Best 5000 Watt Generator Reviews of 2020 – Expert Opinion

Updated On: May 25, 2021
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Best 5000 Watt Generator Reviews

Whether you are looking for the best 5000-watt generator for emergency situations like sudden outages, or as a power solution for recreational activities, you have come to just the right place.

From household usage to job site requirements, food concession trucks, or camping trailers, generators are a widely popular choice of a power source. But deciding on which particular type of generator would be best for your needs is a whole different matter.

Don’t worry, though. We have prepared a list of our most favorite 5000-watts generators available out there, complete with their reviews for you. And what’s more, to make things even simpler, there is also a list of features that you need to look for.

1Top RatedChampion Champion 5000-Watt Portable Generator with Wheel Kit
    • Starting Power: 6250 Watt
    • Running Power: 5000 Watt
    • Noice Label: 74dB (From 23 Feet)
    • Operating Time: 9 hours @ 25% Load
    • Fuel Tank Size: 5.7 Gallon
    • Weight: 152.10lbs
2BudgetWEN WEN 56500 Portable Generator With Wheel Kit
    • Starting Power: 5000 Watt
    • Running Power: 4500 Watt
    • Noice Label: 68dB (From 23 Feet)
    • Operating Time: 7.5 hours @ 50% Load
    • Fuel Tank Size: 3.4 Gallon
    • Weight: 119lbs
3PopularDuromax Duromax XP5500EH Electric Start Portable Generator
    • Starting Power: 5500 Watt
    • Running Power: 4500 Watt
    • Noice Label: 69dB (From 23 Feet)
    • Operating Time: 8.92 hours @ 50% Load
    • Fuel Tank Size: 3.9 Gallon
    • Weight: 127lbs
4Fuel-EfficientPulsar Pulsar 5250 Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator
    • Starting Power: 5250 Watt
    • Running Power: 4250 Watt
    • Noice Label: 78dB (From 23 Feet)
    • Operating Time: 12 hours @ 50% Load
    • Fuel Tank Size: 4 Gallon
    • Weight: 115lbs
5Generac Generac 5939 GP5500 5500 Gas Powered Portable Generator
    • Starting Power: 6875 Watt
    • Running Power: 5500 Watt
    • Noice Label: Not Tested
    • Operating Time: 10 hours @ 50% Load
    • Fuel Tank Size: 6.7 Gallon
    • Weight: 170.9lbs
6Green Power Green-Power America GPG6500EW Electric Start Generator
    • Starting Power: 6500 Watt
    • Running Power: 5500 Watt
    • Noice Label: 76dB (From 23 Feet)
    • Operating Time: 11 hours @ 50% Load
    • Fuel Tank Size: 6.6 Gallon
    • Weight: 172lbs
7QuiestestHonda Honda 5000 Watt Portable Generator iAVR Technology
    • Starting Power: 5000 Watt
    • Running Power: 4500 Watt
    • Noice Label: 66dB (From 23 Feet)
    • Operating Time: 11 hours @ 50% Load
    • Fuel Tank Size: 6.2 Gallon
    • Weight: 232lbs
8JEGS JEGS 86065 Portable Generator
    • Starting Power: 5000 Watt
    • Running Power: 4250 Watt
    • Noice Label: 68dB (From 23 Feet)
    • Operating Time: 9 hours @ 50% Load
    • Fuel Tank Size: 4 Gallon
    • Weight: 130lbs
9LightweightGreen Power Green-Power America GPD5000W Gasoline Generator
    • Starting Power: 5000 Watt
    • Running Power: 3850 Watt
    • Noice Label: 74dB (From 23 Feet)
    • Operating Time: 11 hours @ 50% Load
    • Fuel Tank Size: 4 Gallon
    • Weight: 109lbs
10Briggs & Stratton Briggs & Stratton 30675 Q6500 Inverter Generator
    • Starting Power: 6500 Watt
    • Running Power: 5000 Watt
    • Noice Label: 66dB (From 23 Feet)
    • Operating Time: 14 hours @ 25% Load
    • Fuel Tank Size: 5 Gallon
    • Weight: 128lbs

