Top 6 Best Portable Generator of 2020 Reviews

The DuroStar DS4000S is a medium duty portable generator that is great as a backup electricity source for home, or for camping, RVing and other outdoors activities.

Providing continuous 3300 watts, and a peak / surge 4000 watts, the DuroStar DS4000S is a relatively quiet portable generator, that’s also easy to operate.

It has two 120V (20A) outlets and one 120V (30A) twist-lock outlet.

This little guy also has a strong metal frame, and comes with an option for adding a wheel kit.

Our Rating: (4.4 / 5)

Full Technical Details

• Dimensions:  17.5x 23x 18 inches
• Weight: 92 lb.
• Engine: DuroMax 7.0 HP, air cooled OHV engine
• Powered by: Gas
• Wattage: 3300 running watts / 4000 peak watts
• Outlets: 2x120V (20A) outlets + 1x120V (30A) twist-lock outlet
• Noise: 69 dB
• Running time: 8 hours at 50% load
• 1 Year limited warranty (parts warranty ONLY)

Pros

Cons

How much power?

The DuroStar DS4000S provides 3300 running watts and 4000 surge watts. It is a great generator for outdoors activities, as well as for home backup.

The DuroStar DS4000S has a 7 horsepower, air-cooled overhead valve engine with a recoil start.

It has two 120V outlets and one 120V twist-lock outlet.

How long can it run?

The DuroStar DS4400S has a 4 gallon gas tank. It’ll run for 8 hours on a 50% load. When maintained correctly, it can run daily for many hours, without any issues.

We’ve been able to run the DuroStar for an entire week, on a slightly-above 50% load, for 10+ hours a day.

How easy to use?

This little guy gave us great user experience. It has an ez-read gauge. It also has a low-oil shutoff (that wasn’t necessary because the oil consumption was relatively low), and the wheel kit was easy to install.

How durable?

The DuroStar DS4000S comes with a sturdy metal frame. The only thing that bugged us was that the frame slightly obstructs the oil drain, causing oil to run across it, creating somewhat of a mess. This is a small price to pay however, and overall we were very pleased.

Also, as we’ve said, we ran it on heavy loads for long periods of time, for years, without much issues. The DuroStar DS4000S is a real fighter.

How noisy?

Thanks to its excellent heavy muffler, the DuroStar DS4000S produces only 69Db. This is slightly less than a lawn mower, and allows for it to be used near your house.

The final verdict 

The Westinghouse WH7500E is a strong, heavy duty gas powered portable generator. It is designed for power, low-noise and durability.

One thing we really liked about the Westinghouse WH7500E is that it IS powerful (7500 running watts / 9000 starting watts) AND ALSO relatively quiet for its size.

Another great thing about this generator is how it is very safety-oriented. There is an auto shutoff for low oil, as well as electrical overload protection. Combine those with their great customer service, and the Westinghouse WH7500E is a real winner for those looking for a heavy duty portable generator.

Our Rating: (4.3 / 5)

Full Technical Details

• Dimensions: 27.2 x 20.5 x 22 inches
• Weight: 201 lb.
• Engine: 4-stroke, 420cc overhead valve engine with electric AND manual start (Westinghouse XP Series)
• Powered by: Gas
• Wattage: 7500 running watts / 9000 starting watts
• Outlets: 4×120 + 1×120/240
• Noise: 128 dB
• Running time: 12 hours on full (6.6 gallon) tank on 50% load
• 3 Years limited warranty

Pros

Cons

How much power? 

The Westinghouse WH7500E is a heavy duty generator. It steadily provides 7500 running watts and 9000 starting watts.

The motor is produced by Westinghouse, and belongs to the Westinghouse XP Series. It is a high output, durable 420cc engine, with overhead valve design.

The great thing about it, is that it actually delivers this wattage without too much trouble, and can power up an entire house with the blink of an eye. We tested it on multiple heavy appliances, as well as lighter electronics, and didn’t run into trouble. It provided a very steady and stable voltage.

