In case of prolonged outages, portable and inverter generators may not suffice. They cannot power several household appliances simultaneously. That’s why you need the best 50 amp generators. These can power up several appliances in one go.
So if power outages last for more than a day, a 50 map generator can mean a lot of comfort. And in the worst case, it can be a matter between life and death. Imagine having a power outage on a harsh winter night.
Especially for a large household with multiple appliances, 50 amp generators will serve you well. And we have the best brands that are both reliable and efficient.
What is a 50 Amp Generator?
Simply put, a 50 amp generator can give 50 amps of current. So in terms of prowess, these generators run around 8000 -12000 watts.
One of the most important specs to look for is the number of receptacles. Most generators are rated at 30 amps and have 30 receptacles. And dubious manufacturers often label a 50 amp generator as one, even if it has only a 30 amp receptacle. So you have to make sure that your 50 amp generator has 50 amp receptacles.
Quick summary:
- Firman Remote Start Gas Generator earns our best overall tag because it has almost everything you’d need and want in a reliable generator. It’s quiet, it’s safe use and will handle heavy loads at the same time.
- WEN Dual Fuel Generator is a dual fuel generator that can give you more value for your money. It gives you the option to optimize the type of fuel that you’ll use. Also, it’s easy to start up so it can be suitable for emergencies
- The Westinghouse Volt Selector is one versatile and hardworking generator. You can use this for your homes, and it’s also suitable for RV use. So it’s a great option if you’re going off the grid.
- If you are on a budget, you can still power up most appliances in your homes with the Duromax XP13000EH. It’s budget-friendly yet a reliable and powerful generator.
- Pulsar Non-CARB 10,000W– is one tough unit. Though we have several generators like the Firman Remote Start Gas Generator that is suitable for emergencies, this unit is the best when it comes to handling fluctuations in temperatures. So it’s best for floods.
| Brand | Watts | Fuel | Noise level | Button |
| Firman Remote Start Gas Generator | 8000 running watts and 10,000 starting watts | Gas | 74 decibels | Check Price on Amazon Read Full Review |
| WEN Dual Fuel Generator | 9,500 starting watts and 7,500 running watts | LPG or gas | 73 decibels | Check Price on Amazon Read Full Review |
| Westinghouse Volt Selecto | 12000 Running Watts and 15000 Peak Watts, 6600 starting watts | Gas | 73 decibels | Check Price on Amazon Read Full Review |
| Duromax XP13000EH | 10,000 starting watts and 13,000 running watts | Gas and propane | 72 decibels | Check Price on Amazon Read Full Review |
| Pulsar Non-CARB | 10,000 starting watts and 18,000 running watts | Gas and propane | 75-85 decibels | Check Price on Amazon Read Full Review |
| A-iPower | 12,000 starting watts 9000 running watts | Gas | 58-68 decibels | Check Price on Amazon Read Full Review |
| Rainier R12000DF | 12,000 starting watts 9500 running watts | Gas and propane | 69 decibels | Check Price on Amazon Read Full Review |
| DuroMax XP12000EH | 12,000 starting watts 9500 running watts | Gas and propane | 72 decibels | Check Price on Amazon Read Full Review |
| ROCKPALS | 12,000 starting watts 9500 running watts | Gas and propane | 80-85 decibels | Check Price on Amazon Read Full Review |
| Generac 5802 | 12,000 starting watts 9500 running watts | Gas | 70 decibels | Check Price on Amazon Read Full Review |
Top 10 Best 50 Amp Generators in 2023:
Whether you need a reliable generator for your homes, outdoor use, or emergencies, we have you covered. Our top picks will be able to power up the appliances and devices that you need.
1. Firman Remote Start Gas Generator – Best Overall
This portable generator is very reliable. And even with a heavy load, it will not disturb your sleep.
It can fuel up important home appliances. And what we love most about it is it’s whisper quiet. The Firman engine, measured 439cc, runs most quietly and efficiently. From a power supplied by the Max Pro Series to a cooling engine marked Phoenix.
Engine & Performance:
This 8-gallon fuel generator can already run between 12-13 hours. Depending on the electric traffic, or the number of appliances you need to use, it can deliver 30-50 A power. Hence, it’s most suitable for construction work.
Noise Level:
Releasing barely 74 decibels, this 8-gallon fuel generator is whisper-quiet. It has a whisper series muffler that accounts for the very low or no noise at all. So it will not disturb your sleep nor your neighbor’s.