Best 5000 Watt Generator – Detailed Reviews

Below, we have compiled a list of some of the best 5000-watt portable generators that your money can buy, with a review of each of these items for your convenience:

Champion 5000-Watt Portable Generator with Wheel Kit

Champion 5000-Watt Portable Generator with Wheel Kit
FeaturesValue
Output PowerStarting: 6250 Watt / Running: 5000 Watt
Noise Level74dB (From 23 Feet)
Operating Time9 hours / 50% Load
Fuel Tank Size5.7 Gallon
Starting MethodRecoil Pull Start
Weight152.1lbs

Here is one of the best rated 5000-watt generators on our list today. This powerful generator boasts 6250 starting watts and 5000 running watts with a runtime that is up to 9 whole hours. From a distance of 23 feet, this generator emits a noise level of 74 dBA while active.

You get a total of five outlets with this thing. Four of them are 120V 20A GFCI outlets, and one is a 120/240V 30A locking outlet. It also comes with 1.2-quarts of 10W-30 engine oil.

To keep your electronics safe and secure by preventing overload, this machine has a voltage guard system. This prevents voltage spikes before they occur so that there is no damage. And this machine also has an intelligauge for everything from voltage and frequency to operating hours of the generator.

Another thing we love about the Champion generator is how it incorporates safety with convenience. It has circuit breakers as a safety component, which also has a very convenient push-to-reset option. A reliable shut-off sensor is in place for a low-oil level. There is also a handy little oil funnel for you to use when changing oil.

And for starting options, this guy has the good old recoil start, as well as a Cold Start Technology for times when the weather conditions are adverse, and the temperature is low.

So, even in the winter, when starting everything is hard and complicated, you can rest easy knowing that at least your generator will start in a snap when you need it to.

Pros
  • Versatile and convenient
  • All its outlets have covers for safety
  • Has a built-in surge protector to prevent overload
  • EPA certified and CARB compliant
  • Can start quickly even in the winter
  • Excellent customer service
  • Great value for money
Cons
  • Can be a bit loud for some

WEN 56500 Portable Generator With Wheel Kit

WEN 56500 Portable Generator With Wheel Kit
FeaturesValue
Output PowerStarting: 5000 Watt / Running: 4500 Watt
Noise Level68dB (From 23 Feet)
Operating Time7.5 hours / 50% Load
Fuel Tank Size3.4 Gallon
Starting MethodRecoil Pull Start
Weight119lbs

This powerful machine produces up to 5000 starting watts on the get-go. And while running, it generates up to 4500 running watts. The fuel tank on this thing has a fluid capacity of 3.4 gallons, and this amount provides you with around 7.5 hours of runtime at 50% load.

Also, the design of this thing is also really compact and well thought out, complete with a handle and wheel kit for ease of moving as well as storage and relocation. As for the machine itself, it incorporates a 4-stroke OHV 272cc engine that’s really powerful, and reliable as well.

To connect to manual transfer switches, you simply need to set the L14-30R receptacle at 120 or 240 volts. There is a digital readout on the generator that shows the status of the voltage and frequency of the machine.

And in this way, it is easier for you to maintain this wen generator. It also helps to understand how well the machine is working to put out power. The generator comes really well packaged. Components that are more prone to damage are given special attention in the packaging so that they do not get damaged easily.

There are five outlets for your usage: two of these are 120V 20A household outlets (5-20R), one is a 120V 30A TT-30R RV outlet, another is a 120V/240V L14-30R outlet, and the last one is a 12V DC outlet.

There is a low-oil shut-off safety switch on this generator. It helps to shut the machine off automatically when the oil is running low. So you don’t have to worry about manually shutting this thing off when the fuel gets low.