How long can it run?

The Westinghouse WH7500E has a great running time of about 12-13 hours on a full tank, on 50% load. This is considered a great performance when compared to other generators in its category.

How easy to use?

Even though the Westinghouse WH7500E is a beast, it is very easy to use. Everything is clear, and works just like the manual. There is both an electric and a manual start (we have to say we LOVE the electric start).

The WH7500E also contains many outlets, which makes it easier to use. There are 4 standard 120V outlets, and one of 120V / 240V.

How durable?

We didn’t find any issues with the Westinghouse WH7500E’s durability. Even after putting it under heavy loads for long periods of time, on a daily basis, it seems to operate flawlessly. The parts themselves (and the frame) are strong and very durable.

How noisy?

This generator includes a large oversized muffler and a catalyst that make it very quiet in comparison to similar generators out there. The official noise level is about 128 dB.

The final verdict

The Champion Power Equipment 42436 is a relatively small and easy to handle, gas powered portable generator.

Stronger generators can be easily found, but if you are looking for a quiet, light duty generator, this little guy will give great value for its cost.

Our Rating: (4.3 / 5)

Full Technical Details

• Dimensions: height – 15.8″, width – 14″, length – 17.7″
• Weight: 61.7 lb.
• Engine: Champion 80cc OHV Engine with Cast Iron Sleeve; CARB-California approved
• Power source: Gas
• Wattage: 1200w – 1500w
• Outlets: 1x120v
• Noise: 65dB
• Running time: 10 hours with full tank on 50% load
• 2 Years limited warranty

Pros

Cons

How much power?

The Champion Power Equipment 42436 generator is gas powered. It is rated at 1200 watts, but packs a maximum of 1500 watts. This means it can provide with enough power to run several electronic devices together.

It is important to note however, that this is still pretty much a light-duty generator, and running heavy appliances together will probably not be possible.

So for example, the Champion Power Equipment 42436 can run a laptop, lights, and perhaps a small sized fridge, together. A larger sized fridge will not be able to run together with other electronic devices, and sometimes not at all.

In order to be sure, always check your appliances wattage. Many refrigerators run at about 700 watts, but there can be a significant difference between models. Also remember that the starting load can be significantly higher, thus requiring much more wattage.

How long can it run?

This generator runs for about 10 hours on a full tank of gas, at a 50% load. It is recommended to actually aim for a 50% load, as it seems to provide the best performance, and an (insanely) low fuel consumption.

How easy to use?

The Champion Power Equipment 42436 is relatively easy to use, and comes with a good quick start guide.

It’s small size and light weight allows it to be easily carried around. This makes it a great option for outdoor activities that require a power source.

How durable?

There are some mixed opinions regarding it’s usability. Some complain that it’s longevity could be better, and it starts having issues after a couple of months. The vast majority however, haven’t experience any difficulties or longevity issues.

The oil tank’s accessibility could also be better.

Some customers reported durability issues, such as breaking of the starting cord and the rubber gasket falling apart (easily replaceable), but these issues seem to be relatively rare, and the customer service is great whenever it’s needed.

How noisy?

This little guy is surprisingly quite. Its official level of noise is 65dB.

One can easily have a conversation next to it without raising his voice. We gave it 4 out of 5 stars as there ARE quieter generators out there, but for it’s power and wattage, this is some good performance.

The Final Verdict 

The DuroMax XP4400E is a medium-heavy duty, gas powered 3500W generator. It provides a peak of 4400W, and its great muffler makes it relatively very quiet.

If you are looking for a strong, versatile generator that can power up your heavy tools, as well as a major portion of your home, this is a great choice. The DuroMax XP4400E is also approved for use in USA national parks, which makes it perfect for RV-ing, camping and picnics.

The only setback with this generator is that it’s not suitable for powering sensitive electronics such as PCs and laptops.

