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Generator Reviews

Review: Generac 6000 Liquid Propane Generator

Are you looking for a generator that runs on an alternative fuel than gasoline? Do you want a generator that will still provide you with enough power to run specific items or the lights while still being portable? The Generac 6000 can be powered by standard 20 or 30 pound liquid propane tanks that allow for very easy portability. There isn’t a fuel tank included with this generator upon purchase, but once you hook up the fuel, you’ll receive up to 3750 surge watts of power. It isn’t CARB compliant, so sorry California readers, but it will give you a lot of power with its 212cc OHV engine.

Here’s the best part: you can save up to 20% off of the MSRP of this generator right now by making your purchase on Amazon!

What Kind of Features Does the Generac 6000 Have?

The primary feature that we really enjoyed when looking at this particular generator was the fact that it has a few little items that help to better protect it from the elements. The outlets, for example, are all covered so that you won’t have moisture or precipitation enter the unit and blow out a fuse on you. If something unforeseen does happen, then there are circuit breakers included so that you’ve got some protection from an overload. This creates a reliable, highly portable generator that you can run on a propane tank like you would your gas grill!

There’s these additional features to consider as well:

  • because this generator is propane powered, there is better long-term storage options for this unit because the fuel won’t break down like gasoline can;
  • a wheel kit assembly is included with the generator and you’ll receive your first quart of oil with purchase as well; and
  • the propane tank holder is incorporated into the design of the generator’s frame, eliminating the awkward fuel lines that can exist on similar models.

Although this generator isn’t going to blow you away with a lot of power generation, it does give you two standard 120v outlets and one 120/240v twist lock outlet so that you can rotate through your appliance, lighting, or heating needs. All in all, the Generac 6000 provides a fair amount of power for a competitive price.

Does the Generac 6000 Have Any Advantages To Consider?

It’s the efficiency of this unit that we really noticed. On just one tank of propane, we saw that you could get up to 12 hours of use if the Generac 6000 was running at 50% capacity. You’ll need to supply your own power cords, of course, and it can work with 220v appliances if your wattage requirements fit in line with the generator’s output. The entire generator assembly is easy to put together and overall, this is a highly reliable unit.

One of the interesting things we saw with this generator is that Generac recommends running it for 30 minutes at least once per week. For gasoline generators, this is often a good idea because it helps to keep everything lubricated and keeps the fuel a bit more stable. For propane tanks, however, the fuel is much more stable. We’re not sure about this recommendation, but we are sure that this is a reliable generator. If you need something that is portable and want something that runs on propane solely, then this is one of the top generators to consider today!

Click here to check the price on Amazon and find a great deal on the Generac 6000 Liquid Propane Generator.

Review: The Generac 5943 7500 Watt Generator

Do you need a power source that can help supply your entire home with backup power in an emergency? Are you looking for something that will be strong and durable, yet also reasonably affordable? The Generac 5943 isn’t the strongest generator of its class, coming in at 7500 watts, but it does have enough power and strength to get the job done for you. With an electric start, a pull-start backup, and enough flexibility that you can even take it to a campsite, this generator is priced just under $1,000 right now on Amazon.

What Kind of Features Does the Generac 5943 Have?

We really loved the user friendly design that has been incorporated into this generator. When you’ve got a lot of things going on during a power outage or when you’re enjoying a camping vacation, it’s easy to forget some of the routine maintenance tasks that a generator may require to continue functioning normally. Generac has included maintenance reminders that occur on the hour so that everything is a lot easier to track.

There are these additional features to consider with the Generac 5943 as well:

  • the generator has been given a hardened steel frame that is 1.25 inches thick, which means you’ll be getting a stronger frame than other generators in this price class;
  • the control panel has been specifically designed with the beginner in mind, putting all of the controls in one easy to access location; and
  • this generator is rated for 30 amps as a 120/240v generator and it has a 220v output for added convenience.

Is this generator going to be able to power all of your appliances simultanelously? No. Is it a reasonably portable solution that you can use to cycle through your appliances in an emergency or take with you in the RV so you have an extra boost of power at a campground without electrical hookups? Yes.

