When a hurricane rolls in, there are 278 things you can worry about, but a reliable power source shouldn’t be one of them. Hurricane season can be a stressful time for those living in affected areas.
One of the most critical preparations is ensuring that you have a reliable source of power in case of an outage. That’s where generators come in. Generators are a must-have during hurricane season, providing you with back-up power for essential appliances such as refrigerators, lights, and fans.
That is why I wrote this buyer’s guide and narrowed it down to the 5 best generators for hurricanes that will help you choose a generator that fits your specific needs.
When it comes to choosing the best generator for hurricanes, there are a few things to consider. First, you’ll need to determine the size of the generator you need.
This will depend on the number of appliances you need to power and how long you’ll need the generator to run. You’ll also want to consider the fuel type – gasoline, propane, diesel, or a solar generator – and how much fuel or energy the generator will consume.
Best Generators For Hurricanes
We’ve spent countless hours researching and testing various generators to identify the best ones for hurricanes. These generators have been chosen based on their reliability, ease of use, overall performance, and to provide ample power to keep you and your family comfortable during a storm.
Here are our top picks for the best generators for hurricanes:
- ActiveCampaign — best of the best
- SendFox — best bang for the buck
- ConvertKit — best free alternative
- Constant Contact — best for beginners
- Rejoiner — best done-for-you email marketing
- MailChimp — best for low volume sending
- HubSpot — best enterprise solution
DuroMax XP13000EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator
If you’re looking for a reliable generator that can power your home during a hurricane or other emergency, the DuroMax XP13000EH is an excellent choice.
Pros
- Dual fuel technology allows you to use either propane or gasoline, giving you greater flexibility in choosing your fuel source.
- This generator has plenty of power, with 13,000 starting watts and 10,500 running watts, making it capable of handling heavy loads from lights, refrigerators, and home air conditioners to high-amperage power tools.
- The power panel includes a wide selection of outlets for maximum compatibility in your applications, including a 120/240V 50A heavy-duty outlet, a 120/240V 30A twist-lock outlet, a 120V 30A twist-lock outlet, and two 120V 20A household outlets.
Cons
- The generator is quite heavy, weighing in at 234 pounds, so it may be difficult to move around.
- Some users have reported that the generator is quite loud, with a volume of 74 dB.
- The generator can be quite expensive, so it may not be the best choice for those on a tight budget.
We recently had the opportunity to test out the DuroMax XP13000EH, and we were impressed with its performance. The dual fuel technology is a great feature, as it allows you to use either propane or gasoline, depending on your needs. We found that the generator was able to power all of our essential appliances and electronics during a power outage, including our refrigerator, lights, and TV.
The power panel is well-designed and easy to use, with a push-button start and a wide selection of outlets to choose from. We appreciated the 120/240V 50A heavy-duty outlet, which was able to power our home air conditioner with ease.
One thing to keep in mind is that the generator is quite heavy, so it may be difficult to move around. However, the included wheels and handle do make it easier to transport. Additionally, some users have reported that the generator is quite loud, so you may want to keep it away from your home if noise is a concern.
Overall, we would highly recommend the DuroMax XP13000EH to anyone in need of a powerful and reliable generator for hurricanes or other emergencies.
Nexstorm Portable Power Station
If you’re looking for a portable power station that can handle your emergency power needs, the Nexstorm Portable Power Station is a great option.
Pros
- The Nexstorm Portable Power Station is lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry around and store.
- With multiple charging outputs, including AC outlets, DC ports, and USB ports, it can power a wide range of devices.
- The built-in emergency light panel and flashlight are useful for power outages and outdoor activities.
Cons
- The capacity of the Nexstorm Portable Power Station is limited to 88.8Wh, so it may not be suitable for long-term power needs.
- The solar panel for recharging the power station is not included and needs to be purchased separately.
- The runtime of the power station is limited to 5 hours, which may not be enough for extended use.
We recently tested the Nexstorm Portable Power Station and found it to be a reliable and convenient power source. The compact design makes it easy to take with you on the go, whether you’re camping or dealing with a power outage at home.