Our Rating: (4.1 / 5)

Full Technical Details

• Dimensions: 36 x 24 x 24 inches
• Weight: 116 lb.
• Engine: 7.0-horsepower air-cooled OHV engine
• Powered by: Gas
• Wattage: 3500 running watts / 4400 peak watts
• Outlets: 2x120V + 1x120V/240V + 1x12V DC output
• Noise: 69 dB
• Running time: 8 hours on full (4 gallon) tank on 50% load
• 1 Year limited warranty

Pros

Cons

How much power?

As its name suggests, the DuroMax XP4400E provide 4400 peak watts, and 3500 continuous running watts. This is enough to power up multiple appliances (depending on their wattage of course), as well as lights, power tools and camping equipment. This is what we dig about this generator: it can serve so many purposes!

The XP4400E does not provide the clean and steady power suitable for sensitive electronics, but is great for everything else. It is even approved for USA national parks (exculding California, it is NOT CARB compliant).

How long can it run?

According to the manufacturer, the DuroMax XP4400E can run for 8 hours on a full (4 gallon) tank on 50% load. Our testing shows this to be consistently true.

How easy to use?

The DuroMax XP4400E is built to be very easy to use. There is an electric start, as well as the standard recoil start. It’s wheels are strong and it is easy to carry around using its handle.

It has two 120V outlets, one 120V/240V twist-lock outlet and a special 12V DC output for charging batteries and other rechargeable devices. We loved that feature.

We have to mention again, that this generator is USA national parks approved, which makes it great for picnics, RV-ing and camping.

How durable?

This generator is VERY durable. It has a heavy-duty, steel frame roll cage, as well as all-terrain knobby tires, that are said to never deflate. It can withstand strong loads created by different appliances and heavy work tools. No worries here.

How noisy?

Thanks to its big muffler, the DuroMax XP4400E is very quiet – relative to its size. The official noise level according to the manufacturer is 69dB. We would say it is much quieter than a lawn mower.

The final verdict

The PowerPro 56101 is a light-duty, gas powered 2-strokes portable generator. It provides 900 running watts and 1000 peak watts.

This little guy is light, portable and very reliable. It is also EPA approved and CARB-compliant.

If you are looking for a simple to use, highly portable, light-duty generator for camping, single home appliances or small electronics and lights, this is a great choice.

This generator is not suitable for sensitive electronics.

Our Rating: (4 / 5)

Full Technical Details

• Dimensions:  14 x 12 x 13.5 inches
• Weight: 35.5 lb.
• Engine: 2-strokes
• Powered by: Gas
• Wattage: 900 running watts / 1000 peak watts
• Outlets: 1x120V + 1x12V DC output
• Noise: 60 dB
• Running time: 5 hours on full (1 gallon) tank on 50% load
• 1 Year limited warranty

Pros

Cons

How much power?

The PowerPro 56101 provides the power of 900 running watts and 1000 starting watts. It will be able to provide 900 watts or less continuously, but will only be able to provide 900-1000 watts for about 20 minutes.

The engine is a relatively cheap and simple, 2-stroke engine. This means there is no need to change oil (only to mix it with the gas itself).

This little guy can easily run many home appliances (by themselves, NOT together for the most part), as well as lighter electronics and lights.

The PowerPro 56101 has one 120V outlet and a 12-DC receptacle for rechargeable batteries and devices.

It is important to note that the PowerPro 56101 is NOT suitable for sensitive electronics, such as PCs.

How long can it run?

The PowerPro 56101 has a 1 gallon tank, which allows it to run for 5 straight hours on a 50% load.

We’ve ran it for 20 hours straight (re-fueling when necessary) on a more than a 50% load, and had no shut-down issues.

How easy to use?

The PowerPro 56101 is very light (36 lb.) and portable. As mentioned before, it has one 120V outlet and a 12-DC receptacle for rechargeable batteries and devices.

The materials for the smaller parts are of cheaper quality, and this can negatively affect the user’s experience. The ON / OFF switch is made of cheap plastic that can become stiff or even stuck when it gets cold. This can make it harder to turn the generator on or off.

How durable?

