The 10 Best 12kw Portable Generator Of 2024, Researched By Us
By, Scott NelsonUpdated
Our Top Picks
1. Best Overall: Westinghouse Portable Generator
The Westinghouse Portable Generator offers convenient portability and the power you need to keep your home running during a power outage. This unit is remote-start capable and includes a key fob for maximum convenience. There are also rubber covers for both the air intake and exhaust ports to ensure safety. With a fuel gauge and an engine featuring a long-lasting cast iron sleeve, you can rest assured that your generator will work when you need it most. Read Review
2. Best Bang For The Buck: DuroMax XP12000EH Generator
The DuroMax XP12000EH Generator is the perfect generator for home and commercial use. With dual fuel technology, it's capable of handling heavy loads and high-amperage power tools that require a constant stable power source. This portable generator has a starting wattage of 12,000 watts, which is more than enough to power your home during a power outage. Read Review
3. Best Energy Efficient: WEN DF1200X 12000-Watt Electric Start Portable Generator
This model features electric start and an adjustable throttle to power your essential devices with the turn of a key. With 2-stroke engine technology, it's always ready to go with a turn of a key. The DF1100T provides up to 8.5 hours of run time on half load, or 16 hours on quarter load. Read Review
4. Best Efficient: Pulsar G12KBN Generator
The Pulsar G12KBN is a dual fuel generator that allows you to choose between gasoline and LPG fuel sources. With an integrated 10-inch never-flat wheels, you can take the generator wherever you need it with ease. The 3-in-1 digital meter includes an electric wattmeter, oil pressure and water temperature gauge, so you know your generator is always in good shape. The automatic voltage regulation optimizes output power for more stable operation. Read Review
5. Best Reliable: A-iPower SUA12000E Portable Generator
The A-iPower SUA12000E Portable Generator is perfect for home use, camping or anywhere you need reliable power. It features a durable, lightweight design that's easy to store and transport. With advanced features like an alert light and low oil automatic shutdown, it's even more reliable than ever. All outlets include rubber covers for safety and protection from the elements. Read Review
Portable generators are a great addition to your household or business. They provide backup power in case of a blackout or natural disaster, so you can get essential services restored sooner rather than later. But with all the different options on the market, it’s difficult to know which one is the best for your home or business.
There are many factors to consider before purchasing a generator, including their weight and size, wattage output, fuel type, and noise level. To help you find the perfect generator that meets your needs and budget, we’ve put together this handy buyer’s guide to the best 12kw portable generator on the market right now.
After nearly 17 hours of research, We think the best 12kw portable generator is Westinghouse Portable Generator. Or you can check the DuroMax XP12000EH Generator as the other great option, even if the first option didn't meet all of your requirements.
RELATED: We found the best fuel efficient generator for 2024 with the features and benefits you need.
Our Top Picks
Easy to start by remote control Safe when using The digital display shows necessary parameters, easy maintenance Easy to install
It's pretty heavy; it's hard to lift it
Powered by a Heavy Duty 457cc Westinghouse 4-Stroke OHV Engine Featuring a Long-Lasting Cast Iron Sleeve With Automatic Low Oil Shutdown and Digital Hour Meter. VFT display gives you real time updates with the voltage output, frequency, and lifetime hours
Features Two GFCI 120V 5–20R Standard Household Receptacle, One Transfer Switch Ready 120V L14-30R, and One RV Ready 120/240V 14–50R; All Outlets Have Rubber Covers for Added Safety
All Westinghouse Portable Generators are Functionally Tested in the Factory and May Contain Minimum Residual Oil and/or Fuel Odor; EPA and CARB Compliant; Backed by 3-Year Limited Service, Labor, and Parts Coverage with Nationwide Customer Service Network
Plug-and-Play: Comes With a Remote Start Key Fob, 12V Battery Charger, Oil, an Oil Funnel, a Tool Kit, and a User’s Manual to Get You Started Right Out of the Box (Minimal Assembly Required)
9500 Running Watts and 12500 Peak Watts (Gasoline); 8500 Running Watts, 11200 Peak Watts (Propane); Remote Start With Included Key Fob, Electric and Recoil Start; Up to 12 Hours of Run Time on a 6. 6 Gallon Fuel Tank With Fuel Gauge
Easy to install and start The powerful motor can be used for most household electrical appliances Safe for electronic devices
The operation is a bit noisy
Dual fuel technology: the ability to run on propane or gasoline allows the freedom and flexibility of fuel choice. Protects your investment by automatically shutting the generator off when it senses that the oil is low
Powerful DuroMax Engine: the XP12000EH is powered by a DuroMax, 457cc OHV engine.
