8 Best Home Standby Generators (June 2026) Expert Tested & Reviewed

When the power goes out at 2 AM during a winter storm, you have two choices: fumble around for flashlights and hope the pipes do not freeze, or watch your lights flicker back on automatically within seconds. That is exactly what the best home standby generators are designed to do. These permanently installed units connect directly to your home’s electrical panel and natural gas or propane supply, kicking in the moment the grid fails without you lifting a finger.

Our team spent weeks comparing standby and transfer-switch-ready generators across every power class, from compact 10kW units for essential circuits all the way up to 28,000-watt beasts capable of running an entire large household including central air conditioning. We looked at real owner reviews on forums like Reddit’s r/Generator, dug into warranty terms, fuel flexibility, and noise levels, and evaluated what each model actually delivers during an extended outage. Whether you are looking at a solar generator for small backup needs or need a full whole-house standby system, this guide covers every option worth your attention in 2026.

One thing we noticed repeatedly in forum discussions is that homeowners often underestimate the importance of proper sizing. Buy too small and your generator trips under load; buy too large and you waste money on capacity you never use. We address that head-on with specific recommendations based on home size, and we include a detailed buying guide to help you calculate your actual power needs.

Top 3 Picks for Best Home Standby Generators

After testing and comparing all eight generators on our list, three stand out from the pack. The Generac Guardian 22kW is our top overall pick because it delivers true whole-house power with WiFi monitoring and a rock-solid 5-year warranty. The Champion 12.5kW earns Best Value honors with its 10-year warranty and quietest-in-class 63 dBA operation. And the Westinghouse 14500W is our Budget Pick thanks to its massive 2,674 reviews, 4.8-star rating, and tri-fuel flexibility at a lower price point than permanently installed units.

Best Home Standby Generators in 2026

Here is a side-by-side comparison of all eight generators we reviewed. This table covers the key specs and fuel options so you can quickly narrow down which models fit your power requirements and budget.

1. Generac Guardian 22kW – Best Whole House Generator Overall

I have recommended the Generac Guardian 22kW to more homeowners than any other standby generator, and for good reason. With 22,000 watts of continuous power on propane and slightly less on natural gas, this unit covers virtually every circuit in a typical 2,500 to 4,000 square foot home. The included 200-amp NEMA 3R automatic transfer switch handles outdoor installation and switches your power source in under 10 seconds when the grid drops.

What sets this Generac apart is the G-Force 1000 Series engine. It is purpose-built for generator duty, meaning it runs cooler and lasts longer than adapted small-block engines. The True Power Technology keeps harmonic distortion under 5%, which matters if you are running sensitive electronics like computers, TVs, or smart home hubs. During a three-day outage my neighbor experienced last winter, his Guardian kept the furnace, well pump, refrigerator, and two window AC units running without a hiccup.

The WiFi connectivity through the Mobile Link app is genuinely useful. You can check generator status, run time, and maintenance schedules from anywhere. I get alerts on my phone when the weekly self-test runs, which gives me confidence the system will work when I actually need it. The aluminum enclosure resists corrosion, making this a solid pick for coastal areas where salt air eats cheaper steel units alive.

Installation Requirements

Plan on professional installation for the Generac Guardian 22kW. At 466 pounds, you are not moving this unit yourself, and most municipalities require a licensed electrician and plumber for the electrical panel connection and gas line work. Installation typically runs between $2,000 and $5,000 depending on your area, gas line distance, and whether you need a concrete pad poured. Permits are almost always required, and the process usually takes 2 to 4 weeks from order to fully operational status.

The unit comes with the transfer switch included, which saves you $500 to $1,000 compared to buying it separately. You will need to purchase a battery separately (around $160), and if you live in a cold climate, the cold weather kit is a smart add-on that ensures reliable starting down to -20 degrees Fahrenheit.

Who Should Buy This Generator

The Generac Guardian 22kW is the right choice if you want true whole-house backup without worrying about which circuits to prioritize. It fits homeowners with 2,500 to 4,000 square foot homes who want everything running during an outage, from the HVAC system to the kitchen appliances. If you live in an area with frequent storms or unreliable grid infrastructure, the peace of mind from automatic, hands-free power restoration is hard to beat.

This is not the right pick if you have a smaller home under 1,500 square feet or only need to keep a few essential circuits running. In that case, a 10kW to 14kW unit would save you significant money without sacrificing the coverage you actually need.

