Top 8 Uses for Portable Generators

When shopping for a generator, you will be confronted with a choice between a standby generator, portable generator, and solar and wind generator. Among the differentmaxb types of generators, portable generators are the most versatile. They can be used in several situations. Today we discuss the top 8 uses of a portable generator. We cover every possible situation in which a portable generator can be used. While significant research has been done on generators uses, we also include suggestions on which generators are best for each particular use/purpose. Using the in-depth reviews below, you can make an educated decision on which unit to purchase.

#1 Routine Power Outages

Americans enjoy one of the best electricity facilities in the world. However, you may face power outages periodically due to non-emergency issues such as demand surge and infrastructural issues at the grid station or your home. When circuits breakdown and there are fluctuations in wattage, power outages can occur. In such a situation, you need a generator that can keep your essentials running. Most people focus on ensuring that their essential appliances remain running, such as the refrigerator, air conditioner, television, lights, heating system, and household appliances. The Westinghouse WGen12000 Ultra Duty Portable Generator is a great option for power outages.

Why is the Westinghouse WGen12000 Ultra Duty Portable Generator the Best for Routine Power Outages?

The Westinghouse WGen12000 Ultra Duty Portable generator has enough power to run all your important appliances. It is highly portable and can be turned on with a remote fob. Using the generator is as simple as adding gas, turning it on and putting it to use. As a transfer switch-ready machine, you can use it in all 50 states with peace of mind.

Some people suggest buying a dual fuel generator for power outages. While we agree that it is a versatile option, we don’t believe it is a viable choice if you are only dealing with routine power outages. Dual fuel generators can cost quite a bit more. A dual fuel machine is more suitable for emergency-related power outages. Let’s check out a detailed review of the generator below.

Fuel Type and Power Output: Powered by gas, it offers 15000 peak and 12000 starting watts. A high starting power ensures that you can start all your motorized appliances without any issues. Secondly, 12000 running watts will free you from the tension of turning off any of your important appliances/machines to make room for others.

Tank Capacity and Runtime: With a tank capacity of 10.5 gallons and a runtime of 11 hours, you don’t need to worry about refueling your generator during a routine power outage. Routine power outages usually last for 20 minutes to 8 hours, which shouldn’t require more than one gas tank of fuel.

Engine Specifications: A 713cc OHV V-twin Westinghouse engine ensures that you get a hassle-free start and reliable power every time you start the generator.

Dimensions, Weight, and Portability: The unit stands at 352 pounds and measures 31 x 31 x 35 inches. It comes with big heavy-duty wheels and handles. It is a heavy unit, which means that you may face some issues while dragging it around.

Outlets: It is a transfer switch-ready machine. When you connect your generator to your home through a transfer switch, the outlets don’t matter. However, it still offers plenty of outlets to accommodate other appliances. You get two 120V 20A AC, one 120V 30A AC, one 120/240V AC 30A, one 120V/240V AC 50A protected outlets and two USB outlets.

Other Features: It is loaded with a push-button start, circuit breakers, an odometer, and a fuel on/off switch. The generator also offers an automatic choke and oil for first-time use. All it needs is some assembling before you can start using it. It comes with a quick start guide and user manual.

#2 Worksites

While working at a worksite, power backup is of paramount consideration. If you don’t have a portable generator with you, you won’t be able to land off-the-grid projects. You may need to run many tools from your generators such as grinders, pumps, blades, cutters, mixers, and the list goes on. Every contractor has different needs, but one thing remains the same, they all need power. So, if you are a contractor and looking to ensure that you don’t have to face any downtimes or lose work contracts, a DuroMax XP12000EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator is best for you.

Why Is The DuroMax XP12000EH 12000-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator Best For Worksites?

Google’s Rating 4.1

One of this generator’s main features is that it comes with a dual fuel option, reducing dependability on one type of fuel while working. Dual fuel machines allow you to work for a longer time without facing downtime. It also offers ample power to accommodate your power needs, giving you the freedom to run big tools. It has MX2 technology, which gives a power boost to adjust big machines and can be run on 120/240 volts. It is a lightweight machine, and you will be able to move it around quickly at worksites. A detailed review will explain everything about this generator below.        

