Most powerful option | Budget Friendly option | Most Exclusive option |
---|---|---|
POWERMATE PM0601250 | CHAMPION 100111 | WESTINGHOUSE WPRO12000 |
12,500 Running Watts | 12,000 Running Watts | 12,000 Running Watts |
15,625 Starting Watts | 15,000 Starting Watts | 15,000 Starting Watts |
Runs on Gasoline | Runs on Gasoline | Runs on Gasoline |
Electric (Recoil Backup) | Electric Start | Electric Start (with Remote) |
120/240 AC Voltage | 120/240 AC Voltage | 120/240 AC Voltage |
No DC Voltage | No DC Voltage | 5 DC Voltage |
Runs 6 Hours at 50% Load | Runs 9 Hours at 50% Load | Runs 11 Hours at 50% Load |
Info on dBA Not Available | 78 dBA at 25% Load | 74 dBA at 25% Load |
336 lb (152.4 kg) Weight | 329.6 lb (149.5 kg) Weight | 352 lb (98 kg) Weight |
Check price | Check price | Check price |
How we chose the best
Our Generatorist team went over 700 different portable generators to identify 13 machines that provide 12,000 – 13,500 running watts. Out of those, we have selected the following options we consider to be the best.
PowerMate PM0601250
PREFERRED FEATURES | |||
---|---|---|---|
Electric Start: | Yes | Dual Fuel: | No (Gasoline Only) |
Recoil Backup Start: | Yes | Fuel Gauge: | Yes |
Inverter: | No | Metal Fuel Tank: | No (Plastic) |
Idle Control: | Yes | Electric Fuel Injection: | Info Not Available |
Battery Included: | Yes | Fuel Shutoff Valve: | Yes |
Low Oil Shutdown: | Yes | Spark Arrestor: | Info Not Available |
why we chose this machine
If you are looking for a 12,000-watt generator that is most powerful and offers the biggest number of starting watts, then definitely go for the PowerMate PM0601250. This machine is equipped with a gasoline powered 653cc, OHV, 4-stroke, Subaru engine that can generate 12,500 running and 15,625 starting watts.
This engine is protected by an automatic low oil shutdown.
Sadly, we were not able to discover any reliable information with regards to the noise this machine generates while running. Although this unit is powerful and equipped with automatic idle control, it has a relatively short run time – just 6 hours at a 50% load. This is due to the smaller, 8 gal. (30 l), plastic gas tank.
This generator also provides only three different types of outlets:
- Two 120 VAC (5-20R DUPLEX) 20 amps outlet
- One 120 VAC (L5-30R Twist Lock) 30 amps outlet
- One 120/240 VAC 14-50R 50 amps RV ready outlet
As in the case of other 12,000 generators, the PM0601250 by PowerMate offers only an electric start.
Although this unit has a portability kit (folding handles and a set of heavy-duty wheels), it is harder to move around as it is on the heavier side (it has a dry weight of 336 lb / 152.4 kg).
Points to consider
After analyzing the PowerMate PM0601250 into details, we have to say that this unit has several useful features, such as:
- Included muffler and a battery for electric start
- Automatic idle control
- Manual fuel shutoff valve and a fuel gauge
- Powerful and durable Subaru engine
- RV ready 50 amps outlet
- Moderate price
Sadly, this unit comes with a few flaws as well. These include mostly a plastic gas tank, shorter run time, lack of DC voltage, and a smaller number of outlets.
In the end, if your main priority is to have a 12,000-watt generator with the most starting watts, then definitely go for the PowerMate PM0601250. In case you can’t or don’t want to get this machine for whatever reason, we have listed a couple of alternatives that provide a lot of power as well.
Don´t forget to take a look at feedback and reviews of Amazon customers. Focus on those classified as “verified purchase”.
