When you need a generator, you need one you can count on. Buying a generator can be a big investment, costing hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Aside from dependability and value, you also want quiet operation, durability and a whole host of other factors. We identified the most popular 1000 watt generators in the market and put them through extensive testing.
We looked at durability, portability, power, cost and technical specs. There are a lot of generators to choose from, so we kept our standards high and settled for nothing less than the best. Here’s what we found:
Best Overall 1000 Watt Generator
Champion Power Equipment 42436 1,500 Watt Portable Generator
[easyazon_image add_to_cart=”default” align=”right” asin=”B009E26LLC” cloaking=”default” height=”126″ localization=”default” locale=”US” nofollow=”default” new_window=”default” src=”http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51j9fFMWsKL._SL160_.jpg” tag=”genergator-20″ width=”160″]Imagine our surprise when we discovered the best overall generator was also portable! The Champion 42436 is powered by the Champion 80cc OHV engine, which provides a 1,500 watt maximum output. This is enough to power lights, TV and a refrigerator simultaneously.
The unit is 17.7 by 14 by 14.8 inches and weighs only 56 pounds. Noise output is only 65 Dba. The generator includes overload protection, a low oil sensor, a voltmeter and a 1-120V outlet. It’s covered by a two year warranty and Champion’s Lifetime Free Technical Support.
The 1.45 gallon tank provides power for approximately 10 hours (exact duration depends on the types of equipment you’re powering).
Champion has a strong reputation among electricians and other construction professionals. One review noted many homeowners tend to overlook Champion because the product is made in China and isn’t considered a top brand. However, the truth is the 424361 is a very solid, well-made machine and the best 1000 watt gas generator on the market.
Best Portable 1000 Watt Gas Generator
Yamaha EF1000iS 1000 Watt Gas Generator (50cc OVH 4-Stroke Portable)
[easyazon_image add_to_cart=”default” align=”right” asin=”B002RWK9LY” cloaking=”default” height=”127″ localization=”default” locale=”US” nofollow=”default” new_window=”default” src=”http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41a6%2B2%2BibrL._SL160_.jpg” tag=”genergator-20″ width=”160″]Small, quiet and powerful, the Yamaha EF100iS is our top choice for a portable generator. The unit uses an inverter system to deliver pure sine waves, which produce clean energy which is very reliable and safe for your appliances. The generator has a 1000 watt maximum AC output and 900 watt rated AC output. With a noise block sound reduction system, and a run time of up to 12 hours without refueling, the EF100iS is very easy-to-use and reliable.
The generator is 17.7 by 9.4 by 14.9 and weights a light 27.9 pounds. It’s easily portable with a carry handle, and easily operated with a central control panel. Also, the generator has a 12-volt DC output which is able to recharge 12-volt batteries. Perfect for RVs, autos and boats!
Customers found great success with this portable unit. While obviously a portable 1000 watt generator isn’t going to power your entire RV, it can power multiple small appliances simultaneously. It’s generally used for camping and other outdoor activities, although it also works great as a back-up for your house in the event of an emergency.
If an emergency does occur, such as a blizzard or a hurricane, the EF1000iS has a Smart Throttle Load, which helps with throttle control. In our experience, the generator never took more than two pulls to start. Very impressive.
The EF1000iS is also CARB compliant. The California Energy Board is among the strictest standards for the regulation of carbon dioxide emission. A CARB compliant device is considered to not emit enough carbon dioxide to be harmful to humans. This means the EF1000iS is safe to use around your family.
With its small size and light weight, this generator is very portable. It’s also an excellent source of power, capable of providing comforts during outdoor excursions as well as a safeguard during any unexpected black-outs. An excellent portable gas generator.
Honorable Mention
All Power America APG3004 1000 Watt (Two-cycle, gas-powered, portable)
[easyazon_image add_to_cart=”default” align=”right” asin=”B0017YV188″ cloaking=”default” height=”155″ localization=”default” locale=”US” nofollow=”default” new_window=”default” src=”http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51fBrAyj83L._SL160_.jpg” tag=”genergator-20″ width=”160″]While theYamaha EF100iS is our top choice for a portable, we want to also mention the All Power is a great generator for camping, tailgating and other fun time activities. It’s a quiet 68dB and a portable 44 pounds. You can run multiple small appliances at once: coffer makers, lights, laptops, phone chargers and more.
The unit has a one and a half gallon tank, and can run for about eight to twelve and half hours, depending on the load. The air-cooled, two-stroke single cylinder engine, and the recoil start, worked great in our experiences. The engine delivers a 1000 Watt surge with 800 Watt continuous.
Note that this 1000 watt inverter generator is not CARB compliant, which is an issue if you live in California. Another reason the All Power gets an honorable mention, and not the top prize, is because the generator doesn’t have enough power to run a large appliance, such as a refrigerator. While it can be somewhat useful in a pinch, it’s not really part of a serious emergency preparedness plan.
Generator Fuel Sources – a Quick Overview
Which type of fuel is the best for you?
Gasoline is reasonably cheap and easy to obtain; most 1000 watt gas generators use the same fuel used for most cars. The downside is you can’t store gas in your generator, it must be stored away from your home in an area suitable for flammable material. Of course, on the plus side, sometimes you can take the gas from your generator and put it right into your car. Or, in an emergency, vice versa.
Propane has a long shelf life and is easily stored in tanks. The fuel is clean burning and results in a quieter engine noise for your 1000 watt propane generator. The downsides are propane can be very dangerous if there’s a leak. Also, propane can be somewhat expensive.
We recommend first finding a generator you like, and then assessing how its fuel source will fit your needs. Overall, both fuels are relatively easy to use. The most important thing to remember is to never leave fuel sitting in your generator for any extended period of time – this simple action will keep your generator in top shape all year long.