Features:
- Firman Custom Designed Outlet
- USDA FS-Certified
- 240 volts
- Dimensions: 28.4 x 27.9 x 26.8 in
- Weight: 221 lbs
- Powered by gas
- Remote start
- 8 gallons tank volume
- 8000 running watts and 10,000 starting watts
- Whisper Series Quiet Muffler
- Compact Tubular Roll Cage Frame
Pros
- It’s highly portable and easy to move from one room to another
- It has a solid and Sturdy Construction
- The remote start mechanism makes it suitable for use in emergencies
- It’s whisper-quiet and will not disturb your sleep
Cons
- The High Maintenance Emission Control can be burdensome
2. WEN Dual Fuel Generator– Best Value
This dual fuel generator will give you more bang for your buck.
This will give you the best value for your money. You have an option to economize the type of fuel to use for this generator. Since it is powered by LPG or gas, you have an option on which is more readily available in your area.
So this generator is best for those without a steady source of a specific type of fuel. So you can switch to whichever is more available at a given time.
In addition, it has a keypad electronic ignition. So starting it up is a breeze. Thus, making it suitable for emergency use as well.
Engine & Performance:
Both gasoline and LPG power sources result in extremely high-powered rates. Gas up its 6.6-gallon tank, and you will enjoy 8.5 hours of quiet performance, notwithstanding a quiet performance quality for sleeping babies and pets.
Finally, as mentioned earlier, The WEN DF1100T 50 amp generator, if powered by LPG, starts up at 9,500 watts and sustains at 7,500. If by gasoline, it roars at 11,000 watts and keeps up at 8,300.
Noise Output:
The WEN DF1100T’s 457cc and 4-stroke air-cooled OHV engine runs a beastly high RPM rate. But at around 3600 rates, it mechanizes its 4-stroke air-cooling operation to mute the engine. Once its operation speed goes up, the quiet-cooling action heightens as well, releasing a gentle 74-76 decibel difference range.
Features:
- Powered by LPG or Gas
- Dimensions: 27.3 x 20.6 x 21.9 in
- Weight: 214 lbs
- Wattage: 11, 000
- Electric Start-Powered
- 120-240 Voltage Capacity
- Includes 20V 30A twist lock outlet (L5-30R), 4 120V GFCI outlets (5-20R), 120V/240V 50A outlet (NEMA 14-50R) & other Accessories
- 9,500 starting watts and 7,500 running watts
- Easy Portability
- Voltage Versatility
- 457cc OHV Engine
Pros
- It’s dual-fuel
- This generator features an easy ignition start-up
- It operates quietly
Cons
- High-Maintenance Engine Quality
3. Westinghouse Volt Selector– Best Versatile
It can be used in your home and when going off the grid. This is one versatile generator that you can also use in your RV.
Aside from being multifunctional, it has more going for it. Some generators can run a bill on your power usage. This small and compact unit is one of the more energy-efficient generators on our list.
Operating like a beast in a small, light, and compact body, it requires the least transport/portability effort. All-in-all, it appears and operates solidly, but consumes gently.
Running for as long as 20 hours, the WGen5300v requires a mere 4.7 full gallon tank. Despite its explosive running capacity of 120 volts, it is certified 100% safe for the reason that it does not heat up. This is of course made possible by its built-in gauge and low-oil shutdown mechanisms.
A modified fit balanced between price and quality, helps users save 40% more power.
Also, this one solid unit. Regardless of its small size, it has a sturdy and solid exterior that can take on use and abuse.
Engine & Performance:
The WGen5300v generator runs at 5,300 watts and spires at 6, 600 watts. Conditioned to run cool for 20 hours, it utilizes a specialized 120/240-volt selector switch.
The switch allows users to choose between a 120 or a 240-volt operation, giving them fuller control over the surge of power needed per operation. It also keeps the generator functional despite a low-oil phase. This item that has a 30 amp vs 50 amp generator is a must-have.
Noise output:
The WGen5300v, through its 212cc 4-stroke OHV engine, consumes the least energy possible. This range, known to be standing along an ear-gentle spectrum, yields the quietest action.
Nevertheless, its OHV engine enables the unit to release pressure within a 5-hour interval. As a result, less pressure and less noise are felt from the generator.
