Rating of gas power generators: dozens of popular models and tips for customers

Vasily Borutsky
Checked by a specialist: Vasily Borutsky
Author: Antonina Turyeva
Last update: January 2020

Do you regularly suffer from power outages and decide to influence the situation by buying a gas power generator? Why not - after all, this type of fuel is affordable, environmentally friendly, during the combustion of which thick smoke and an unpleasant odor will not stand out. But the range of offers is quite wide, but I want to choose a high-quality and reliable device, right?

We will help you to cope with this task - in our article we will consider the rating of the best generators of various capacities, we will present their technical characteristics and features of use. Let's talk about the operating rules and the features of choosing the right option, based on the needs of a particular buyer.

TOP 10 gas power generators

A place
Product
Rating
Number of Outlets
Number of cylinders
Dimensions
Price
Models up to 5 kW
#1
99
/ 100
3
1
700x500x530 mm
#2
98
/ 100
2
1
680x550x535 mm
#3
97
/ 100
2
1
600x420x480 mm
Models from 5.4 to 7 kW
#1
98
/ 100
2
1
780x515x555 mm
#2
97
/ 100
terminals
1
710x890x620 mm
#3
96
/ 100
3
1
700x530x500 mm
#4
94
/ 100
terminals
1
660x790x560 mm
Models from 8 kW
#1
99
/ 100
terminals
2
1228x733x635 mm
#2
97
/ 100
terminals
2
1220x780x860 mm
#3
95
/ 100
terminals
2
690x810x590 mm

Models up to 5 kW

#1

Greengear GE-5000

Reliable four-stroke mobile generator

Expert rating:
99
/ 100

The Greengear GE-5000 gas generator will be the ideal solution for the backup power supply of a small country house, cottage or construction site. A convenient frame and maneuverable wheels, as well as folding handles facilitate its movement around the site.

The design of this electric power generator has three outlets with covers, which prevents dust and splash. There is also one 12 V output - this is extremely convenient if, for example, you need to charge the car battery by 12 V.

Specifications:

  • cooling - air;
  • engine / volume - four stroke, GG4GN / 390 cc;
  • fuel consumption - from 398 g / kW * h;
  • maximum power - 5.5 kW;
  • launch - electric, manual;
  • number of phases - 1 (220 volts);
  • wheels - are;
  • overload protection - yes;
  • sockets - 3 + 1 at 12 V;
  • noise - 72 dB;
  • weight - 83 kg.

The Greengear GE-5000 model is equipped with a four-stroke engine, it starts smoothly and works almost silently. The last characteristic allows you to use the device in any conditions - it makes no noise no louder than a conventional vacuum cleaner, so neither a gas generator will cause problems for you or your neighbors.

Advantages
  • Powerful engine
  • Low noise
  • The presence of an informative display
  • Solid assembly
disadvantages
  • High price
  • Tangible weight
#2

Comfort GAZ-4.5kW-ES

Convenient power generator with overheat protection and silencer

Expert rating:
98
/ 100

The Comfort GAZ-4.5kW-ES gas generator runs on natural and liquefied gas. Suitable for emergency power supply at home, garage or country house of temporary residence.

It withstands a maximum load of 4.5 watts, which should be taken into account when calculating the required power - if your house has a boiler, pump station, electric stove and washing machine, then they can not be turned on at the same time so as not to overload the generator.

Specifications:

  • cooling - air;
  • engine / volume - four-stroke / 389 cc;
  • fuel consumption - 1.6 l / h;
  • maximum power - 4.5 kW;
  • start-up - electric;
  • number of phases - 1 (220 volts);
  • wheels - are;
  • overload protection - yes;
  • sockets - 2;
  • noise - 74 dB;
  • weight - 83 kg.

The design of this model provides a crankcase for oil with a volume of 1 liter, which allows more economical fuel consumption.

A set may include a set of washers, nuts, bolts, grovers, as well as a clamp, cable for charging the battery and other accessories. The exact quantity and list of which must be clarified before purchase - the equipment may vary by manufacturer.