The multiple charging outputs are a great feature, as they allow you to power a variety of devices, including laptops, phones, and cameras. The built-in emergency light panel and flashlight are also useful, providing additional lighting during power outages or outdoor activities.
One downside to the Nexstorm Portable Power Station is its limited capacity of 88.8Wh, which may not be enough for extended use. Additionally, the solar panel for recharging the power station is not included, which may be an additional cost to consider.
Overall, we would recommend the Nexstorm Portable Power Station for its convenience and reliability as a portable power source.
Westinghouse WGen9500DF Dual Fuel Portable Generator
If you’re looking for a reliable generator that can handle power outages during hurricanes, the Westinghouse WGen9500DF Dual Fuel Portable Generator is a great choice.
Pros
- The generator produces up to 12,500 peak watts and 9,500 running watts, making it powerful enough to handle major appliances and entertainment centers.
- With a dual fuel system, it can operate on gasoline or propane, giving you flexibility during emergencies.
- The generator comes with a remote start key fob, electric and recoil start, and up to 12 hours of run time on a 6.6 gallon fuel tank with fuel gauge.
Cons
- At 211 pounds, the generator is heavy and may be difficult to move around for some users.
- Some customers have reported issues with the battery not holding a charge after multiple uses.
- The generator is loud, producing a sound level of 74 dB, which may be a concern for some users.
We recently purchased the Westinghouse WGen9500DF Dual Fuel Portable Generator for our home and have been impressed with its performance. The generator is easy to start, and the remote start key fob makes it convenient to use from a distance. The control panel is intuitive and includes a Transfer Switch Ready L14-30R and larger 14-50R to power major appliances and entertainment centers with a single cord hookup.
One of the standout features of this generator is the VFT Data Center, which displays real-time updates with the voltage output, frequency, and lifetime hours. This makes it easy to keep track of maintenance and ensure that the generator is running smoothly.
While the generator is heavy, the included set of heavy-duty never-flat wheels, handle, and lift bracket make it portable and easy to move around. However, we do recommend having a second person help with moving the generator due to its weight.
Overall, we highly recommend the Westinghouse WGen9500DF Dual Fuel Portable Generator for anyone looking for a reliable generator for hurricanes and power outages. It’s powerful, flexible, and easy to use, making it a great investment for any household.
GENMAX Portable Inverter Generator
If you’re looking for a lightweight and efficient generator for your camping trips or backup home use, the GENMAX Portable Inverter Generator might be a good option for you.
Pros
- The generator is powered by a 57cc 4-stroke OHV gas engine with inverter technology that produces 1200 Starting Watts/ 1000 Running Watts clean power, making it safe for sensitive electronics such as TV, lights, fans, and small power tools.
- At only 25.3 pounds, it’s one of the lightest 1000w inverters in the industry, and the sturdy handle makes it easy to carry for long distances.
- The generator is extremely quiet, with a noise output as low as 58 dBA with 25% loading at 23 feet, and up to 6.5 hours of run time with 50% loading on a 0.66-gallon gas tank. It also features “Economy Mode” for maximum fuel efficiency.
Cons
- The generator only has one 120V/20A outlet and one 5V/1A outlet, which might not be enough for some users.
- The generator might not be powerful enough to run larger appliances or tools.
- The generator’s CO Detect shutdown sensor might not always work correctly.
We recently tested the GENMAX Portable Inverter Generator on a camping trip, and we were impressed with its performance. The generator was easy to start and operate, and it ran quietly and efficiently. We were able to power our small appliances and devices without any issues, and the generator’s “Economy Mode” helped us conserve fuel.
However, we did notice that the generator only had one 120V/20A outlet and one 5V/1A outlet, which might not be enough for some users. We also found that the generator might not be powerful enough to run larger appliances or tools, so it’s best used for smaller devices.
Overall, we think the GENMAX Portable Inverter Generator is a great option for those looking for a lightweight and efficient generator for camping trips or backup home use. Just be aware of its limitations and make sure it fits your needs before purchasing.
ENOFLO Portable Power Station
If you are looking for a portable power station that can power up to six devices simultaneously, the ENOFLO Portable Power Station is a great option.
