Generators are essential in the event of power outages. They can provide a reliable backup source of electricity for homes, businesses, and other buildings.
Generators work by converting fuel into electricity to power whatever it is plugged into.
Typically they generate enough power for lights, small appliances, and emergency equipment.
The best diesel generators are those that do not break down easily or require constant maintenance.
A diesel engine is the industry standard for heavy-duty generators.
The reason is that it’s simpler than a conventional spark plug and doesn’t have as many parts to break down in general due to its age-old design over modern engines like gasoline ones.
Diesel engines can last for 20 years of use, saving you a lot of money in the long term.
Compared to traditional generators that are only good for less than 1,000 hours on average.
So, each diesel engine will save your wallet from being drained by maintenance costs and repairs later down the road over time due to its durability.
The diesel generator is one of the more expensive generators on the market, but if cost isn’t a factor for you, it may be worth considering.
The downside to this type of power generation system is that they are loud and can easily disrupt your neighbors with their noise-making capabilities.
Diesel fuel has a higher cost and is more prone to variation in price than unleaded gas.
If you’re preparing for an emergency that might require the use of generators or other power sources at home, it may make sense to keep some on hand.
Ready for a power outage? We’ve got you covered.
Our list of the best diesel generators currently on the market keeps your home appliances running while outages happen.
Generac 6864 – EDITOR’S CHOICE
- Rated Wattage: 5000 watts
- Surge Wattage: 5500 watts
- Noise Level (25% load): Not specified
- Weight: 254 lbs.
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 12 gallons
- Estimated Runtime: 4 hours (50% load)
There’s no need to fear the power outages that come when you’re too far from town or in a rural area.
Maintain access to electricity without interference with this Generac 6864 – Editor’s Choice.
When you first look at this generator, don’t be surprised if a sensation of sticker shock comes over.
But before you turn away from the impressive setlist features and specs for fear it’s too rich for your budget – take another look.
Our 5KW generator features 12 gallons of fuel capacity and provides up to 4 hours runtime at 50% load for continuous operation.
You will never have to worry about your TV, microwave, computer, or anything else when you keep this generator in the back of your closet.
Operating outside of 25% load will maximize the noise level as 61 dB, and heavy-duty oil-less belt drive offers reliable, long-lasting performance.
An 800cc engine and three 6 inch wheels make it easy for owners to migrate their generator as needed around the property or event site.
Pros:
- Produces 5,000 running watts
- Over one day’s runtime at 50% load
- Less than 5% THD
- Four 120-volt AC outlets
- Toggles to 240-volt output
- Electric start
- The display shows runtime and load
Cons:
- Very expensive
- Heavy and hard to transport
- Requires a battery, not included
- Only two-year warranty
DuroStar DS7000Q
- Rated Wattage: 6000 watts
- Surge Wattage: 5500 watts
- Noise Level (25% load): 70 dBA
- Weight: 305 lbs.
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 8 gallons
- Estimated Runtime: 12 hours (50% load)
A class above the competition, the DuroStar DS7000Q is one of our most powerful portable generators, but its power production is different than other models.
This generator will hold up to your worst demands as it has a rating of 6000 watts with a 5500-watt surge and is rated at 70 dBA noise level when the load is 25% power.
Forget about your neighbors repeating complaints to you- this generator’s weight of 305 pounds makes it easy enough to take camping or use in just about any scenario, no matter how heavy your battery requirements are!
The fuel tank capacity is 8 gallons, so you can get 12 hours (50% load) runtime on your next outdoor adventure due to its ability to store plenty of fuel for you.
The machine has a two-way power switch that allows it to change voltage types for 120 or 240 volts but only comes with two standard household outlets.
Pros:
- Relatively affordable
- Quiet for a diesel generator
- Mounted on wheels
- Toggles between 120- and 240-volt power
- Main circuit breaker for a complete reset
- Analog voltmeter
- Three-year warranty
Cons:
- Extremely large and heavy
- Small fuel tank limits runtime to 12 hours at 50% load
- Only two 120-volt AC outlets
- Not safe for sensitive electronics
Frequently Asked Questions
What is total harmonic distortion, and why does it matter?
Total harmonic distortion is used to measure the quality of electrical power from a generator.
The ideal harmonic content for electricity is that there is no additional frequency “overtones” other than the original sine waves generated by the generator.
Any increase in these overtones leads to decreased quality and efficiency and an increased risk for hazards like short circuits.
Luckily, nowadays, most homes have electric grid distribution networks with total harmonic distortion near 10%.
It means that ninety-nine percent of homes will never experience problems related to this factor because their regional utilities so highly regulate them.
But if you happen to live off the grid or want your generator at home, you’ll need one with low levels of total harmonic.
Do I need 240-volt power?
It depends. Some appliances may need 240-volt power, which is best generated on a generator or built to generator standards.
Most household needs can be met by running on 240-volt power so long as you know how to toggle your generator.
If you have 220 -240 volts coming into your house in a standard 110 V plug, then it’s likely going directly out of a circuit breaker panel box.
Since this would take care of most everyday appliance capacity, including microwaves, battery chargers/inverters, and many larger appliances such as ovens and water heaters.
Any other major appliance will likely use more than what the panel box should offer.
Do I need to change the oil on a diesel generator?
If you are using your generator for prolonged periods, we recommend changing the oil every 50-60 hours.
Diesel produces more lubricant than gasoline engines to compensate for their higher compression ratios.
Diesel also generates significant amounts of formic acid, which can eat away the piston rings and coatings over time.
Changing the engine oil at scheduled intervals will help prevent this damage and extend the life of your engine.
Conclusion
Diesel generators are an excellent option for any homeowner who is looking to invest in an emergency generator.
Not only will you get many years of use out of them, but they require very little maintenance and come with all sorts of other benefits as well!
All it takes is one power outage or hurricane to convince people that investing in a diesel generator might be the best move they ever made.
If this sounds like something you want more information on, don’t hesitate to contact us today for your free consultation.
We’ll go over everything from installation costs to fuel considerations so you can make an informed decision about which type of generator makes sense for your home.