As we said, the smaller parts are of cheap quality. The pull start mechanism’s part are mostly plastic, that is prone to breaking. These parts ARE easily (and cheaply) replaceable for more quality parts, but it’s still important to be aware of this issue.

Work-wise, as mentioned we’ve ran it for 20 hours straight and had no shut-down issues. We’ve also let it run for about 8 daily hours, for 4 weeks, and haven’t noticed any decrease in performance.

How noisy?

The PowerPro 56101 is fairly quiet, at about 60 dB. This is quiet enough to have normal conversation nearby.

The final verdict

The Earthquake IG800W model 11613 is an extra light, gas fueled, highly reliable portable generator. It is made in China, but it’s quality is pretty darn good regardless.

It provides a maximum of 700-800 watts, and is great for any light-duty task, from lights and laptops to recharging RC planes.

It is important to mention that this generator has a pure sine wave, meaning it provides a steady and stable voltage. This makes it safe also for sensitive electronics (laptops, smartphones etc’…).

Our Rating: (4.1 / 5)

Full Technical Details

• Dimensions: length – 15.6″, width – 8.2″, height – 14″
• Weight: 21 lb.
• Engine: Viper 40cc 4-cycle OHV; CARB compliant
• Powered by: Gas
• Wattage: 800W
• Outlets: 1x120V
• Noise: 58-60dB
• Running time: 8 hours on 25% load
• 1 year warranty

Pros

Cons

How much power?

The Earthquake IG800W is designed for light tasks, and delivers. The only issue is that it appears to provide a limited performance in the 700-800 watts range load, depending on the ambient temperature.

When testing it with a 700W load on a relatively hot summer day, it shut off after about half an hour. This was probably a thermal shut off.

On other testings, we got it to carry a load of about 750W for several hours, and it worked just fine.

As long as this limitation is held in mind, the Earthquake IG800W does provide a good performance in all lower ranges, and a mostly-nice performance in the higher ranges as well.

How long can it run? 

According to the manufacturer, the Earthquake IG800W provides a running time of 14 hours per gallon, on a 25% load. Its fuel capacity however, is of 0.6 gallons, giving us a total of 8 hours.

We did get about 8 hours on a 200W load, so it provides what it claims.

How easy to use?

There is one issue that bothered us regarding the oil filling port. It is located behind a side panel that is attached with 4 screws. This means you need to open up these 4 screws every time you want to check the oil status (which basically means every time you want to use the generator). A twist lock could have been much better.

Other then that, we didn’t encounter any starting problems, and usually one pull is enough.

How durable? 

We didn’t find any issues with the Earthquake IG800W’s durability, and it has worked great over a long period of time (about 6 months now). Even after putting it through high loads, it works for us the same as it did when we first opened it up.

How noisy?

This little guy has proven to be very quiet, at about 58-60dB. Just as a simple comparison, the Champion Power Equipment 42436 produces about 65dB, which we were very pleased with. So, this is spot on, and allows for normal conversation when standing nearby.

The final verdict

Entering the world of portable generators is an exciting experience, especially for us machine junkies!

Before you dive deep, it’s important to have a few CRITICAL considerations in mind that will ensure your family’s (and your) safety.

Here are important safety tips for beginners to portable generators:

#1 – Read the manual provided by the manufacturer

We know this is advised for literally ALL electric devices and machinery, but it is even more critical when dealing with portable generators.

Each generator is different (sometimes extremely different), just like people. Some will require different care and handling. Others will be more independent, and will run on their own. Some may require extra caution.

This is something you DON’T want to mess around with – read the user manual.

#2 – Placement is Critical

Most portable generators are powered by gasoline engines. These engines emit carbon monoxide, which can be a deadly gas.

For this reason, never use a portable generator INSIDE your home, garage, or even near your windows. Opening them won’t help, as carbon monoxide is dangerous in small quantities as well.

Always keep a safe distance of a few meters from any window or door. Also, we recommend installing a carbon monoxide detector inside your home, just to be on the safe side. Especially if you plan on using your gasoline-powered portable generator for extended periods of time.