Pros
  • Easy to install
  • Compact in size
  • Moving and storing is easy
  • Has a digital readout
  • Comes well packaged
  • Has a low-oil shut-off system
Cons
  • Putting oil in is a bit tricky
  • Parts can get damaged on long-distance shipments

Duromax XP5500EH Electric Start Portable Generator

Duromax XP5500EH Electric Start Portable Generator
FeaturesValue
Output PowerStarting: 5500 Watt / Running: 4500 Watt
Noise Level69dB (From 23 Feet)
Operating Time8.92 hours / 50% Load(Gasoline)
7.63 hours / 50% Load(Propane)
Fuel Tank Size3.9 Gallon
Starting MethodElectric / Recoil Pull Start
Weight127lbs

This machine right here is one of the finest 5000-watt generators that can function on two different types of fuel. A 7.5HP, 225cc OHC Duromax Engine powers this thing.

The two different types of fuel it can run on are propane and gasoline. This feature allows you with the flexibility of choosing between two fuel options for your generator.

You can use this generator to power everything from household items, campsites, and job sites. It produces 5500 starting watts, and 4500 running watts to provide to all your needs efficiently.

Moreover, this generator utilizes an advanced technology called DuroMax MX2 technology. It allows you to get the maximum output from each of its 120-volt receptacles. With this generator, you also get the option to run this thing on either 120 V and 240 V.

Also, this unit comprises windings that are all copper, and the whole unit is constructed of metal. The fuel tank has a capacity of 3.9 gallons.

With the machine itself, you get two 120V 20A household outlets and a 120/240V 30A twist-lock. The unit itself has a total weight of 127 lbs once assembled. It has a length of 25 inches, a width of 22 inches, and is 22 inches high with the wheel kit on.

Additionally, Duromax XP5500EH can be considered as the best 5000-watt generator for the money available out there. Other generators with similar capabilities either cost twice the money or weigh two times as much.

Pros
  • Flexible fuel options
  • Using propane can save money
  • Well designed unit with all metal components
  • Has both electric and pull start
  • Quite lightweight and easy to transport
  • Value for money
  • Durable
Cons
  • It has a relatively low wattage on propane
  • Power fluctuations may occur

Pulsar 5,250W Dual Fuel Portable Generator

Pulsar 5,250W Dual Fuel Portable Generator
FeaturesValue
Output PowerStarting: 5250 Watt / Running: 4250 Watt
Noise Level78dB (From 23 Feet)
Operating Time12 hours / 50% Load
Fuel Tank Size4 Gallon
Starting MethodRecoil Pull Start
Weight115lbs

This generator here has a Switch & Go technology that lets you switch between two fuels anytime. Even when the generator is running, you can easily switch between gas to LPG or LPG to gas. The unit gets powered by a 224cc, 4-Stroke, OHV, Air Cooled Engine.

A sturdy powder-coated steel frame is in place to protect the generator from external impacts. And a fuel tank with the capacity of 4 gallons makes the generator able to run for a whopping 12 hours when running on gasoline at half load.

When running on gas, this thing has a peak wattage of 5250, rated 4250 watts. And on LPG, the peak wattage gets to 4750, rated 3850 watts. Two 120V AC outlets, a 30Amp RV port, and a 120/240V twist-lock outlet are included within the package. These allow you to run a wide range and variety of stuff at the same time.

And the 30Amp RV port is really convenient for quickly connecting the generator to your RV. This makes it the perfect option if you are looking for a generator, especially for your RV.

The mobility kit on this guy is comprised of easy to use fold-down style handle and durable never-flat wheels. So storing and moving this thing is simply a breeze.

To always keep you on the loop, there is the 3-in-1 digital meter, low-oil indicator, and low-oil shutdown indicator. With the help of these, you will always be aware of what is going on with your generator and how it is doing performance-wise.