Alternative options
The Best Budget friendly option
PREFERRED FEATURES | |||
---|---|---|---|
Electric Start: | Yes | Dual Fuel: | No (Gasoline Only) |
Recoil Backup Start: | No | Fuel Gauge: | No |
Inverter: | No | Metal Fuel Tank: | Yes (Steel) |
Idle Control: | Yes | Electric Fuel Injection: | No |
Battery Included: | Yes | Fuel Shutoff Valve: | Yes |
Low Oil Shutoff: | Yes | Spark Arrestor: | Yes |
why we chose this machine
If you are looking for a 12,000 generator that provides the best value for the lowest price, then definitely go for the Champion 100111.
This machine is equipped with a gasoline powered, 717cc, OHV, 4-stroke, Champion engine that is protected by an automatic low oil shutdown. Also, this engine can produce 12,000 running and up to 15,000 starting watts.
Although this Champion generator offers automatic voltage regulation, we were not able to discover the precise number of total harmonic distortion. Also, this unit produces only an AC voltage.
Thanks to a larger, 10.9 gal. (41.2 l) steel gas tank and an auto-idle control, the Champion 100111 can run for 9 hours at a 50% load.
With regards to the outlets provided, there are four different types for you to use:
- Two 120 VAC (5-20R DUPLEX) with 20 amps
- One 120 VAC (L5-30R Twist Lock) with 30 amps
- One 120/240 VAC – L14-30R (Twist Lock) with 30 amps
- One 120/240 VAC 14-50R RV ready outlet with 50 amps
This unit is also equipped with a battery that allows for an easy start by a simple push of a button. Sadly, there is no manual recoil pull start as a backup.
Although this unit has a portability kit, it is still pretty heavy (329.6 lb / 149.5 kg). This makes it a little harder to move around.
Points to consider
After analyzing this generator, we have identified several features we consider useful:
- Outlets on this generator are covered so no dirt or dust will clog them
- This unit is RV ready and provides 50 amps outlet
- The engine has better protection thanks to an oil filter
- It has a large gas tank made out of steel and also includes a manual fuel shutoff valve
- There is also a spark arrestor, a muffler, and a battery that allows for easy electronic star
Sadly, there are some essential features we are missing at this unit, including a fuel gauge, DC voltage, electronic fuel injection, and a recoil pull start.
The Champion 100111 generator is a good choice for those who would like to have a machine that produces lots of power, offers several excellent features and won’t ruin your budget.
Sure, if you can’t or don’t want to get this machine for whatever reason, we have listed a couple of alternative 12,000-watt generators below that still provide a lot of features for a relatively small price.
Don´t forget to take a look at feedback and reviews of Amazon customers. Focus on those classified as “verified purchase”.
Alternative options
The Most exclusive option
PREFERRED FEATURES | |||
---|---|---|---|
Electric Start: | Yes | Dual Fuel: | No (Gasoline Only) |
Recoil Backup Start: | Yes | Fuel Gauge: | Info Not Available |
Inverter: | Yes | Metal Fuel Tank: | Info Not Available |
Idle Control: | Yes | Electric Fuel Injection: | Info Not Available |
Battery Included: | Yes | Fuel Shutoff Valve: | Yes |
Low Oil Shutoff: | Yes | Spark Arrestor: | Yes |
why we chose this machine
Are you looking for the most exclusive 12,000 portable generator that offers everything you will ever need from your machine? Then you need to buy the WPro12000 by Westinghouse.
This generator is equipped with a gasoline powered, 713cc, OHV, 4-stroke, Westinghouse engine that produces 12,000 running and 15,000 starting watts and is protected by an automatic low-oil shutdown.
The WPro12000 offers both AC (120/240) and DC (5) voltage that is very clean (only < 5% total harmonic distortion). Although generators of this size are somewhat noisy, this Westinghouse unit produces the smallest number of dBA (just around 74).
Not only that, this generator provides one of the longest run-times (up to 11 hours at 50% load) when compared to other 12,000 machines. This can be achieved thanks to a large, 10.5 gal. (40 l), steel gas tank and a Smart Idle control.
You will also appreciate five different types of outlets provided with this unit:
- Two 120 VAC (5-20R DUPLEX) with 20 amps
- One 120 VAC – L5-30R (Twist Lock) outlet with 30 amps
- One 120/240 VAC – L14-30R (Twist Lock) with 30 amps
- One 120/240 VAC 14-50R RV ready outlet with 30 amps
- Two 5V DC outlets
This generator is equipped with a battery for an easy electric start. The best part? You will get a remote controller as well. Sadly, manufacturers have not decided to keep the manual recoil pull start as a backup option.
