Portable Generator Buying Guide: Top 20 Best Portable Power Generators and Inverters

Product Yamaha EF1000iS

The Yamaha EF1000is is a Japanese brand gas powered portable Inverter. It offers an efficient performance at starting (surge) of 1,000 Watt maximum AC output and 900 Watt for running AC output. This smart design uses premium technologies to maximize fuel efficiency which allows long running times, up to 12 hours without refuelling.

Clean Energy. In contrast to portable generator, this Yamaha EF1000iS is a powerful portable Inverter System. The advantage is that an Inverter System delivers cleaner and higher-quality electricity than competing portable generators. The inverter system generates energy in the form of pure sine waves. This feature leads to cleaner and more reliable than most commercial power sources.

Fuel Efficiency. The latest smart technologies are used to optimize fuel efficiency. The novel STL (Smart Throttle Load) feature, allows the device to dynamically adjust engine speed depending on output, resulting in greater overall fuel efficiency.

Design. When deciding about buying a portable generator, the ergonomic and friendly design plays an important role. This Yamaha EF1000iS is only 27.6 pounds and incorporates a convenient, centralized control panel, which allows you to easily access all of the generator’s features at the push of a button.

Super-Quiet Optimization. It is important to have high performance at low noise levels. This Yamaha EF1000iS implements the latest noise reduction technologies to ensure the quietest operation possible. Featuring a special sound-blocking design, the generator has a noise-absorbing glass wool construction, which helps dampen noise even during heavy operation. Along with the EF1000iS’ super-quiet muffler, it helps keep noise to a minimum.
In short, we recommend this portable power inverter for multifunctional activities from domestic and small business to outdoor excursions and events. The EF1000iS should offer a robust and efficient working life which is backed by a two-year warranty.

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Product Honda EU1000i

Clean and Powerful .The Honda EU1000i Inverter generator is an extremely reliable and efficient generator but in addition is also so quiet. Yes, it is an inverter so it is possible more expensive than the standard portable generators, but offers much more clean and stable energy consequently provides a more appropriate power input for devices such as computers which cannot receive irregular power from standard generators. The Honda EU1000i is useful for powering many different small appliance and equipment, like TVs, fans and even small power tools. The EU1000 is rated for 900 W as running output with a surge of 1000 W. Therefore, if you need for a devices that require more surge or continuous power such as Toaster (Home/RV/Camping/Tailgate) (1250 W) or RV Low Profile Air Conditioner, 13,500 BTU – Heating (1600 W), then we may recommend the EU2000i instead.

Efficiency. The consumption is also one of the main features of power generators. This EU1000i shines in this category too because it can run up to 8.3 hours on using only 0.6 gallon of fuel.

Combining functional design with super quiet operation. As most of power generators, portability is a fundamental feature. The EU1000i is quite light since it is only 29 lbs weight. But if the already described features did not convinced you yet, the following will do because it is a super quite power generator in his category. It produces from 53 at 1/4 load to 59 dBA of sound, which is similar to the noise level of a typical conversation.

To sum up, if you want a reliable, efficient and good quality power generator, this Honda EU1000i should be among your first choices. This Honda inverter generator also features an 8 Amp DC outlet for charging 12V car batteries. Finally, Honda also thinks for safety, and it also comes with Honda Oil Alert and overload protection.

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Product PowerPro 56100

Price vs. Power. WEN is an excellent manufacturer of portable power generator and PowerPro 56100 is one of its jewels in the category of less than 1000W. The PowerPro 56100 delivers 900 watts of running and 1000 watts of starting power with 2-HP single-cylinder 2-stroke engine. Because it is not an inverter generator, it is inexpensive but offers highest quality and design. Therefore the paid price is highly rewarded with good functionality and features.

Efficiency features: The PowerPro 56100 uses oil/gas mix fuel and contains a 1-gallon fuel tank. The tests show a good result of 5 hours run time at half load. The compact designs weighs only 39 lbs. which makes it suitable for transportation.

