This is our review of the best 5000-watt portable generator in 2021. This should be valid even in 2022.
I had to do research and get through what the buyers said about the generator they brought.
After my research, I found Honda EM5000SX Portable Generator to be the best among the 5000-watt generators.
Honda is a well-known brand and its Honda EM5000SX Portable Generator stands firm on brand standards.
Eco-Throttle technology-powered Honda engines make less noise. It has a reliable engine, high fuel efficiency, longer run time, and unmatched power.
This makes it our best choice generator.
But,
Is this the best generator for anyone with budget constraints?
Do you need a generator with an electric start?
What are your power needs?
Continue reading…
5000 Watt Generator – Reviews
Everyone’s need and preference is different. So I’ve included reviews of the 5 best 5000-watt generators that I found.
#1: Honda EM5000SX Portable Generator – Best Choice Overall
This generator comes with a powerful Honda iGX commercial engine which is reliable and high performing.
It comes with the following out-of-the-box features :
1. Starting Power – Produces 7,000 watts for 10 sec to start larger equipment and 5,000 watts runtime. It can run almost all appliances in our home such as refrigerators, furnaces, etc.
2. Long run time – Runs approximately 10.5 hours at half load and 7 hours at full load. The fuel tank has a capacity of 6.2 Gallons.
3. Consistent Power – Consistent flow of power with IAVR (Intelligent Automatic Voltage Regulation) technology regardless of the load.
4. CO Detection System – This generator comes with CO Minder which automatically shuts down the generator in case carbon monoxide levels go high.
5. Electric Start – This generator has electronic ignition which makes starting easy. It also has recoil (pull to start) for backup.
6. Noise Level – It produces a noise level of 63 dBA which is lower than any other generator of power 5000-watt.
7. Support & Warranty – This generator Includes a 3-year residential and commercial warranty.
Additionally, this generator has Honda My Generator App with Bluetooth compatibility for remote operation and monitoring.
This generator is feature-packed with unmatched convenience. This generator is for anyone looking for power needs such as household power outages, camping, up to large RV, etc.
“If you do not have a budget limitation, this is the one for you.”
#2: Generac 5939 5,500-Watt – Heavy Duty
This generator comes with Generac’s 389cc OHV engine with splash lubrication that increases the engine’s life. It comes with a Power Dial (a knob) that integrates start, run and stop into one simple-to-use dial.
Some of its top features are :
1. Starting Power – Produces 6875 watts on starting and 5,500 watts runtime. It can also run almost all appliances in our home.
2. Run time – Runs approximately 10 hours at half load and 6 hours at full load. The fuel tank has a capacity of 7.2 gallons.
3. Hour Meter – This meter tracks maintenance intervals ensuring longer engine life.
4. Heavy Duty – Never flat wheels and sturdy design make it easy to transport. This generator is reliably portable and is good for heavy-duty.
5. Electric Start – Single-touch electric start for a hassle-free start-up.
6. Support & Warranty – Generac Power Systems Limited provides a 2 Year Warranty for this Portable Generator.
It also has an automatic Low-oil level shutdown feature which safeguards the engine from damage. This generator is a bit noisy.
This generator is for anyone looking for a heavy-duty & Long life generator.
“If you need a generator that needs relocating often. At locations such as construction, etc. This generator will suit your needs well.”
#3: Champion 5,500 Watt Dual Fuel – Versatile One
This generator comes with a 389cc Champion engine. This generator is designed with versatility and convenience in mind.
Some of its top features are :
1. Duel fuel – It can operate on either gasoline or propane. Plus the unit holds 1.2-quarts of oil and has a low oil shut-off sensor.
2. Starting Power – Provides 6900 watts on starting and 5,500 watts runtime on gasoline. It produces 6250 starting watts and 5000 running watts when running on propane.
3. Intelligauge and Fuel Safety Switch – Intelligauge keeps track of voltage, runtime hours, etc. You can easily check the output and track maintenance intervals. Fuel Safety Switch lets you switch between fuels safely.
4. Noise Level – It produces a noise level of 74 dBA which is like an empty street.
5. Cold Start – This generator features Cold Start Technology to ensure a quick start in cold weather.
6. Run time – Runs approximately 10 hours at half load on gasoline and 6.5 hours at half load when running on propane.
7. Support & Warranty – Includes a 3-year limited warranty and free lifetime technical support from experts.
Its packaging is good and the setup is hassle-free. This generator is equipped with Volt Guard built-in surge protector. This prevents overloads and keeps equipment safe from spikes in voltage.
This generator is for you if you plan on using dual-fuel technology(Gasoline and Propane).
“This generator is very good for you if you plan to use it in extreme cold weather conditions.”
#4: A-iPower AP5000V Gas – Economic of All
This generator is powered by an A-iPower 223cc/7.5hp OHV engine.
This engine is equipped with an efficient, high-output alternator by the Senci and Splash lubrication. This alternator delivers greater peak wattage when starting motor-driven tools and appliances.
Some of its top features are :
1. Compact Design & Light Weight – It weighs around 65lbs. Small enough to transport, yet powerful enough to meet your needs.
2. Starting Power – Provides 5000 watts on starting and 4000 watts runtime. It is not as powerful as other generators on the list.
3. Noise Level -It produces a noise level of 68 dBA at 21 meters.
4. Recoil Start – Easy to pull recoil start with a specially designed grip which reduces your effort to pull the recoil to start the engine
5. Run time – Runs approximately 9 hours at half load. It has a 4-gallon heavy-duty all-steel fuel tank.
6. Support & Warranty – Includes 2-year residential/1-year commercial warranty.
It also has features such as a Digital hour meter for tracking operation and maintenance intervals.