Pros
  • Nice looking unit
  • Runs on both propane and gasoline
  • Seamless switching between fuels anytime
  • Includes a propane hose
  • Powder-coated steel frame extends the durability
Cons
  • Does not produce clean power

Generac 5939 GP5500 5500 Gas Powered Portable Generator

Generac 5939 GP5500 5500 Gas Powered Portable Generator
FeaturesValue
Output PowerStarting: 6875 Watt / Running: 5500 Watt
Noise LevelNot Tested
Operating Time10 hours / 50% Load
Fuel Tank Size6.7 Gallon
Starting MethodRecoil Pull Start
Weight170.9lbs

With this particular model of the portable generator, you get 5,500 running watts and 6,875 cranking watts. Making this one of the best 5000-watt portable generators for camping or tailgating. It is a great choice as a job site power source or emergency power backup too.

A Generac 389cc OHV engine powers this generator. It ensures you get consistent power output and long engine life.

This thing includes a low-oil level shutdown to protect the engine from any damage, and circuit breaker outlets to provide an added layer of protection. The fuel tank is able to hold up to 7.2 gallons of fluid. This allows for up to 10 hours of 50% load run time.

The generator also incorporates a fuel gauge and hour meter. And the hour meter gives out maintenance alerts, which are really convenient.

For ease of portability and storage, this thing has a fold-down, locking handle. It makes storage very simple and easy. And you can easily bring the handle up whenever you need to move the unit.

Moreover, the wheel kit of this Generac generator includes two reliable and durable wheels that are built to be never flat. So that you can stay without any worry of getting stuck with sudden flat tires while moving this thing around.

To make the unit even more strong and heavy-duty, the designers have added a 1 1/4″ steel tube cradle that has been hardened for additional durability.

Pros
  • Long engine life
  • Has a low-oil shutdown system
  • Storing it is really easy
  • Wheels are reliable and heavy-duty
  • Well built and durable
Cons
  • Does not come with a generator cord
  • Vibration sometimes causes nuts to come loose

Green-Power America GPG6500EW Electric Start Generator

Green-Power America GPG6500EW Electric Start Generator
FeaturesValue
Output PowerStarting: 6500 Watt / Running: 5500 Watt
Noise Level76dB (From 23 Feet)
Operating Time11 hours / 50% Load
Fuel Tank Size6.6 Gallon
Starting MethodElectric / Recoil Pull Start
Weight172lbs

With a powerful LCT 420cc/15HP OHV engine, this beast of a generator is ready to provide you with power no matter where. This one generates 6,500 SW and 5,500 CW while running.

The gasoline tank has a huge capacity of 6.6 gallons inside. And this lets this guy run for 8 whole hours at a load of 50 percent. The start options on this thing include both a manual recoil start and a convenient electric start. It also incorporates a high capacity lithium-ion battery, as well as a 3-in-1 digital indicator.

In the package, you get seven different outlets for your usage. Four of them are 120-volt AC outlets. Along with them, you’ll get a 120-volt twist-lock AC outlet. And another is a 120/240-v twist-lock AC outlet. And that’s not all; you’ll also find a 12-Volt DC outlet in the unit.

While active, this thing is fairly quiet and has a relatively lower exhaust emission. An alternator with AVR works continuously to stabilize the power output. And when the oil level gets low enough, an automatic shut-off system jumps promptly in action to save the engine from potential damage.

Moreover, in terms of certifications, this generator has earned an approval seal from the EPA. Besides, it is CARB compliant too. So there is no question about the quality and standards that this generator maintains. It is definitely one of the most reliable generators out in the market today that you can choose for your particular needs.

