When you need backup power for your home or jobsite, few names are as trusted as Generac. With over 60 years of experience manufacturing quality generators, Generac is known for their top-notch engineering, durability, and advanced features.
Luckily, popular home improvement retailer Lowe’s offers a wide selection of Generac generators to meet different needs and budgets. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the top Generac models available at Lowe’s and provide tips to help you choose the right one.
Whether you need to power your entire house during outages or just want a portable unit for camping, Lowe’s and Generac have you covered. Let’s review some of the best options.
Generac GP5500 – Reliable Mid-Sized Portable Power
The Generac GP5500 provides an excellent balance of power, portability, and price – perfect for home backup and worksites.
- Wattage: 5500 starting watts, 6875 peak watts
- Engine: 208cc Generac OHV
- Run time: 8 hours at 50% load
- Features: TruePower technology, electric start
Pros:
- Mid-level wattage for home essentials
- Lighter and easier to transport than competitors
- Affordable price point under $1000
Cons:
- Louder than inverter models
- No fuel gauge on unit
Best For:
With reliable power production in a compact size, the GP5500 works well for home power outages, RV trips, and job sites where mid-level electrical output is needed without breaking the bank. While not whisper quiet, it provides tremendous value.
Generac GP8000E – Whole House Power in a Compact Unit
To keep your entire home powered up, the Generac GP8000E is up to the task.
- Wattage: 8000 starting watts, 7000 running watts
- Engine: 530cc Generac V-Twin
- Run time: 24 hours at 25% load
- Features: PowerRush, WiFi monitoring, automatic exercise
Pros:
- Enough power for essential home circuits
- Quiet operation at just 66 dB
- Get alerts and status anywhere with WiFi app
Cons:
- Nearly 400 lb weight is difficult to move
- Higher price tag over $6,000
Best For:
This whole house standby generator provides sweet relief from worrying about outages. It runs smoothly and automatically when the power goes out so you can go about life uninterrupted. The robust warranty provides additional peace of mind. It’s a premium investment, but worth every penny for that security.
Generac GP15000E – Maximum Whole Home Coverage
When you need serious backup power, look no further than the Generac GP15000E.
- Wattage: 15000 starting watts, 12500 running watts
- Engine: 999cc Generac V-Twin
- Runtime: 12 hours at 50% load
- Features: True Power Technology, Symphony II Power Management
Pros:
- Enough capacity to run a large home
- 5 year limited warranty for peace of mind
- Advanced power management for clean electricity
Cons:
- Extremely heavy at over 700 lbs
- Expensive $8000+ price tag
Best For:
Beefy homes, ranches, workshops and more can stay powered up with the GP15000E. This generator means no worrying about tripped breakers when you need to run the AC and large appliances during extended outages. While the price stings, the enormous power production and peace of mind this beast provides make it worthwhile for those with substantial electrical needs.
Generac GP2200i – Compact & Quiet Portability
If you need an affordable, portable inverter generator packed with clean electricity, check out the Generac GP2200i.
- Wattage: 2200 starting watts, 1700 running watts
- Engine: 79.7cc Generac inverter
- Runtime: 8 hrs at 25% load
- Features: Ultra quiet, inverter power, parallel ready
Pros:
- Extremely quiet at just 53 dB
- Easy to transport and store
- Inverter provides safe electricity
- Parallel hookup ready
Cons:
- Limited outlets and wattage capacity
- Shorter runtime under heavy loads
Best For:
Camping, tailgating, power outages, and outdoor events are no sweat with the super portable GP2200i. It packs serious inverter power in a size that goes anywhere. The affordable price makes it easy to own for redundant power. Just be mindful of the limited output for larger devices. But for most basic needs, it punches way above its weight.
How to Choose the Right Generac Generator at Lowe’s
With such a wide range of Generac models to pick from, selecting the right one comes down to a few key considerations:
- Power output – Calculate your essential starting and running watt needs.
- Run time – The longer the better in case outages persist.
- Noise level – Quieter is better for home versus job site use.
- Portability – Important if transporting frequently.
- Warranty – Standby units have up to a 5 year warranty, portables 2 years.
Matching your unique situation with the Generac advantages will ensure you get the perfect generator for your home or work requirements.
Operating Your Generac Generator Safely
Your Generac generator provides incredible home backup power, but remember these safety tips:
- Never run generators indoors or near open windows – Carbon monoxide risk!
- Allow several feet of ventilation clearance on all sides during operation.
- Only add fuel when the engine is fully cool to prevent fires.
- Adhere to all maintenance guidelines in the owner’s manual.
- Ensure the generator sits on a flat, level surface and cannot slide.
Following basic safety practices will ensure reliable power and peace of mind when you need it most. Now let’s answer some common Generac generator questions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between standby and portable models?
Standby generators are permanently installed and wired to your home’s electrical system. Portable units plug in via standard outlets when needed.
How often should you run a home standby generator?
Generac recommends running weekly self-tests for 10-15 minutes under load. This helps prevent oil seal drying and ensures functionality.
What fuel do Generac generators use?
Most Generac home generators are dual-fuel capable, running on either natural gas or LP propane. Smaller portable models use gasoline.
What causes generator surging or pulsing of lights?
This usually indicates the generator is overloaded. Turn off some devices to bring the wattage draw down within the generator’s rated capacity.
How can I determine the right size generator I need?
Add up the starting wattage of essential appliances and devices you want to run. Choose a generator with at least that much starting capacity for a safe buffer.
Where are the best places to install a home backup generator?
Choose a location at least 15 feet from the home, away from windows and doors. Allow ample ventilation space. Local codes may apply.
How loud are Generac home standby generators?
Generac’s QuietSource series of home generators operate at just 63-69 dB, similar to normal conversation. Much quieter than older units.
We hope these Generac generator FAQs have helped provide insight into choosing the optimal model for your needs from Lowe’s extensive selection.
Rely on Generac Quality and Lowe’s Convenience
For home backup power or portable jobsite use, Generac generators deliver the gold standard in terms of quality, reliability, and advanced engineering. Lowe’s offers a wide range of Generac models to choose from.
Use this guide to match your power requirements to the Generac strengths that make sense for your budget and needs. And enjoy peace of mind knowing you have a generator you can count on when you need it most – whether for a few hours or several days. Stay powered on through any outage!
