Forum Discussion

mubashir's avatar
mubashir
Explorer
Apr 30, 2025

Best portable home backup generator, Expert advice to choose

I have been doing some serious research over the past few days because I am in need of a portable home backup generator for power outages. After checking expert reviews on sources like the new york times consumer reports and popular mechanics two heavy duty models keep standing out

Westinghouse 18000DF portable generator

https://www.amazon.com/Westinghouse-WGen12000DFc-Ultra-Portable-Generator/dp/B099KPKS59?th=1&linkCode=ll1&tag=consumersreports0a-20&linkId=ac0c76b3969bd78a6abcd1cb4c81d4c7&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl

DuroMax XP13000EH portable generator

https://www.amazon.com/DuroMax-XP13000EH-Portable-Propane-Generator/dp/B07G7GGFV6?&linkCode=ll1&tag=newyorktimes1-20&linkId=1a225f1d7bec93cf3d1306bf1b0eda54&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl

I am troubled deciding between these two and I do  love to hear from experienced users or experts.Which one would you trust more for full-house backup?Is the extra power from the Westinghouse worth the size and noise difference?How do these two perform during long outages ?
Any real world feedback or alternative suggestions would be  helpful.

Thanks in advance.

 

2 Replies

  • opnspaces's avatar
    opnspaces
    Navigator II
    May 04, 2025

    Not going to even look at your links. Just curious why are you asking an RV forum for advice about whole house generators? 

  • Grit_dog's avatar
    Grit_dog
    Navigator
    May 01, 2025

    Well, not really RV related, but maybe I can get some advice about that pesky mole on my ____ here too!

    since no one uses an 18k backup generator with a RV….

    While house backup is a lot of $$$ unless you lose power ALOT and for long periods. Otherwise, nothing a 6k can’t handle to keep the fridge and necessities running. 
    Bigger question is are you even set up for either? A whole home or a plug in for backup. 
    Based on your Honda thread, you may want to look into that coat as well. 

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