Advantages
  • Quality assembly
  • Economical fuel and oil consumption
  • Silent work
  • A rich set of accessories included
  • Wheels for easy movement
disadvantages
  • High price
  • 1 year warranty
#3

Greengear GE-3000

Compact generator with a powerful engine for backup power supply cottages

Expert rating:
97
/ 100

Greengear GE-3000 is a gas-fired power generator with a rated power of 2.8 kW. One-time can withstand a maximum load of 3 kW.

It will be the best solution for supplying electricity to a small country house. Also, you can take it on hikes, fishing, but you need to consider quite a considerable weight (46 kg), the absence of wheels and handles to move the structure.

Specifications:

  • cooling - air;
  • engine / volume - four stroke, GG3GN / 212 cc;
  • fuel consumption - 1.35 l / h;
  • maximum power - 3 kW;
  • launch - electric, manual;
  • number of phases - 1 (220 volts);
  • wheels - no;
  • overload protection - yes;
  • sockets - 2 + 1 socket on 12 V;
  • noise - 64;
  • weight - 46 kg.

The model is equipped with a silencer, hour meter and display, which displays a maximum of useful information. The manufacturer also provides overload protection. A solid frame provides structural stability not only indoors but also outdoors.

Advantages
  • Informative display
  • Great build quality
  • Very quiet work
disadvantages
  • No handles and wheels
  • Impressive weight for its dimensions
  • Fairly high cost

Models from 5.4 to 7 kW

#1

Grandvolt GVI 6600 M G

Gas generator with a powerful engine, capable of working on LPG, main and biogas

Expert rating:
98
/ 100

Grandvolt GVI 6600 M G is an open-design generator model. Suitable for back-up electricity supply to a private home, small office, modest production room or construction site.

It can work on almost any gas fuel - main, liquefied and even biogas. It is able to properly generate electricity at an extremely low pressure in the network - 0.8 kPa.

Specifications:

  • cooling - air;
  • engine / displacement - four stroke, RAS IC 390 OHV / 389 cc;
  • fuel consumption - 0.31 kg / kW * h for propane and 0.41 cubic meters / kW * h for methane;
  • maximum power - 6 kW (propane), 5.4 kW (methane);
  • launch - manual;
  • number of phases - 1 (220 volts);
  • wheels - no;
  • overload protection - yes;
  • sockets - 2;
  • noise - 71 dB;
  • weight - 70 kg.

It is characterized by endurance and stable performance. It is also quite quiet, which allows you to place this generator near energy consumption points.

It does not require special skills from the user - for operation and maintenance it is enough to look at the instructions.

Advantages
  • Sturdy and solid frame
  • Ability to work with a pressure in the line of 0.8 kPa
  • Easy operation and maintenance
disadvantages
  • No wheels and carry handles
  • Heavy weight
#2

BRIGGS & STRATTON 6 kW

Generator with automatic start and the ability to work at 30 degrees below zero

Expert rating:
97
/ 100

The BRIGGS & STRATTON 6 kW model is designed to supply electricity to suburban homes and even construction sites. Its simple and reliable design of a closed type, as well as a powerful motor, ensures uninterrupted operation in any weather.

The manufacturer provides a silencer, which in the company with a casing significantly reduces the noise level during operation. And the presence of a fine filter allows you to install the generator very close to the house - the minimum allowable distance is 45 cm.

Specifications:

  • cooling - air;
  • engine / displacement - four stroke, Briggs & Stratton Intek, OHV / 500 cc;
  • fuel consumption l / h - 1.06 m3 / h (liquefied gas), 3.43 m3 (natural gas);
  • maximum power - 6 kW;
  • launch - electric + manual starter;
  • number of phases - 1 (220 volts);
  • wheels - no;
  • overload protection - yes;
  • sockets - 2 lines (terminals) + grounding;
  • noise - 72 dB;
  • weight - 114 kg.

The model is equipped with a protective casing of stainless steel, which allows it to be used to produce electricity in almost any environment.