Pros
  • The fuel tank has a large capacity
  • Has weatherproof outlet covers
  • Lithium-ion battery has a longer storage life
  • Setting it up is really easy
  • Excellent voltage regulation system
  • EPA approved and CARB available
Cons
  • Cannot run on propane

Honda 5000 Watt Portable Generator iAVR Technology

Honda 5000 Watt Portable Generator iAVR Technology
FeaturesValue
Output PowerStarting: 5000 Watt / Running: 4500 Watt
Noise Level66dB (From 23 Feet)
Operating Time11.2 hours / 50% Load
Fuel Tank Size6.2 Gallon
Starting MethodElectric / Recoil Pull Start
Weight232lbs

The Honda 660530 is a nice, compact, portable generator with wheels. If you want a powerful and effective generator that is always reliable and starts every time. This one is the way to go. The thing is quite easy to use in all aspects. It is easy to set up right out of the box.

And being fairly quiet when it operates, it goes easy on your ears as well. Starting and shutting down this portable honda generator is also super simple. When it comes to starting this generator, it has two types of start options for you to choose from: a pull start and an electric start.

Moreover, the pull start utilizes a rope system that retracts back into the machine once you are done starting. And if you find the pull start to be too much of a chore, you can always opt for the electric start. It is much less effortless while being quite as effective every time.

And as this thing has wheels on the bottom, moving it from place to place also takes minimal effort. You will definitely thank the designers for the two wheels on its bottom whenever you need to move this guy. There is also a handle that you can hold onto when moving this thing.

Furthermore, the tank on this product is quite big too. It has a capacity to hold around 6 gallons of fluid. So you can rest easy knowing it will back you up for a long time with every single refill. This thing is also one of the best quiet 5000-watt generators available out there.

Another plus point to this generator is that it is quite easy on the eyes as well. This thing is sure to impress your friends and neighbors alike from the very first look. And with its combination of looks, power, and effectiveness, this guy surely knows how to win anyone over.

Pros
  • Low noise level
  • Easy to move around
  • Comes with a wheel kit
  • Starts every time
  • Two types of starters
  • Setting it up is easy
  • The tank has a huge capacity
Cons
  • A bit heavy

JEGS 86065 Portable Generator

JEGS 86065 Portable Generator
FeaturesValue
Output PowerStarting: 5000 Watt / Running: 4250 Watt
Noise Level68dB (From 23 Feet)
Operating Time9 hours / 50% Load
Fuel Tank Size4 Gallon
Starting MethodRecoil Pull Start
Weight130lbs

The JEGS portable generator has a 223cc, 7.5HP OHV Engine. In terms of wattage, this thing generates 5000 starting watts and 4250 running watts. And at 50 percent or half load, it runs continuously for up to 9 hours.

In the package, you get the following things besides the generator itself: two 5-20R outlets, a 120V L5-30R outlet, a 120/240V L14-30R outlet, and some oil for initial usage. The engine on this guy has an oil capacity of 0.6 liters, by the way. They also give you three-outlet covers to protect the outlets against the elements.

And the gas tank on this thing has a capacity of 4 gallons or 15 liters. There is also a gauge on it for your convenience. On top of that, there is an automatic voltage regulator as a safety feature on this thing. It also has the very necessary automatic low-oil level shut down feature to prevent damage.

Moreover, the starting method on this generator is the classic manual recoil system. An hour meter lets you know the runtime, while a low-oil lamp helps you maintain the generator properly. There are also circuit breakers to make it even safer for your home or job sites.

At a distance of 23 feet or 7 feet, this guy produces a noise level of 68 dBA. There is a tubular steel frame around this generator to extend the durability. And to contribute to the portability of this unit, there is a fold-down handle in place.

We already mentioned at half load this thing has a runtime of 9 hours. As for a hundred percent load, it can function for 6 long hours, which is quite impressive for a full load operation.

Pros
  • Easy to set up
  • Ample safety features
  • Has a convenient alert system
  • Comes with weatherproof outlet covers
  • Durable design
Cons
  • Packaging could be better

Green-Power America GPD5000W Gasoline Generator

Green-Power America GPD5000W Gasoline Generator
FeaturesValue
Output PowerStarting: 5000 Watt / Running: 3850 Watt
Noise Level74dB (From 23 Feet)
Operating Time11 hours / 50% Load
Fuel Tank Size4 Gallon
Starting MethodRecoil Pull Start
Weight109lbs

This thing gets powered by a manual recoil start 4 cycle OHV 223cc 7.5Hp LCT professional engine. A load of 50 percent provides you a runtime of up to 11 hours.