Pros
- The 120Wh large capacity battery can charge multiple devices, making it perfect for outdoor activities, camping, and power outages.
- This generator has three rechargeable modes, including solar power, AC outlet, and car charger, making it easy to recharge anywhere.
- The safe charging protection system ensures that your devices are protected from overcharging, over-discharging, and short circuits.
Cons
- The generator is not powerful enough to run larger appliances like refrigerators or air conditioners.
- It takes a long time to charge the battery using solar power, so it may not be the best option if you need to charge the battery quickly.
- The LED light is not very bright, making it difficult to use as a primary light source.
We recently tested this generator and were impressed with its performance. The battery lasted for several hours, and we were able to charge multiple devices at the same time. The generator is lightweight and easy to carry, making it perfect for outdoor activities.
The three rechargeable modes make it easy to recharge the battery, and we were able to charge it using a solar panel during a camping trip. The safe charging protection system is a nice feature, and we felt confident that our devices were protected from damage.
Overall, the ENOFLO Portable Power Station is a great option if you need a portable generator for outdoor activities or power outages. It is not powerful enough to run larger appliances, but it is perfect for charging phones, laptops, and other small devices.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best generator for hurricanes, there are a few key features to keep in mind. Here are some things to consider when making your purchase:
Power Output
One of the most important things to consider when choosing a generator is the amount of power output it provides. You’ll want to make sure that the generator you choose is capable of providing enough power to meet your needs during a hurricane. Look for generators with a high wattage output to ensure that you can power all of the necessary appliances and devices.
Fuel Type
Generators can run on a variety of different fuel types, including gasoline, propane, and diesel. Each fuel type has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to choose the one that best fits your needs. Gasoline is the most common fuel type for generators, but propane and diesel can be more efficient and cost-effective in the long run.
Portability
During a hurricane, you may need to move your generator from one location to another. That’s why it’s important to choose a generator that is portable and easy to move. Look for generators with wheels, handles, and a compact design that can be easily transported.
Safety Features
Generators can be dangerous if not used properly, so it’s important to choose one with safety features that will protect you and your family. Look for generators with features like automatic shut-off, overload protection, and low-oil shutoff to ensure that you can use your generator safely.
Noise Level
Generators can be loud, so it’s important to choose one that won’t disturb your neighbors or family members. Look for generators with a low noise level to ensure that you can use it without causing a disturbance.
Overall, choosing the best generator for hurricanes requires careful consideration of your needs and the features of each generator. By keeping these key features in mind, you can choose a generator that will provide reliable power during a hurricane.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size generator do I need for a hurricane?
The size of the generator you need for a hurricane depends on your power needs. A good rule of thumb is to choose a generator with a wattage that is at least equal to the total wattage of the appliances you want to power. It’s important to remember that some appliances, like refrigerators and air conditioners, require more power to start up than to run continuously.
What is the best type of generator for a hurricane?
The best type of generator for a hurricane is a portable generator. Portable generators are easy to move and can be used to power a variety of appliances. However, standby generators are also a good option if you want a more permanent solution.
Can you run a portable generator during a hurricane?
Yes, you can run a portable generator during a hurricane. However, it’s important to use it safely and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Make sure the generator is placed outside and away from any windows or doors to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
What are the benefits of a standby generator during a hurricane?
A standby generator is a more permanent solution than a portable generator. It can be connected directly to your home’s electrical system and will turn on automatically during a power outage. This means you don’t have to worry about refueling or moving the generator during a hurricane.
How do I prepare my generator for a hurricane?
Before a hurricane, it’s important to make sure your generator is in good working order. This includes checking the oil and fuel levels, testing the battery, and making sure the generator is clean and free of debris. You should also have extra fuel on hand and make sure you know how to operate the generator safely.
What safety precautions should I take when using a generator during a hurricane?
When using a generator during a hurricane, it’s important to follow these safety precautions:
- Keep the generator outside and away from any windows or doors.
- Use heavy-duty extension cords to connect appliances to the generator.
- Turn off the generator and let it cool down before refueling.
- Never operate the generator in wet conditions.
- Install carbon monoxide detectors in your home to prevent poisoning.
