7 Best Diesel Generators for Home That Deliver Power

The best diesel generators for home depends on your needs. The Generac 6864 XD5000E is best for portable job site power with its 32.4-hour runtime, while the Generac Guardian 24kW excels at whole-house backup with WiFi monitoring. For budget-conscious buyers, the DuroStar DS13000MX stands out with dual-fuel capability and CO detection at under $800.

Choosing the right generator means balancing power output, fuel efficiency, and your specific backup needs. This guide reviews seven top options to help you find the perfect match for your home.

Quick Comparison Table

Product	Power Output	Fuel Type	Runtime (50% Load)	Start Type	Transfer Switch Ready
Generac 6864 XD5000E	5000W	Diesel Only	32.4 hours	Electric	No
Generac Guardian 10kW	10000W	Natural Gas/Propane	N/A (Standby)	Automatic	Yes (Included)
DuroMax XP13000EH	13000W	Gas/Propane	Varies by fuel	Electric/Recoil	Yes
Westinghouse 12500	12500W	Gas/Propane/Natural Gas	12 hours	Remote/Electric/Recoil	Yes
PowerSmart 4400W Inverter	4400W	Gas Only	11 hours (25% load)	Recoil	No
DuroStar DS13000MX	13000W	Gas/Propane	Varies by fuel	Electric/Recoil	Yes
Generac Guardian 24kW	24000W	Natural Gas/Propane	N/A (Standby)	Automatic	Yes (Included)

Best Diesel Generators for Home

1. Generac 6864 XD5000E – True Diesel Power with Marathon Runtime

Best for: Users needing genuine diesel fuel efficiency with extended runtime for remote locations or job sites.

Key Features:

Feature	Details
Engine	Yanmar 435cc diesel
Runtime	32.4 hours at 50%
Fuel Tank	12-gallon capacity
Frame	Steel with lifting eye
Harmonic Distortion	Only 6% THD

The Generac 6864 XD5000E is the best true diesel generator for users seeking industrial-grade reliability and fuel efficiency. This is the only genuine diesel option in our roundup.

The Yanmar air-cooled direct injection engine delivers exceptional durability and performance. The 12-gallon tank provides over 32 hours of continuous operation at half load.

With only 6% total harmonic distortion, it safely powers sensitive electronics alongside heavy tools. The sturdy steel frame includes an integrated lifting eye for easy transport.

The 1.25-inch steel cradle construction ensures this generator withstands harsh job site conditions. It’s CARB compliant and built for professional-grade applications.

At over $4,000, it’s a premium investment that delivers unmatched diesel efficiency and runtime for serious backup power needs.

2. Generac Guardian 10kW – Automatic Whole-House Standby Power

Best for: Homeowners wanting automatic backup power with WiFi monitoring and professional installation.

Key Features:

Feature	Details
Power Output	10,000 watts continuous
Transfer Switch	100A 16-circuit included
Monitoring	WiFi Mobile Link
Fuel Options	Natural gas or propane
Warranty	5-year limited

The Generac Guardian 10kW is the best automatic standby generator for whole-house protection. It starts automatically within seconds of detecting a power outage.

The included 100-amp transfer switch with 16 circuits provides comprehensive home coverage. The aluminum enclosure withstands outdoor conditions year-round.

WiFi connectivity lets you monitor generator status and receive maintenance alerts from anywhere. True Power Technology delivers clean electricity with under 5% harmonic distortion.

The purpose-built G-Force engine runs quieter and more efficiently than automotive conversions. It’s engineered and assembled in the USA.

Professional installation is required, but you get set-and-forget peace of mind with automatic operation and remote monitoring capabilities.

3. DuroMax XP13000EH – High-Power Dual Fuel Portable

Best for: Users needing maximum portable power with flexible fuel options and transfer switch capability.

Key Features:

Feature	Details
Peak Power	13,000 watts
Fuel Options	Gasoline and propane
Start Method	Push-button electric
Construction	All-metal frame and panel
Transfer Switch	50-amp outlet ready

The DuroMax XP13000EH is the best high-output portable generator for whole-home backup at an affordable price. It delivers 13,000 starting watts of reliable power.

