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The Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment 14500 Peak Watt Tri-Fuel Generator is a versatile and powerful choice for household backup or portable power needs. It offers impressive power output, with 14,500 peak watts and 11,500 running watts on gasoline, 13,500 peak watts and 10,500 running watts on propane, and 12,000 peak watts and 9,500 running watts on natural gas. This makes it suitable for larger homes requiring substantial power during outages. Its tri-fuel capability (gasoline, propane, and natural gas) adds flexibility in fuel options, which is a definite strength.
The generator runs up to 19 hours on a full gasoline tank, providing extended power without frequent refueling. However, run time on a 20 lb propane tank drops significantly to about 7 hours. The heavy-duty 550cc 4-stroke OHV engine ensures durability and reliability, backed by a 3-year limited warranty and nationwide customer service. The remote electric start is convenient, especially during emergencies, and the generator is transfer switch ready, making installation easier for home use. Portability is somewhat compromised by its weight (230 pounds), but it's manageable for a heavy-duty generator.
Maintenance is straightforward with features like an hour meter and automatic voltage regulation. The generator also includes useful safety features like overload protection and a CO sensor for added safety. Despite being on the heavier side and having a shorter run time on propane, its high power output, fuel versatility, and robust construction make it an excellent choice for those needing reliable backup power for larger homes.
The Generac Guardian 26kW Home Standby Generator is designed to provide reliable whole-house power backup, delivering a strong 26,000 watts of clean and stable electricity suitable for most residential needs. It runs on natural gas or propane, which are cleaner fuels compared to gasoline, and the G-Force engine is built for durability and lower maintenance. The generator features an electronic ignition for easy automatic starting during outages and includes a 200 Amp transfer switch for seamless power transfer to your home.
In terms of noise, it is described as “super quiet” with a fully enclosed aluminum casing, helping it blend into outdoor environments without being too loud. At 518 pounds and fairly large dimensions, it is not portable and intended for fixed outdoor installation. The generator is designed for standby use during power outages rather than continuous operation.
Maintenance is simplified by the G-Force engine’s heavy-use capability and lower upkeep needs. WiFi connectivity allows remote monitoring of performance and status alerts. Installation requires a professional electrician due to complexity and safety considerations. With a 5-year warranty, this generator is a reliable, quiet, and relatively low-maintenance option for homeowners seeking automatic and seamless whole-house power protection, though it is less suitable for those needing portability or extended continuous run times.
The Westinghouse 12500 Watt Dual Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator is a powerful and versatile option for home backup needs. With a running wattage of 9500 watts on gasoline and 8500 watts on propane, it provides significant power for various household applications. The peak wattage reaches up to 12500 watts on gasoline and 11200 watts on propane, making it suitable for handling surges in power demand. Its dual fuel capability offers flexibility, allowing users to choose between gasoline and propane based on availability and preference.
The remote electric start with an included key fob adds convenience, while the electric and recoil start options ensure reliable operation in different situations. The generator features a substantial 6.6-gallon fuel tank with a fuel gauge, supporting up to 12 hours of run time, which is beneficial during extended power outages. Additionally, the generator includes multiple outlets with rubber covers for safety, including household receptacles and transfer switch ready outlets.
The Westinghouse generator is quite heavy, weighing 210 pounds, which may impact its portability despite the presence of wheels. However, its sturdy build and included components such as a battery charger, oil, and a tool kit, make it a plug-and-play solution with minimal assembly required. Maintenance is simplified with features like automatic low oil shutdown and a digital hour meter. The generator is EPA compliant and backed by a 3-year limited warranty, ensuring peace of mind for users. This generator is well-suited for residential use, particularly for those who need a reliable, high-output power source during emergencies.