Noise performance. On the down side, it is less capable in noise terms than Honda invertors. Its noise rating at 23 ft is 60db. Some users reported more than 80db. For camping may be slightly inconvenient is the generator is too noisy, however, for emergencies or job locations it is acceptable. To sum up, the ratio quality vs. price, makes this portable generator a serious candidate for everyone needs at this power range of 1000W.

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Product All Power America APG3004

Inexpensive optimal power features. The All Power Americal APG3004 is a gas powered portable generator with 2 stroke that provides 800 running and 1000 starting watts. This generator features a single cylinder engine and comes with an integrated 12V DC battery charger, making it ideal for emergency uses. All of these power features are provided by an inexpensive price since it is a standard power generator and not an inverter such as the Honda or Yamaha models shown above.

Design and portability are essential for this kind of low power generators. The All Power America APG3004, is a Lightweight, compact size, weighs 44lbs (20Kg), which makes it suitable for portable power uses.

Noise and Efficiency. The All Power America APG3004 Runs lights, coffee makers or small tools at campsite, cabin or job site at noise level less than 68dB. It is still above the scores shown by the Honda and Yamaha. In my opinion, it can be more suitable to job locations that camping sites. It also has a high consumption efficiency since it can run long time with limited fuel. For example: 1-1/5-Gallon (4-1/2 liters) tank capacity/runs 8-1/2 hours at 1/2 load on 1-1/5-Gallons of fuel.

If you really need a portable source of power at an extremely inexpensive price and do not care too much about the noise performance, this one should be one of your first options. Note that if you re in California, that it is NOT compliant with California emission laws.

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Product Powerland PDW100

Robust performance.This PowerLand PDW100 is a 600 Watt 6.5 HP OHV 4-Stroke Gas Powered Portable Generator which is  extremely durable, lightweight, and compact with a fully-enclosed case. This generator provides professional welding and power performance at an excellent value. The price is significantly lower than inverter models such as Honda and Yamaha and rather than domestic equipments is more recommended to run as generator for farm, general construction and emergency power situations.

Functional design. Although it weigthes more than previous models (89 pounds), the wheels offer a highly portable capability oriented to be deployed in farms and construction sites. Steel fuel tank with incorporated fuel gauge provides durability and extended run times.

Noise performance. The Fuel Tank Capacity is 1 US Gallons (3.6 Liters) with a run time at 1/2 capacity of 8 hours. Because the potential applications and deployment sites are different, the noise is not one of its best features. It shows 70 dbA noise levels therefore it is not a silent type generator welder. In addition, note that this is not cardb or CSA approved generator.
However, if these features are not your main concern and if you seek for a low power (600W), robust and fast-deploy capability power generator, this is a great unit for you

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Product WEN 56180

The WEN 56180 is a Gas powered portable generator carb compliant that offers a robust 1800 surge watts and 1500 running watts. This amount of energy provides optimal power for both times of emergency and recreation. In terms of design and efficiency, the WEN is a very well-done product because it is a lightweight with only 58 pounds. This compact generator runs at half load for 7.5 hours off of 1.45 gallons of gasoline.

The WEN 56180 includes two AC120V 12.5A three-prong wall outlets and one cigarette-lighter-style 12V DC outlet. The safety has also been carefully considered since the WEB 56180 includes low-oil shutdown which safeguards the 4-stroke OHV engine from damage while the spark arrestor permits usage while camping in national parks and forests.

This is a really excellent power generator in its class, from 1000~2000 watts, and more importantly, inexpensive. These features have made it best seller with more than 500 favorable reviews. If inverters are not your first choice because you may not need to power sensitive electronic appliances, this portable power generator should be a serious candidate for your final right choice.

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Product Yamaha EF2000iS

This Yamaha EF2000iS is a gas powered portable inverter, CARD Compliant, 1600 watt rated AC output, 2000 watt maximum AC output with 13.3/16.7 amps @ 120V. This product is an inverter and not a standard portable generator. Let me emphasize this because this is what really makes this machine more expensive but at the same time more reliable, clean, efficient and powerful. The EF2000iS is built around an innovative inverter system, which is able to deliver higher-quality, cleaner electricity than competing generators. It produces energy in the form of pure sine waves, which are cleaner and more reliable than most commercial power sources. For example, laptops cannot be powered by standard generators. Only inverters can produce the necessary stable power to keep them running safely. Fluctuations in power can lead to shut down or damages in the computer equipment.