This generator can operate at 30 degrees below zero. But to work outdoors in frosty weather, you will need to additionally purchase a device for working at low temperatures - set 6262, which includes two oil heaters and one battery heater. You can also purchase carbon monoxide and smoke detectors.

Advantages
  • Equipped with a solenoid valve for emergency shutdown of gas
  • Quiet operation thanks to the protective cover
  • Solid assembly
  • Stable work
  • The ability to install 45 cm from the house
disadvantages
  • High price
  • Every 100 hours, an oil and ICE filter change is required
  • No battery included
#3

Greengear GE-7000

Gas generator with a powerful four-stroke engine and automatic voltage regulation technology

Expert rating:
96
/ 100

The Greengear GE-7000 is a powerful open-case emergency power generator. Able to withstand a one-time maximum load of up to 7.5 kW. The frame design helps protect the main components of the device from mechanical damage.

The display shows the operating time, voltage and frequency. It can work both on liquefied and on main gas, rather economically consuming fuel. The four-stroke engine is reliable and provides smooth operation.

Specifications:

  • cooling - air;
  • engine / volume - four stroke, GG6GN / 445 cc;
  • fuel consumption - from 318 g / kW * h;
  • maximum power - 7.5 kW;
  • launch - electric, manual;
  • number of phases - 1 (220 volts);
  • wheels - are;
  • overload protection - yes;
  • sockets - 3 + 12 V output;
  • noise - 78 dB;
  • weight - 89 kg.

The Greengear GE-7000 gas generator will be an excellent solution for a country house, summer house or office, solving the problem of power supply in case of an accident in the mains. It will cope with the load while connecting a boiler, pump station, microwave, electric kettle and laptop.

Advantages
  • Stable power supply for home supply
  • Informative display
  • Simple control panel
  • Solid body assembly
  • Folding handles on the case and large wheels for easy movement
disadvantages
  • High price
  • Considerable dimensions and weight
#4

Russian Engineering Group GG6-230SV

Outdoor generator in a noise-, vibration-proof and moisture-proof container

Expert rating:
94
/ 100

Russian Engineering Group GG6-230SV is a true mini-power station for backup power supply. It will be an excellent solution for private houses, country cottages and cottages, the energy consumption of which is 6 kW. It is also suitable for construction sites and other facilities.

This generator is equipped with a reliable innovative casing, which allows you to install it on the street - rain, snow, wind and sunlight are not afraid of equipment. Also, the design of the minicontainer and the presence of a silencer provide a very low noise level during operation, so the device can be installed next to a residential building.

Specifications:

  • cooling - air;
  • engine / volume - four stroke, REG432 / 432 cc;
  • fuel consumption - 0.30 kg / kWh. (propane); 0.40 m3 / kWh (methane);
  • maximum power - 6 kW;
  • launch - electric starter / automatic;
  • number of phases - 1 (220 volts);
  • wheels - no;
  • overload protection - yes;
  • sockets - terminals;
  • noise - 66 dB;
  • weight - 130 kg.

The engine resource of this generator is about 6,000 hours due to the forced lubrication system. The manufacturer's warranty on the device is 1 year or 300 hours. After that, the generator needs full maintenance, including the replacement of oil and worn parts.

Advantages
  • Start-up even at -34 degrees and low line pressure
  • Moisture-proof and noise-proof minicontainer (casing)
  • Low noise
  • Works on the main and liquefied gas
  • It is possible to supplement the generator with an automation unit
disadvantages
  • Considerable weight and impressive dimensions
  • Lack of wheels

Models from 8 kW

#1

Generac 7144

Powerful station with remote control system in a vandal-proof casing

Expert rating:
99
/ 100

The Generac 7144 generator can be used as a backup power source for a cottage, office with office equipment for a long period of lack of power supply. Its continuous operation is about 200 hours. But this device is not intended for use in critical life support systems. Also, a welding machine cannot be connected to it.