Although this unit is equipped with a portability kit, it is quite heavy (352 lb / 160 kg dry weight).
Points to consider
After taking a closer look at this generator, we have discovered only a couple of issues with this machine – it is on the heavy side and does not have a recoil pull start as a backup option.
On the other hand, it has a lot of useful features that we really love, such as:
- Auto idle control for reduced fuel consumption
- Covered outlets
- Clean power with a low total harmonic distortion
- Large gas tank with a fuel gauge and a manual fuel shutoff valve
- Longer run time
- RV ready 50 amps outlet
To sum it up, this machine is incredible. It provides a lot of useful features for a reasonable price. If you are looking for the most exclusive 12,000-watt generator, then you should definitely go for the Westinghouse WPro12000.
If you can’t get it for whatever reason (it may be out of stock or out of your budget), then we have listed other excellent 12,000 machines below that still provide a lot of useful features.
Don´t forget to take a look at feedback and reviews of Amazon customers. Focus on those classified as “verified purchase”.
Alternative options
Shopping guide to
Lots of people purchase generators only after they are left without power. Such a situation puts them under pressure, and they often make a hasty decision that leaves them with an expensive machine that doesn’t really fit their needs.
Backup generators for your household appliances can become quite an overpriced investment, especially if you have absolutely no idea what you really need to look for.
Luckily, thanks to our shopping guide you are going to make a much more informed shopping decision. If you want to get the best 12,000-watt generator possible, you need to consider the following:
- Your power requirements – In this article, we are choosing from machines that all provide between 12,000 – 13,500 running watts. However, the number of starting watts may change significantly, so you need to consider your real needs.
- Your budget – The second most important thing you need to consider is your budget. In general, this is the most limiting factor you will encounter while choosing your machine.
- Portability – Do you plan to move your machine around? Then go for brands and models that offer lower dry weight, a wheel kit, and a folding handle.
Once you have defined these major limiting factors, you can filter out a vast majority of machines. If there are still too many options for you to choose from, then you need to have a look at these extra features and decide, which are a must-have for you:
- Inverter – Inverter generators provide cleaner and much more reliable power as they do output AC current that is then converted into DC voltage and then again re-inverted back into a clean AC voltage. Besides clean current that doesn’t damage softer electronic appliances such as computers and laptops, these machines are quieter and more fuel efficient.
- Noise – If noise is your primary concern, then choose an inverter generator. Conventional machines can be quiet as well, but even if they include an effective muffler, in most cases they don’t reach as low levels of noise as inverters do.
- Automatic Voltage Regulation – The AVR is an electronic device (usually a capacitor) that maintains output terminal voltage of your generator at a set value no matter the load or operating temperatures. Some sensitive electronic appliances could get damaged if the voltage gets out of a certain range.
- Automatic Idle Control – The automatic idle control (also known as Eco-Throttle or Smart Throttle) can save you a lot of fuel costs and reduces the noise of your generator. It automatically adapts the rotations of your engine in relation to the actual load. If your generator runs idle, this system can significantly reduce the number of rotations per minute.
- Electric Fuel Injection – The electric fuel injection (EFI) system is an excellent replacement of carburetor, a part that can easily get clogged by gum deposits if you don’t use your generator frequently. Also, electric fuel injection helps your engine run more efficiently, leading to reduced fuel costs.
- Alternative Fuel Source – Do you know what is the biggest and the most frequent issue after a hurricane strike? The lack of gasoline. That is why we always recommend getting a dual fuel generator that can run on propane or natural gas as well.
- Fuel Gauge – Sadly, even these days some generators are being built without a fuel gauge or indicator. This makes the fuel management and planning of a run time really difficult.