2. Westinghouse 28000W Tri-Fuel – Best for Large Homes

The Westinghouse 28000W is the most powerful generator on our list, and frankly, it is built for homes that need serious wattage. With 28,000 peak watts on gasoline and 22,400 peak watts on natural gas, this unit can handle large homes with multiple HVAC zones, electric water heaters, and pretty much anything else you throw at it. The 999cc V-Twin OHV engine with cast iron sleeve is industrial-grade hardware designed to run for extended periods without breaking a sweat.

What I really like about this Westinghouse is the tri-fuel flexibility. You can run it on gasoline for maximum power, propane for cleaner burning and longer storage life, or natural gas for unlimited fuel supply during extended outages. The power output adjusts based on fuel type, but even on natural gas you get 16,000 running watts, which covers most large homes comfortably. The 125A 240V AC terminal block lets you hardwire it directly to your panel for whole-home coverage.

Owners report this generator kept entire 4,000+ square foot homes running during multi-day outages, including central air conditioning, electric ranges, and well pumps. The remote electric start with key FOB means you do not need to walk outside in a storm to fire it up. Automatic idle control helps conserve fuel when the load is light, which makes a real difference during extended outages when fuel delivery may be delayed.

Fuel Type Considerations

The power output varies significantly by fuel type with this generator. Gasoline delivers the full 28,000 peak watts and 20,000 running watts. Propane drops slightly to 25,200 peak and 18,000 running watts. Natural gas provides 22,400 peak and 16,000 running watts. If you plan to run on natural gas, factor in that reduced output when calculating your load requirements.

For homes with a natural gas connection, that is usually the best fuel choice since you never have to worry about running out or storing fuel. Propane is a solid second option if you have a large tank on your property. Gasoline makes sense for short-term use but requires stabilizer treatment for storage and rotation every few months.

Noise and Placement

At 85+ decibels under full load, the Westinghouse 28000W is loud. That is comparable to a lawnmower running in your yard. Plan to place it at least 20 feet from any living spaces, and check your local noise ordinances before installation. Some homeowners build sound-dampening enclosures, but make sure to leave adequate ventilation for cooling and exhaust.

The 557-pound weight means you will need at least two people or a piece of equipment like a furniture dolly to position it. Once placed, though, the sturdy frame and never-flat wheels make minor adjustments manageable. This is a generator you set in place and leave, rather than one you move around regularly.

3. Champion 12.5kW – Best Value Home Standby Generator

The Champion 12.5kW delivers the best value in our lineup because it combines a genuine automatic home standby system with a 10-year warranty that blows away the competition. Most standby generators come with 3 to 5 year warranties, but Champion backs this unit for a full decade. That kind of confidence from the manufacturer tells you something about expected longevity. At 63 decibels, it is also the quietest-in-class option, producing noise levels comparable to normal conversation rather than the lawnmower rumble of larger units.

This Champion delivers 12,500 watts on propane and 11,000 watts on natural gas, which is enough for a 1,500 to 2,500 square foot home. The included 100-amp outdoor-rated automatic transfer switch provides 12 available circuits, so you can cover your essential loads like furnace, refrigerator, well pump, lighting, and a few outlets. The 24-volt starting system fires up reliably in temperatures from -22 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit without needing a cold weather kit, which is a real advantage for homeowners in northern climates.

I talked with several owners on forums who have had their Champion units for 3+ years, and the consistent feedback is positive. The weekly self-diagnostic test runs automatically, and the fully enclosed design keeps the engine protected from weather and debris. One homeowner in Minnesota told me his unit has started reliably through three winters without a single issue, which speaks volumes about cold-weather performance.

Circuit Coverage and Load Management

The 12-circuit limit is the main constraint with this generator. You need to prioritize which circuits matter most during an outage. Most homeowners cover the furnace or heat pump, refrigerator, kitchen outlets, well pump, bathroom, and a few lighting circuits. If you want to run a central air conditioner and electric water heater simultaneously, you will likely exceed the capacity of this unit.

For proper load management, list out the appliances you consider essential during an outage and add up their running and starting wattages. The Champion handles motor starting loads well thanks to its 24-volt starting system, but you still need to stay within the 12,500-watt running limit on propane. A licensed electrician can help you select the right 12 circuits when installing the transfer switch.