Features:
- Volt Switch Selector
- Transfer Switch Ready
- 5–20R 120V Household Duplex Receptacle-Ready
- 212 CC Westinghouse 4-Stroke OHV Engine Power
- 120/240V Volt Selector Switch Mechanism
- TT-30R 30 Amp Receptacle Quality
- 4.7 Gallon Fuel for 20 Hour Maximum Running Time
- Dimensions: 23.3 x 17.5 x 21.3 in
- Weight: 140 lbs
- Gas Fueled
- Wattage: 6, 600
Pros
- It’s versatile and can also be used on your RV vans
- It is energy efficient and can help you save up to 40 percent of energy
- It is solid and suitable
- This is very portable
Cons
- We wished the batteries and startup is a bit better
4. Duromax XP13000EH– Best Budget
Rarely can you find a reliable and affordable generator that can power the whole house.
Albeit it’s compact and small size, this is such a workhorse. It can power up important appliances and devices in your homes. And at a more affordable cost, you can enjoy these conveniences.
Engine & Performance:
Powered by a 500cc 20 HP OHV engine, the Duromax XP13000EH starts at 10,000 watts and sustains at 13,000 watts. Its 4 available outlets– heavy-duty (120/240v on 50A), twist-lock (120-240v on 30A), main twist lock (120v on 30A), and the regular household outlet (120v on 20A)– enable it to work on various standby units.
Supporting the engine power on a general platform is its dual-fuel workhorse capacity. On the contrary, this turns the generator into a massive, deafening engine.
Noise output:
As implicated earlier, the Duromax XP13000EH emerges as a massive unit with a deafening motor speed. It also easily heats up so that constant refueling is needed for cooling.
Features:
- Dual Fuel Workhorse
- All-Metal Construction
- Powered up by a 500cc 20 HP OHV engine
- 4 available outlets
- 10-13,000 Wattage Capacity
- Cleaner Burning
- Dimensions: 30 x 30 x 26 in
- Weight: 231 lbs
- Gas & Propane fueled
- 500cc 20 HP OHV Engine
- Reduced Operating Cost
Pros
- Various Standby Unit Matches
- It’s highly portable and easy to move
- It has a longer shelf life
Cons
- Noisy Motor
5. Pulsar Non-CARB 10,000W– Best Heavy Duty
This Pulsar generator can stand against the harsh storms and winds.
Our top picks are all durable and can withstand storms. But when it comes to endurance this generator tops the list. It’s also very versatile and can handle several units at a time. So even if there are fluctuations in temperatures, this won’t easily break down.
Thus, it’s perfect for emergencies such as floods. It’s also dual-fuel so which gives you more options on what fuel is readily available in your area.
Engine & Performance:
The Pulsar Non-CARB 10,000W, despite its massive weight and bulk, proves to be a genuine all-functioning portable generator. It surely does not fail in terms of delivering a certified 420cc, 4-stroke, OHV engine performance vis a vis a 120-240v range.
Due to its oiled-up fuel traffic, it switches between 10,000 (startup) and 18,000 watts (running) through gas and 9,000 (startup) and 7,000 watts (running) through propane.
Noise Level:
Due to its massive mode-switching power surges, it motors up to an averagely muted degree. Estimated to yield between 75-85 decibels, it should not be as deafening as the previous product featured.
Features:
- Switch & Go Technology
- Longer Running Time
- Convenient Outlets
- Propane Hose
- Dual fuel- gas or propane
- 4 120v outlets, a 120v/240v twist-lock outlet capacity, and a 120/240v on 50A RV port capacity.
- 6.6-gallon fuel tank
- Dimensions: 8.5 x 22.2 x 21.8 inches
- Weight: 209 lbs
- Wattage: 18,000
- 10,000W capacity
Pros
- High-Endurance Performance
- It’s quite versatile and RV ready
- Best Backup Quality
- Has varied Outlets
Cons
- It can be bulky
- Some users find it a bit loud
6. A-iPower 12,000-Watt– Best Spontaneous Start up
If you’re looking for a generator that can spontaneously start-up, this is for you.
This is because it’s a keyless one-touch generator. It is designed to start up standby units. That’s why it’s best for places where there’s a need for constant backup. Very high-demanding places such as construction sites have the most benefit from this generator.
Engine & Performance:
With an electric keyless start, the A-iPower SUA12000E starts up at 12,000 watts and sustains at the 9,000 wattage mark. As of its refueling condition, it deems only a 7.0 gallon filling for 9-10 hours of operation.