- Electric Start with Recoil Backup – Some people don’t like the standard recoil pull start for one reason or another and couldn’t imagine having a generator without an easy electric start. If you are such a person, then please get a unit that offers a recoil pull start as a backup starting method as well. In most cases, the battery of your generator that is responsible for electric start dies after not using your machine for extended periods of time, and you may be left without a power source.
- Manual Fuel Shutoff Valve – This valve becomes very helpful especially during the transportation and storage of your machine. In case you need to store your generator for an extended period of time, you need to completely remove fuel from the system to avoid clogging of carburetor by gasoline that went bad.
- The material of Fuel Tank – There are two main types of fuel tanks, each having its pros as well as cons. Plastic fuel tanks are usually lighter, will not rust, but are less durable. Then there are metallic fuel tanks. These are much more durable but are heavier and prone to rust if they are not treated well. It’s really up to you what material will fit your needs the most.
- Longer Run Time – Each person who already owned a generator knows how annoying frequent refilling of a fuel tank can become. You need to stop your generator and let it cool off for a while before you can add new gasoline. That is why you should choose a machine that offers a longer run time.
- Maintenance free electric battery – If you decide to get a generator with electric start, then go for one that offers a maintenance-free battery. Thanks to a trickle charger you will have your machine always ready to serve.
- Spark Arrestor – This is a helpful piece of equipment that minimizes the chance of setting dry vegetation on fire. Some areas restrict the use of generators to only those including spark arrestor.
- OHV Engine with Automatic Low Oil Shutoff – In general, overhead valve (OHV) engines are much more efficient and durable. Also, the automatic low oil shutdown system will protect your engine against any damage caused by lower oil levels.
- Multiple Types of Covered Outlets – While choosing the 4,000-watt generator, you need to consider the types of outlets you will need and the maximum allowed amperage. Based on our experience, the majority of 12,000 – 13,500 running watts generators will have 20 and 30 amps outlets providing 120/240 VAC. Also, there are a lot of RV ready units that usually provide 50 amps outlets as well. Also, we prefer machines that have covered outlets to avoid getting dust and debris into them.
All these extra features are recommended by our Generatorist team. However, each one increases the final price of your machine. That is why you should individually prioritize these features and decide, which you can live without and which feature is a must-have for you.
12,000 WATT Generator FAQ
Because we got a lot of questions over time with regards to 12,000-watt generators, we have decided to add this FAQ section where you can look for helpful information.
If you have questions that are not answered here, feel free to contact us or leave your question in the comment,s section available at the end of this article.
In general, this type of machine can run almost any essential household appliance, including:
- Fridge with a freezer
- Sump pump
- Water pump
- AC unit
- Heat pump
- Furnace
- Medium radiant heater
- All smaller electric appliances
- A majority of power tools
Whether you can run all these at the same time you need to know the power consumption of each appliance in your home. Also, you need to know whether your generator has the correct number and type of outlets as some higher wattage appliances such as AC units may need different outlets than other low-wattage devices.
Just don’t expect to run your whole house on this machine simultaneously as in some cases, a 12,000-watt generator will not have enough power. We have provided tables with rough estimates for individual electric appliances in this article.
If you need to provide an energy backup for your whole house without any limitations, you may consider getting a standby unit instead of a portable one.
Usually, these are much more expensive and need to be installed by a professional electrician.
In general, a 12,000 running watts generator should provide enough power to run a heat pump or electric furnace. However, answering this question is really hard without knowing the exact running and starting watts required by your appliance.
Please, contact a manufacturer of your pump or furnace to learn more info on its wattage requirements. Also, we have discovered a forum thread where this question is answered in more details so don’t forget to check it out.
In most cases, a 12,000 generator should provide enough power to run a welder. Sadly, the answer to this question is not that simple. To learn, whether you can run your welder on a 12,000-watt portable generator, you need to know the power requirements of your welder (see the data tag or user manual you got to your welder).
However, based on the information we were able to learn, the best option is to get a special generator that has been manufactured for welding purposes to be able to harness the full potential of your welder.
You can see some good options on Home Depot.
In general, a 12,000 – 13,500 running watts generator provides enough power to run an air compressor without any issues. However, answering this question is really hard without knowing the exact running and starting watts required by your air compressor.