Dual fuel capability lets you run on gasoline or propane with a simple fuel selector switch. The heavy-duty all-metal construction eliminates weak plastic components.

Push-button electric start makes operation effortless, while the 50-amp outlet connects directly to a transfer switch. The robust DuroMax engine is built for longevity.

The front-facing control panel provides easy access to all outlets and controls. It’s powerful enough to run central air conditioning and major appliances simultaneously.

At under $1,000, it offers exceptional value for users needing serious backup power without the cost of a standby system.

4. Westinghouse 12500 – Tri-Fuel Flexibility Champion

Best for: Homeowners wanting maximum fuel flexibility with natural gas, propane, and gasoline options.

Key Features:

Feature	Details
Peak Power	12,500 watts (gas)
Fuel Types	Gas, propane, natural gas
Start Options	Remote, electric, recoil
Runtime	12 hours on 6.6 gallons
Safety Features	CO shutdown included

The Westinghouse 12500 is the best tri-fuel generator offering unprecedented fuel flexibility. It runs on gasoline, propane, or natural gas seamlessly.

The heavy-duty 457cc cast iron sleeve engine delivers reliable power across all fuel types. Remote start with included key fob adds convenient operation from up to 260 feet away.

Automatic CO shutdown and low oil protection ensure safe operation. The 6.6-gallon fuel tank with gauge provides up to 12 hours of runtime on gasoline.

GFCI-protected outlets and rubber covers enhance safety, while the transfer switch-ready L14-30R outlet simplifies whole-house connection. It comes ready to use with battery charger, oil, and tools included.

The 3-year warranty and nationwide service network provide excellent long-term support for under $900.

5. PowerSmart 4400W Inverter – Budget-Friendly Quiet Power

Best for: Budget-conscious buyers needing quiet, clean power for essential appliances and electronics.

Key Features:

Feature	Details
Power Output	4400W starting, 3600W rated
Noise Level	76 dB at 23 feet
Runtime	11 hours at 25% load
Weight	61.29 lbs portable
Safety	CO sensor included

The PowerSmart 4400W Inverter is the best budget generator offering quiet operation and clean inverter power. It’s perfect for essential home backup on a tight budget.

The EPA-compliant 223cc engine delivers reliable performance with multiple safety features. Inverter technology produces clean electricity safe for sensitive electronics like computers and phones.

At just 76 dB, it runs quietly enough for residential areas and camping. The 1.6-gallon tank provides 11 hours of runtime at quarter load.

Carbon monoxide detection, low oil shutdown, and overload protection ensure safe operation. The compact 61-pound design makes it easy to move and store.

For under $300, it’s an excellent entry-level option for powering refrigerators, lights, and essential circuits during outages.

6. DuroStar DS13000MX – Best Value High-Power Option

Best for: Budget-conscious buyers needing 13,000 watts with advanced CO safety features.

Key Features:

Feature	Details
Power Output	13,000 watts reliable
Fuel Options	Gasoline or propane
Safety	CO Alert auto-shutdown
Start Type	Push-button electric
Transfer Ready	50-amp heavy-duty outlet

The DuroStar DS13000MX is the best value generator delivering 13,000 watts with advanced safety features for under $800. It provides whole-home backup power affordably.

CO Alert technology automatically detects dangerous carbon monoxide levels and shuts down the generator for family safety. Dual fuel capability offers flexibility between gasoline and propane.

The intuitive control panel features a front-facing fuel selector for quick switching. Push-button electric start eliminates pull-cord hassles during emergencies.

The heavy-duty 50-amp outlet connects directly to transfer switches for whole-house power distribution. The robust 500cc engine handles demanding loads reliably.

It’s an outstanding choice for homeowners wanting maximum power and safety features without spending over $1,000.

7. Generac Guardian 24kW – Premium Whole-House Solution

Best for: Large homes requiring maximum automatic backup power with comprehensive whole-house coverage.

