I prefer to remain prepared for any eventuality. That is why; I always have emergency equipment at hand as well. One of the essential pieces of equipment which you need to have is the generator.
Instead of buying any generator, it is better to lay your hands on the best generator for emergency preparedness. It will ensure that in an emergency, you can power the essential devices.
In emergencies, you need a highly reliable generator. I have gone through many different options before picking the top 5 generators for an emergency. I will share with you these five options today so that you can also prepare yourself for any eventuality.
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Top 5 Best Generators for Emergency Preparedness in 2021
1. Champion 3500-Watt – RV Ready Portable Generator
The first generator which I’m going to highlight has a power rating of 3500 W. It can run for 12 hours on a full tank of gasoline. The noise output is just 68 DB. You can use it in your RV’s as well. The capacity of the fuel tank is 3.8 gallons. You can use it in cold weather.
It offers 3 AC outlets. It incorporates safety protections like overload protection, protection against voltage spike. You can also monitor the power output constantly.
The durable steel frame means that you don’t need to worry about any wear and tear. You can use it outdoors without any issues. The combination of these factors along with the versatility of the generator makes it one of the best generator for emergency preparedness.
Pros:
- Noise output is 68 DB
- Highly versatile
- Power rating is 3500 W
- Can run for 12 hours on a full tank of gasoline
- Durable steel frame
- Offers 3 AC outlets
- Incorporates the safety features
Cons:
- Starting mechanism is not that smart
2. Briggs & Stratton 30651 – PowerSmart Generator
The generator which I am highlighting now has a power rating of 2200 W. It means that you can power various devices using this generator. In spite of the high power rating, it is completely compact.
You can use it to power TVs, gaming systems and computers. At 25% load on a full tank, it can run for 8 hours. The tank capacity is of 1 gallon. With the help of a USB port, you can charge your favorite gadgets.
The construction of the generator is such that it reduces the noise. The noise output is just 59 DB. It is an inverter and generator which allows you to use it for powering the gadgets directly. The compact design allows you to carry it around easily.
Since it is gas-powered, you can easily keep it running for a long duration in times of emergency. The portability, as well as the longer run time of this generator, makes it an excellent choice.
Pros:
- 2200 W power rating
- Ability to power various gadgets
- Can run for 8 hours
- Tank capacity of 1 gallon
- A USB port is available
- Low noise output
Cons:
- Customer support is not up to the mark
3. Jackery Generator Portable Power Station
The option which I am highlighting now is a 240 WH portable Power Station. If you are specifically looking for a generator which can power devices, you can go with this option.
It offers AC outlet, carport along with USB outputs. You can charge your smartphones 18 times. Similarly, you can charge a laptop four times. You can also use it to charge drones, mini projectors, and mini-refrigerator. That is why; it is the perfect option for emergencies. You can power it through a wall outlet, solar panel or even cigarette lighter socket.
The weight of just 6.6 lbs allows you to move it around quickly. The noise-free operation means that you can use it consistently. It comes along with the user guide which makes it easy to use. Thus, when you’re looking for generators which can power necessary gadgets, you can consider this option.
Pros:
- The power rating of 240 WH
- Suitable to power various gadgets
- Triple Power source options
- Lightweight
- Noise-free operation
- Highly portable
Cons:
- Cannot power heavy-duty gadgets like TV
4. Westinghouse iGen4500 – Quiet Portable Inverter Generator
If you’re looking for a heavy-duty generator for emergencies, you can go with this option. I think the power rating of 3700 W is more than enough for emergencies. The gas-powered generator can start quickly and offers a remote start.
It consists of 30 AMP outlet. It also has 2 USB outlets on offer. The LED display means that you can operate it quite efficiently. The noise output is on the lower side at 52 DB. The 3.4-gallon tank capacity ensures that you will not have to refill the tank again and again.
It has an efficiency mode which reduces fuel consumption. At the peak, it can generate 4500 W of power which is quite useful for its size. All in all, it is an excellent option to rely on in times of emergencies.
Pros:
- 3700 W power
- Offers 2 USB outlets
- Easy to understand Control Panel
- Low noise output
- 3.4-gallon tank capacity
- Efficiency mode on offer
Cons:
- Requires maintenance
5. SUAOKI Power Station
With 150 WH of power, this is one of the smallest generators which you can use in an emergency. It offers dual AC outlets along with 4 DC ports. There are 4 USB ports on offer as well.
If you’re looking for a portable generator which you can carry with yourself in emergencies, this is a good option. It can help you power laptops, smartphones, cameras, and various other such devices.
The weight of the generator is just 2.9 lbs which allows you to carry it around with you wherever you go. You can charge it through the solar panel or the wall socket or 12 V car socket. The triple charging system allows you to use it in an emergency. It also has an emergency lighting torch which can come in handy. In terms of compact design and reliability, it is undoubtedly a good option.
Pros:
- 150 WH power
- Compact design
- Comes with AC outlets, DC outlets, and USB ports
- Suitable for powering various gadgets
- Weight is just 2.9 lbs
- Emergency torch available
Cons:
- Charges vary slowly when using solar power
According to me, these are the best options when you’re looking for the best generator for emergency preparedness. I have tried these generators with great success. They are all reliable options and can help you in emergencies. I will also help you understand the factors which you should consider while buying such a generator.
Best Generators for Emergency Preparedness Buying Guide:
Things to consider while buying the best generator for emergency preparedness:
The factors which you should consider while choosing such a generator include:
Power rating
The first factor which you should consider is the power rating. You have to look at the number of devices which you want to power and accordingly choose the generator.
Fuelled
The generator can run with solar power, gas or propane. It is essential to look at the power source of the generator before taking a call. Only when you’re okay with that power source, you should go ahead and choose the generator.
Portability
In emergencies, you might require to carry around the generator with you. That is why it is essential to look at the portability before making a buying decision.
Run time
A lot also depends on the run time of the generator. Ideally, anything above 5 hours is a good option for emergencies. It depends on the number of devices which you are charging.
Once you consider these few factors, it is easy to choose the best generator for emergency preparedness. Instead of taking into account the technical specifications, you should consider these factors. I will answer some of the FAQs which consumers usually have when buying such a generator.
Best Generators for Emergency Preparedness (FAQs)
Q: What is the best home generator for an emergency?
A: The Champion 3500-Watt RV Ready Portable Generator is the best option when looking for a home generator for emergency use. The large tank along with the low noise and 3 AC outlets on offer make it highly suitable for emergencies. Moreover, since the power rating is 3500 W, it is the perfect option for your gadgets and devices during any crisis.
Q: What kind of generator do I need for power outages?
A: When the power goes out, it is better to go with the gas-powered generators. These will ensure that you can power the necessary devices. You can power these generators either through gas or propane depending on the exact model which you have.
Q: How long do generators last?
A: Generators can generally last for up to 3000 hours of use. You have to ensure that you maintain them whenever required. With proper maintenance, they can last for over 15 years as well.
GLOBO TOOLS OVERVIEW
So, like me; if you want to stay prepared for any emergency, these are the generators which you should shortlist. These generators will help you face any situation and power the necessary devices. Instead of comparing different options, go through my list of the best generator for emergency preparedness above, and you can pick the right one.
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