With Propane : Peak Wattage - 11,400., Running Wattage - 9,025., Running Amperage at 120V - 75.21., Running Amperage at 240V - 37.6., Runtime at 25% Load - 14., Runtime at 50% Load - 7
Powering everyone anywhere: like all DuroMax generators, the XP12000EH is EPA and CARB approved For use in all 50 States.
Maximum power: with DuroMax MX2 technology, get the maximum power from each of the 120 volt receptacle. Choose between operating the generator at both 120 V and 240 V Simultaneously, or at 120 only with full power.
Engine Type: 4-Stroke
Plenty of power: with 12,000 starting watts and 9, 500 running watts, This unit can handle heavy loads from lights and a refrigerator to a home air conditioner and high amperage power tools.
With Gasoline : Peak Wattage - 12,000., Running Wattage - 9,500., Running Amperage at 120V - 79.17., Running Amperage at 240V - 39.58., Runtime at 25% Load - 19., Runtime at 50% Load - 8
Please read the detailed safety instructions in the manual before operating.
Switch between gasoline (12000 surge watts, 9500 running watt) and propane (11000 surge, 9000 running) with the simple turn of the selection dial
7.9-gallon tank provides up to 7.5 hours of half load run time
The WEN Watchdog CO Shutdown Sensor helps protect both you and your family by automatically turning off the generator if dangerous levels of carbon monoxide are detected
Electric start powers the 500cc 4-stroke OHV engine with the turn of a key
Includes four 120V GFCI 5-20R receptacles, one 120V/240V transfer-switch-ready NEMA L14-30R twist lock receptacle, one 120V/240V 50A NEMA L14-50R receptacle, a 12V DC cigarette-lighter-style plug, a bottle of oil, a wheel and handle kit, an LPG connection hose, and a 2-year warranty
Easy to get started Multi-socket design Flexible fuel change Easy to use
It is pretty heavy and difficult to carry
Includes propane hose & backed by a 1 Year limited
A 8 gallon fuel tank gives you up to 12 hours of continuous operation at half load when running on gasoline
Complete with low oil shut-off, 3-in-1 digital meter, and automatic voltage Regulation for less worry and hassle
Dual fuel capability allows you to choose between gasoline & LPG fuel sources; great for emergency situations or natural disaster as LPG may be more readily available and easy to store
(4) 120V 20A AC outlets, (1) 120V/240V 30A twist-lock outlet, (1) 120V/240V 50A outlet, (1) 12V DC output provide ample space for powering appliances, tools, and other devices
12, 000 peak watts/ 9, 500 Rated watts (gasoline) & 10, 800 peak watts/ 8, 550 Rated watts (LPG)
Convenient drop-down handles and 10” never-flat wheels for added mobility and easy storage
The 457cc, single cylinder, 4-stroke, air cooled, OHV engine with electric start is protected by a durable powder coated frame
Powerful motor, powering most home appliances Easy to assemble Easy to start and use Auto-off mode when the oil level is low, protect the machine for a long time
It's a bit noisy
Outlets include: 2x5-20R Duplex GFCI (20A, 120V), 1xL14-30R (30A, 120/240V), 1x14-50R (50A, 120/240V), 1xMultifunction Port USB Ready Automotive Style Outlet (8.3A, 12V). All outlets include rubber covers for an additional layer of safety.
The A-iPower SUA12000 produces 12,000 starting watts with 9,000 running watts to power your tools at the construction site, camping ground, or home appliances
Powerful 459 cc OHV 4 stroke engine with a low oil alert light and low oil automatic shutdown, helping keep your generator performing year after year
Complete with Electric Start capability allowing you to quickly, easily, and conveniently start up your generator whenever you need it
Large 7 gallon gasoline fuel tank provides average run time of 7 hours at 100% load and 9 hours at 50% load
Easy to assemble and start Powerful engine Easy to change fuel used Digital meter allows monitoring of parameters and easy maintenance
The operation is a bit noisy
The fully loaded power panel includes four 120V GFCI household outlets, one 120V 30AMP outlet, one 120/240V 30AMP twist-lock outlet, and a heavy-duty 120/240V 50AMP outlet making it transfer switch ready!