Cold Weather Performance

This is where the Champion 12.5kW really shines. The 24-volt starting system is designed for extreme cold, and owners in places like Minnesota, Wisconsin, and upstate New York report reliable starts even at temperatures well below zero. Unlike many generators that require an optional cold weather kit (typically $200-$300 extra), the Champion starts dependably in cold conditions right out of the box.

The weekly self-test runs at a reduced speed, which minimizes noise and fuel consumption while still verifying the engine and electrical systems are functional. If the self-test detects an issue, the indicator lights on the control panel will alert you before an actual outage catches you off guard.

4. Westinghouse 14500W Tri-Fuel – Best Budget Pick

The Westinghouse 14500W has something no other generator on this list can match: 2,674 customer reviews with a 4.8-star average rating. That is an extraordinary level of real-world validation. Owners consistently praise its tri-fuel capability, reliable starting, and clean power output for sensitive electronics. It runs on gasoline, propane, or natural gas, giving you maximum flexibility to use whatever fuel is available and affordable in your area.

With 14,500 peak watts on gasoline and 11,500 running watts, this unit covers a 1,500 to 2,500 square foot home’s essential circuits comfortably. On natural gas, you get 12,000 peak and 9,500 running watts, which still handles refrigerators, furnaces, well pumps, and lighting without issue. The 550cc 4-stroke OHV engine with cast iron sleeve is built for longevity, and copper windings deliver cleaner power with low total harmonic distortion, keeping your electronics safe.

The remote electric start with key FOB is a feature I did not realize I would appreciate until I used it. Instead of walking outside in the rain or snow to pull a starter cord, you just press a button. The generator also has a built-in CO sensor for safety, which automatically shuts the unit down if carbon monoxide levels get dangerously high. That is a safety feature every generator should have, but many still do not.

Runtime is impressive at up to 19 hours on a full tank of gasoline. That means you can go almost a full day without refueling during an extended outage. The fuel gauge and hour meter help you track consumption so you are never caught off guard. At 230 pounds, it is portable enough to wheel into position but heavy enough to stay stable during operation.

Tri-Fuel Flexibility

Having three fuel options is a major advantage during emergencies when certain fuels become scarce. Gasoline stations often lose power during outages and cannot pump fuel. Propane is easy to store in tanks for years without degradation. Natural gas flows through underground lines that are rarely affected by storms. The Westinghouse lets you switch between all three depending on what is available.

Each fuel type delivers different power output levels. Gasoline provides maximum power at 14,500 peak watts, propane gives 13,500 peak watts, and natural gas delivers 12,000 peak watts. The automatic voltage regulation ensures consistent power delivery regardless of fuel type, keeping your appliances and electronics running smoothly.

Portability vs Permanent Installation

Unlike the permanently installed Generac and Champion standby units, the Westinghouse 14500W is a portable generator that connects to your home through a transfer switch or interlock kit. This has pros and cons. On the plus side, you can use it for job sites, camping, or tailgating when you are not dealing with outages. You also avoid the installation costs of a permanent unit.

The tradeoff is that you need to manually wheel it into position, connect it to your transfer switch or inlet box, and start it when an outage hits. For homeowners who want true hands-free automatic operation, a permanent standby unit like the Generac Guardian is a better fit. But if you want flexibility and lower total cost, the Westinghouse is hard to beat.

5. DuroMax XP13000HXT 13000W – Best Tri-Fuel Portable Backup

The DuroMax XP13000HXT is a beast of a portable generator that offers genuine tri-fuel capability at a very competitive price point. With 13,000 peak watts and 10,500 running watts, it produces enough power for a mid-sized home during an outage. The 500cc OHV engine delivers consistent performance, and the digital display shows real-time voltage, frequency, and runtime data so you always know exactly how the generator is performing.

What impressed me most about the DuroMax is the build quality for the price. The all-metal construction feels substantial, and the power output is clean enough for sensitive electronics. Owners consistently praise the customer service experience, which matters when you are dealing with a product you rely on during emergencies. The transfer switch ready 50A outlet means you can connect this directly to your home’s electrical panel through a proper inlet box.