Indeed, the inverters provide the smoother AC power curve among all the portable generators. In simpler terms, this inverter system means that you’ll be able to confidently power delicate machinery without having to worry about the damage caused by unrefined energy. An electrical overload breaker is also included, to prevent generator damage in case of an unexpected overload.

The latest Smart Technologies for Optimal Fuel Efficiency makes this product reliable, compact and well-designed. The Yamaha EF2000iS can run up to 10.5 hours continuously without refueling when in economy mode. Its OHV engine runs reliably and dissipates heat efficiently, allowing for both a long life and optimal fuel consumption. With its Smart Throttle Load feature, the generator is able to dynamically adjust engine speed depending on output, resulting in greater overall fuel efficiency. The generator also features an exclusive dual coil alternator stator, which lowers engine speed and reduces total fuel consumption.

Moreover, it weighs only 44.1 pounds which makes it perfect for portable and fast deployments. It has a convenient, centralized control panel, which allows you to easily access all of the generator’s features at the push of a button. It also starts up responsively due to its auto-decompression system, which reduces compression and makes start-up less difficult.

Noise Reduction for Quiet Operation. The EF2000iS uses noise reduction technologies to ensure the quietest operation possible. In fact it only produces 51.5 dBA at 1/4 load, which is an ultra-low number. Featuring a special sound-blocking design, the generator has noise-absorbing glass wool construction, which helps dampen noise even during heavy operation. Along with the EF2000iS’ super-quiet muffler and vibration-isolating feet, it helps keep noise to a minimum.

To sum up, this is a real winner in its category and if you are looking for an inverter with a medium power 1000~2000 watts, this one should really be among your first options.

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Product STAP-2000iQ

This Smarter Tools STAP 2000iQ is a gas powered portable inverter. This machine provides 1600 running watts and up to 2000 starting watts. The engine is a Yamaha MZ80. The AP-2000iQ’s Yamaha MZ80 Engine has the longest emission engine life ratings issued by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the California Air Resources Board (CARB).

The secret of this “generator” is that it is an inverter and uses Pure Sinewave technology, suitable for powering sensitive electronic equipment such as a laptop computer. Remember that normal or standard power generators cannot power sensitive electronic devices.

It is highly portable since it only weighs 47 pounds, making it easy to transport and easy to store. It also has a super-quiet muffler with USFS-approved spark arrestor, which only produces 51 dBA and eliminates straying sparks.

In short, the Yamaha powered Smarter Tools AP-2000iQ is whisper quiet, lightweight and easy to use. Capable of powering sensitive electronics and loaded with features such as a fuel gauge, USB charging outlet, easy access oil fill door, LED indicator lights, self venting gas cap and smart throttle, the AP-2000iQ is the ideal outdoor power source.

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Product Honda EU2000I

The Honda EU2000i is another jewel of the Super Quiet Inverter generators in the category of 2000 watts. This Super Quiet Inverter Series Generator produces 53 to 59 decibals of sound during operation, which is less noise than a regular conversation.

It boasts a powerful Honda GX100 engine with a 0.95-gallon fuel tank capacity. It can operate for as many as 8.1 hours on a one tank of fuel. At 46 pounds, this lightweight generator is small and compact. It is still able to produce clean, reliable power, similar to that of a standard household outlet, using inverter technology.

Good design and security. The Honda 20000W inverter generator can also be used in tandem with another identical generator for twice the power. To protect this outdoor power equipment, Honda Oil Alert is used. This turns the generator off when the amount of oil reaches dangerous lows. It is also equipped with circuit protection to prevent overloading from occurring during operation.

To sum up, this super quiet, Inverter generator is multifunctional machine, producing clean and stable power not only for computers and many other devices that require sensitive power source but also for many other more robust highly powered appliances that allow more fluctuations in power.