Built using a powerful 460cc OHV DuroMax engine and features ALL COPPER WINDINGS designed to make your generator last for years
Equipped with DuroMax “CO Alert Technology” that will automatically shut down the generator if an unsafe level of carbon monoxide is detected
All-new control center with a digital multimeter, push-button start, and a front-facing fuel interface allowing you to change your fuel type in seconds! The digital multimeter displays voltage, frequency, total hours run, and hours until the recommended maintenance
This generator runs on gasoline or propane, giving you the freedom and flexibility of fuel choice
Easy to assemble The powerful motor can be used for most home electrical appliances It's easy to move
It doesn't have a fuel gauge
Ultra-Powerful – At 15,000 starting watts and 12,000 running watts, enjoy up to 9 hours of run time on a full tank of gasoline with a noise level of 78 dBA from 23 feet
Covered Outlets – One 120V 30A locking, a 120/240V 30A locking, a 120/240V 50A and four 120V 20A GFCI outlets, plus Volt Guard built-in surge protector prevents overloads and keeps your appliances and equipment safe
Champion Support – includes 3-year limited warranty with FREE lifetime technical support from dedicated experts
Electric Start – Trust the reliable 717cc V-Twin Champion engine with its battery-included electric start featuring a reliable toggle switch, plus built-in Cold Start Technology for easy starts in cold weather
Lift Hook – Designed for safe and easy transport, loading and unloading, plus the Intelligauge keeps track of voltage, hertz and run-time hours so you can easily monitor power output and track maintenance intervals
Dual Fuel Capability lets you choose between Gasoline or LPG fuel sources for running your generator
A Large 6. 6 Gallon High Capacity Fuel Tank gives you up to 10 Hours of Continuous Operation at half load when running on gasoline
Switch & Go Technology allows for seamless transitioning between LPG and Gasoline fuel sources while still in operation
11, 050W Peak/ 9, 000W Rated (Gasoline) & 10, 050W Peak/8, 100W Rated (LPG)
The powerful 457cc, Single Cylinder, 4-Stroke, OHV, Air Cooled Engine is protected by a Heavy-Duty Powder Coated Steel Frame
Inverter Power with Conventional Frame: Cutting-Edge Open Frame Inverter Design: 30% quieter and 25% lighter than a traditional open frame 12,000-watt generator, plus the ability to use gas or propane. Providing clean power needed for all sensitive electronics, but open frame to make routine maintenance simple.
Digital Panel: GFCI sockets with electric leakage protection. Monitor voltage, frequency, and operating hours to view your generators operating performance. The DUALFORCE comes equipped with 50A 4-hole socket to power the whole house, and built-in AC/DC outputs to power more devices such as tablets, RV, household appliances, automotive electronics, and all other sensitive electronics.
MAY THE DUALFORCE BE WITH YOU: Have piece of mind knowing your product is backed by a 1-year parts & Labor warranty. CARB Compliant.
Dual Fuel Hybrid with Noise Reduction: The DUALFORCE comes with propane quick connect hose kit. Switch from Gas to Propane at the push of a button. Ultra-Quiet and Extended Run Time: 78 dBA is great for your next project or home backup, with 12,000 starting watts and 9,000 running watts for up to 9 hours run time on gasoline.
Whole Home Backup: 12,000 Peak Watts and 9,000 rated Watts (Gasoline); 8,100 Running Watts, 10,800 Peak Watts (Propane); Remote Start with Included Key Fob, Electric and Recoil Start; Up to 9 Hours of Run Time on single tank.
【DUAL FUEL OUTPUT】 458cc 4-stroke OHV engine produces 10000 peak watts and 9000 rated watts with 10.5 gallon fuel tank; Gas or Propane Powered ,giving you the freedom and flexibility of fuel choice. This generator is perfect for emergency home power, job site use or camping with your RV.
【 EASY TO CARRY AND USE】 Strong steel handle and 2 rolling wheels for easy travel; Electric start Enjoy on/off push，button power with electric start, battery included, plus Cold Start Technology ensures a quick start in cold weather.
【CO DETECT】Automatically turns off the generator when an unsafe level of carbon monoxide is detected.
【Extremely Fuel Efficient】Up to 14.5 hours of operation at 50% load for maximum fuel efficiency in "economy mode".