Does the Generac 5943 Have Any Advantages?

The primary benefit that users of the Generac 5943 are likely to enjoy is the construction of the engine of this particular model. The cylinders have been made with cast iron so that the longevity of the generator can be extended, even when running it for long periods of time. This also adds to a level of reliability during the start-up process and not every generator at this price point can say the same thing.

As with any generator, the Generac 5943 does have some weak points when it is being run for extended periods of time. In looking at the history of usage for this particular model, the weak point here seems to be the ignition coil. It can be faulty in some of them and if you take a look at the list of complaints that occur when this happens, servicing the unit can be somewhat difficult.

For the most part, however, the Generac 5943 has a lot of good things going on with it that will provide you with the portable power you need. Weighing about 220 pounds, it isn’t the easiest item to transport, but it will provide you with an easy to maintain source of power when you need it.

Click here to check the price on Amazon and find a great deal on the Generac 5943 7500 Watt Generator.

Review: The Earthquake IG800W Portable Inverter Generator

Are you looking for a small generator that will give you the basic power you need when you’re out and about? Do you want something that will provide you with a tremendously fuel efficient way of providing power? At 14 hours per gallon, you’ll be able to run the little Earthquake IG800W generator for hours without it ever getting thirsty! It’s literally ready to go, straight from the box, and will give you the small boost of power you might need for some specific applications. Priced under $250 on Amazon, you’ll find that it’s also at an excellent price point!

What Kind of Features Does This Generator Have?

The one nice aspect of this particular generator is that you don’t need to have a line conditioner installed in order to power up some specific items. Although you’ll only be able to power one laptop or one small digital TV with this generator, it is a way for you to keep working when powered outlets are at a premium. You can also power about a dozen small lights instead if you prefer or some limited small appliances.

There are these other features to consider as well with this inverter generator:

  • this particular generator is extremely lightweight, coming in at just over 21 pounds, so it can literally be taken anywhere without any issue whatsoever;
  • you can use this generator to plug in your cell phone, tablets, and other electronic devices directly if you prefer; and
  • it’s a rather quiet little generator, coming in under 60 total decibels, even when standing close by, making it friendly enough to run in most locations.

Some may find that this generator doesn’t have the capabilities to be able to power up all of the items they need. That’s why taking a look at the surge needs you may have is important. This generator comfortably cruises around 500 watts, which means you can only briefly power something that is 700-800 watts in total.

Is There An Advantage To Using This Generator?

It’s the portability of this generator that is really its primary benefit. This generator can easily be taken virtually anywhere thanks to its weight, but still give you a good result in the end. You’ll want to make sure you pick up some 10w30 oil for this generator, however, because there isn’t any that comes with the generator itself.

It’s difficult to find anything we’d change in this gen set’s design. The startup process is a bit tedious, but overall the entire usage experience of this generator is extremely gratifying. It has less noise, good speed, and is versatile enough to power a few items without a problem as long as you stay within the wattage envelope that this generator has.

If you need a fast emergency backup for a reasonable price, then this is the generator for you. It might not power your entire home, but it can power up the things you need to have running at a moment’s notice.

Click here to check the price on Amazon and find a great deal on the Earthquake IG800W Portable Inverter Generator.

Review: DuroStar DS4000S Portable Generator

Do you want a good portable generator that will work in a variety of different situations? Are you looking for something that is powerful enough to get the job done right the first time around? Then what you might just be looking for is the DuroStar DS4000S! This little generator offers big things in little packages! It starts with 3300 watts of consistent power thanks to the 7 horsepower air-cooled overhead valve engine. There’s a recoil start to begin and it works for everything from a job site to your RV. Best of all, this generator can be purchased right now for less than $350 on Amazon!

What Are the Features of This Specific Generator?

