| Most powerful option | Budget Friendly option | Most Exclusive option |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
| PULSAR PG5250 | A-IPOWER SUA5000 | WANCO WI4300 |
| 4,250 Running Watts | 4,250 Running Watts | 4,000 Running Watts |
| 5,250 Starting Watts | 5,000 Starting Watts | 4,300 Starting Watts |
| Runs on Gasoline | Runs on Gasoline | Runs on Gasoline |
| Recoil Pull Start | Recoil Pull Start | Electric Start (Recoil Backup) |
| 120/240 AC Voltage | 120/240 AC Voltage | 120/240 AC Voltage |
| 12 DC Voltage | 12 DC Voltage | 12 DC Voltage |
| Runs 8.5 Hours at 50% Load | Runs 9 Hours at 50% Load | Runs 5 Hours at 100% Load |
| 76 dBA at 25% Load | 68 dBA at 25% Load | 58 - 69 dBA at 25% Load |
| 99.5 lb (45.1 kg) Weight | 123 lb (54 kg) Weight | 162 lb (73 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 4,000 – 4,300 running watts. Out of those, we have selected the following options we consider to be the best.
Pulsar PG5250
| PREFERRED FEATURES | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Electric Start: | No | Dual Fuel: | No (Gasoline Only) |
| Recoil Backup Start: | Yes | Fuel Gauge: | Yes |
| Inverter: | No | Metal Fuel Tank: | Info Not Available |
| Idle Control: | Info Not Available | Electric Fuel Injection: | No |
| Battery Included: | No | Fuel Shutoff Valve: | Yes |
| Low Oil Shutdown: | Yes | Spark Arrestor: | Yes |
why we chose this machine
If you are looking for a 4,000 watt generator that is most powerful and offers the biggest number of starting watts, then definitely go for the Pulsar PG5250. This machine is equipped with a 224cc OHV engine that can generate 4250 running and 5250 starting watts.
This engine is protected by an automatic low oil shutdown.
Once you start this machine, you will notice that it doesn’t run very quietly (it produces approximately 76 dBA). Thanks to the 4 gal. (15 l) gas tank, the Pulsar PG5250 offers 8.5 hours run time at a 50% load.
This generator also provides four different types of outlets:
- One 120 VAC (5-20R DUPLEX) 20 amps outlet
- One 120/240 VAC (L14-30R Twist Lock) 30 amps outlet
- One 120 VAC TT-30R 30 amps RV outlet
- One 12V DC 8.3 amps outlet
When compared to other 4,000 watt generators, this Pulsar machine provides the lowest dry weight of just 99.5 lb (45.13 kg). Thanks to the little dry weight and a portability kit, this machine is easy to move around.
Points to consider
The Pulsar PG5250 has a low price. This makes it a perfect option for those who need a lot of power but have a limited budget. It has both AC and DC outlets. It also has some useful features such as fuel gauge, muffler, and spark arrestor. The best part? This unit is RV ready and easy to move around.
Although this generator is powerful, it has some flaws. All its outlets are missing covers. Also, it doesn’t offer an electric start or an electronic fuel injection system.
In the end, if your main priority is having a 4,000 watt generator with the most starting watts, then definitely go for the Pulsar PG5250. 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 of Home Depot customers. Focus on those classified as “verified purchase”.
Alternative options
The Best Budget friendly option
| PREFERRED FEATURES | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Electric Start: | No | Dual Fuel: | No (Gasoline Only) |
| Recoil Backup Start: | Yes | Fuel Gauge: | Yes |
| Inverter: | No | Metal Fuel Tank: | Yes (Steel) |
| Idle Control: | Info Not Available | Electric Fuel Injection: | No |
| Battery Included: | No | Fuel Shutoff Valve: | Yes |
| Low Oil Shutoff: | Yes | Spark Arrestor: | Yes |
why we chose this machine
Do you have a very limited budget but still need to get a decent 4,000 watt portable generator? Then go for A-iPower SUA5000.