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Product WEN 56200i

The WEN 2,000 Watt Inverter Generator produces clean energy free of voltage spikes and drops without making all of the noise of a regular generator. Generate 2000 surge watts and 1600 rated watts of power.

The 79.7 cc 4-stroke OHV engine operates at an extremely quiet 51 decibels at quarter load, quieter than a window air conditioner or the average conversation. This limits its invasiveness while hunting, camping, tailgating and restoring back-up power. Designed to mirror a pure sine wave, this generator limits total harmonic distortion to under 0.3 percent at no load and under 1.2 percent at full load, making it safe enough to run laptops, cellphones, monitors, tablets and other vulnerable electronics.

Design and efficiency. The lightweight design makes for easy portability while the ultra-efficient one-gallon tank provides over 6 hours of half-load run time. To conclude, this is an excellent inverter with unique features and capability to power sensitive electronics silently. The affordable price makes it a serious candidate for your final selection.

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Product Yamaha EF2400iSHC

The Yamaha EF2400iSHC is a gas powered portable inverter that provides 2000 Running Watts and up to 2400 Starting Watts. As most of the inverters, it provides clean and stable power. The EF2400iSHC uses Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) to produce high-quality electricity comparable to the power supplied by public utilities. This generator can be used with confidence as a power source for microcomputer-controlled appliances and other devices with built-in computer functions.

The Yamaha EF2400iSHC provides a maximum fuel efficiency and a run time of 8.6 hours at 1/4 capacity load. In its category, it shows the largest efficiency.

For its strong power, it is highly portable. The EF2400iSHC has an aluminum die-cast frame, combined with an aluminum TCI rotor and other weight-saving measures to provide a powerful and compact generator weighing only 75 pounds. This Yamaha EF24000iSHC is an improved inverter of previous versions, increased motor starting capability and improved air conditioner starting. It also provides power that is as clean, or cleaner than commercial power and adjusts the engine speed to precisely match the load.

Ultimately, the Yamaha’s Oil Watch Warning System helps prevent engine damage from low oil and provides added peace of mind. For 2000~3000 watts power, this inverter is really highly recommended.

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Product Champion Power Equipment 75531i

The Champion Power Equipment 75531 I is a ready portable inverter generator that provides 3100 starting watts and 2800 running watts with up to 8 hours run time on a full tank of gas at 25% load. This high efficiency is in part due to the inverter technology. The machine contains Inverter Technology and has a smart Economy Mode that can determine exactly how much power is needed, slowing down the engine when applicable. As electrical load is reduced the engine automatically idles lower allowing for quiet operation, extended engine life, and higher fuel economy.

Design and efficiency. The inverter features a Quick Touch Panel, easily access all controls in one convenient area. It also comes fully assembled with carrying and foldaway handles with wheel kit for easy maneuvering, transportation and storage. Thanks to the inverter technology it provides clean and stable energy and at the same time mult-device service. This Portable Inverter Generator is a quiet and lightweight addition to your RV, your next camping trip, a weekend of tailgating or as source of backup power during an emergency.

The inverter produces 3100 starting watts and 2800 running watts. The unit comes travel-ready with standard 30A RV outlet with enough power to start and run a 15,000 BTU RV air conditioner. It will also power essential items during and emergency or power outage – lights, sump pump, refrigerator, modem/router, furnace blower, fan, TV/DVD, computer. The inverter produces Clean Power (<3% THD) making it suitable for use with sensitive electronics such as computers, flat screen TVs and more. Lightweight – Only 80 lbs which makes it ready portable and with a quiet noise level of 58 dBA from 23 ft.

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Product Briggs & Stratton 30545

This Briggs & Stratton 30545 P3000 PowerSmart is a Portable Inverter Generator. The incorporated Computer-Controlled Engine Adjusts Automatically. Yes, because this inverter is powered by an OHV engine with 3,000 starting watts and 2,600 running watts and features computer-controlled technology that continuously adjusts the engine speed to meet your power needs. The inverter technology delivers quieter, efficient and consistent power to power only the items you need, save fuel and increase run time. The unit features a 1.5-gallon fuel tank for an impressive 10-hours of continuous operation at 25-percent load. Running at a quiet 59-decibel noise level, the P3000 powers multiple appliances at once without the noise and hassle of traditional camping generators.