With a 4 gallon fuel tank, you’ll be able to get about 2 hours of use per every gallon of gasoline you use to power this generator when operating at 50% capacity. It’s supported by a heavy duty steel frame that has four specific and fully isolated motor mounts so that the operation of the generator is nice, quiet, and smooth. With the super easy pull starter that gives you power in just a pull or two, it’s easy to see why this generator is consistently the #1 seller on Amazon!

There are also these additional features to consider with this DuroStar generator:

  • it offers two 120v 20 amp outlets that are 3 prong so that it can supply power to most home appliances;
  • there’s one 30 amp 120v outlet that is designed for your power tools; and
  • there’s a low oil automatic shutoff that will help you protect our investment even more if you manage to forget to maintain oil levels.

Is this generator going to power your water heater or your electric oven? Absolutely not. Can it power your well pump, your sump pump, and your other typical household items that are nice to have during an emergency? Absolutely! Although it isn’t going to power your entire home, it will give you enough power to operate a number of items when the power is out or you’re out camping somewhere without a power hookup.

Are There Any Advantages To Using This Particular Generator?

The compact size of this generator is definitely its primary advantage. This gen set will fit into any tiny nook you may have so that you can get power, but still have it be out of the way as well. This DuroStar is also really easy to operate and at 69 decibels, has an average noise output for generators at this price point. The gauges you need are right there to see and that makes your ongoing maintenance chores a lot easier to manage as well.

If there was one place for improvement with this generator, it would be in the design of the oil drain. Unless you’re physically holding the generator at a specific angle, the oil is going to run along the frame of the gen set and create a royal mess. It would also be nice to have an amp meter incorporated with the panel to track performance more accurately.

Overall, however, this generator is a rugged working machine that will get the job done for you. That is why this generator receives one of our strongest recommendations today.

Click here to check the price on Amazon and find a great deal on the DuroStar DS4000S Portable Generator.

Review: DuroMax XP10000E Portable Generator

Do you want a portable generator that will give you the power of a permanent home generator? Are you looking to get a strong generator that will have a large fuel tank and lots of ongoing power when the lights are off? The DuroMax XP10000E gives you the portability that you may want with the wheel kit that has wheels which won’t go flat, but the strength to have multiple appliances powered all at once without issue. With 8000 watts of continuous power, you’ll be able to get this quality gen set for just over $1,000 right now on Amazon.

What Are the Features of This Portable Generator?

There aren’t many portable generators that can stand up to this offering by DuroMax. Powered by a 16 horsepower engine that’s air-cooled, you can set it up for a standard recoil pull start or an easy electric start if you prefer. It’s built to be included on most job sites if needed, but it also has the power to have all your essential appliances turned on for an extended period of time if needed. All in all, you’ll be able to supply virtually anything with this handy generator!

There are also these additional features to consider when using this particular gen set:

  • it features two 120v outlets, a 220 outlet, and a 30 amp twist lock outlet so that you can have all of the functions you need taken care of right away;
  • the generator proactively works to prevent overloads with a dual 33 am circuit breaker; and
  • you can monitor the output range of the generator at all times with the included volt meter, while a battery charge indicator lets you know when the starter battery is charging.

It really is as easy to start up this generator as it is to start the average car. There’s a stow-away handle that flips up for easy transporting and the wheels are 10.5 inches in size and designed for all-terrain travel, letting you take this gen set virtually anywhere. It really is a tremendous investment!

Does This Generator Come With Any Advantages?

It’s primary advantage is its strength. You’re not going to be able to power some of your huge appliances with this unit unless you have eliminated all of your other loads, but you can run several items at the same time and not have to worry about overloading the machine. It has sensors that help to shut off the unit before it overheats or overloads for added protection and is a pretty solid machine overall.

The fuel consumption on this particular generator is a little high. It typically runs through about 6 or 7 gallons of fuel on an extended period of running, although that is generally halved under lighter loads. There are other generators that can provide power for lower fuel requirements, but the trade-off is that you also get lower watts.

If you don’t mind the increased amount of fuel that you’re going to need for this generator, then  you’re going to find that there are a lot of good things that will come your way. It may be a bit of an investment, but it is one that will pay off for you time and time again. That’s why we have no hesitation in recommending this gen set to you.

