  • Fuel Type: Gasoline
  • Run Time: Up to 11.5 hours at 25% load
  • Noise Level: 53 dB
  • Portability: Ultra-lightweight (39 pounds), built-in handle

• Why It's Great: The Champion 2000-Watt Ultralight is perfect for those who prioritize portability. It's incredibly lightweight and compact, making it easy to transport. While it's not as powerful as some larger models, it provides sufficient power for smaller needs, such as charging devices or running a refrigerator during short outages.

4. Generac GP8000E Portable Generator

• Key Features:

  • Power Output: 8,000 watts (starting), 7,000 watts (running)
  • Fuel Type: Gasoline
  • Run Time: Up to 10 hours at 50% load
  • Noise Level: 70 dB
  • Portability: Wheels and handle for easy mobility, 192 pounds

• Why It's Great: The Generac GP8000E is an excellent choice for larger homes or more demanding power needs. With a substantial power output and long runtime, it can handle a variety of appliances, including air conditioners, refrigerators, and lights. It's a great solution for extended outages in larger homes or for use on construction sites.

5. Predator 3500 Watt Super Quiet Inverter Generator

• Key Features:

  • Power Output: 3,500 watts (starting), 3,000 watts (running)
  • Fuel Type: Gasoline
  • Run Time: Up to 11 hours at 25% load
  • Noise Level: 57 dB
  • Portability: Compact design, 81 pounds

• Why It's Great: The Predator 3500 Watt is a mid-range generator that balances power, runtime, and noise level. Its quiet operation and inverter technology make it suitable for powering sensitive electronics, while its large fuel tank and long runtime make it ideal for extended power outages.

Conclusion

When preparing for a power outage, a portable generator is an invaluable tool to ensure that your home remains functional during emergencies. The right generator will depend on your power needs, budget, and preferences for fuel type, portability, and noise levels.

By considering the key features mentioned above and choosing one of the top-rated generators, you can be confident that your backyard will have reliable power when you need it most. Make sure to select a model that suits your needs, and always keep extra fuel on hand to ensure you're prepared for any situation.