We have found rough estimates for different types of compressors:
- 1/2 Horse Power – It takes 975 running watts and 1600 starting watts.
- 1 Horse Power – It takes 1600 running watts and 4500 starting watts.
As you can see in the estimates above, the issue is not running watts but starting watts. To get the precise numbers, you will need to find the voltage, amperage, and horsepower information on the info-plate of your compressor.
Then, all it takes to learn required wattage is to apply this equation:
Watts (W or kW) = Volts (V) x Amps (A)e
Usually, a 12,000 – 13,500 running watts generator should provide enough power to run almost any sump pump without issues. However, answering this question is really hard without knowing the exact running and starting watts required by your pump.
We have found rough estimates for different types of sump pumps:
- 1/3 Horse Power – It takes 800 running watts and 1,300 starting watts.
- 1/2 Horse Power – It takes 1,050 running watts and 2,150 starting watts.
As you can see in the estimates above, the issue is not running watts but starting watts. To get the precise numbers, you will need to find the voltage, amperage, and horsepower information on the info-plate of your pump.
Then, all it takes to learn required wattage is to apply this equation:
Watts (W or kW) = Volts (V) x Amps (A)
Just keep in mind that your sump pump will probably require a 240V outlet on your generator.
In general, a 12,000 – 13,500 running watts generator should provide enough power to run almost any well pump without issues. However, answering this question is really hard without knowing the exact running and starting watts required by your water pump.
We have found rough estimates for different types of pumps:
- 1/3 Horse Power – It takes 750 running watts and 1,500 starting watts.
- 1/2 Horse Power – It takes 1,000 running watts and 2,100 starting watts.
- 3/4 Horse Power – It takes 1,500 running watts and 3,000 starting watts.
- 1 Horse Power – It takes 2,000 running watts and 4,000 starting watts.
- 1 & 1/2 Horse Power – It takes 2,500 running watts and 5,000 starting watts.
As you can see in the estimates above, the issue is not running watts but starting watts. To get the precise numbers, you will need to find the voltage, amperage, and horsepower information on the info-plate of your pump.
Then, all it takes to learn required wattage is to apply this equation:
Watts (W or kW) = Volts (V) x Amps (A)
Based on our knowledge, you should be able to run a central air conditioning unit with a 12,000-watt generator especially if you get a “hard start kit” for your AC. However, the answer to this question really depends on the number of running and starting watts your AC unit requires.
Obviously, these numbers vary from one unit to another and are based on the cooling ability of individual models and brands. That is why you need to look for the following data at the name tag of your central AC unit:
- LRA (Locked Rotor Amps) – This number represents the current you can expect under starting conditions when you apply full voltage.
- RLA (Rated Load Amps) – This number represents the maximum current a compressor should draw under any operating conditions.
- FLA (Full Load Amps) – This number represents the same as the Rated Load Amps.
You need to take into consideration the amps for both the compressor and the fan unit. To determine, if your 12,000-watt generator can run a central AC, please consult its manufacturer or a professional electrician.
Keep in mind that a typical central air unit runs on 208/240 volts and is often permanently mounted and hardwired into the electrical system of your house. That is why to safely run this electronic appliance you need to connect your generator through a transfer switch.
Actually, you should always connect your generator through a transfer switch if you don’t want to damage your appliances or endanger people who may be working on electric lines in your neighborhood.
In general, a 12,000-watt gasoline generator has a 4-stroke engine. If this is the case, you will need to use either SAE 30 (if you live in a warmer climate) or an SAE 10W-30 if you are going to use it in a colder climate (do not forget to double-check with your owner´s manual).
Also, some machines of this size include an oil filter that needs to be replaced as well.
However, there are several things you need to consider while choosing the oil for your machine:
- Whether you got a 2-stroke or a 4-stroke engine
- Starting and operating temperatures
- Type of fuel your generator runs on
- Certifications and classifications of the oil
- The reputation of the brand and company producing the oil
If you need to learn more information on how to choose the best oil for your generator, then consult our guide that is available right here. We provide you also with a list of best brands in various categories of lubricants.