When operating, it produces a noise level of 74 dB(A). The 8-inch never-flat wheels offer you reliability and durability. While the 4-gallon gasoline tank provides you with a large fuel capacity to run the engine for a long time.

As for wattage, this thing has an SW of 5000-watts and an RW of 3850 watts. Included with the package comes a DC outlet, two 12V/ 8.3A AC outlets, and a 120V twist-lock. This generator incorporates a technology applicable to winter engines.

It makes this machine able to function in all types of weather conditions easily, making for a very reliable piece of equipment no matter the weather or outside environment. And it produces fairly low levels of exhaust emission.

A highly efficient alternator with AVR works to make the power outputs stable and not volatile. And whenever the fuel level gets low inside, this thing can promptly shut itself off to prevent any possible damage to the engine.

Additionally, this generator is conveniently designed to be compact and durable. The mobility kit it comes with features very useful drop-down handles. These handles can be raised up to hold onto while moving the generator to place. And while storing, you can easily fold them down to make storage much simpler.

Pros
  • Low exhaust emissions
  • Reliable safety features
  • Compact and economical design
  • Drop-down handles perfect for storage
  • Works in all weather conditions
  • Never-flat wheels make for convenient maneuvering
  • Stable power output
  • Built for longevity
Cons
  • Can be a bit loud

Briggs & Stratton 30675 Q6500 Inverter Generator

Briggs & Stratton 30675 Q6500 Inverter Generator
FeaturesValue
Output PowerStarting: 6500 Watt / Running: 5000 Watt
Noise Level66dB (From 23 Feet)
Operating Time14 hours / 25% Load
Fuel Tank Size5 Gallon
Starting MethodRecoil Pull Start
Weight128lbs

If you are in the market for the best 5000-watt inverter generator, here is one for you to consider. This inverter generator provides 6,500 starting watts and 5000 continuous watts of power.

It includes a QuietPower Series inverter technology as well as a sound-reducing shell to keep the noise level as low as possible without compromising performance. At a 25% load, the noise level is at 66 dBA. They actually claim to be more than sixty percent quieter than conventional generators.

Compared to a standard portable generator, this unit is a lot more compact and lightweight. According to the manufacturer, this generator is a whole forty-five percent more compact and 30 percent lighter than conventional ones.

At 25% load, the 306cc Briggs & Stratton engine/alternator runs for up to 14 long hours. It incorporates a recoil type start and comes with multiple outlets to power your various electronics and devices simultaneously.

The different types of outlets include four 120V-20A outlets. In addition, you’ll also get two USB outlets. And what’s more, there will also be one 120V-240V locking outlet. When you use an RV adapter in the twist-lock, it gives you 2500W of running power.

With the use of the inverter generator technology that this machine has, it makes for the perfect source of power for sensitive electronic devices such as televisions, computers, and so on.

Briggs & Stratton generator uses a Quiet Power Technology, called QPT. Not only does it reduce the noise level when activated, but it also improves fuel economy. This makes it an ideal choice for food concession trailers as well as household items.

Pros
  • Very nice looking unit
  • Significantly quieter than standard generators
  • Lightweight design
  • Efficient fuel consumption
  • Easy-to-use suitcase-style handle
  • All-steel protective shell for durability
Cons
  • Does not have an electric start
  • The handle is not too sturdy

What Can I Run with a 5000-Watt Generator?

You can run a wide variety of things with a 5000-watt generator. It has the ability to run almost all household items, RV’s and many job site power tools individually. But how many items it can power at the same time depends on the power requirements of each of the items. We can help you to understand your power requirement by Generator Wattage Calculator.