Ideal for senstivie electronics and device. Inverter technology produces less than 3-percent harmonic distortion, making this generator safe for powering laptops, TVs, gaming systems and other sensitive electronic devices. Multiple outlets and smoother power make the P3000 ideal for powering lights, radios, small appliances, cell phones and more.

Designed for Ultimate Portability and Easy Transportation. The Briggs & Stratton 30545 PowerSmart Series Portable Inverter Generator is perfect for camping, tailgating and even powering food trucks. This generator produces instant power to keep appliances and other important electronics powered during trips in your RV and in your home and is often used by food truck operators to power large appliances. Unique twin handles and a luggage-style telescoping handle design make it easy to transport the generator from one location to the next. It is only 60 pounds. Designed for ultimate portability, the P3000 is great for camping, tailgating or any other on-the-go power necessities.

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Product Subaru RG3200iS

Combining durability with Subaru’s state of the art inverter technology, portable inverter generators work hard and quietly. With three models to choose from ranging in output from 1,650 watts to 4,300 watts you’ll have the output you need to power anything from sensitive electronics to jobsite tools.

Subaru’s Auto Power System adjusts the engine speed to meet your power requirements, allowing for greater fuel efficiency than competitive models. The inverter technology produces a clean sine wave, providing a safe alternative for operating sensitive electronic equipment.

Equipped with a steel tubular frame and base, resin panels with sound absorbing foam lining, the inverter generators offer extreme durability along with quiet operation. Wheels on the larger models make is easy to transport, while the large, three layer steel fuel tank allows for longer run time between refills. To sum up, this inverter is really robust and precise, it is expensive but offers high technology and efficiency in her class.

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Product Generac 6719 IX Series

This Generic 6710 IX Series inverter technology takes the raw power produced by the generator and passes it through a special electronic microprocessor to provide clean and stable power, safe for computers and other sensitive electronic devices.

Inverter generators utilize a different type of alternator than standard generators to generate AC power. The raw power produced is converted from DC to AC power by a computer controlled inverter module. The engine speed varies depending on the electrical demand, which significantly reduces noise and fuel consumption compared to a standard portable generator.

The Generac iX Series 2,000-Watt Inverter Generator, you can confidently plug in your laptop or other sensitive electronics. This generator is equipped with a digital inverter that provides clean power. There are two 120-Volt outlets and at 50% load and a full gas tank you will have more than 4-1/2 hours of electricity at your disposal. This item cannot be returned. A great unit for her category and at a really affordable price. You should check it out

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Product DuroStar DS4000S

DuroStar DS4000S is a portable generator that provides 3300 running watts and up to 4000 starting watts. It has an optimized consumption for this tremendous power; only 4 Gallon gas tank/8 hour run time at 1/2 load. The heavy duty steel frame has four-point fully isolated motor mounts for smooth and quiet operation.

Other features include a recoil start, super quiet muffler that reduces engine noise (69 dBA rating), and automatic low-oil shut off to protect the engine. Its weight is 92.4 pounds and optional wheel kit is also available for the DS4000S, enabling easy portability.

The DuroStar DS4000S has multiple applications. It is a a Great portable generator for camping, RVs, sporting events, home back-up power, job sites, and more, the DuroStar DS4000S gas-powered generator has a 7.0-horsepower air-cooled overhead valve engine with a recoil start that cranks out 3,300 constant running watts of power and up to a peak of 4,000 watts. This rugged workhorse is ideal for a wide variety of uses from getting you through a power outage to keeping you and your family supplied with all the necessary conveniences of home while being miles from nowhere.

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Product Yamaha EF4500iSE

The Yamaha EF4500iSE is a gas powered portable inverter, which is also CARB compliant. The Yamaha EF4500iSE provides 4000 running watts and 4500 starting watts. The EF4500iSE is designed for maximum fuel efficiency and minimum noise. The most powerful engine in its class allows our biggest inverter to run at the very low engine speed of just 2600 rpm—1000 rpm, and that slow engine speed pays off in reduced fuel consumption as well as less noise, vibration and engine wear.