#3 – Consider Specific Types of Generators

Some types of generators are inherently safer. Other types of generators can be less safe, right out of the box.

Make sure to carefully read product reviews and articles regarding the safety of the generator you consider purchasing.

In general, Diesel and Propane fueled generators are considered the safest to use.

#4 – Gasoline is Highly Flammable – Caution During Fueling

Because gasoline is highly flammable, we recommend allowing the engine to cool for at least 15 minutes before fueling.

Also, when starting the generator, make sure there aren’t any combustible materials around. In fact, they should NEVER be around your generator, as an extra safety measure.

#5 – Never Directly Connect a Portable Generator to a Home Wall Outlet

This can be very dangerous, and also illegal.

Have a certified electrician install a power transfer switch for your home. Also, always use a GROUNDED extension cord.

#6 – Don’t Operate Your Portable Generator in Wet Conditions

Because portable generators produce a lot of voltage, don’t operate them in wet conditions, such as rain or snow.

Some generators are designed to work in sub-zero temperatures, but even those ones shouldn’t be operated in wet conditions.

#7 – Know the Specific Maintenance Requirements and Schedule for Your Portable Generator

As we already mentioned, each portable generator can be very different. You must know and understand the maintenance requirements of your specific generator (fuel refilling, changing oil, cleaning etc…).

Consider all of these safety tips when researching, purchasing, operating and maintaining your portable generator.

Remember – better safe than sorry! 

One of the most important decisions to make when purchasing a portable generator, is deciding on how many watts you need.

If you plan on purchasing a new portable generator, this guide will help you understand how to calculate how many watts you are going to need during an emergency.

The basics of Determining How Many Watts

The most important thing to do is to understand what it is that you want to operate during an emergency.

Make a list of all the appliances and electric devices you would like to operate, taking into consideration the scenario you are preparing for. Are you preparing for a hurricane? Tsunami? Earthquake? Maybe simply a power outage.

Our basic recommendation is to power the following:

• Refrigerator
• Sump pup
• Radio / other means of communication
• A few lights
• Computers / sensitive electronics (only if you have the proper required set-up).

Calculating the Watts

The next step is to calculate how many watts will be required in order to operate all of the appliances and electronics together.

In order to to this, refer to each item’s user manual or tag. They should mention how many watts it requires to operate.

Rated wattage and surge wattage

For proper calculation, it’s important to understand the difference between rated wattage and surge wattage.

Surge wattage: how many watts are required to START the appliance.

Rated wattage (or running wattage): how many watts are required to keep it running.

So for example, a refrigerator usually requires between 600-800 running wattage. It’s surge wattage however, can be around 1500-2000 watts.

It’s important calculating the load your portable generator will be under according to the surge wattage.

Here is how to calculate:

Add together all the rated watts for all appliances Then, add to that sum the highest surge watts on your list. Only add the highest one.

So to run a refrigerator, sump pup, radio and 3 light bulbs, here is an example calculation:

800 watts (refrigerator) + 1000 watts (sump pump) + 100 (radio) + 225 (3 x light bulbs) + 2100 (highest surge watts on our list, belongs to the sump pump) = 4,225 WATTS TOTAL

Approx. Estimates of Wattage Requirements for Common Items:

• Light bulb: 60-75 rated watts
• Freezer: 400-500 rated watts, 1500 surge watts
• Sump pump: 800-1000 rated watts, 1500-2100 surge watts
• Electric water heater: 4000 rated watts
• Refrigerator: 600-800 rated watts, 1500-2000 surge watts
• Microwave: 600 rated watts
• Window AC: 1200-3000 rated watts, 3600-9700 surge watts
• Central AC: 1500-3800 rated watts, 4500-11500 surge watts
• TV: 500 rated watts
• Computer: 800 rated watts
• Radio: 100 rated watts

Choosing the Right Portable Generator for the Wattage you Need

After adding up all the numbers, look for a portable generator that can actually provide the necessary wattage.