The strong case of the protective casing is all-weather - it is able to withstand the effects of rainfall and gusts of wind at a speed of up to 240 km / h. The special design of the casing and the presence of a silencer contributes to the fact that during operation the generator station produces minimal noise - about 60 dB.

The device is equipped with a remote control and monitoring system.

Specifications:

  • cooling - air;
  • engine / volume - Generac G-Force / 530 cc;
  • fuel consumption - 6.16 l / h for liquefied and 3.62 m3 / h for natural;
  • maximum power - 8 kW;
  • launch - electric, automatic;
  • number of phases - 1 (220 volts);
  • wheels - no;
  • overload protection - yes;
  • sockets - terminals, power cable connection;
  • noise - 62 dB;
  • weight - 155 kg.

The Generac 7144 gas generator operates both from main gas and from cylinder gas. Its installation is possible only on the street. The base of the generator station housing is a grid cushion made of composite material, which is installed directly on the ground and holds the equipment in its original position, preventing subsidence or immersion.

If the equipment is to be used in difficult weather conditions and at a temperature of -18 degrees and below, then you will need to purchase a heating kit.

Advantages
  • Standard Wi-Fi Remote Control System
  • Service convenience
  • Low noise
  • Vandal proof casing
  • 5 year warranty or 2,000 hours
disadvantages
  • High price
  • Connection and commissioning must be carried out by a specialist
#2

BRIGGS & STRATTON 14 kW

The generator in a noise-proof casing with an electronic speed control

Expert rating:
97
/ 100

The BRIGGS & STRATTON 14 kW Mini-Power Station is a home appliance. It is designed to service the loads from heating, air conditioning, autonomous water supply as a temporary power source. It will be an ideal solution to the emergency power supply of a country house.

The BRIGGS & STRATTON 14 kW model can operate on main and liquefied gas - the main thing is to correctly reconfigure the system when changing the type of fuel.

Specifications:

  • cooling - air;
  • engine / displacement - Briggs and Stratton Vanguard V-Twin / 993 cc;
  • fuel consumption - 5.3 kg / h for the tank and 6.6 m3 / h for the main;
  • maximum power - 14 kW (propane), 2.6 kW (methane);
  • start-up - electric;
  • number of phases - 1 (220 volts);
  • wheels - no;
  • overload protection - yes;
  • sockets - terminals;
  • noise - 67 dB;
  • weight - 227 kg.

The installation and connection of this gas generator, according to the manufacturer's recommendations, should only be carried out by a qualified and certified electrician.

Installation is possible purely in the open air, but thanks to the noise-proof housing, the equipment can be placed at a distance of 45 cm from the house, but provided that the removal of combustion products is properly organized. So, the exhaust should not fall into open windows, doors, air intakes, garage doors. And also the manufacturer recommends installing a carbon monoxide detector in the rooms.

Advantages
  • Solid assembly and stainless steel housing
  • Possibility of mounting 45 cm from the house
  • Solenoid valve for emergency shutdown of gas
  • Air fine filter
  • 3 year warranty
disadvantages
  • It is necessary to change the engine oil and filter every 100 hours
  • Large dimensions and weight of the station
  • Low temperature kit
#3

Russian Engineering Group GG14-230V

Reliable electric generator efficiently and economically consuming main gas

Expert rating:
95
/ 100

The Russian Engineering Group GG14-230V mini-power plant can operate on both natural and liquefied gas. But, thanks to the innovative developments of the manufacturer, it is on the natural one that it is most effective and economical.

The equipment is suitable for domestic use - as a temporary power source for a private house, cottage, construction site, office.

Specifications:

  • cooling - air;
  • engine / displacement - REG 803/803 cc;
  • fuel consumption - 0.30 kg / kWh. (propane) / 0.40 m3 / kWh. (methane);
  • maximum power - 14 kW;
  • start-up - electric;
  • number of phases - 1 (220 volts);
  • wheels - no;
  • overload protection - yes;
  • sockets - terminals;
  • noise - 68 dB;
  • weight - 150 kg.