The 4000/4500 running/starting watts makes it suitable for running an RV 15,000 btu air conditioner and 1000 watt microwave oven. Very quiet 58~60 decibels. It also performs Low Speed Running by Using the most powerful engine in its class to run at a constant ultra low speed of 2600 rpm to reduce gasoline consumption and extend running time. It shows up to 7.4 hours running time at full rated load between refueling.

Complies with California Air Resources Board Tier III exhaust emission standard. Qualifies for the highest engine life rating (Extended). Exceeds 1000 hours emission compliance. Pulse Width Modulation Inverter System – Sine wave as clean as or cleaner than household electricity. Suitable for computers, televisions, satellite TV systems and other sensitive electronic equipment. Optional wireless remote control works from up to 66 feet away. Its weight is 194 pounds and incorporates Four wheels with parking brake for easy transport and security. To sum up, a real winner in her class, reliable, powerful, silent and efficient machine with many positive reviews

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Product Champion Power 46596

The Champion power equipment 46596 is a ready portable generator that provides 3500 running watts and 4000 starting watts. This power makes it suitable for a Recreational Vehicle (RV) and it is Equipped with a standard 30A RV outlet, enough power to start and run a 15,000 BTU RV air conditioner.

This unit also makes a great solution for backup power during an emergency and will power all the items you need in a power outage – lights, sump pump, refrigerator, modem/router, furnace blower, fan, TV/DVD, computer, etc. The 3500 Watt RV Ready Portable Generator operates at 68 dBA from 23 ft. and has a run time of up to 12 hours on a full tank (3.8 gal.) of gasoline at 50% load.

Powered by a reliable 196cc Champion engine with Cold Start, optimized to start easily in cold weather The generator is portable and comes in a durable steel frame. This is not an inverter but produces a notably strong power for rugged devices and offered at an excellent and affordable price. Because of its power, it weights 97 pounds and provides an optimized nosie level with a rating of 69 dbA EPA approved.

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Product DuroMax XP4400E

This DuroMax XP4400E is a gas portable generator with Wheel kit and lectric start. It provides 4400 Watt Surge and 3500 Watt Continuous power. This rugged workhorse is ideal for the jobsite where powering saws, drills, and other equipment is critical, but you can also depend on it for emergencies at home–insuring your essential appliances are running smoothly, reliably, and without interruption.

On the other hand, it’s EPA approved with a rating of 69 dBA for quiet operation thanks to its super-quiet muffler, and it’s also safe to use in U.S. National Parks thanks to the super quiet exhaust with spark arrestor. This generator weights 116 pounds but is easily portable thanks to the wheel kit with large, all-terrain knobby tires that will never deflate and a flip-up, stow-away handle. You’ll get up to 8 hours of run time (at 50 percent) from a 4-gallon tank of fuel.

Other features include an advanced automatic voltage regulator (AVR) system and a low oil protection system which automatically shuts the generator off to protect it from any damage should it run out of oil. It has many design details that allows user to verify the status of the generator and gas. For example, A volt meter allows you to monitor your generator’s output range at all times, and the battery charge indicator light lets you know when the generator’s starter battery is charging.

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Product Generac 6864

This Generac 6864 diesel powered portable generator featuring True Power Technology, provides less than 5% total harmonic distortion for clean, smooth operation of sensitive electronics, tools and appliances; ideal for the job site.

Designed for Pros, it’s equipped with an hour meter to track maintenance intervals, single touch electric start for easy start-up, and a durable fully welded 1-1/4″ steel frame to protect the generator in the most demanding applications.

Premium features that make it ideal for job sites and day long events are the integrated lifting eye for easy transport and security, idle control to conserve fuel and reduce noise and 12 gallon fuel tank that provides a long run-time of 32.4 hours at 50% load. So, ultimately, if you value ease-of-use, combine sensitive electronics usage with demanding job site applications, reliability, and you don’t want to worry about machine reloads and failures, then the Generac 6864 is definitely an option you’ll want to consider.

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