Fuel Type and Power Output: As a dual fuel machine, it provides 12000 surge watts and 9500 running watts on gasoline. On propane, the machine delivers starting wattage of 11400 and 9025 running wattage. The power output is enough for starting and running heave tools such as grinders, welders, cutters, and mixers.

Tank Capacity and Runtime: It comes with an 8.3-gallon fuel tank and a runtime of 8 hours on 50% load. On a 40 pounds propane tank, the generator gives 7.2 hours runtime. Its runtime is enough to last for a full work shift.  

Engine Specifications: The machine is built around a 457cc 4-stroke 4-cycle air-cooled spark-ignition DuroMax engine. It won’t let you down in your time of need. An air-cooled engine ensures that the machine won’t get the heat too much, and you can continue working without any breaks. 

Dimensions, Weight, and Portability: It is lightweight (224 pounds) and measures 30 x 29 x 26 inches. To solve all the portability issues, you get two big, never-flat wheels with an ergonomic drag handle. The design ensures that you can easily move the unit at a worksite.

Outlets: To meet all your power needs on site, this generator offers a 120/240V 50A outlet for heavy-duty machines, one 120/240V 30A twist-lock outlet, a 120V 30A twist-lock outlet, and two 120V 20A household outlets. 50A outlets allow you to run heavy tools without any fluctuations.

Other Features: You get a product manual, a tool kit, wheel kit, spark plug wrench, oil and oil funnel, and DC cables in the box. The generator features a key start, low oil alert, idle control, voltmeter, and an MX2 Switch.

#3 RVs

According to Boston Globe, almost 9 million American use RVs for traveling alone or with family and friends. When you are traveling in an RV, you need a generator to power your temporary home. Whether you are camping, or planning a long journey in your RV, electricity is necessary. You cannot use an RV engine to run appliances because of a high operational cost and frequent engine usage. A generator works just like shore power on your RV and plugs into your RV’s AC system. Typically, a generator can’t provide as much juice as shore power, but it is enough to keep all your essential appliances going. It also depends on the generator’s size and the number/size of appliances in your RV. However, some generators are an optimal answer to all your power needs in an RV. One such machine is the Westinghouse WGen9500DF Dual Fuel Portable Generator.

Why Is The Westinghouse WGen9500DF 9500-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator Best For RVs?

This machine is best for medium to large-sized RVs. It comes with an impressive power output to keep all the appliances running in your RV. You can power an AC unit/heater, microwave oven, stove, lights, fans, chargers, TV, and other appliances with the Westinghouse WGen9500DF. It is an RV-ready generator and can be run on gasoline and propane. The unit can be started remotely, which means you don’t even need to leave your RV’s comfort to activate it. All-in-all, it is an excellent RV-ready machine. Below we delve into the machine specs further.

Fuel Type and Power Output: It is a dual fuel machine with 12500 starting and 9500 running watts on gasoline. On propane, it produces 8500 running and 11200 starting watts. It provides complete peace of mind that you won’t ever have to face fluctuation problems in your RV power supply.  

Tank Capacity and Runtime: It has a 6.6-gallon gas tank and can run up to 12 hours on 50% load. Propane runtime depends on load applied and size of cylinder. The runtime ensures that you get to spend a peaceful night while traveling. You can easily run your RV’s AC/heater for 6-8 hours with one full gas tank.  

Engine Specifications: The generator comes with a 457cc OHV Westinghouse engine. The engine is made of cast iron and can withstand all weather conditions and rough usage.

Dimensions, Weight, and Portability: With a 220-pound weight and dimensions of 27.2 x 26.1 x 26.5 inches, this machine will not be much of a burden to your RV. If you are buying a replacement, make sure your RV has enough space to accommodate this unit.

Outlets: This generator is RV-ready, meaning it can be connected to your RV’s AC system without any alterations. It offers two 120V 20A 5-20R GFCI AC outlets, one 120/240V AC 50A, one 120/240V 30A outlet, and an ST switch outlet with rubber protection to accommodate direct connection.   

Other Features: It comes with a remote start, fuel gauges, a data center, battery charger, oil and oil funnel. It is loaded with safety features like low oil shutdown, surge voltage protection, and overloading protection. You also get a tool kit within the box. A detailed quick start guide and a user manual are also available. 

