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The Westinghouse 14500 Peak Watt Tri-Fuel Generator is a strong choice for homeowners looking for reliable backup power, especially for larger homes. It offers a high power output of up to 14,500 peak watts on gasoline, with slightly lower but still impressive wattage when running on propane or natural gas. This tri-fuel flexibility is a big plus, allowing you to choose among gasoline, propane, or natural gas depending on availability and convenience. It runs up to 19 hours on a full 9.5-gallon gasoline tank, which means it can last through a full night or day of outages, though propane runtime is shorter at around 7 hours.
The generator includes useful features like remote electric start and is ready for an automatic transfer switch, making it easier to use during emergencies. It’s also designed with safety in mind, including overload protection and a CO sensor. At 230 pounds and with a sturdy steel frame, it’s not very portable, so it’s best suited as a semi-permanent backup rather than something you’d move around frequently. Noise levels are typical for generators in this power range—not silent but manageable if placed a bit away from living areas.
Maintenance should be straightforward given the heavy-duty engine and included manuals, but it will require regular oil changes and fuel checks like any gas-powered generator. This Westinghouse model is well-suited for homeowners needing a powerful, flexible, and dependable backup power source, though its size and weight may limit portability if that’s a priority.
The DuroMax XP13000HXT stands out with a high power output of 13,000 watts, making it an excellent choice for keeping your entire home powered during outages. Its Tri-Fuel capability allows you to use gasoline, propane, or natural gas, offering flexibility based on availability. The 500cc engine ensures robust performance, and with the added CO Alert feature, it prioritizes safety by alerting you to harmful fumes.
The generator runs up to 8 hours, which is substantial for most needs. However, fuel consumption might vary depending on the type of fuel used, and it’s important to factor this in for longer outages. Noise levels are at 74 dB, which is relatively loud but typical for generators of this size. The inclusion of an Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS) compatible outlet simplifies integration with your home’s electrical system, although an ATS is not included.
Portability is enhanced with a wheel and handle kit, but at 240 pounds, it is still quite heavy and may require assistance to move. Maintenance is straightforward with provided tools and clear instructions, but regular upkeep is essential to ensure longevity. Push button and remote start features add convenience, but the generator’s size (30”L x 30”W x 26”H) might require dedicated storage space. This generator is best suited for homeowners needing substantial power and flexibility in fuel options and can also benefit small commercial setups.
The Generac 7225 14kW Air Cooled Guardian Series Home Standby Generator is a solid choice for those looking for reliable, whole-house power backup. With its 14,000 watt power output and Generac's True Power Technology, this generator ensures clean, stable power with less than 5% total harmonic distortion, which is ideal for safely running sensitive electronics. The 200-amp automatic transfer switch provides comprehensive protection by seamlessly switching power during outages, and the inclusion of Wi-Fi connectivity allows for remote monitoring and maintenance alerts, adding an extra layer of convenience and peace of mind. This feature is particularly useful for those who travel frequently or own multiple properties.
Additionally, the generator is designed with a durable aluminum enclosure and comes with a 5-year limited warranty, highlighting its long-term reliability and protection against the elements. It's also engineered and assembled in the USA, emphasizing quality craftsmanship.
However, there are some considerations to keep in mind. The generator is quite heavy at 385 pounds, which may limit portability and complicate installation, necessitating professional installation by a certified electrician. It's also worth noting that while the generator is designed to be relatively quiet, some noise is inevitable with any generator. The Generac 7225 is best suited for homeowners seeking a dependable and advanced generator with comprehensive monitoring features and robust power output, though it requires proper installation and has limitations in portability.