This unit is equipped with a gasoline powered, 223cc, OHV 4-stroke engine that produces 4,250 running and 5,000 starting watts. Also, this unit is protected by an automatic low-oil shutdown and delivers cleaner power thanks to the automatic voltage regulation.
The SUA5000 model runs quietly as this unit produces only 68 dBA. It also offers a decent run time of 6 hours at 100% load (9 hours at 50% load) thanks to a steel 4 gal. (15 l) fuel tank.
There are four types of electric outlets available:
- One 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 12V DC outlet with 8.3 amps
This A-iPower unit can only be started by a manual recoil pull start.
Thanks to the included portability kit and 123 lb (54 kg) dry weight, you will be able to move this generator around pretty easily.
Points to consider
We love the fact that this A-iPower unit offers covered outlets providing both AC and DC voltage. It also comes equipped with an RV outlet adapter. Not only that, there are other useful features provided, such as fuel gauge, steel gas tank, manual fuel shutoff valve, muffler, and a spark arrestor.
Sadly, this unit is missing battery and an electric start, but at this price range, it is no surprise to us. Also, this unit is missing electronic fuel injection and an automatic idle adjustment system.
The A-iPower SUA5000 generator is an excellent choice for those who would like to have a machine that produces lots of power, offers several good 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 4,000-watt generators below that still provide a lot of features for a relatively small price.
Don´t forget to take a look at feedback of Home Depot 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
If you want to get the best and most-exclusive 4,000 watt portable generator, then go for a Wanco WI4300. This machine is equipped with a 277cc, OHV, 4-stroke, KG280GETi engine that produces 4,000 running / 4,300 starting watts and is protected by an automatic low-oil shutdown.
The WI4300 unit is a gasoline-powered inverter generator that produces incredibly clean power and provides both AC and DC voltage. Not only that, this machine is relatively quiet when compared to other 4,000 watt generators as it produces only 58 – 69 dBA.
Although this unit has a smaller gas tank (just 3.1 gal. / 11.6 l), it is able to run for 5 hours at a 100% load thanks to an automatic idle control feature.
There are three types of electric outlets available:
- Two 120 VAC (5-20R DUPLEX) with 20 amps
- One 120/240 VAC – L14-30R (Twist Lock) with 30 amps
- One 12V DC with 5 amps
This generator is equipped with a battery for an easy electric start. The best part? Manufacturers have decided to keep the manual recoil pull start as a backup option as well.
Although this unit is on the heavier side (162 lb / 73 kg dry weight), it is still easy to move around on flat surfaces thanks to its 4-wheels set-up.
Points to consider
After taking a closer look at this generator, we have discovered only a couple of issues with this machine – its outlets are not covered so dirt and dust could get in and clog them, and it is missing a folding handle.
To sum it up, this machine is incredible. Sadly, it is quite an expensive product. So, if you have a larger budget then definitely go for the Wanco WI4300 generator.
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 exclusive 4,000 machines below that still provide a lot of extra features.
Don´t forget to take a look at feedback of Absolute Generators 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 a costly 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. We have created a guide for all the things that 4000 watt generators can run, check it out for more insights.
Luckily, thanks to our shopping guide you are going to make a much more informed shopping decision. If you want to get the best 4,000 watt generator possible, you need to consider the following:
- Your power requirements – In this article we are choosing from machines that all provide between 4,000 – 4,300 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 main 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 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 to get 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 manual recoil pull start for one reason or another and couldn’t imagine having a generator without a comfortable 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 longer 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 a longer period of time, you need to completely remove fuel from the system to avoid clogging of carburetor by gasoline that went bad.
- 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 rusting 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 chose 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 4,000 – 4,300 running watts generators will have 20 and 30 amps outlets providing 120/240 VAC. Some units are also RV ready and provide 30 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.
4,000 Generator FAQ
Because we got a lot of questions over time with regards to 4,000-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 comments section available at the end of this article.
In general, this type of machine can run almost any essential household appliance, including:
- A small window AC unit
- Fridge with a freezer
- Sump pump
- Medium radiant heater
- All smaller electric appliances
- A couple 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 appliances.