#4 Camping

In 2014, there were 75 million active camper households in the US, and this number is expected to go up in the coming years. Even though many fully embrace the spirit of camping, staying in the forests and mountain basecamps without any modern-day facilities, it must be said that electricity is still a necessity. Having a generator while camping means you can charge your mobile phone and laptop, power up a few lights, and even have power for cooking. You may even need power to run medical equipment like CPAP machines and other sensitive appliances. A portable generator such as the PowerSmart PS5025 2200 Inverter Generator is the best possible option.

Why Is The PowerSmart PS5025 2200-Watt Gasoline Portable Inverter Generator Best For Camping?

Google’s Rating 5

As far as camping generators go, nothing beats a PowerSmart PS5025 2200-watt inverter. It is a quiet machine and delivers stable and clean electricity. It has the capacity to power all your camping appliances, including laptops, mini-coolers, drones (please check local codes before flying one at a campsite), and other outdoor accessories. A detailed look at the specifications will let you know that why this unit is a top choice.

Fuel Type and Power Output: It is a gas-powered machine and produces 2200 starting watts and 1900 running watts. The power bracket is enough to meet all your camping needs. You will be able to charge various appliances concurrently.

Tank Capacity and Runtime: With a 1-gallon tank, the machine can work up to 7 hours on half load. The backup time to tank size ratio is impressive. The unit beats other competitors in this domain.

Engine Specifications: It comes with a 4-stroke 79cc OHV engine. The engine ensures that you get reliable power during outdoor trips. A lightweight engine helps keep the weight of the machine low and aids in portability.  

Dimensions, Weight, and Portability: The measurements are 21 x 20 x 14 inches and weigh only 40 pounds. An ergonomic carry handle ensures that you can lift this generator and move it with relative ease.

Outlets: You get a 12V DC outlet, two 5V USB outlets, and two 120V AC 15A outlets. You can run all the major appliances like laptops, phones, mini-coolers, and medical equipment. 

Other Features: The unit has three indicator lights for low oil, overload, and output. The unit features eco mode and a parallel connection. It has a choke lever and an on/off switch as well.

#5 Storms and Disasters

When Mother Nature strikes, a power outage often results. A storm or other climatic disasters like floods, tornadoes, hurricanes, and ice storms sometimes mean no electricity for days and maybe weeks. If you don’t have alternate power, food in your refrigerator will get spoiled; you won’t be able to pump water from the well (for well water users) or keep in touch with your nearest and dearests. If a natural disaster occurs in winter, it will be very difficult to manage without heaters. A versatile generator is required for possible catastrophic situations, and there is nothing better than the DuroMax XP13000EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator.

Why Is The DuroMax XP13000EH 13000-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator Best For Storms?

Google’s Rating 4.6

The DuroMax XP13000EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator is an ideal machine for storms and other emergencies because it will ensure that all the major appliances such as refrigerators, AC units/heat pumps, well pumps, sump pumps, microwave ovens, and stoves stay working. You can also run your TV, charge your phones and laptops, security cameras, lights, and other important appliances. A dual fuel option will allow you to utilize stored propane when you can’t go out to fetch gas. Consider the unit’s features below.

Fuel Type and Power Output: It is a dual fuel machine and offers 13000 starting and 10500 running watts (gasoline) and 12350 starting watts, and 9975 running watts (propane). The machine provides ample power on each fuel source to allow you to run your critical appliances. The output is low on propane, but propane has a long shelf-life, making it a viable fuel type.

Tank Capacity and Runtime: It can run up to 9 hours on an 8.3-gallon tank. On a 40-pound propane tank, it delivers a runtime of 6.5 hours. The fuel efficiency is a bit low, but you can enhance the propane runtime by connecting a big cylinder.   

Engine Specifications: The generator is built around a 500cc 4-cycle air-cooled spark-ignition engine. The engine makes sure that you get reliable power and a quick start regardless of the weather. The air cool mechanism ensures that you don’t have to worry about the unit getting heated up in the summers. 

Dimensions, Weight, and Portability: The unit weighs 234 pounds and measures 30 x 29 x 26 inches. It comes with a durable wheel and handle-kit, which helps move the unit around at the time of need. The weight is on the lower side in this power range. It helps to drag the unit.  