Given that tank capacity, it’s often expected to deliver 50% of its total load. The other half is fulfilled by its electric power.
Noise Level:
Thanks to its heavy-duty panel system (1-1/4in heavy-duty full frame), full-bodied motor placement, and a 459cc engine capacity, it needn’t consume that much energy from its source. Meaning, it should not be as noisy as other commercial generators. While it isn’t entirely muted, it’s also not 100% loud.
Features:
- Covered Cord
- Neutral Bonded to Frame for Added Safety
- Keyless One-Touch Push Button
- 459cc Engine Capacity
- Dimensions: 27 x 27 x 27 in
- Weight: 206 lbs
- Gas fueled
- Wattage: 9,000
- DC Adapter Plug & USB Adapter
Pros
- Heavy-Duty Back-Up Generator
- High-Quality Output Generators
- Can start-up easily
Cons
- High-Maintenance
7. Rainier R12000DF Dual Fuel Generator– Best High Capacity
This is the best generator for outdoor applications.
Like the A-iPower, this is a suitable generator for construction sites. But apart from that, its best usage is in outdoor places. It has a high capacity that can be used for a variety of applications. It can serve you well in homes, construction sites, and the outdoors.
This 50a generator is most popularly known for its boundless power distribution. And despite its not-so-durable casing, it’s proven to be reliable in terms of distributing power across various appliances. It can handle several home appliances such as microwaves, ovens, television among others. Yes, it’s a high-maintenance generator that, if secured, can last longer than it’s expected running life.
Its wheel kits and foam grip handles earned it both EPA and CARB certificates. Undoubtedly, it ranks as the most ergonomic generator here. It happens to be so to fulfill a versatile advantage in terms of portability and placement.
The Rainier R12000DF is electrically started via several outlets. That’s why it’s one of the more reliable generators that’s very handy in emergencies.
Engine & Performance:
For a 6.6-gallon fuel tank, it can run for up to 17 hours. As it does so, it gears up with 25% of its total load. Since it’s a dual-fuel engine, it has two power sources- gas and propane.
Like the WGen5300v, it’s protected by an automatic low-oil shutdown and a fuel gauge. It is right to include these protective features in its package to maximize its 457cc OHV 4-stroke Rainier engine.
Noise Level:
For years now, the brand model has been experiencing upgrades. Consequently, it’s seen improvements in its capacity from time to time. With a proven 457cc efficiency, it’s dubbed as one of the naturally-powered and boosted 50 amp generators. As a result, its motor volume merely ranges between 70-72 decibels.
Features:
- Electric Start
- Powerful Engine Capacity
- Dual Fuel
- Fueling Options
- Ready for Home
- 4 Outlets: 120/240v on 50A, 120/240v on 30A, 120v on 30A & 120v on 20A
- EPA & CARB-Certified
- Dimensions: 27.2 x 26.1 x 26 in
- Weight: 200 lbs
- Power Source: Gas & Propane
- Wattage: 12,000
Pros
- Dual Fuel High-Capacity Engine
- Boundless Power Distribution
- Reliable Power Distribution
- Electric Start
Cons
- Weak Casing
8. DuroMax XP12000EH Dual Fuel Generator – Best Propane Output
This is the best generator if you have a steady source of propane.
This dual fuel generator works on gas and propane. But out of our best picks, this has the best propane output. Propane may not be a readily available source of energy in all areas. So if you have a source of it, there’s no better option than this.
The DuroMax XP12000EH is identical to its predecessor, the Duromax XP13000EH. Also bearing the features common to the DuroMax series– dual fuel workhorse, flexible power sourcing, a DuroMax MX2 maximum power technology, etc.– the DuroMax XP12000EH also has a soundly-complementing system.
In terms of which of the two sources has the least disadvantages, propane stands out. As its natural property, propane has longer storage life so that it does not stick and mess around in the carburetor.
Since the DuroMax XP12000EH distinctly endorses and maintains the propane power section, it leans more towards a propane-induced system. In fairness to its gas power source, it still runs favorably well.
Engine & Performance:
The DuroMax XP12000E is powered by a 457cc OHV engine. Settling at an 18HP rank, it manages to compensate for the lacking 2cc mark. So, it should perform no less than the XP13000EH model.
Starting at 12,000 watts and sustains at 9,500 watts, it utilizes the same 4 outlets– heavy-duty (120/240v on 50A), twist-lock (120-240v on 30A), main twist lock (120v on 30A), and the regular household outlet (120v on 20A). Ultimately, given its similar outlet advantages, it should easily govern 10-12 standby units at one operation.