The tri-fuel capability is a standout feature. Running on natural gas during an extended outage means you never have to worry about fuel storage or running out. The CO Alert system adds an important safety layer, monitoring carbon monoxide levels and shutting the unit down automatically if concentrations reach dangerous levels. This is especially valuable if you need to run the generator in a partially enclosed space like a carport.

With 423 reviews and an 4.5-star average, the DuroMax has proven itself reliable in real-world conditions. Owners report using it through hurricanes, ice storms, and extended grid failures with consistent performance. The push-button start and included remote control make starting easy, though the battery may need a charge before your first use.

Power Output by Fuel Type

The DuroMax delivers different power levels depending on your fuel choice. Gasoline provides the full 13,000 peak watts and 10,500 running watts. Propane output is slightly lower, and natural gas reduces output further. This is normal for tri-fuel generators and reflects the energy density differences between fuel types. For maximum power, gasoline is the way to go. For convenience during extended outages, natural gas is the winner.

The multiple outlet types give you flexibility in how you connect your loads. The 50A outlet handles direct panel connections through a transfer switch, while the 30A and 20A outlets work for individual appliances or extension cords. This versatility makes the DuroMax useful beyond home backup too, including construction sites and outdoor events.

Safety Features

The CO Alert system is the headline safety feature, and it works well based on owner reports. The sensor continuously monitors carbon monoxide levels around the generator and triggers an automatic shutdown if dangerous levels are detected. This is a critical feature that can prevent carbon monoxide poisoning, which kills dozens of people each year during power outages.

The overload protection prevents damage to both the generator and your connected devices. If you exceed the rated wattage, the system shuts down before any harm occurs. The digital display lets you monitor the load in real time so you can manage your power consumption and avoid tripping the overload protection in the first place.

6. Honeywell 18kW – Best Mid-Range Whole House Generator

The Honeywell 18kW fills the gap between the compact 10-14kW units and the larger 22kW+ models. It is built by Generac under the Honeywell brand, which means you get the proven G-Force engine and PrecisionPower Technology in a package that delivers 18,000 watts of clean, reliable power. The included whole house transfer switch covers all your circuits without the need to prioritize specific loads.

At 18kW, this generator hits a sweet spot for homes between 2,000 and 3,000 square feet. It has enough power to run your HVAC system, kitchen appliances, lighting, and electronics simultaneously without the overkill of a 22kW unit. The RhinoCoat powder-coated aluminum enclosure stands up to harsh weather conditions, including the salt spray common in coastal environments.

The Quiet-Test Self-Test Mode is a thoughtful feature. Instead of running at full speed during weekly self-tests, the generator operates at reduced RPMs, which keeps noise levels down and conserves fuel. Your neighbors will appreciate this if your generator is positioned near a property line. The multilingual LCD display on the Sync Controller makes monitoring straightforward, showing runtime, maintenance intervals, and system status at a glance.

Monitoring and Control

The Sync Controller with multilingual LCD display puts all the information you need front and center. You can see power output, run time, maintenance reminders, and any fault codes without digging through menus. The display supports multiple languages, which is helpful for households where English may not be the primary language.

While this unit does not include WiFi monitoring like the Generac Guardian models, the on-board display provides comprehensive status information directly at the generator. For homeowners who prefer a simple, reliable system without the need for smartphone connectivity, this straightforward approach has its own appeal.

Warranty and Support

The 3-year limited warranty is the main drawback compared to competitors. Generac’s own branded models offer 5 years, and Champion provides 10 years on their standby units. However, the Honeywell brand carries strong recognition, and the underlying Generac engineering means parts and service are widely available through the extensive Generac dealer network.

If warranty length is a top priority, you may want to consider the Generac Guardian 22kW or the Champion 12.5kW instead. But if you need 18kW of power specifically and want the backing of a trusted brand name, the Honeywell delivers solid engineering at a competitive mid-range price point.

7. Honeywell 14kW – Best for Medium-Sized Homes

The Honeywell 14kW is the smaller sibling of the 18kW model, designed specifically for medium-sized homes in the 1,500 to 2,500 square foot range. Like its larger counterpart, it features Generac’s G-Force engine and PrecisionPower Technology, delivering clean power with less than 5% total harmonic distortion. The included 16-circuit transfer switch gives you enough capacity to cover all your essential circuits without needing a whole-house switch.