In general, a 12,000-watt generator provides approximately 100 amps, in case of 120 volts or 50 amps in case of 240 volts. To learn more, you should check out the owner´s manual to the machine you want to buy.
Actually, identifying how many amps there are in a 12,000 running watt generator is a straightforward process. All you have to do is to apply the following formula:
Amps (A) = Watts (W or kW) / Volts (V)
You need to divide the wattage by the voltage. So in this case, you need to divide 12,000 by 120 or 240 to get the correct numbers.
Although this question doesn’t have a universal answer as each generator has unique fuel consumption and capacity of the fuel tank, based on our database, an average 12,000 – 13,500 generator runs for approximately 9.15 hours on a 50% load.
This number is a median that we got after looking at the run time of over 13 generators that provide 12,000 – 13,500 running watts.
There is not a single correct answer to this question. Actually, there are several features of your 12,000-watt generator you need to consider while choosing your transfer switch.
We will be doing a guide on choosing the best transfer switches soon but in the meantime, consider this guide from Electric Generators Direct.
If you are looking for an RV generator, our advice is to choose a machine that is powerful but still quiet. Sadly, there are no inverters in this category of generators and machines of this size are noisy in general.
At least there are some 12,000 generators that provide RV ready outlets, such as:
- Westinghouse WPro12000 (1112+ Reviews)
- A-iPower SUA15000E
If you want to get a generator that doesn’t come equipped with an RV ready outlet, you need to get a necessary set of adapters (also called dogbones) to easily connect your RV to any machine on this list through either a 20, 30 or 50 amp outlets.
So pick a generator that fits your needs the most and if it isn’t RV ready, don’t forget to get the correct adapter.
While going over our database of 12,000 – 13,500 running watts generators, we haven’t identified any machine that runs on diesel. If you still need a diesel powered generator, you would need to decrease the running watts category significantly:
- Boss DY8500LN-D (8,300 running watts generator)
Just expect to pay a lot as diesel generators are usually on a much more expensive side when compared to gasoline-powered machines.
There is only one 12,000-watt generator that is able to run on propane – the DuroMax XP15000EH (dual fuel unit – gasoline/propane). It is a good generator that will not ruin your budget.
things to consider
Lots of people rush into getting a backup power unit for their home without realizing that there are some less-talked-about topics associated with using a generator.
Transfer switch
One of the most overlooked facts when getting a backup generator for your home is the need to purchase and install a transfer switch by a professional electrician. Running a generator without it is not safe and limits your powering abilities.
The transfer switch is a small electrical board (similar to a circuit breaker panel) that will make sure you won’t damage your generator, fry your electric appliances, or endanger anyone working on power lines.
Also, you can’t safely connect and operate essential electric appliances that are hardwired into your house´s wiring system such as central heating and air conditioning, water and sump pumps, or water heaters.
There are two main types of residential transfer switches for you to choose from:
- Manual – While these units cost between $100.00 – $800.00, you can expect to pay more as it is around 3-4 hours long job for a professional electrician to install it and he or she can charge between $50.00 – $100.00 per hour. That makes it an additional $200.00 – $400.00 for labor.
- Automatic – In general, these units are more expensive as their price range is somewhere between $300.00 – $2,000.00, and its installation will be closer to the $300.00 – $400.00 range.
Luckily, there is also a less expensive alternative to the transfer switch called an interlock device. This is a small connector that will enable you to connect your portable generator to the service panel without the need for a transfer switch, and it will cost you around $50.00 – $150.00.
A professional electrician should do its installation so there will be some labor costs involved as well. Just keep in mind that not every electrical system or building can use the interlock device.
It will MAKE some noise
Although it is quite obvious, a lot of people don’t realize that a generator can be really noisy, especially if you run it in a densely populated area. Trust me, that your neighbors won’t be pleased about your generator running in your backyard unless you are going to share some of your power.
If you don’t have a big piece of land all around your house, it is always a good idea to invest in a quiet machine. The quietest portable generators we know produce around 55 dBA on 50% load. That is as quiet as urban background noise during the daytime (it is even quieter than a normal conversation which is around 70 dBA).