Just don’t expect to run your whole house on this machine simultaneously as any 4,000-watt generator will have too little power to do so. 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 4,000 running watts generator doesn’t 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 electric 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.
Sadly, there is not a single answer to this question. To learn, whether you can run your welder on a 4,000-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 such as LIFAN AXQ-200A to be able to harness the full potential of your welder.
You can see some good options on Home Depot.
In general, a 4,000 – 4,300 running watts generator should provide enough power to run a small 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.
I have found rough estimates for different types of compressors:
- 1/2 Horse Power – It takes 975 running watts and 1,600 starting watts.
- 1 Horse Power – It takes 1,600 running watts and 4,500 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)
In general, a 4,000 – 4,300 running watts generator should provide enough power to run a small RV AC unit (11000 BTU) without any issues. However, answering this question is really hard without knowing the exact running and starting watts required by your AC unit.
I have found rough estimates for different types of RV air conditioning units:
- 11000 BTU – It takes 1,050 running watts and 1,600 starting watts.
- 13000 BTU – It takes 1,800 running watts and 2,800 starting watts.
- 15000 BTU – It takes 2,000 running watts and 3,300 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 and amperage information on the info-plate of your RV AC unit.
Then, all it takes to learn required wattage is to apply this equation:
Watts (W or kW) = Volts (V) x Amps (A)
In general, a 4,000 generator should provide enough power to run a circular saw. A rough estimate of power requirements of a heavy-duty 7.25″ circular saw is as follows:
- 1,400 running watts
- 2,300 starting watts
So, as long as your generator offers at least 2,500 starting watts (we recommend getting slightly more power than needed), you should be able to run your machine on this type of generator.
A rough estimate of energy requirements of a space heater is as follows:
- 1,800 running watts
- 1,800 starting watts
As you can see, you can easily run your space heater with a 4,000 – 4,300 running watts generator. Just don’t forget to double-check the name tag on your appliance to learn the precise wattage requirements.
In general, a common microwave needs around 1000 watts to operate. A 4000-watt generator has at least 4,000 running and 4300 starting watts so you can run your microwave pretty easily.
Just don’t forget to check the nameplate on your appliance to learn the precise wattage requirements.
In general, a refrigerator takes around 1200 surge watts at the beginning while the compressor kicks in and then it gradually drops down to around 200 running watts. As you can see, each and every generator in this article could run a mid-sized refrigerator.
However, you shouldn’t rely on these general estimates and you have to check the nameplate and data tag on your fridge to learn the precise numbers.
Also, if your generator has a high total harmonic distortion, your fridge (especially if you have a modern type) may get damaged (that is why we recommend getting an inverter type of generator).
Learn more about power consumption of different types of refrigerators in our guide FAQ: What Size Generator Do I Need to Run a Refrigerator?
Definitely. As long as your generator is an inverter with a low total harmonic distortion, then you can run your TV safely on a 4,000-watt generator.
Here are some rough estimates of wattage requirements of various TVs:
- Tube type – It takes 300 running watts and 300 starting watts.
- Flat Screen (20”) – It takes 120 running watts and 120 starting watts.
- Flat Screen (46″) – It takes 190 running watts and 190 starting watts.
As you can see, you will have enough spare power to run your DVD player that takes approximately 350 running and 350 starting watts as well.
Usually, a 4,000 – 4,300 running watts generator should provide enough power to run a small sump pump without any issues. However, answering this question is really hard without knowing the exact running and starting watts required by your pump.
I 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 4,000 – 4,300 running watts generator should provide enough power to run a small well pump without any issues. However, answering this question is really hard without knowing the exact running and starting watts required by your water pump.
I 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)
We have serious doubts that a 4000-watt generator would provide enough power to run a central AC unit. We would rather go for a very small emergency window AC unit as 4,000-watt generators may have too little starting power.
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 4,000-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 4000 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 a 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).
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 machine runs on
- Certifications and classifications of the oil
- 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 oil.
In general, a 4,000-watt generator provides approximately 33.3 amps, in case of 120 volts or 16.6 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 4000 running watt generator is a very simple 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 4000 by 120 or 240 to get the correct numbers.
