Gasoline Generators

By far, the least expensive and the most popular generators sold are the light duty, low cost gasoline models. Typically, you can purchase gas generators for approximately $149.99 for a 1200 Watt model to $2,399.00 for a 10500 Watt portable.

Gas generators are normally powered by twin cylinder, internal combustion engines, very similar to the engine on your lawn mower. Just as there are advantages and disadvantages to other generators, gasoline generators have both advantages and disadvantages that you should consider before choosing a generator for your use:

Advantages

Low cost
Built in fuel tank and air cooling
Most common type of fuel
Smaller and lighter than other generators

Disadvantages

Gas pumps may not work during an extended power outage, making it difficult to find fuel
Requires frequent oil changes, air cleaner replacements, spark plug replacements, and tune-ups like any other gasoline powered engine
Shorter engine life - when used infrequently, a gasoline generator may last 6-8 years
Storing large quantities of gasoline is generally unsafe, and the typical shelf life of gasoline is only about six months without adding a stabilizer

If you plan to use your generator infrequently, and the cost is your most important concern, then a gas powered generator may be the right choice for you. Some of the more recommended models include:

NorthStar Generator – 614cc, 13,000 Surge Watts, 10,500 Rated Watts, Gasoline. Powerful NorthStar Generator packs 13,000 surge watts and 10,500 continuous watts! Reliable, single-phase, 100% copper-wound, brushless generator head for years of long lasting power. Runs over 10 hours at 1/2 load on a 10-gallon tankful! 10-gallon tank has fuel gauge. Industrial 620cc Honda OHV engine has low Oil Alert shutdown protection, electric start and cast iron sleeve. Easy access control and outlet panel. Control panel has push to reset circuit breakers.
NorthStar Generator – 389cc, 8000 Surge Watts, 6600 Rated Watts, Gasoline. Reliable, single-phase, 100% copper-wound, brushless generator head for years of long lasting power. Cast iron sleeve. Easy access control and outlet panel. Control panel has push to reset circuit breakers. Shown with optional wheel kit, item# 165916 (sold separately). Surge Watts: 8,000, Rated Watts: 6,600, Engine Displacement (cc): 389, Engine: Honda GX 390 OHV, Gross Torque: 20 ft-lb at 2,500, Run Time: 9 Hours at 1/2 Load, Receptacles (qty.): 5, Noise Level (dB): 74.5, Fuel Type: Gasoline, Fuel Capacity (gal.): 6.5, Start Type: Electric and recoil, Low Oil Shutdown: Yes, Battery Required: Optional
Portagen Electric Start Generator 7000watt 16HP Motor. Electric start 6500 Watts Rated – 7000Watts Surge 16HP Motor 2x 120V AC Sockets + 30 Amp 120v/220v output 7 Gallons – Metal Fuel Tank – Run Time@ 50% Load 8 Hours EPA Approved
DuroMax MX4500E Elite Series 4500 Watt Electric Start Portable Gas Generator. DuroMax Elite series generators are the top of the line. The MX4500E features an electric start 7 HP DuroMax motor that cranks out 4500 Peak and 3500 Constant Watts of Power. This Generator is great for Camping, RVs, Home Back-Up Power, Job Sites and wherever power is needed. The DuroMax Motor is air cooled and also has a low oil shutoff sensor to prevent motor burn out. A new design feature on this unit is the Automatic Idle Control designed to maintain RPMs under varying loads to maximize fuel efficiency while minimizing noise output. The 4 gallon gas tank provides a runtime of 8 hours at a 50% load. These units are EPA approved with a rating of 69 dBA for quiet operation and are also safe to use in U.S. National Parks thanks to the super quiet exhaust with spark arrestor.
Blue Max GEN 1250 1250-Watt 2-Horsepower 2-Cycle Gas-Powered Generator. This Contractor Line® 2 Horsepower 1250 Watt generator is one of the most reliable portable gasoline generators available. We’ve never had any warranty claims or reports from any customers having any trouble starting or using it. This model has been sold for many years, and has proven to be one of the most reliable and long lasting generators they carry. This Contractor line® generator is great for construction, camping, boating, emergencies and anywhere else portable power is needed.