If you don’t want to risk good relations with your neighbors, just let them know that you are going to start your generator in advance and offer them some of your power as a form of compensation for the noise.
regular maintenance
Like every other machine that has an engine in it, even your generator will require regular attention. Luckily, as long as you are a handyman, you can manage to do the necessary maintenance on your own.
In most cases, you will need to do just the basics:
- Control engine oil levels and change old oil for a new one
- Inspect and replace old spark plugs
- Inspect, clean, and replace air filters
- Give your machine a test run every month
- Keep both your unit and the body of your engine clean
- Inspect and clean the fuel filter and gas tank
- Inspect and clean spark arrester
- Inspect and fix any loose bolts, wires, or rusty parts
Although it may sound like a lot, you can do the most within two hours. If you feel like any of the processes above are over the limits of your capabilities, then expect to pay some money at a local service station of small engines.
An expert employed there will gladly do the maintenance for you.
Storage requirements
Storing your generator may not be as easy as it may seem in the first place. The most comfortable way to store your unit is to get a wheel kit and a foldable handle to move your machine easily.
Also, you need to keep in mind that if you are going to store your unit for an extended period, you should either drain all the gas from your fuel lines or add a fuel stabilizer into the tank and let it run for a while. Otherwise, the gas inside will go bad and will create gum deposits that will clog your carburetor sooner or later.
While draining your fuel, you will find the manual fuel-shutoff valve to be a very practical feature. We have created an interesting guide with tips for storing your generator, check it out.
local Laws & regulations
Before you go and buy your generator, it is always a good idea to learn whether any local laws and regulations could limit your choices. Some states, municipalities, and areas limit the highest allowed noise while others limit the maximum permitted amount of air pollution.
Just ask the local dealer of generators, and if they are professionals, they will be able to give you every piece of legislation and regulation that your generator needs to meet if you want to use it in your backyard.
Carbon monoxide
Sadly, even these days people are dying from carbon monoxide poisoning related to using generators. They don’t realize (or just underestimate) the fact that fumes from their generator are poisonous.
The worst part? Carbon monoxide is an odorless and colorless gas.
That is why you should never run any generator inside enclosed space or too close to your (or others) home (including open doors and windows) as you could be poisoning yourself or anybody else without even realizing that.
Sadly, the detection of this poisonous gas is almost impossible unless you install a carbon monoxide detector.
Top 12,000 WATT Generators
Most powerful option | Budget Friendly option | Most Exclusive option |
---|---|---|
POWERMATE PM0601250 | CHAMPION 100111 | WESTINGHOUSE WPRO12000 |
12,500 Running Watts | 12,000 Running Watts | 12,000 Running Watts |
15,625 Starting Watts | 15,000 Starting Watts | 15,000 Starting Watts |
Runs on Gasoline | Runs on Gasoline | Runs on Gasoline |
Electric (Recoil Backup) | Electric Start | Electric Start (with Remote) |
120/240 AC Voltage | 120/240 AC Voltage | 120/240 AC Voltage |
No DC Voltage | No DC Voltage | 5 DC Voltage |
Runs 6 Hours at 50% Load | Runs 9 Hours at 50% Load | Runs 11 Hours at 50% Load |
Info on dBA Not Available | 78 dBA at 25% Load | 74 dBA at 25% Load |
336 lb (152.4 kg) Weight | 329.6 lb (149.5 kg) Weight | 352 lb (98 kg) Weight |
Check price | Check price | Check price |
About Generatorist
Matthew Gerther
Founder, Generator enthusiast
Our aim here at the Generatorist is to become the No. 1 resource for all things related to generators & your power needs. We have helped over 600,000 visitors with our tips, articles and reviews and we will help you as well.
Our work has been featured in many publications around the world – Yahoo.com, Telegram.com, PaylessPower.com, PopSci.com, TopTenReviews.com, TechRepublic.com, iRV2.com, ThePrepared.com, Renogy.com or ADT Solar. Generators are our passion, and we strive to provide the most reliable & most comprehensive information out there.