Household Appliances

For household requirements, a 5000-watt generator can power the basic household appliances easily. What you need to pay attention to is the starting watts and running watts of all the electronics and devices you want to run.

Examples of basic household items that a 5000-watt generator can run: lamps, fans, electric blankets, hairdryers, televisions, water pumps, kitchen appliances such as coffee makers, microwave ovens, toasters, etc.

So, for larger appliances, such as a freezer with a refrigerator, a dishwasher, a water heater, or a washing machine, you may need to run them individually as a 5000-watt generator cannot run them all together.

Jobsite Appliances

In a job site, a 5000-watt generator can run power tools such as power drills, grinders, sprayers, air compressors, electric saws, belts, and orbital sanders, etc. You can find the power requirements of any electronic device on itself or on its power cable.

Totaling the starting watts and running watts of your desired appliances will tell you whether your generator can take all that load or not. For appliances that only need to be run for a short period of time, use them one at a time. This will help keep you from overloading the generator.

Moreover, in summation, as long as the total wattage of your appliances does not surpass the wattage of your generator, you are good to go. And of course, don’t forget to put your key electronics on a surge protector to keep them safe.

Features to Look for Before Buying

There are a few things that you need to look out for when buying a generator. We have discussed some of the most important ones below.

Start Options

Most generators have both or either a manual recoil type start and an electric start option. The manual recoil type start requires you to pull on a cord for the generator to start. It can be a bit physically challenging for some.

Recoil Starting Method

So if you feel like you would rather not have to use a coil type start, you can go for a generator that offers you an electric start option besides the manual one. And in the case of home standby generators, they can start automatically in cases of power outages. So you don’t have to worry at all about starting them.

Fuel Type

Some generators can work with two to three types of fuels, while some can work with one. So depending on which type of fuel you prefer to use the most, you should opt for the generator that can work with that. There are multiple types of fuel that different generators can run on, including gasoline, propane, diesel, and natural gas.

Gasoline itself is cheaper and easily available. Although its shelf life is not too long and often goes out of stock in stores during emergencies. Diesel is a stable fuel choice while containing relatively more energy. Maintaining a diesel-operated generator is also really easy.

Gasoline Or Propane

On the other hand, natural gas contains relatively less energy although it is easily accessible. It is also quite a cost-effective fuel option. If you have to use your generator very rarely, Propane or LPG is a good option for you.

And it does not get degraded while in storage as diesel and gasoline does. It is also popular for its clean-burning energy. On the downside, propane falls among one of the really volatile fuel options.

Tank Capacity and Runtime

Generator Runtime

The tank capacity and runtime of a generator are two other factors you should take a look at. Ideally, the bigger the tank, the more fuel it can hold, and the longer it can run. Tank capacity is generally stated gallons or quarts.

As for runtime, it can depend on the tank capacity as well as the fuel type, the load percentage, and the generator itself. The same generator can run for longer at half load than on full load, with a tank filled to its capacity. Runtime is typically measured in hours.

Clean Energy

Conventional VS Inverter

Generator-produced power is a lot different than the power you normally get from a power grid. The power that a generator produces has a lot of fluctuations, unlike power grid electricity. Thus making your sensitive electronic devices (such as computers and televisions) susceptible to damage.

To avoid this kind of ‘dirty’ or ‘polluted’ energy from damaging your valuable appliances, you can either opt for an inverter generator, or use other alternatives such as a UPS, an inverter, or an AVR.

Standby Power

If you get frequent power outages at your home, you should opt for a standby generator. These start by themselves whenever the power is out. So you don’t have to go and pull on a cord every time you get an outage. They also can generate relatively more power.

When setting up a home standby generator, you should always get the help of a professional. They can show you the best place to set it up as well as help you with the logistics.

These types of generators are also really easy to maintain. Whenever maintenance is needed, these can let you know through alerts or notifications. They are also relatively safer, although a bit more expensive.