Generator Russian Engineering Group GG14-230V is able to withstand short-term load 20% above the declared power. And this feature allows the consumer to power electric motors, powerful pumps and other equipment with high inrush currents (short-term).

Advantages
  • Extended service life up to 6000 hours
  • Starts at low temperatures.
  • Able to work at low pressure (0.8 kPa)
  • Silencer provides fairly quiet operation
disadvantages
  • Autostart kit needs to be purchased
  • Big weight and no wheels
  • Missing protective case (container)

Criteria for choosing the optimal generator

To select the optimal generator that will become a reliable source of autonomous energy supply, it is necessary to clearly define purpose of its use. This can be both backup power supply of a small country house, and emergency power supply to the office space. In the latter case, you have to look at the gas generators for continuous operation.

Distinctive features of the equipment used to power various objects are clearly presented in the following photo selection.

Depending on the purpose of use, the main characteristics that the generator should have will also differ.

The main parameters affecting the choice of an electric power generator are:

  • power;
  • place of installation;
  • type of fuel;
  • launch type;
  • additional functions;
  • manufacturer reliability.

Next, we consider these criteria and their features in more detail.

Criterion # 1 - power selection

When buying a household generator to obtain electricity running on gas, it is important to choose the right power. It should be enough to serve the main consumers.

Therefore, when calculating, you should summarize the power of electrical appliances, which first of all need to provide backup power supply in the event of a centralized shutdown. For example, a pumping station, a refrigerator, a boiler, light bulbs. And such consumers as a washing machine, dishwasher, TV or computer, iron, are secondary - i.e. you can do without them for a while.

Power supply of a private house
If your electricity is turned off regularly and for a long time, and you want to ensure maximum comfort for yourself and your family, then devices that are of secondary importance should also be taken into account when calculating the generator power

The power parameter of a particular appliance for calculations should be taken from its passport. And do not forget about the starting current - some equipment requires several times more electricity to start up than for operation.

Below we suggest you familiarize yourself with the table of power and starting current of the main household electrical appliances.

Inrush Current Coefficients
A number of equipment for start-up requires two or even three times more electricity than in the future for work (pump, air conditioning, refrigerator, microwave). Therefore, some manufacturers emphasize that their generators are designed for short-term load, 20% higher than their rated power

Having added the power of all the devices that you will use when turning off the electricity, you need to add 15-20% of the reserve - the generator should not work at the limit of its capabilities. The resulting number will be the optimal power of your generator.

As the experience of numerous buyers testifies, for the backup power supply of a small house most often they buy equipment with a capacity of 5 kW. There is enough power to service a gas boiler, well, boiler.

Criterion # 2 - installation location

The installation location is also one of the important criteria when choosing equipment. Initially, you should determine the place of future installation - outdoors or at indoors.

Outdoor models, as a rule, are equipped with a protective casing, which steadily tolerates exposure to sunlight, gusts of wind, prevents the ingress of precipitation.

Some models without a container can also be installed outdoors, according to the manufacturer's recommendations. But they need to provide protection from rain, snow, wind and other atmospheric phenomena.

Canopy Generator
When installing an electric generator on the street, many owners assemble a makeshift container or make a canopy to protect the equipment from excessive moisture, dust and mechanical damage

Criterion # 3 - fuel type

Equipment for autonomous power supply varies by the type of fuel used to generate electricity.

Generators are:

  • gasoline;
  • diesel;
  • gas;
  • hybrid.

Hybrid for work can use gasoline or gas (liquefied or trunk) To change the type of fuel, you must act clearly according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Features of electric generators for different types of fuel we will consider in detail in the next gallery.

Criterion # 4 - startup type

Another criterion for choosing an electric generator is the type of start.

Generators start up happens:

  • manual;
  • electric start;
  • remote;
  • auto.

Many models have two types of launch - most often it is manual and electric start.

The most convenient option is automation, which allows you to practically eliminate the presence of a person - the system will automatically start and shut down when the centralized power supply is turned off and on. But such equipment is more expensive.