Noise Level:
Since it bears the same engine capacity, motor speed, and volt receptacles, the DuroMax XP12000E proves to be as deafening as its former version. Fortunately, thanks to its Duramax MX2 tech, it manages to tone down at brief intervals.
Features:
- Longer Shelf Life
- Dual Fuel Workhorse
- All-Metal Construction
- Cleaner Burning
- Dimensions: 40 x 29 x 27.5 in
- Weight: 243 lbs
- Gas & Propane
- Wattage: 12,000
Pros
- Flexible Power Sourcing
- Highly Portable
- Best Propane Outputs
Cons
- Noisy Motor
9. ROCKPALS 12,000-Watt Dual Fuel Generator– Best Backup Generator
Its robust and solid housing and smooth generator engine make it the best generator backup.
The Rockpals 12,000 has an unmistakably heavy-duty command and backup capacity. It is reliable and smooth of a generator engine. Part of its heavy-duty command is a durable casing, an oversized muffler (for accurately muted motor engine), a straightforward electric start button, and an advanced surge protector.
The Rockpals 12,000’s surge protector enables it to prolong not only its own functionality but also other appliances’. Another proven benefit of this generator is that it can save you fuel.
Power surges are known to increase electricity rates in the place. Without an appliance guard, power surges can blatantly rob currents. And this can damage the appliances in the long run.
In addition to these benefits, the generator has a recoil start. Meaning, it automatically stabilizes its own power at the onset of possible battery drain. However, this feature may also cause the generator to shut down in rare instances.
Engine & Performance:
The Rockpals 12,000, an EPA III and CARB-compliant generator, deems 6.6 gallons of fuel full tank for 8.5 hours of non-stop running. Powered by a 459cc V-OHV Engine, via 4-stroke outlets: 120v on 30A, 120/240v on 30A (locking outlets), 120V on 20A (GFCI household outlets), and 120/240V on 50A.
It starts up at 12,000 watts and continues at 9,000 watts from gas power; it starts at 10,800 watts and continues at 8,100 from propane power.
Noise Level:
Fortunately, despite its oversized muffler that makes it a bit heavier than usual, the Rockpals 12,000 is a certified quiet generator. Not louder than a vacuum cleaner, its motor operation volume ranges between 75-78 decibels.
Features:
- Quiet Operation
- Built-in DC Adapter Plug
- Weather-Resistance Covered Outlets
- Effortless Mobility
- Dimensions: 29.7 x 29.2 x 25 in
- Weight: 214 lbs
- Gas & Propane
- Wattage: 12,000
- High-Performance Alternator
Pros
- Highly Smooth & Reliable
- Advanced Surge Protector
- Recoil Start Feature
- Solid Wheels
Cons
- It can be heavy and bulky
10. Generac 5802, 10000 Running Watts– Best Premium
This premium generator is the best when it comes to power surge protection.
It may be more expensive than some of the units on our list. But when it comes to surge protection, this generator is ranked top. It has a unique steel casing that makes it a reliable and heavy-duty unit.
Another notable feature of the Generac 5802 is being a temporary power provider. And, as mentioned earlier, it works best in emergencies.
Even with a large capacity fuel tank, it is still proven to operate for short intervals. Thus, experts suggest cooling it every 2-3 hours. After all, it’s a CARB-compliant engine, so it should not backfire easily.
Engine & Performance:
The Generac 5802 is powered by a 220cc OHVI engine that is known for its light and versatile functioning command. Considered to be sufficiently powerful, this engine class fully maximizes pressure using an automotive force to prolong engine life.
With that, it easily responds to light electric start touch. With a full large capacity steel tank of 4.5 gallons, it can run for up to 13 hours (interrupted) at a 50% load. Its starting mark falls at 5,000 watts, while its running mark is at 4,000 watts.
Noise Level:
The Generac 5802’s fails at a 78-80 decibel range. This is further helped by its anti-vibration fold-down handle and never-flat wheels. Nevertheless, full pressure is concentrated in its OHVI engine. Ultimately, in the event of pressure leakage, its PowerBar monitor gives out a beep.