I – if you are looking at a very minimalist use, check out the Champion Power Equipment 42436portable generator.

II – If your needs are average, we recommend checking out the DuroMax XP4400E.

III – If you plan on powering lots of items, check out the Westinghouse WH7500E.

In this part we will share 6 important tips to make sure that your gasoline generator will function properly when shit hits the fan.

During an emergency, the last thing you need is a malfunctioning generator. Here is how to make sure this never happens.

#1 – Write an Emergency Plan

This step is crucial. What is it that you want to prepare for? A hurricane? an earthquake? Simple power outage?

People in different countries and continents will have different uses for their generators. Someone who lives near the coast of Japan is far more concerned about tsunamis than an American from Utah.

Writing a detailed plan of possible disasters helps you focus on the possible scenarios, and your needs when shit hits the fan.

So write it.

#2 – Have Enough Fuel

This is a no-brainer. Portable generators can’t function without fuel.

We recommend allocating 15-20 gallons per day. And so, if you are preparing for short power outages, 15-30 gallons are enough, for two days max. If, on the other hand, you live in an earthquake prone area, than you might want to prepare a larger quantity, for up to a week of no electricity.

In addition, make sure your fuel is fresh, and maintain it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Generally, you’ll have to use a stabilizer liquid every 6-12 months, in order to keep the fuel fresh.

This also connects to tip #1 – Write a plan!

#3 – Oil, Oil, Oil!

Be sure to check and change the oil when necessary.

Many portable generators have a low-oil auto-shutdown. You want to avoid your generator shutting off, and possibly damaging anything connected to it. If it doesn’t have an auto-shutdown, you may be in even more trouble, so don’t neglect this issue.

Some quick oil tips:

• Check oil BEFORE starting your generator (every time, not just on first use)
• Change oil after the first 5 hours of using your generator
• Every 100 hours of use
• Use the correct type for where you live (warmer climate > heavier oil)

Be sure to keep a lot of spare oil stored safely, so that you never run out of it. And again – use your plan to asses how much oil you’ll need.

#4 – Work It

Even when not in use, make sure to periodically (once a month) start your generator, and run it for about half an hour. This will recharge the battery and clean the entire system of moisture and other residue.

We also recommend running it on some load from time to time, to make sure it’s in good state.

This works just like an old car needs you to start it every few days, or the battery might empty.

#5 – Running the Generator in “Dry” Mode

Periodically, when not using the generator, turn off the fuel valve while the engine is still on. This will run the generator in “dry” mode, and help clean the entire fuel system.

Conclusion

These are general tips to get you going.

The most important thing you want to take from this is that you should form YOUR OWN plan of preparedness. Your plan should describe in detail the possible scenarios you might be facing, and how to deal with them.

Also, take into account that you won’t necessarily run your generator 24/7. In case of a major natural disaster / power outage, it’s better to limit the time of use, as well as the fuel consumption to the essentials.

A lot of people want to store their portable generator during the wet season. In order to successfully winterize your generator. a few steps need to be taken care of.

In this guide, we will teach you how to properly winterize your portable generator for storage during the winter.

When spring comes, all you’ll have to do is fuel and start your generator, and it’ll work like charm. So let’s get to it!

NOTE – each generator is different, and so the steps here are generalized. In order to access different parts of your generator, turn to your specific generator’s user manual. Make sure you never do anything that goes against what’s in that manual.

Step 1 – Emptying the Fuel

Fuel that stays in the generator will become dirty, form gum and clog up. We recommend emptying the fuel instead of using a fuel extender.

Start by opening the fuel cap. Than, using a funnel, tilt and empty the fuel into a fuel container.Make sure to adhere to any specific guidelines in the user manual (regarding tilting / moving / draining fuel).

Now, there is still some residual fuel in the fuel lines and fuel pump. To burn that fuel, turn on your generator and run it with its empty fuel tank.

