Ranked #3 in Best Portable Generators
DuroMax XP12000EH 9500W Dual-Fuel Generator4.3
$1,399The DuroMax XP12000EH is the heavy-duty conventional generator that won Bob Vila's whole-home backup recommendation. Its 9,500 running watts handle a central AC, refrigerator, well pump, and lighting simultaneously, and the dual-fuel design lets you switch to propane when gas stations run out during a storm. Loud and not safe for sensitive electronics without a surge protector, but a strong value at $1,399.
Strengths
- — 9,500 running watts and 12,000 peak watts handles whole-home backup including a central AC unit
- — Dual-fuel design runs on gasoline or propane — propane stores indefinitely versus 6-month gas shelf life
- — Electric key start with included battery makes cold-morning starting effortless versus heavy recoil pull
Watch-outs
- — Heavy 224 lb dry weight — Bob Vila measured 90 dBA close-up and 74 dBA at 23 feet, much louder than inverter units
- — Total Harmonic Distortion exceeds 12% — not safe for sensitive electronics like CPAP machines or laptops without surge protection
- — Only one 120V duplex outlet limits direct extension-cord use for contractors needing multiple circuits