Next, we consider the features of each type of launch in the next photo selection.

Criterion # 5 - Additional Features

In addition to the basic functions for the comfortable operation of the equipment, additional ones also matter. One such heating oil filter and generator. This is an important option if you plan to use the generator in the cold season at sub-zero temperatures. But for some manufacturers, the heating kit comes at an additional cost.

Also for many users it matters number of outlets, Availability power and 12V output. The latter is interesting to buyers for charging car batteries and other consumers of electricity.

A 32A power outlet is needed if you plan to connect powerful electrical equipment. And not all models have it.

Connection of the welding machine to the generator
Conventional household models of generators are not designed to connect a welding machine. Therefore, if you plan to work often and for a long time with welding, then it is worth looking at specialized generators

For ease of use, the availability also matters. protective cover - Models with a container can be placed both on the street and indoors.

Another point that you should pay attention to when choosing is winding generator. It can be copper or aluminum. Copper is more expensive and has a longer service life.

Criterion # 6 - manufacturer reliability

The products of a well-known brand are more expensive - this rule is also relevant for generators. But the reputation of the manufacturer guarantees that the equipment will meet the declared characteristics and will work out the prescribed period (and even more).

But it is better not to take cheap Chinese generators of an indefinite brand - they will not work out their warranty period. And it often happens that instead of the copper winding indicated in the passport they have painted “copper”, and the real power is almost half less than the declared one.

Reliable manufacturers of gas generators include brands such as GENERAC (American company Generac Power Systems), BRIGGS & STRATTON (American company of the same name), Russian Engineering Group (company RusInzhGrupp), Comfort GAS (Russian company LLC “GARANT”), Grandvolt (LLC Hydrokinetics LLC, representative of ESPA GROUP (Spain)).

Generator with protective cover
Some manufacturers have models with a dustproof, moistureproof and noiseproof container. But the air cooling system is carefully thought out. If you assemble a protective container yourself, you should definitely take care of heat dissipation

Before buying, you should also check service center availability specific manufacturer in your city, town or region. This is necessary in case of generator breakdown.

Recommendations for the operation of a gas generator

The gas generator can be installed both indoors and outdoors. If the first option is chosen, then the same rules apply as for installing a boiler, column, stove and any other gas-using equipment - it is necessary to choose a room with an area of ​​at least 15 m3correctly connect the equipment and install gas leak sensor.

Regardless of which gas is to be used (liquefied or main), it is important to pay attention to the operation before the operation, in order to ensure the influx of fresh air and exhaust gas. Generator manufacturers are also warning about this. That is, it is important to ensure effective forced ventilation, as well as for gas boiler.

The gas generator is installed on the street
Mounting the generator on the street is a better solution. So the gas will freely escape if there are any leaks. Sound from a running engine is equally important. Therefore, it is better to install on the street. Although it is quiet, noise can still bother you

If it is planned to connect the device to the main gas, then it will already be necessary to coordinate its actions with the gas supplier and obtain special permission, as well as for connecting any gas-using equipment.

Why do you have to provide a certificate of purchase of a gas generator, its data sheet and certificate of compliance. In the case of a positive decision, the gas pipeline is installedgas tap to supply fuel. And this has the right to do only an employee of the gas service with special access. Be prepared that the work on connecting the gas generator has to be paid.

You can also immediately concludemaintenance contract gas equipment. After all, a number of models require maintenance every 100 hours.

Conclusions and useful video on the topic

Features of the choice and connection of a gas generator:

Recommendations for choosing a generator:

Recommendations for choosing an autonomous power plant by fuel type:

What type of generator start to prefer:

Having dealt with the main selection criteria and determining the total power of electrical appliances that need backup power in the event of a power outage, you can begin to choose the best option. And our rating of generators, the most popular among buyers, will help you decide.

And how often do you turn off the electricity and do you have a generator? If yes, then share your experience of its operation - in the feedback section you can leave comments and add photos of your generator, as well as ask your questions to our experts and other visitors to the site.

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