Key Features:

Feature	Details
Power Output	24,000 watts continuous
Transfer Switch	200A SER included
Monitoring	WiFi Mobile Link
Engine	Purpose-built G-Force
Warranty	5-year limited

The Generac Guardian 24kW is the best premium standby generator for large homes needing complete backup power. It handles multiple HVAC systems, appliances, and electronics simultaneously.

The included 200-amp transfer switch provides comprehensive whole-house coverage in a weather-resistant aluminum enclosure. WiFi connectivity enables remote monitoring and maintenance alerts from anywhere.

True Power Technology delivers 24,000 watts of clean, stable electricity with under 5% harmonic distortion. The G-Force engine runs quieter and more efficiently than competitors.

Automatic operation means power restores within seconds of an outage without any action required. It’s engineered and assembled in the USA for quality assurance.

At over $7,000, it’s a significant investment that provides ultimate peace of mind for large properties and critical backup needs.

How to Choose Best Diesel Generators for Home

Power Output Requirements

Calculate your total wattage needs by adding up all appliances and devices you want to run simultaneously. Don’t forget starting watts for motors and compressors, which can be 2-3 times higher than running watts.

For essential circuits only, 5,000-7,000 watts suffices. Whole-house backup typically requires 10,000-24,000 watts depending on home size and HVAC systems.

Fuel Type and Availability

True diesel generators offer superior fuel efficiency and longer runtime but cost significantly more upfront. Diesel fuel stores well long-term and is widely available.

Dual-fuel and tri-fuel options provide flexibility during emergencies when one fuel type may be unavailable. Natural gas connections eliminate fuel storage concerns entirely for standby units.

Portable vs Standby Installation

Portable generators cost less and work anywhere but require manual setup, fueling, and operation. They’re ideal for occasional use and budget-conscious buyers.

Standby generators install permanently, start automatically during outages, and require professional installation. They’re best for frequent outages or critical backup needs despite higher costs.

Runtime and Fuel Capacity

Larger fuel tanks reduce refueling frequency during extended outages. Look for at least 8-12 hours of runtime at 50% load for practical backup power.

Diesel engines typically offer the longest runtime per gallon, while propane and natural gas provide unlimited runtime with proper connections. Consider typical outage duration in your area when choosing.

Safety Features and Certifications

CO detection with automatic shutdown is essential for any generator used near living spaces. Low oil shutdown prevents catastrophic engine damage from neglect.

Look for EPA and CARB compliance for environmental standards. Transfer switch compatibility ensures safe connection to home electrical systems without backfeeding the grid.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are diesel generators better than gas for home backup?

Diesel generators offer better fuel efficiency, longer runtime, and superior longevity, but cost significantly more upfront. For frequent use or extended outages, diesel saves money long-term through lower fuel consumption and maintenance costs.

How long can a diesel generator run continuously?

Most diesel generators can run 24-48 hours continuously with proper maintenance and cooling. The Generac XD5000E offers 32.4 hours at 50% load on a single 12-gallon tank, making it excellent for extended outages.

Do I need a transfer switch for a home generator?

A transfer switch is essential for safely connecting a generator to your home’s electrical system. It prevents dangerous backfeeding to utility lines and allows you to power hardwired circuits instead of just extension cords.

What size generator do I need to run my whole house?

Most homes need 10,000-20,000 watts for whole-house backup depending on square footage and appliances. Calculate your specific needs by adding running watts plus highest starting watts of major appliances like air conditioners and well pumps.

How often should I run my backup generator?

Run your generator under load for 30 minutes monthly to keep internal components lubricated and prevent fuel system issues. This maintenance routine ensures it starts reliably during actual emergencies.

Final Thoughts

The Generac 6864 XD5000E stands out as the only true diesel option with exceptional 32-hour runtime, while the DuroStar DS13000MX offers the best value for high-power backup at under $800.

Choose based on your power needs, budget, and whether you want portable convenience or automatic standby operation. Consider fuel availability and storage capabilities in your area when deciding between diesel, gas, or dual-fuel options.

Invest in proper transfer switch installation and regular maintenance to ensure your generator provides reliable backup power when you need it most.