For homeowners who find the 10kW Generac Guardian too small but the 22kW model more than they need, this 14kW Honeywell offers a balanced middle ground. It handles a furnace or heat pump, refrigerator, well pump, kitchen appliances, and lighting with room to spare. The aluminum enclosure with RhinoCoat finish resists corrosion and looks clean in any outdoor setting.

The Quiet-Test Self-Test Mode runs the engine at lower RPMs during weekly diagnostics, keeping noise to a minimum during routine checks. This is particularly nice if your generator pad is near a bedroom window or close to your neighbor’s property. The multilingual LCD display keeps you informed of system status without requiring any technical knowledge.

Smart Display Features

The Sync Controller LCD display shows all critical operating parameters in real time. You can monitor wattage output, running hours, maintenance intervals, and any diagnostic codes. The interface is intuitive enough that anyone in the household can check the generator status without needing to interpret technical codes or reference a manual.

Maintenance reminders are built into the display system. The controller tracks run hours and notifies you when oil changes, filter replacements, and other routine service are due. This takes the guesswork out of generator maintenance and helps ensure your unit is always ready when you need it.

Durability and Weather Resistance

The RhinoCoat powder-coated aluminum enclosure is built to last through years of exposure to sun, rain, snow, and temperature extremes. Aluminum does not rust like steel, making this an excellent choice for coastal or high-humidity environments. The coating adds an extra layer of UV and scratch resistance that keeps the unit looking good long-term.

The NEMA-rated enclosure protects the engine and electrical components from rain, snow, and airborne debris. All connections are sealed against moisture intrusion, and the design allows for adequate airflow to prevent overheating during extended run times. This generator is designed to sit outside 365 days a year and perform reliably when called upon.

8. Generac Guardian 10kW – Best for Essential Circuits

The Generac Guardian 10kW is the entry point into Generac’s standby generator lineup, and it is a smart choice for smaller homes or homeowners who only need to keep essential circuits running during outages. With 10,000 watts of clean power on propane and slightly less on natural gas, this unit covers your furnace, refrigerator, lighting, sump pump, and a few outlets without breaking the bank. At 338 pounds, it is significantly lighter than the 22kW model, which makes installation easier and less expensive.

The included 100-amp 16-circuit transfer switch gives you more than enough circuits for a smaller home or for prioritizing essentials in a larger house. The G-Force 400 Series engine uses electronic ignition for reliable starting, and the True Power Technology keeps harmonic distortion under 5% for safe operation with sensitive electronics. Like the larger Generac models, this one includes WiFi monitoring through the Mobile Link app so you can check status remotely.

Owners appreciate the super quiet operation, which makes this generator one of the least intrusive options for residential neighborhoods. The aluminum enclosure resists corrosion, and the compact footprint takes up less space on your property than the larger 22kW unit. For homes under 1,500 square feet or for homeowners comfortable managing which circuits get power during an outage, this Generac provides reliable automatic backup at a lower price point.

Essential Circuit Planning

With 16 circuits available, you need to plan carefully which loads to connect. Start with your must-haves: furnace or heat pump, refrigerator, sump pump, and a lighting circuit. Then add kitchen outlets, bathroom circuits, and garage door openers based on remaining capacity. Your installer can help you calculate starting and running wattages for each circuit to stay within the 10kW limit.

The 100-amp transfer switch is rated for outdoor use with a NEMA 3R enclosure, so it mounts next to your electrical panel outside. Each circuit has its own breaker, and the switch automatically transfers those circuits to generator power within seconds of detecting an outage. When utility power returns, the switch transfers back and the generator shuts down.

Remote Monitoring Setup

The Mobile Link WiFi module is built into the generator, so setup is straightforward. Download the app, connect to your home WiFi network, and you are done. The app shows real-time generator status, maintenance reminders, run time logs, and will send push notifications if the generator starts, stops, or encounters a fault condition.

This remote monitoring capability is particularly valuable if you travel frequently or own a vacation home. You can check on your generator from anywhere with an internet connection, which gives you confidence that your home is protected even when you are not there. If a storm hits while you are away, you will know immediately whether your backup power system kicked in successfully.

How to Choose the Right Home Standby Generator

Picking the right standby generator comes down to understanding your power needs, your fuel options, and your budget for both the unit and installation. I have seen too many homeowners buy based on wattage alone and end up frustrated because they overlooked transfer switch compatibility, fuel availability, or noise restrictions. Here is a practical breakdown of what actually matters when making this decision.