Click here to check the price on Amazon and find a great deal on the DuroMax XP10000E Portable Generator.

Review: DuroMax Portable Generator XP4400E

Do you want a portable generator that is incredibly easy to use? Are you looking for something that is highly affordable, yet strong enough to provide emergency power at a job site or at your home? Although the DuroMax XP4400E might be a little too big to take out to a campsite unless you’ve got an RV or a trailer, it is still a good gen set to have on hand. With a 4 gallon fuel tank and up to 8 hours of running time, you’ll have a dependable experience with this generator. Best of all, with Amazon Prime, you can have this generator in your home for less than $400!

What Kind of Features Does This DuroMax Generator Have?

With 3500 watts of continuous power and the ability to handle a 4400 watt surge, you’ll have just enough power to get some of your basics up and running when the power goes out. Although this portable generator isn’t going to compare with higher wattage models, it does offer a 7 horsepower engine that is air-cooled and offers a standard recoil starter and an electrical starter for easier use as well.

There are also these additional features to consider with this specific generator:

  • it comes with a wheel kit that will never go flat, yet is still strong and flexible enough to simulate pneumatic tires;
  • there is an electrical starter with this generator that makes turning it on a really simple process; and
  • there is a 120/240 30 amp twist lock outlet that will help you power your tools or other portable needs without issue.

It should be noted that this particular portable generator is not CARB compliant, which means it is not available for sale in California. The dual 15 amp circuit breaker could be a little stronger as well to prevent overloads from occurring, but overall this is a rather remarkable little gen set at this price point. There’s a lot of strength and flexibility incorporated into its design.

Are There Any Advantages That Come With This Generator?

The primary advantage that we can see in owning this particular gen set is that you can setup your generator to make sure that it gets the maximum power that you need in the way that you need it. You can choose between operating the generator at both 120 and 240 volts simultaneously and you can choose to operate at 120 only with full power to the outlet. This is all thanks to the DuroMax RV Switch, which is a basic voltage selector, and you can monitor the output directly with the included volt meter.

This generator doesn’t come with the oil that is required to service the engine, so plan on making this purchase on Amazon as well to save yourself a trip to the store. This unit may not be the most powerful generator on the market, but it is a good gen set at this price. With that in consideration, it is definitely worth taking a second look at it as you shop around for your next gen set.

Click here to check the price on Amazon and find a great deal on the DuroMax Portable Generator XP4400E.

Review: DuroMax Elite Powered Portable Generator

Are you looking for a gen set that will give you the automatic controls you want, but still provide the power that you need? Do you want a generator that will work in a wide variety of situations even with the higher levels of power? This DuroMax Elite generator has the portability of smaller units, yet the functionality of stronger units. Featuring 3500 watts of rated power and a 4500 watt max, the automatic idle control will help you power up this gen set the right way. You’ll also be able to save more than 25% on this generator just by shopping on Amazon!

What Kind of Features Does the DuroMax Have?

With an incredibly durable 7 HP engine, the electric start on this generator is one of its nicest features. Instead of just standing there and repetitively pulling a handle over and over and over to get your gen set to start, you’re literally just seconds away from having reliable power being produced with this DuroMax Elite generator. This means virtually anyone can benefit from this generator – even those who may have medical conditions and struggle to start traditional generators.

There are also these additional features to consider with this specific portable generator:

  • it comes with a wheel kit so that transporting this generator is a rather simple and easy process;
  • there is a 220/240 outlet included with this generator so that you have added flexibility in powering up your appliances; and
  • there’s also a 12v DC battery charging outlet included with this generator.

The DuroMax Elite isn’t CARB compliant, which means you’re not going to be able to purchase this specific generator if you live in California. Otherwise you’ll be able to enjoy the two 120v AC outlets, the portability of this generator, and the air-cooled engine that helps to keep the power going for quite some time.

Does This Generator Come With Any Advantages?

