Of the Many Leading Brands, which is the Best Propane Generator for Home Use

Selecting the best propane generator for home is a subjective issue; the brand you like might not be the favorite of many others. And vice versa. Instead, let’s focus on how we can choose a propane generator that ticks all the right boxes and is easy to maintain and use.

It is true that while purchasing the best home generators, most people only look for the power output.

But this is not a very scientific way to select the best propane generators for home use. There are several other factors which must also be considered. Some of them are mentioned here.

  • Dual fuel use capability: To be known as a top-quality propane generator, the device must be capable of running either on propane or on gasoline. In case there is a widespread electricity outage or you have been caught in the middle of a dangerous snowstorm, this capability comes in very handy.

It essentially means that the generator can operate either on unleaded gasoline or the commonly-used 20-liter propane tanks. During inclement weather, going out to refill a tank can be risky.
On the other hand, locating gasoline is comparatively easier. Hence, when you are looking for the best portable propane generator for home use, ensure that this feature is present.

It essentially means that the generator can operate either on unleaded gasoline or the commonly-used 20-liter propane tanks. During inclement weather, going out to refill a tank can be risky.

On the other hand, locating gasoline is comparatively easier. Hence, when you are looking for the best portable propane generator for home use, ensure that this feature is present.

  • Safety features: In most domestic propane generators, the exhaust system has to be maintained properly to avoid the production of carbon dioxide. Of course, propane burns cleanly and leaves no polluting gasses, unlike conventional ones.

However, remember that you are purchasing a unit for home use, and you cannot take any chances.

Select a model which has in-built warning features for any damage to the exhaust system. The best portable propane generator for home use will also have a separate sensor-cum-alarm that comes alive if carbon monoxide is detected.

Monoxide poisonings are unfortunacalltoy quite common; you must ensure the requisite safety features are on board.

  • The portability factor: High-end propane generators for your home should be lightweight and easily portable. Remember that since there is always a possibility that the generator is running on conventional gasoline, it must be moved around to ensure the exhaust fumes do not enter your living spaces.

To this end, most of the better-quality propane generators to be used at home come with large wheels with tread blocks that assist you in shoving them to a side whenever required. To an extent, the weight of such a generator also depends on the wattage.

An ordinary 2,000-watt propane generator weighs as little as 35 pounds. Bigger models can be very heavy- you will have to strike a balance between the desired power output and the weight of the unit.

  • A word on noise: It is common knowledge that propane generators are rather noisy. Smaller units can create quite a racket; around 70 decibels. That is the equivalent of a car engine revving!

Before you have chosen what you believe is the best propane generator for your home, take a look at the sound levels and ensure that the unit is an ultra-quiet one. The latter models are much less loud and produce an average running noise in the vicinity of 50-55 decibels.

Besides, owning a loud generator is not a good idea if you have toddlers around. It affects their health negatively.

  • Wattage requirements: According to several studies commissioned by the Federal government, the average domestic power consumption in big cities across the United States is around 5,000 watts. Therefore, one element you cannot overlook when purchasing a propane generator for your home is the rated wattage of the device.

Ideally, it should be in the 2,000-to-10,000-watt range. In fact, most of the bestselling residential generators are rated between these two figures.

Your home is unique and so are its electricity consumption figures. If you have many voltage-heavy devices like refrigerators, ACs, and washing machines, you must look at generators that produce a lot of energy- upwards of 6,000 watts.

All said, if you do not own too many appliances that need 24×7 operations, your choice of the best propane generator for your home will be different as your requirements will vary.

It is recommended that you consult a local electrician who has experience in these issues and seek his or her opinion on the wattage issue. Also, some generators require extensive rewiring of your home’s existing circuitry.

The electrician will also be of help here.