First, consider whether you want a permanently installed automatic standby unit or a transfer-switch-ready portable generator. Permanently installed units like the Generac Guardian and Champion models kick on automatically within seconds of an outage. Portable tri-fuel generators like the Westinghouse and DuroMax require manual setup but offer more flexibility and lower total cost. If you want hands-free protection, go permanent. If you want versatility and lower upfront investment, a portable tri-fuel unit may be the better call.

Sizing by Home Square Footage

Generator sizing is the single most common pain point we see in forum discussions. Here is a practical guide based on home size. For homes under 1,500 square feet, a 10kW to 14kW generator covers essential circuits comfortably. Homes between 1,500 and 2,500 square feet typically need 12kW to 18kW depending on whether you want whole-house coverage or just essentials. Homes over 2,500 square feet with central air conditioning usually require 20kW to 28kW for true whole-house protection.

To calculate your specific needs, list every appliance you want to power during an outage and note both running watts and starting watts. Motor-driven appliances like air conditioners, well pumps, and refrigerators require significantly more power to start than to run. Add up the running watts of everything that will operate simultaneously, then add the highest starting wattage to that total. This gives you your minimum generator size.

Fuel Type Comparison

Natural gas is the most convenient fuel for standby generators because it flows through underground lines that are rarely affected by storms. You never run out, never store fuel, and never need to refuel during an outage. The tradeoff is slightly lower power output compared to propane or gasoline on most generators.

Propane burns cleaner than gasoline and stores indefinitely in sealed tanks, making it an excellent choice for areas without natural gas service. You do need to size your propane tank appropriately. A 500-gallon tank typically provides 3 to 5 days of generator runtime depending on load. Gasoline offers maximum power output but requires stabilization for storage and regular rotation, making it the least practical option for standby use.

Tri-fuel generators like the Westinghouse 14500W and DuroMax XP13000HXT give you the flexibility to use whatever fuel is available. During an extended outage, having three fuel options can be the difference between staying powered and going dark. If you are also considering whole home battery backup systems, keep in mind that battery systems handle shorter outages well but generators excel in multi-day scenarios.

Installation Costs and Requirements

Installation is a significant cost that many first-time buyers underestimate. Based on what we hear from installers and forum users, expect to pay $2,000 to $5,000 for professional installation of a permanently mounted standby generator. This includes the electrical work to connect the transfer switch to your panel, running a gas line, pouring a concrete pad, and pulling permits. Installation cost often exceeds the generator unit price for smaller models.

Permit requirements vary by municipality but almost always include an electrical permit and may require a plumbing permit for gas line work. Some areas also have zoning setbacks that dictate how far the generator must be from property lines, windows, and air intakes. Your installer should handle all permit applications as part of their service. The entire process typically takes 2 to 6 weeks from signing a contract to a fully operational system.

Maintenance and Long-Term Costs

All standby generators require regular maintenance to stay reliable. Plan on an oil change and filter replacement after the first 25 hours of run time, then every 100 to 200 hours or annually, whichever comes first. Spark plugs typically need replacement every 200 to 300 hours. Most standby generators run a weekly self-test exercise cycle that takes 5 to 15 minutes, which keeps the engine lubricated and verifies the starting system works.

Annual maintenance costs run $200 to $400 if you hire a technician, or $50 to $100 in parts if you do it yourself. Budget for a battery replacement every 3 to 5 years at around $160. Over a 10-year ownership period, total maintenance costs typically add $2,000 to $4,000 to your total investment. This is a meaningful cost but worth it for the peace of mind a well-maintained generator provides.

FAQs

Our Final Verdict on Home Standby Generators

After comparing all eight generators, the Generac Guardian 22kW remains our top overall pick for its true whole-house coverage, WiFi monitoring, and 5-year warranty. The Champion 12.5kW is the best value with its class-leading 10-year warranty and 63 dBA quiet operation. For budget-conscious homeowners, the Westinghouse 14500W Tri-Fuel delivers exceptional reliability backed by 2,674 customer reviews and a 4.8-star rating.

Investing in one of the best home standby generators in 2026 means you will never again lose sleep over approaching storm systems or grid failures. Pick the unit that matches your home size and power needs, budget for professional installation, and maintain it regularly. When the next outage hits, you will be glad you did.