Once it turns off, try starting it again. If you succeed, repeat this step until it doesn’t start again. Congrats! We successfully removed all fuel from the generator.

Step 2 – Changing the Oil

Access your oil tank, and drain the oil into an oil container. You may find that you need to use an extension pipe to assist you. These are cheap and very helpful, so make sure you get one, and make sure it’s the right type for YOUR generator.

Next, fill the oil tank with new oil. Use a durable, quality oil such as Castrol Edge’s Syntac SAE 5W-40. We ARE planning for medium-long term storage.

Make sure you filled the correct level of oil by using the dipstick.

Step 3 – Cleaning the Air Filer Element(s)

Access the air filter elements and take them out. Again – turn to your user manual, making sure you don’t do anything that can harm your generator.

In a bucket with water and some dish washing detergent, soak and clean the air filter elements. When done, rinse them under running water and squeeze them.

Let them dry in order to get all water out. You can use paper towels to accelerate the process.

Next, saturate them with a small quantity of engine oil. The oil helps the filter elements to do their job. If you want to maintain your filters even better, use foam filter oil, which works even better.

Apply the oil / foam filter oil on the filter elements, and rub it in.

Finally, install them back in, making sure there are no tears, or other damage. If they are damaged, you’ll have to replace them immediately.

Step 4 – Fog the Engine Cylinders (cylinder walls, pistons and rings)

Now want to make sure the engine works properly when we try and start it in a few months.

First, remove the spark wire and spark plug. This should give you access to the engine cylinders.

Get in with the fogging spray (which is basically a lightweight storage oil that’s meant to prevent corrosion) and apply two short squirts.

Now, make sure the engine switch is turned OFF, or that the ignition is DISABLED. Then, lightly pull the starting cord a couple of times, and spray again.

Next, check the spark plug for any damage, and apply an anti-seize compound to the THREADS ONLY. This will improve the spark plugs durability. Make sure you didn’t get the compound on any of the other parts, especially the tip.

Finally, carefully re-thread the spark plug and reinstall the spark plug wire, and close up.

Step 5 – Close the Cylinder Heads’ Valves

Sometimes the air in your storage space may contain moisture. This step is meant to make sure no moisture enters the cylinder heads, valves and pistons.

First, make sure ignition / engine switch is OFF (so that you don’t burn the fogging spray!).

Now, start pulling the starting chord. Start your pull very lightly, and slowly increase the force you use. Continue until you feel a significant resistance. This means the valves have been closed.

Optional – Step 6 – Use an Air Compressor to Clean the Insides of the Generator

While your portable generator is open, it may be a good idea to give it some blowing.

Use an air compressor to give it a good blowing, all across the reachable areas.

When done, inspect the visible parts and wiring for any sign of damage. Also inspect the portable generator’s body for any damage, and close it up.

Finally, go over all switches, caps and components, making sure everything is either closed or turned off. This includes the fuel cap and vent, the ECO throttle and the engine / ignition switch

Optional – Step 7 – Lightly wash + Apply UV Protection Spray

Use a towel that has been very lightly (!!!) soaked in (and squeezed and drained from) water. NEVER directly WASH your generator.

After the surface dries, apply UV protection spray on any plastic parts. We recommend using Aerospace Protectant. This is especially important if the generator will be exposed to sunlight (which can slowly damage the plastic parts, making them crack etc…).

And – we are DONE!

So you want to purchase a portable generator, but don’t know which type of fuel is the best?

Well, you’ve come to the right place! In this super simple guide for dummies, we will teach you EXACTLY how to choose a portable generator, based on the best fuel type for your needs.

So without further ado – let’s begin!

Types of Portable Generator Fuels

There are 4 main types of fuel for portable generators. Here they are:

• Gasoline
• Diesel
• Propane
• Natural gas

Each of these types of fuel has advantages and disadvantages. If you don’t feel like reading everything, simply take a brief look at this chart, conveniently placed in the beginning.

Basically – The greener the better.

