Having a generator to provide backup power can be helpful, no matter where you live, but it’s downright essential if you reside in an area prone to extreme weather and frequent power outages.

Every generator and power station has two numbers listed on it: starting watts (sometimes called surge or peak watts) and running watts. Both refer to how much power a generator can deliver, whether ...

Editor’s Note — October 9, 2025: We checked our recommendations to verify that they are still in stock and competitively priced. We’ve also added a standby generator, the Generac Guardian 22-Kilowatt ...