Portability

Portable Generator

If you need a unit that you can use anywhere, a portable generator is the best option for you. They usually include a mobility kit to make it easy for you to move them when needed.

For generators with handles and wheels, make sure they are designed conveniently. The handle should not be of a design that makes it difficult for you to store the unit properly. Wheel kit should also include legs so that once positioned, the unit does not move around.

While portable generators are generally cheaper, you do need to store large quantities of fuel in most cases. And always remember to operate a portable generator out in the open and at a distance from your home.

Noise Level

Generator Noise

The noise level of a generator is also a very important factor that you should not ignore. Especially if you are getting the generator for household use, and there are children, elderly, or sick people in your house.

Loud, consistent noise is not only damaging to your hearing, but it’s also harmful to your health and overall well being. So you should always go for a generator that is not overly loud or noisy.

Keeping the generator away and at a distance from your house when operating helps to reduce the noise level by a lot. And if you already have a lot going on in your home in general, you may not even notice the noise coming from the generator.

Build Quality

Build Quality

Durability and sturdiness is another significant aspect to be considered when buying a generator. A generator should be well-built with quality material for it to serve you for a long time.

Pay attention to the build and make of the generator you want to buy. Is the exterior metal built or flimsy plastic? And is it coated properly? What are the inside components made of? Are they prone to get rusty? Is the tank prone to develop leaks?

If it is a portable unit, know if the handles are of good quality. And if the wheels can get flattened with use. If the unit can be moved on uneven terrains, and if it has a good balance overall when operating.

Don’t be afraid to ask the questions to the manufacturer. You have all the right to know these before buying an item.

Weather Tolerance

If you are going to be using the generator through the winter, and you get really low temperatures where you live, you should consider a generator that is specially made for that.

Generators that have a cold start feature can come into life quickly and easily, even in really cold temperatures. They can also run effortlessly throughout the winter without any problems, which can make your life infinitely easier.

Nowadays, they make good quality weather tolerant generators that can operate on all kinds of weather. So there is no need to take the extra worry and go for one that cannot.

Safety Features

Generator Safety

All the features we discussed above will not matter if your generator does not have good enough safety features. No matter how careful you are in the usage and maintenance of your generator, it should still have the basic safety features.

The low-oil shut-off system is one of the most basic safety features that all generators should have. This helps the machine from getting damaged. It should also have reliable circuit breakers to protect the unit from instances of overload. To know about safety precautions Click Here.

Good quality alternators help to make the power outputs stable to protect your appliances. Weatherproof covers for outlets are useful if you are going to use the outlets on the outside.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here we have some of the most commonly asked queries regarding the best 5000-watt generators:

Q: How many amps is a 5000-watt generator?

A: At 240 volts, a 5000-watts generator can provide a little over 20 amps. And at 120 volts, it can generate around 41 amps.

Q: How long does gas run a 5000-watt generator?

A: It can vary depending on the generator and the load. Typically, a good quality generator burns a gallon of gas in around an hour.

Q: What if there is no digit hour counter on my generator?

A: You can simply buy a counter for $10-15 if your generator does not come with one. They are generally really easy to install and are very effective.

Q: What does being CARB compliant mean?

A: The California Air Resources Board is known as CARB in short. Being CARB compliant means, the generator follows the rules and standards that have been set by them.

Q: How can I protect sensitive electronics from voltage spikes?

A: No matter the power source, you should always use a surge protector for key electronic devices such as computers, televisions, and smartphones.

Final Words

We are certain by now you have a clearer view of the best 5000 watt generator that you want for your particular needs. Rest assured, any generator you decide to go for from our list above, should serve you excellently for a long time to come.

About Steven Smith

For the last 20 years, I have been working as a professional contractor in many construction projects. From my childhood, I love to work with different kinds of power tools. In my spare time, I love to do a different kind of DIY project. It gives me a kind of inner satisfaction.

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