【Power Panel】 The covered outlets in this generator include a 120/240V 30A locking outlet (L14-30R), a 120/240V 50 A locking outlet (L14-50R), a 120V 30A outlet, four 120V 20A GFCI protected household outlets (5-20R) all with AC breakers and with a dual USB adapter.
What to Look For in a best 12kw portable generator?
Often buyers are reluctant to buy best 12kw portable generator. When considering a large purchase, certain things should be examined. Our knowledge and experience of best 12kw portable generator will help in making the best options.
Please keep in mind the following criterial before selecting the best 12kw portable generator:
Fuel Source
The majority of portable generators run on gasoline and can generally keep fridges and lights running for several hours. These generators can't be relied upon for long-term power backups, such as when there is no electricity for several days.
Propane and natural gas are used more often for large home-standby generators. These fuels can be used for larger home standby generators as they are cleaner-burning and offer on-demand power.
Solar or battery-powered power sources are an alternative to traditional fuel-powered generators. These machines have different capabilities, and their run time can vary widely. However, they might be the best match for you if your power requirements are less than minimal. They are typically used for camping only, not home.
Warranties
Certain warranties may also include travel expenses for technicians to visit the generator and fix it. However, this depends on which manufacturer you are using.
Automatic Start
Size
Be aware that the clearance between your home and generator may be determined by local codes or model specifications. A small generator may require only 18 inches of clearance.
Type
Wattage
However, this number does not represent the entire picture. Wattage is made up of three parts: power needed to turn on an appliance and power required to maintain it running. It also includes power necessary to sustain a power surge, which is when regular juice returns to normal and all appliances start to work again. Many appliances use more power for startup than their run energy consumption. You could overload your generator when you turn on appliances and other devices. If the generator can't provide enough power, it could overload. You need to know how many watts your generator can generate, depending on whether it is powering just one item or the whole house.
An increase in generator costs is generally associated with a higher wattage. Most people agree that it's better to have enough power than not to be able to run your fridge or keep cool by a fan.
RELATED: The best quiet generator for 2024 is the top product. We've compiled reviews and ratings for the best quiet generators on the market.
FAQs
How Do You Safely Run A Home Generator?
A whole-home generator or standby generator must be connected to a switch. This disconnects your circuit panel and the electrical grid, allowing power to flow through the circuits from the generator.
You must manually start the power transfer for portable generators. These products have different safety requirements.
Can I Use The Generator During Inclement Weather?
Although you can use your generator in any weather or temperature, protect it from the elements whenever it is not being used to stop it from shorting out and rusting. It is not recommended to run the generator indoors.
What Regular Maintenance Should Be Performed On A Home Generator?
You should get basic maintenance information from the manufacturer of any generator that you buy. However, most generator models will work fine if you follow these guidelines.
Run the generator at least 30 minutes per month or perform a weekly self test
When storing a gasoline-powered generator, add fuel stabilizer.
Regular oil changes are a must for your generator.
Does The Portable Generator Need To Be Grounded?
Yes. It is important that the generator be correctly grounded in order to protect your safety. The generator must be grounded properly to avoid electrocution. Grounding is a subject matter that must be adhered to by all authorities, federal and state.
Can I Vent The Exhaust Out Of An Enclosed Area?
No. The generator should not be used in enclosed areas or homes. The portable generators can only be run outdoors where there is adequate ventilation. As with all gasoline engines exhaust, generators contain poisonous carbon monoxide.
Where Is The Best Place To Put Your Home Generator?
Natural gas generators do not produce as much fumes than natural gas ranges. Gasoline-powered generators can produce carbon monoxide exhaust fumes, which is why it's important to select the ideal location. These are the reasons why utility companies and local codes often have specific requirements for placement.
A generator should generally be located at least 5ft from any windows or doors. While some generators are able to be mounted as close as 18inches from the house, it is still important that the generator is at least 5ft away from any air intake areas on the property.
It is not advisable to use portable generators in an indoor environment, such as a garage. This type of generator is best placed outdoors, away from windows and doors.
When new data becomes available, we routinely adjust the list of best 12kw portable generator. Please do regularly visit our website for the most up-to-date news.
If you have any questions or difficulties with best 12kw portable generator, please do not hesitate to contact us. We'll try our best to do everything we can to assist you if you ask!
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