We really loved the steel roll cage and the heavy duty frame that are included with this specific portable generator. It’s more than just strong! It works to protect the generator from those inevitable bumps that can occur over time when you’re moving stuff around. Although it is a little loud at 69 decibels, it is suitable for use in many national parks and the power panel is fully loaded for convenient use. All in all, it’s an excellent generator at this price point!

There are going to be some situations where we can see this generator not working so well. On heavy loads especially, this generator tends to burn through its oil, so you’ve got to stay vigilant and be on top of the oil levels. You’ll also want to let the generator cool down after a shut down for a bit so that you get a stronger restart.

Overall this generator can get some specific jobs completed for you, especially if you’re stuck in an emergency or out camping. For those reasons, this gen set gets our recommendation today.

Click here to check the price on Amazon and find a great deal on the DuroMax Elite Powered Portable Generator.

Review: DuroMax Dual Fuel Portable Generator

Do you want a generator that has the ability to operate on more than just gasoline? Are you looking for a gen set that will give you a lot of flexibility, but still come at an affordable price? Rated at 3500 watts for continuous power and the ability to handle a surge up to 4400 watts, this DuroMax portable generator gives you the chance to run it on either gasoline or propane. Powered with a 7 horsepower engine, you’ll be able to grab this great generator on Amazon today for less than $600!

What Are the Features of the DuroMax Dual Fuel Generator?

What we really loved about this particular design is the full power panel that is incorporated into the frame of the generator. From the power panel, you can control the engine with the shutoff switch, take a look at the unit’s production with the volt meter, have access to your power outlets, and there’s even access to the circuit breakers. This makes it incredibly easy to fully control the DuroMax in the way that you need!

There are these additional features to consider with this portable generator as well:

  • you’ll receive the connection hose for the propane hook-up with the purchase of this generator so you can get it going straight out of the box;
  • the propane is regulated at the generator so you won’t have to worry about purchasing a separate regulator for the tank; and
  • it meets all CARB and EPA emissions standards so that it can be used in almost all communities and homes.

The one thing of which you should be aware is that this generator isn’t the best of options to directly power your sensitive electronics equipment. Laptops, your digital TV, or any basic processor-powered item will require a line conditioner to make sure your electronic gear is kept safe. Outside of that one condition, you’ll find that the experience with this generator is rather beneficial!

What Kind of Advantages Does This Generator Bring?

The switching between gasoline and propane with just the flip of a switch is the primary advantage that you get with this particular generator. All you’ve got to do is turn the gasoline fuel valve over to off and you’re ready to use propane! If you’re switching to gasoline from propane, then just turn the fuel valve back on again. That’s about all you’ve got to do!

Going through the start-up steps with this portable generator is important to the process of generating power. If you have the choke off during the start-up process, you may struggle to get the machine going. The generator sputters and backfires when the choke is engaged even slightly when running as well, making it so that no power can be produced.

For a dual fuel option, this generator offers a lot of features and advantages that can really help you out whether you’re at home or on the road. For that reason, we strongly recommend this generator to anyone who is looking to meet some specific power needs.

Click here to check the price on Amazon and find a great deal on the DuroMax Dual Fuel Portable Generator.

Review: Duracell Solar Plug ‘N Play Solar Generator

Are you looking for a generator that can get you completely off the grid? Do you want a highly affordable power generation option that requires no gasoline, propane, or natural gas? For less than $400 on Amazon, you’ll be able to get a 30 watt 12v polycrystalline solar panel that is wired with an A/C plug that goes straight into the battery box of the generator. Providing 600 watts of power, you can even use it in an apartment or flat without breaking a lease and still have the ability to meet a small level of power generation that may be required for your needs.

What Are the Key Features of This Duracell Generator?

Although 600 watts isn’t going to power your refrigerator, it is going to help you meet some basic needs when the power goes out. You’ll be able to light 9-10 standard light bulbs with this generator, have some basic power for other needs that need to be met if you prefer, and be able to do so without consuming any fossil fuels whatsoever. The solar panel works on daylight, not sunlight, so you don’t even need direct sun to charge the battery. Then, when you need some power the most, you’ll be able to have it and continue to have power supplied to the generator during the day.