Outlets: It has two 120V 20A GFCI, one 120V 30A twist lock, one 120/240V 30A twist lock, and one 120/240V 50A heavy duty outlet. It is a transfer switch-ready machine. For people who are not connecting the unit to their homes, it offers enough outlets to manage a variety of appliances and tools.

Other Features: You get a push start option, a digital meter, low oil, overload, and surge voltage protection, along with idle control. It comes with a tool kit, spark plug wrench, and an oil funnel. A detailed guide for this generator can be seen here.

#6 Fairs and Festivals

When you plan to participate in a fair or a festival from a business point of view, you need alternate power to run your important machines. You may be planning to set up a food point at a fair and make some extra bucks or just installing a few games for the little ones. There are hundreds of different stalls at fairs, and you have plenty of options to go with. All need electricity to work, and nothing serves the purpose better than a DuroStar DS12000EH Dual Fuel generator.

Why is the DuroStar DS12000EH Dual Fuel Generator Best for Fairs and Festivals?

DuroStar is best for fairs and festivals because it delivers enough power to run all your appliances. It is a dual fuel machine with a trolley-style design, making it perfect to be set up at your desired location. It operates at a medium sound and will not be a nuisance for you and your neighbors. All the features and options offered by this machine make it a user-friendly generator for fairs and festivals. A detailed review will tell you that why this machine is best for fairs and festivals below.

Fuel Type and Power Output: It is a dual fuel machine. You get 12000 starting watts and 9500 running watts on gasoline; propane delivers 11400 and 9025 running watts. The power output is in line with requirements at fairs. If you are setting up a food point, you have enough power to run grills, chillers, fryers, and other cooking equipment. 

Tank Capacity and Runtime: It has an 8.3-gallon fuel tank and runs up to 9 hours on 50% load. A 40 pounds propane tank gives 7.2 hours runtime at the same load. The runtime is impressive. Even if you run your generator at full load, you still get 4-5 hours at one full tank. Propane also gives a reasonable runtime.  

Engine Specifications: It is built around a 457cc OHV DuroStar engine. It ensures that all your big and small appliances get stable power. The engine frame and components are made of firm, high-quality, durable stainless steel.  

Dimensions, Weight, and Portability: The unit measures 30 x 30 x 26 inches and weighs 228 pounds. The trolley style design ensures that you face no trouble moving with it. You can easily connect the generator with the back of your truck and move with it without any worries. The wheels are of high-quality.

Outlets: You get two 120V 20A GFCI outlets, one 120V 30A twist-lock outlet, one 120/240V 30A twist lock, and one 120/240V 50A heavy duty outlet. All these outlets ensure that you have to face no issues while running heavy-duty machines at fairs.  

Other Features: It has MX2 technology, safety features like low oil shutdown, surge voltage protection, and overload protection. You get an analog voltmeter to measure the output. An oil funnel, tool kit, spark plug wrench, wheel and handle kit, charging cables, and a user manual is also included in the box.

#7 Tailgating

Apart from drinks, food, and other necessary items, a generator is needed to enjoy a proper tailgating experience. Tailgating is a popular means of entertainment in America. Tailgating is seen as a critical (somewhat compulsory) part of sports experience in the US. Tailgate parties are usually held as pre-game rituals for sports events such as soccer, basketball, hockey, and baseball. Recent trends have also included non-sporting events like weddings, barbecues, and concerts as a reason to hold tailgate gatherings. When you are tailgating, you need a reliable power source to run your appliances like a food grill, mini-cooler, phone chargers, sound systems, and other appliances. For such events, you need a generator that is compact, lightweight, silent, and easy to manage. For this purpose, a Generac Inverter Generator is an excellent option.

Why Is The Generac 7127 iQ3500 3500-Watt Gasoline Portable Inverter Generator Best For Tailgating?

Google’s Rating 4.5

Noise control is of importance when using a generator for tailgating. For tailgating, a generator must be lightweight and compact to fit on the back of your vehicle.  The generator must give your appliances stable electricity and offer a long runtime on a single gas tank. A detailed review of the iQ3500 is below.

Fuel Type and Power Output: It is a gas-powered inverter and delivers 3500 starting and 3000 running watts. The power output is enough to run your electric grill, cooler, radio, TV, or sound system. You can charge your phone/laptop with this machine as well.