Features:
- Covered Outlets
- 1 1/4″ Steel Tube Cradle for Added Durability
- 49-State Control Panel
- Uniquely-Steeled Casing
- CARB-Compliant Engine
- illuminated LED Control Panel
- Dimensions: 32 x 29.5 x 33 in
- Weight: 300 lbs
- Gas
- Wattage: 10,000
Pros
- Emergency Power Provider
- Highly Durable and heavy-duty
- Great power surge protection
Cons
- Heavy & Bulky
How to Choose the Right Size 50 Amp Generator (Buying Guide for the Best 50 amp Generator)
Either you’re buying a 50 map generator for your RV or homes, you have to buy the right size. And that’s for two reasons. One, to ensure you have enough prowess for your appliances. And two, to save money. Because buying more than what you need is a waste of money.
You have to determine how many appliances you need to start up. And are you going to use them all at the same time?
You need to know the starting watts and the running watts of the generator. Then alternatively, make another rundown of the starting watts and the running watts of all the appliances that you need to run.
Remember that the starting watts is what you need to “start off” an appliance. And the running watts are what’s needed to maintain them. You can sum the starting watts and the running watts of your appliances. And compare them to that of the generator. Ensure that the generator has enough power to fill in these numbers.
This will help you decide if you don’t need all the 12000 watts that you can get from a 50 amp generator.
Starting Watts vs Running Watts
To be able to determine home many appliances your 50 amp generator can handle, you have to determine the starting watts and the running watts of each appliance.
Simply put, starting watts are the wattage needed to start an appliance. Starting watts are also referred to as surge watts or peak watts.
And running watts are the wattage needed to maintain the appliance running. It’s the amount of wattage that an appliance will require to prevent it from failing
Appliances with a motor such as an air conditioner will require more starting watts than other appliances. After that power surge, the energy consumption decreases.
So when using a generator, which is more important, the starting watts or the running watts. Both are important. And to be able to determine if your 50 amp generator can handle the surge, compute all the starting watts of the appliance that you intend to run at the same time.
But take note that though 50 amp generators are larger and have a bigger capacity, it’s still not advisable to power ALL of our alliances at the same time. So you still have to prioritize.
Why You Should Buy 50 Amp Generator
Price-wise, a compact generator might seem a good deal. You might even argue that it’s enough for emergencies.
But it wouldn’t be enough to power all the appliances that you need, in case of a blackout. And you need a generator that has a higher watt vs the total starting and running watts of all your appliances.
This will ensure that you can run each sufficiently. And if you’re going to run several appliances simultaneously, you need a 50 amp generator.
Even if you’re not going to run all of your appliances at the same time, a portable generator can only supply 25 % percent of your energy needs.
Which Generator Size is Best to Use for Your 50 Amp RV?
Powering the RV is not as easy as you think. Many RV owners, instead of pumping electric current into their RVs, end up doing the opposite. RVs have varied electrical needs and services. Hitting a one-ampere degree should be insufficient if you’re actually aiming for a sustained wattage performance.
The overarching means for fully understanding the RV’s electric needs is to scrutinize the nitty-gritty of your 50 amp RV system. Only by getting the hang of it can you identify the perfect generator size for your 50 amp RV.
You may also like: Best Propane Generator
Generator Safety Tips
The main things to look at when using generators are carbon monoxide poisoning, electric shock, and fire. Improper use can expose you to these dangers.
Carbon monoxide is a colorless and odorless gas. That’s why it’s quite dangerous as you do not know you’re inhaling it already. You’ll only realize it once you get dizzy. And in case this happens, you have to get fresh air asap and call for medical help.
So to be able to use a generator safely at home, here are some life-saving tips.
- Ensure that the generator is placed on a flat dry surface. You must prevent it from getting wet. Ensure that it’s covered with tarps and supported with. It will prevent it from getting soaked with rainwater.
- Avoid using your generator in rainy or wet conditions.
- Never touch the generator with wet hands.
- Before refueling, turn off the generator and allow it to cool down first.
- Use an approved safety can for storing generator fuel.
- Use only the type of fuel recommended for use on generators.
- Plug heavy-duty appliances directly into the generator. Otherwise, use a heavy-duty cord to connect the appliance to the generator. Ensure that it’s rated in watts and equal to the total watts of the appliances. Ensure that the cord will be able to handle the power surge.
- Before connecting the cord, check if there are tears, cracks, or any damage. Ensure that it has three prongs and a grounding pin. Grounded generators can prevent shocks and electrocutions.