Although this question doesn’t have an universal answer as each generator has unique fuel consumption and capacity of the fuel tank, based on our database, an average 4,000 – 4,300 generator runs for approximately 10.2 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 4,000 – 4,300 running watts.
There is not a single correct answer to this question. Actually, there are several features of your 4,000-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. Ideally, go for an inverter.
There are only two inverters in this category of generators that are also quiet at the same time:
- Yamaha EF4500iSE (21+ Reviews)
- Wanco WI4300
There is also one RV ready generator in this category – the Pulsar PG5250B (20+ Reviews). If you want to get any other unit from this list, then you need to get a necessary set of adapters (also called dogbones) to easily connect your RV through either a 20 or a 30 amp outlets.
So pick a generator that fits your needs the most and if it is not RV ready, don’t forget to get the correct adapter.
Finding reliable information on the “noisiness” of generators is a tough job to do. However, based on our findings, we can list the following machines as “quietest”:
- Yamaha EF4500iSE (21+ Reviews)
- Wanco WI4300
In general, if you want a portable generator that is powerful but also quiet at the same time, then go for an inverter. Sadly, these machines are much more expensive than regular generators.
If you are looking for a 4,000 -4,300 running watts generator that offers the most comfortable electric start, then we have only two options that stand out:
- Yamaha EF4500iSE (4,000 running / 4,500 starting watts)
- Wanco WI4300 (4,000 running / 4,300 starting watts)
Both machines are inverters and provide clean power. So choose one according to the maximum starting and running watts you actually require.
There are two 4,000 generators that are able to run on propane as well:
- Pulsar PG5250B (dual fuel – 4250 running watts generator)
- QuipAll 5250DF (dual fuel – 4,000 running watts generator)
Both of these machines provide a good quality-vs-price ratio.
If you are looking for the best inverter generator that provides 4,000 – 4,300 running watts, then there are two options for you to choose from.
Based on our research, the best inverters in this category are:
- Yamaha EF4500iSE (4,000 running / 4,500 starting watts)
- Wanco WI4300 (4,000 running / 4,300 starting watts)
Just keep in mind that although inverters are running quietly, they are on the more expensive side.
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 get 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 costs 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 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.
Its installation should be done by a professional electrician 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 very happy 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 into a quiet machine. The quietest portable generators we know produce around 55 dBA on 50% load. That is as quiet as an 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
As every other machine that has engine in it, even your generator will require a regular attention. Luckily, as long as you are a handyman, you can manage to do the basic 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 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 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 a longer period of time, 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 as 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 manual fuel-shutoff switch to be a very practical feature. We have created an insightful guide to storing your generator, check it out for more information.
local Laws & regulations
Before you go and buy your generator, it is always a good idea to learn whether there are any local laws and regulations that could limit your choices. Some states, municipalities, and areas limit the highest allowed noise while others limit the maximum allowed 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 there are people 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 4,000 WATT Generators
| Most powerful option | Budget Friendly option | Most Exclusive option |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
|
| PULSAR PG5250 | A-IPOWER SUA5000 | WANCO WI4300 |
| 4,250 Running Watts | 4,250 Running Watts | 4,000 Running Watts |
| 5,250 Starting Watts | 5,000 Starting Watts | 4,300 Starting Watts |
| Runs on Gasoline | Runs on Gasoline | Runs on Gasoline |
| Recoil Pull Start | Recoil Pull Start | Electric Start (Recoil Backup) |
| 120/240 AC Voltage | 120/240 AC Voltage | 120/240 AC Voltage |
| 12 DC Voltage | 12 DC Voltage | 12 DC Voltage |
| Runs 8.5 Hours at 50% Load | Runs 9 Hours at 50% Load | Runs 5 Hours at 100% Load |
| 76 dBA at 25% Load | 68 dBA at 25% Load | 58 - 69 dBA at 25% Load |
| 99.5 lb (45.1 kg) Weight | 123 lb (54 kg) Weight | 162 lb (73 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.
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