Also, here is a short “Best For…” list:

• Best portable generator fuel type for HOME – Gasoline / Natural Gas
• Best for construction site / heavy use – Diesel
• Best for tight budget – Diesel
• Best for the environment – Natural Gas

If you want to about the different types of fuel in more depth – here are the important advantages and disadvantages of each one.

Gasoline

Gasoline is the most common type of fuel, and can be obtained almost everywhere. On the other hand, gasoline is not very safe, and can be hazardous when stored in large quantities.

In addition, gasoline has a relatively short shelf life (about 12 months) and can be quite expensive.

There are better alternatives to gasoline, but if you are looking for a common type of fuel, that is also simple to use and maintain, this can be a fit.

Diesel

Compared to gasoline, diesel has many advantages.

Let’s begin with performance and usability. Gasoline is a strong fuel. It elongates the operation time of the engine, allowing for long periods of work, and on heavy loads. Also, the engine will perform better on STRONGER loads (hint here: if you are looking for a strong portable generator for heavy loads, diesel is highly recommended).

In addition to longer operation time, diesel actually improves the life expectancy of the engine. We are looking at a little over 15K hours of work – which is A LOT.

Add in the fact that diesel is far more economic than gasoline, when it comes to consumption, and you get a great user experience.

Let’s move on to the disadvantages.

For starters, diesel based engines can produce a lot more noise than other types of engines. This is not a problem for a construction site, but it is for a portable generator used at home. It is important to check the levels of noise, specifically when purchasing a diesel fuel generator.

In addition to the noise factor, diesel fuel is more “susceptible” to over-fueling if it is used for long periods of time, over low loads (as we mentioned – it is best suited for heavier loads).

All in all, if you are looking for a portable generator for home, diesel may not be the most suitable type of fuel. If, on the other hand, you are looking for a heavy duty generator for you construction site, or even for a camping site, you are golden.

Propane

Propane fuel is a well-balanced type of fuel that has great performance, and is also suitable for home, as we will soon see.

Let’s begin with the advantages.

Propane fuel is easy to store and has very long shelf-life. In theory, if kept without contact with oxygen, it can last for eternity. There are obviously small leaks in pretty much every container, and so this is only in theory.

In addition, propane fueled generators produce far less noise, especially when compared to diesel fueled generators. This is a big advantage for people who want to purchase a generator for home.

On to the disadvantages.

Propane fuel is more expensive, as well as propane fueled generators. If you are on a tight budget, this may not be the best option for you. In addition, fuel consumption can be over twice as high, when compared to other types of fuel.

Also, the fuel system for propane fueled generators is more complicated, and has more potential for failures. If this is the first portable generator you are going to operate, we advise getting a diesel fueled / gas fueled generator.

Natural Gas

Natural gas fueled portable generators are similar to their gasoline cousins. The main difference however is they they operate on gaseous fuel rather than a liquid fuel, which requires a carburetor.

Natural gas fueled generators are more suitable for homes. They don’t require refueling, but are rather operated using a natural gas producing infrastructure. They are quieter than their gasoline-fueled cousins, and are easier to use and maintain.

Here are the important disadvantages to have in mind, when considering purchasing a natural gas fueled generator.

Natural gas may be unavailable during a natural disaster, such as a hurricane or earthquakes. This is a huge disadvantage if the very reason for getting the generator is preparedness for natural disasters (doh)!

Also, you need to take into consideration the high costs that come with this type of generators. First off, we are talking about the initial installation costs for the infrastructure that will provide you the natural gas. This can be VERY expensive to set up. Also, the gas consumption in this type of generators is high, and can result in high costs.

Finally, gas leaks are extremely dangerous. If properly built, the system shouldn’t pose any danger, but this is still an important risk to factor.

Conclusion

Deciding on a portable generator, based on fuel type, is a challenging decision. However, it is of utter importance to GET THE TYPE THAT WILL BE BEST FOR YOU.

You will save a lot of money and headaches down the road.

Refer to the table and list in the beginning of this article, and choose the right portable generator with the right fuel type FOR YOU.