- Never plug in a generator to a wall outlet. This can put you and other people at risk of electrocution. Only licensed electricians are allowed to do so and they use special equipment for this. So don’t be a daredevil and just follow the rules.
- Always read the manufacturer’s instructions. And be careful not to overload your generator.
- To avoid overheating, try to run all your appliances at different times. Make a schedule on how to run them in a staggered manner.
- To avoid carbon monoxide poisoning, these generators should be used outside and placed away from doors and windows. Carbon monoxide must not find an entryway into your homes. Generators should be located at least 15 ft away from doors, windows, or any entry point.
- Don’t use generators or other charcoal burning tools inside your homes. It should never be used inside an enclosed area due to the high risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
- If you start to feel dizzy, it’s a sign that you have inhaled carbon monoxide. Get fresh air right away.
- Carbon monoxide is odorless. So to prevent inhalation of these toxic fumes, you can install carbon monoxide alarms on the entryway of your home or in your sleeping areas.
- And if the carbon monoxide alarm beeps, make sure to get fresh air asap.
- Always check first before using the generator.
- Do a routine inspection and maintenance of your generators. Check for any cracks or leaks. And If are damaged parts, fix or replace them immediately,
- It’s advisable to schedule yearly maintenance of your generators. You can also commission a professional to do it.
- You may run the generator before the storm season begins. Use fresh fuel and check if it is running efficiently. It’s frustrating to find out that it’s not working anymore once you need it.
- Maintain an adequate supply of fuel. You can also check with your local area regulations on fuel and safety. There might be restrictions as to how much fuel you can keep in your homes. And also know your generator’s fuel consumption per appliance.
Calculating the Result
To better grasp and measure wattage, you first need to look into the 50 amp RV system. Its system usually comprises a ground wire, two 120v (volt) wires, and neutralizing wires. So when you channel the RV to a generator, you are generating power between 120-240v. Since the 120v is the main surge, it shall be multiplied by two (representing the two surges in the range) that is: 2 x 120v.
Now, to come up with the total required wattage size, you will have to lay the figures in this formula: 50 (ampere size) x 2 (midranges) x 120v (the main surge), totaling to 12,000 wattage size.
The highest demand for wattage or generator size, therefore, is 12,000. But that does not mean you’ll have to purchase such a powerful generator because after all, the greatest determinant would be the total kWh needs per appliance.
If you were keen to observe, our recommended wattage size range– 4,000-8,000- accurately falls within the 12,000 total generator size.
Here’s a Honda chart for a guided estimation of the generator size.
FAQ’s:
Can I use a generator even if it’s low on fuel?
That would not be recommended. You either have to shut it down in intervals to allow it to cool. Then, you will have to refuel it. Some models like that of DuroMax and Champion have backup power sources and low-oil auto-shutoff. But, you can’t be fully dependent on these features if you want the generator life to be preserved.
Which is the best fuel source- gasoline or propane?
That is entirely dependent on the carburetor. But based on recommendations, propane proves to be mess-free, anti-stick and smooth in terms of delivering power.
What is the best 50 amp generator?
The best 50 amp generator, as per our review, is the Firman P08003.
How much does a 50 amp generator cost?
These generators can be expensive. They can run from 900- 2900 dollars.
How many watts is a 50 Amp generator?
50 amp generators can provide 12000 watts.
What is the difference between starting watts and running watts?
Starting watts are the needed fuel or energy to start up an appliance. Running watts, on the other hand, are the watts needed to keep an appliance running.
What is the difference between a 30 amp and 50 amp generator?
The difference is in the design and the number of watts it can provide. For the design, a 50 amp generator has 4 prongs while a 30 amp only has three. Also, a 50 amp generator can provide 12000 watts. A 30 amp generator, on the other hand, can only provide you 3600 watts.
Does Honda make a 50 amp generator?
Unfortunately no. One of the most powerful generators of the brand is rated at 23.3 amps.
Conclusion
The best 50 amp generators can save your life in case of a sudden blackout. It’s also quite convenient when you’re going off the grid in your RV fan. Our comprehensive review consists of the best brand in the market. And you can find a unit that fits your needs and budgets.
OUR #1 RECOMMENDATION
Firman Remote Start Gas Generator
When looking for the best generator, our key components are reliability, durability, and safety. The Firman Remote Start Gas Generator lets us enjoy all of these conveniences. And it also is rather quiet and safe to use.
You don’t have to worry about overheating or overriding. So this is suitable for most homes.