Tank Capacity and Runtime: The generator has a 2.6-gallon fuel tank. On a 25% load, it can run up to 14 hours. It means that if you are running only a food grill on this machine, you can use it for non-stop 14 hours. However, we don’t recommend using generators for more than 7-8 hours in one go.

Engine Specifications: The unit uses a 212cc OHV Generac engine. The engine is built with heavy-duty stainless steel, and you won’t face any issues with it. Generac makes outstanding and powerful engines as it is known for making high-quality standby generators. 

Dimensions, Weight, and Portability: The machine measures 23.7 x 18 x 21.7 and weighs 109 pounds. The unit doesn’t have wheels. You will have to lift it every time you set out to tailgating. It won’t matter because you just have to pick it once and place the generator nearby for tailgating. You may need help while moving it.  

Outlets: The machine ensures that you can run a majority of appliances. You get one 120V 20A outlet, one 120V 30A twist-lock outlet, and two USB outlets. You may need to use a power extension with it to adjust additional appliances.

Other Features: The generator comes with low oil, overload, and output indicator lights. It has recoil and electric starting mechanism. The machine is loaded with a digital display, on/off/choke dial, and comes with a battery. A detailed spec sheet, owner’s manual and a brochure of the product are available on the official Generac website.

#8 Boating

Boating is a unique experience. According to statista.com there were about 11.88 million registered recreational boats in the US. On top of it, there are almost 4 million unregistered boats in the country. On average, 1 in 10 US households owns a boat. Marine generators are useful in taking over the energy needs of a boat so that you can enjoy your time in the water. The common appliances in a boat are beverage centers, ice makers, refrigerators, AC/heating units, stoves, ovens, grills, laptops, and other appliances that making boating convenient and comfortable. Not all of these appliances can be run on engine power. Secondly, you also have to accommodate the stay time. For these purposes, you need a generator, and Honda provides the best fit for your needs. The Honda EU2200iTAG is an excellent inverter for small to medium-sized boats.

Why Is The Honda EU2200i 2200-Watt Gasoline Portable Inverter Generator Best For Boats?

Google’s Rating 4.7

When you are looking for a boat generator, quiet and lightweight generators should be on the top of your list. Honda EU2200i is quiet and will not add much weight to your boat. Its compact design will make it easy to store in your boat, and a high runtime will allow you to reduce the number of gas tanks before setting sail. It has enough juice to power your major appliances. You may need to do some load management while running heavy appliances, but it will not fail you. Its special features will ensure that your boat’s environment stays healthy and carbon monoxide levels never exceed the safe limit. Let’s check out all the specs to find out why this is the best machine for boats.

Fuel Type and Power Output: It is a gas-powered generator and produces 2200 starting watts and 1800 running watts. The power output is enough to run 2-3 appliances at one time. Please keep in mind that you will need to manage loads with this generator. You may have to switch off one appliance to make room for another.   

Tank Capacity and Runtime: The gas tank size is 0.95 gallons, and the generator can run up to 8 hours at 25% load. The runtime to gas ratio is excellent. The gas tank has been kept small to keep the unit lightweight.

Engine Specifications: The machine uses a 121cc GXR120 Honda engine. Honda engines are the best in the market. We all know the class and durability of Honda vehicles. The same quality and technology are used in portable generator engines. 

Dimensions, Weight, and Portability: It stands at 46.5 pounds and measures 20 x 11.4 x 16.7 inches. The generator comes with an ergonomic carry handle to allow easy lifting and movement. It is a small unit and can be easily adjusted in the allocated space in your boat. However, you must check the measurements before buying this unit.

Outlets: You get two 120V 15A AC outlets and a DC battery charging port. Please keep in mind that this machine doesn’t offer a USB outlet. We have some reservations in this department. The number of outlets is not inline compared to generators from other brands.  

Other Features: The machine comes with Bluetooth connectivity. It also offers co-minder technology. This technology automatically turns off the generator when it senses that the carbon monoxide levels go beyond the danger limit. The generator also features paralleling capabilities and an eco-mode. It is a recoil starting model. All the model outlets are on one side, and the data center is on the other. A detailed guide about this unit is also available.

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Final Thoughts

A portable generator comes to your rescue when grid power fails you. Use the guide and reviews above to choose the right generator for you according to your needs.