Other features such as Low oil shutdown, push to reset circuit breaker, etc are also there.
This generator is cheaper and on the low-power end of this list. Still, It can power a lot of appliances.
“This generator is for you if you are looking for an affordable generator with similar features.”
#5: Westinghouse WGen 5300v Portable Generator – Power King
This generator is powered by a powerful 274cc 4-Stroke OHV Westinghouse Engine built for durability. This is a reliable & convenient solution for your backup power needs.
Some of its top features are :
1. VFT display – It shows real-time updates with frequency, voltage output, and lifetime hours for easy operation.
2. Starting Power – Provides 6600 peak watts with recoil start and 5,300 watts runtime on gasoline.
3. Transfer Switch Ready – Transfer Switch Ready L14-30R 120/240-Volt twist-lock receptacle with rubber outlet covers. You can connect straight to your home for total household power. So no hassle for annoying extension cords or power strips.
4. Noise Level -It produces a noise level of 68 DBA which is likely tolerable.
5. Portability – This generator weighs 133 lbs with never-flat wheels which makes moving the generator easy & can be easily assembled.
6. Run time – Runs approximately for 13.5 hours at half load on gasoline and 7.5 hours at full load. The fuel tank has a capacity of 4.7 gallons.
7. Support & Warranty – Includes a 3-year limited warranty and free lifetime technical support from experts.
Westinghouse WGen 5300V generator is equipped with other features such as low oil shutdown, automatic voltage regulation & overload protection. This generator is RV Ready. You can directly connect and use it to power your RV.
This generator is really powerful with 18l (4.7gal) of gas which gives you up to 13.5hrs runtime.
“If you need a generator for longer backup needs this one is for you.”
How to buy a 5000-watt Generator
If you still haven’t found what you are looking for, this guide will be a timesaver for you.
This will help you sort the best 5000-watt generator off the list.
Performance
The performance of a generator is calculated based on several factors. But mainly, an efficient generator can be selected by comparing power output on a specific load by its runtime for unit gas and engine life.
Generators nowadays use technologies such as automatic voltage regulation. This optimizes output voltage according to load and hence better performance.
Better performance ensures reliability and economic aspect too. After all your generator should be there when you need it.
Safety
Safety is very important when dealing with power like this. Generators also produce carbon monoxide while running which is a silent killer.
Most of the generators use extra steps to ensure user safety.
Companies include features such as a CO minder(Carbon-monoxide Detection System) to check Harmful levels of gas.
Features such as remote start/Autostart also reduce risk factors as you won’t be needed physically for operation.
Know Your Power Need
Generators come with massive power ranges. There is a generator in the Honda Home generator series that generates 10000 watts.
Buying a powerhouse just for your toaster is not smart.
Knowing your power needs (in watts) will help you select the best generator which will suffice your need.
It will also save you from unnecessary expenses.
Important Features to Consider
Automatic CO Shutoff
CO Minder is an automatic CO shutoff system that ensures the generator shuts down as soon as CO levels reach a specific level.
CO is an odorless, colorless gas that kills without warning.
This feature is very useful if you are running your generator in a place with less ventilation or any closed space.
Low CO Engine
Generators produce CO in combustion which is deadly.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission proposes a rule that limits CO emissions from operating portable generators.
Still, on a safer note,
The lower the CO emission better it is. So always look for engines with lower CO emissions.
Automatic Start/Remote Start
Automatic Start and Remote start make generator operation hassle-free. It might cost you a few bucks more but it is worth it.
Also, it is safer than recoil start generators as you don’t have to be physically present to operate a generator.
If you are good at pulling for a recoil start, you can skip this.
Fuel capacity
Larger fuel tanks are good for you if you need longer run time.
If you are planning a recreation trip or you are facing longer power outages, larger fuel tanks always help.
Refueling continuously won’t be a problem for you if you have a larger fuel tank.
Remember,
A larger fuel tank means extra weight which will surely be an issue if you are moving a generator.
Alternative Fuel
In regions where fuel availability is minimal, alternative fuel can be a boon. You can easily switch to an alternative fuel source and continue your work.
Then again this feature is useful to you only if you need a generator with alternate fuel. Alternate fuel sources are gasoline, propane, etc.
Noise Level
A lower noise level is one feature to consider. Generators with a power of around 5000 watts cannot be noise-free.
But manufacturers use technology such as Eco-Throttle (Engine does not run at all instances at full speed). This lowers the noise to a whole new level.
Generators with low noise will not disturb you and your neighbors.
Low-Oil Shutoff
The low oil shutoff system contains a sensor that detects low oil levels. This ensures the engine shuts down before oil is used completely.
This feature is provided by a lot of manufacturers as it increases engine life. This can also be bypassed with a provided switch.
Starting Power
Generators are used to run a wide range of appliances. Some of these are on the upper end of the power limit.
So, generators produce extra starting power. This helps appliances to start properly without causing defects.
You should look for the most expensive appliance in terms of power and compare it with the starting power of the generator you are going to buy.
Conclusion
After this comparison, I can easily conclude the best 5000-watt generator.
All generators give tough competition to others. However, for me, Honda EM5000SX Portable Generator clearly wins this comparison.
I liked features such as CO Minder, Remote Operation, and Hondas exclusive App a lot. This generator produces starting power of 7000 watts which is very good. It also produces very low noise.
If you are on a tight budget and are happy with recoil start A-iPower AP5000V gas generator can be a good option for you.
You can now choose the best generator from the above list according to your own needs and preferences.
All generators are from reputed manufacturers, provide very good support and have a good warranty to offer.
So, regardless of which generator you choose considering your preferences & need, That will be best for you.