There are some other key features to consider as well:

  • the solar panel that is included with the generator set is weatherproof and will withstand rain, wind, or even hail;
  • the solar panel comes with a 25 year warranty and it powers the 28 amp AGM battery; and
  • you’ll receive 9 feet of wire so that you can place the panel and generator combination wherever you need it to be for maximum production.

So many of today’s generators, even the low wattage ones, require lots of fuel in order to produce power. This generator works great for those remote areas where there isn’t any grid power at all. You don’t even need a charge controller because the battery automatically goes to a trickle charge once it is at 100%!

Are There Any Advantages To Using This Plug ‘N Play Kit?

Although for many power needs the 28 amps per hour is going to be a bit undercharged, it can be able to power a TV, an emergency radio, or other small devices in case you need them. It makes for a handy off-the-grid cell phone charger if you don’t have access to other power sources and it can meet some other very basic needs. It’s advantage is that it isn’t fossil fuel reliant, which means you’ll be able to go green in a small, but functional way.

It’s important to have reasonable expectations with this Duracell generator and solar panel system. It’s not going to power a lot of things and if you go over capacity, the charge you get from the unit isn’t going to last very long. It’s good for basic camping needs or basic apartment needs. If you want to power more than that, you’ll want to consider a more powerful generator than this one. Otherwise you will enjoy what this kit can provide!

Click here to check the price on Amazon and find a great deal on the Duracell Solar Plug ‘N Play Solar Generator.

Review: Champion Power Equipment Portable Generator

Are you wanting a portable generator that can give you enough power to be functional when you’ve got an emergency? Do you want something that is still reasonably affordable, yet also CARB compliant so it can be used in California too? With the Champion Power Equipment portable generator, you’re going to get a gen set that will give you up to 4,000 watts of maximum output on a surge with a rating for 3,500 watts. If you’re running a half load, you’ll get up to 12 hours of use! Best of all, you’ll find this generator priced for less than $500 on Amazon right now!

What Kind of Features Does This Champion Generator Have?

The one feature we really loved about this particular portable generator is its remote start. You simply set the time delay if  you want, press a button, and your generator is powering up for when you need to use it! It’s portable enough that you can take this generator along with you in a portable trailer, yet strong enough to give your home some of the basic power needs it has during an emergency. It really is a sound, reliable generator!

There’s also these additional features to consider with this Champion portable generator:

  • it has an advanced load shutoff that will stop it from being overloaded, but also reduce the power consumption use so that as much power as possible is spread out over the system;
  • this generator ships with the oil you need for it, along with a funnel so that it can be oiled before the generator is started; and
  • the durability of this generator is outstanding, standing up to high heat, bitter cold, and even rainy environments with ease.

If you’re running the regular outlets from this generator, you’re going to end up with a unit that provides about 20 amps of power. You’ll need to use the 125v outlet to get the 30 amps of power that are advertised with this generator.

Is There an Advantage To Owning This Portable Generator?

The surge protection within the power line itself is the nicest feature by far of this particular portable generator. Champion has created a product that will bring the engine up into a stable pattern of running before power is supplied to the lines, eliminating the surges and other power issues that can sometimes ruin appliances and fixtures. When you add in the remote features, it means you can stay inside where you’re warm and dry to start this generator up!

If there was one improvement to make with this particular portable generator, it would be to include a 220/240 outlet on it so that there are a few more options. It would be nice to power a dryer, for instance, to make laundry chores easier – or to run your spa! The gas tank is a bit strange in design as well, but nothing that isn’t manageable.

If you’re looking for an affordable work horse of a generator that isn’t a permanent addition to your home, this could be the generator you’ve been wanting to get. Take a look today because it definitely receives one of our strongest recommendations.

Click here to check the price on Amazon and find a great deal on the Champion Power Equipment Portable Generator.