The reliability of your home’s electrical power is critical—especially during unexpected blackouts, storms, or grid failures. For many households, having a backup generator is no longer optional. However, traditional gas-powered generators aren’t always the most practical or efficient option, particularly for long-term outages or environmentally conscious homeowners. That’s where non-gas generators come into play.
Whether powered by diesel, propane, or natural gas, these generators offer greater fuel flexibility, longer runtimes, and reduced maintenance. They are ideal for whole-house coverage, critical systems, or off-grid properties. Many of today’s best models are transfer switch ready and built for seamless integration into your home’s electrical system, allowing you to restore power almost instantly when needed.
Exclusive Non-Gas Generators on Amazon US
| Generator Model | Links |
|---|---|
| Generac Guardian 10kW | Check Amazon Price |
| Champion Power Equipment 22 kW | Check Amazon Price |
| Champion Power 8.5-kW Generator | Check Amazon Price |
| Westinghouse 28,000 Peak Watt Generator | Check Amazon Price |
| Westinghouse 14,500 Peak Tri-Fuel Generator | Check Amazon Price |
Detailed Reviews: Best Non-Gas Generators for Home Backup
1. Generac Guardian 10kW Standby Generator
The Generac Guardian 10kW is a high-performance diesel generator built for whole-home standby usage. It includes an integrated 100 Amp automatic transfer switch, which allows for seamless and immediate power restoration during grid failures.
- Power Output: 10,000 Watts
- Fuel Type: Diesel
- Transfer Switch: 100 Amp Whole House
- Remote Monitoring: WiFi Enabled
Why It’s Great:
Generac is a trusted name in home backup power, and this model lives up to its reputation with reliable diesel efficiency and remote monitoring via WiFi, which allows homeowners to check generator status anytime, anywhere. Diesel fuel is known for energy density and availability, making this model perfect for extended outages.
Best For: Homeowners needing reliable, long-lasting backup with remote control access.
2. Champion Power Equipment 22 kW Generator
This high-capacity generator is perfect for large homes or properties requiring uninterrupted power for HVAC systems, well pumps, and high-demand appliances. The dual-fuel capability (propane and natural gas) adds exceptional convenience and storage flexibility.
- Power Output: 22,000 Watts
- Fuel Type: Propane, Natural Gas
- Transfer Switch: 200 Amp Whole House
- Remote Monitoring: No
Why It’s Great:
With 200 Amp coverage, this unit can power nearly everything in a large household. Propane and natural gas are both clean-burning fuels with low emissions and longer shelf life. Though this model doesn’t include WiFi, its automatic transfer system makes it a dependable standby solution.
Best For: Large homes, off-grid living, full-system backups.
3. Champion Power 8.5-kW Diesel Generator
This compact diesel generator is designed for homeowners who require lower output or backup for only essential systems such as lights, refrigerators, and sump pumps. It’s outdoor-rated and built to handle harsh weather conditions.
- Power Output: 8,500 Watts
- Fuel Type: Diesel
- Transfer Switch: 50 Amp Outdoor-Rated
- Remote Monitoring: No
Why It’s Great:
Champion’s diesel model is a smart choice for smaller homes or those on a tighter budget who still need dependable backup power. Its rugged build and simple operation make it a no-fuss solution that gets the job done during short or medium-duration outages.
Best For: Essential load backup, small homes, storm preparation.
4. Westinghouse 28,000 Peak Watt Generator
This powerful gasoline generator is engineered for high-output applications, offering 28,000 peak watts and 20,000 running watts—suitable for larger systems or multiple large appliances running at once. It’s transfer switch ready, allowing it to hook directly into your home panel for fast deployment.
- Power Output: 28,000 Peak / 20,000 Running Watts
- Fuel Type: Gasoline
- Transfer Switch: Yes
- Remote Monitoring: No
Why It’s Great:
While technically gas-powered, its size and capacity make it an excellent alternative to permanent diesel units, especially if propane or natural gas aren’t options. It’s also EPA and CARB compliant, ensuring safe and legal operation across the U.S.
Best For: Homes with high energy demands, job sites, emergency response setups.
5. Westinghouse 14,500 Peak Tri-Fuel Generator
This tri-fuel generator delivers versatility unmatched by standard single or dual-fuel models. Able to run on gasoline, propane, or natural gas, it ensures you always have a backup fuel source during emergencies.
- Power Output: 14,500 Peak / 11,500 Running Watts
- Fuel Type: Gasoline, Propane, Natural Gas
- Transfer Switch: Yes
- Remote Monitoring: No
Why It’s Great:
The ability to choose between three fuel types allows for maximum adaptability, especially in situations where one fuel type is scarce. It’s a perfect fit for homeowners who value resilience and need a reliable generator that can adjust to varying fuel availability.
Best For: Fuel flexibility, medium-sized homes, long-term outages.
Why Choose a Non-Gas Generator?
Traditional gas generators are powerful and easy to use, but they’re not always the best option for home standby power. Non-gas generators offer several unique advantages:
1. Longer Shelf Life of Fuel
Propane and diesel have longer shelf lives compared to gasoline. This means your backup fuel is less likely to degrade over time, offering greater reliability when you need it most.
2. Cleaner Emissions
Natural gas and propane produce fewer pollutants than gasoline. They are often considered cleaner fuels, making them more environmentally friendly and ideal for homes in eco-conscious communities.
3. Fuel Accessibility
Some homes already have natural gas lines installed. This makes tri-fuel or natural gas-powered generators particularly convenient, as they can tap into your existing infrastructure for unlimited fuel access.
4. Improved Efficiency
Diesel and propane generators often provide greater fuel efficiency, especially at high loads. Diesel, in particular, is known for high energy output per gallon and strong performance in long-term use.
5. Transfer Switch Integration
Most modern non-gas generators are transfer switch compatible, meaning they automatically switch on when the power goes out and return to standby mode once grid power is restored.
Choosing the Right Generator for Your Home
Before investing in a non-gas generator, consider the following:
Power Requirements
Determine whether you need to back up your entire home or only critical systems. Use a power calculator to estimate your total wattage needs.
Fuel Availability
Select a generator that aligns with fuel sources you can easily access and store safely. If you have natural gas lines, a tri-fuel generator is an optimal choice.
Installation and Maintenance
Some standby generators require professional installation, especially when connecting to natural gas or integrating a transfer switch. Make sure the model you choose is supported by authorized service technicians in your area.
Noise Levels
Diesel generators tend to be louder than propane or inverter models. If you live in a noise-sensitive neighborhood, look for generators with sound-dampening enclosures or low decibel ratings.
Final Thoughts
A dependable home backup generator is an essential investment for energy security and peace of mind. Non-gas generators, powered by diesel, propane, or natural gas, offer flexibility, reliability, and longer-lasting fuel options that gasoline models can’t match.
Whether you need the high performance of the Champion 22 kW, the adaptability of the Westinghouse Tri-Fuel, or the compact efficiency of the Champion 8.5-kW diesel, there’s a solution to match every home’s needs and budget.
Make your selection based on fuel type, power output, and integration features like transfer switch compatibility and remote monitoring. With the right unit, your home will stay safe, warm, and fully powered—no matter what the grid is doing.