Presidents’ Day Generator Sales Mean Essential Backup Power is Cheaper This Month

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Although winter is still throwing snow down in some parts of the country, spring isn’t far off. And though that means an end to blizzards, with the warmer weather come strong winds and thunderstorms. As we look ahead, several retailers are offering big savings on portable generators for Presidents’ Day. These devices can come in clutch when the grid goes offline, powering appliances like space heaters to keep you warm (or portable a/c units in the summer). They can also be ideal companions during camping trips, at tailgate parties, and on job sites.

Retailers like Amazon, Lowe’s, and Walmart are running discounts, so you can prepare for whatever’s ahead (and save money). For example, the EcoFlow River 2 is available for 20 percent off at Amazon. If you’re new to generators, our best advice is to buy one before you need it. Getting one now will ensure you have a reliable power source readily available when it’s most crucial. It can also help you avoid the frustration of limited availability during an emergency, because that’s when everyone will rush to buy one.

Before making your purchase, though, consider what you need to power and the type of generator that’s best for your situation. Do you need to run appliances, personal electronics, or medical devices? Do you want a gas, propane, or battery-powered model? The good news is there are many excellent options for different scenarios. Below are the best on sale for Presidents’ Day.

Looking for more deals? Check out the best Presidents’ Day discounts on TVs, mattresses, and Lowe’s offerings.

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Presidents’ Day Generator Sales by Retailer

• Amazon: Take up to 40 percent off portable generators and power stations.

• Lowe’s: Save up to 25 percent off portable power stations from the likes of Westinghouse, Jackery, and others.

• Walmart: The retailer is offering up to 70 percent off this NexPow 2,250-Watt Inverter Generator.

Dual-Fuel Generator Deals

As the name suggests, a dual-fuel portable generator can run off of either gas or propane. The dual capacity lets you choose the fuel option that best suits your needs. Even better, support for gas and propane allows you to run the portable generator for longer, which can come in handy during extended outages. Additionally, the flexibility to choose between gas and propane makes these generators more adaptable for various applications, such as camping, tailgating, or powering appliances.

9,375-Watt Dual-Fuel Portable Generator

This Champion generator features a 439cc engine with an output of 7,500 running watts (9,375 peak). Its 7.7-gallon fuel tank can hold enough gasoline for up to 10 hours of runtime at 50 percent load—that should get you through a short power outage. Additionally, it features cold start technology, ensuring a quick warm up. It also has six outlets, including four 120-volt, 20-amp outlets, and a fuel-select dial, making it easy to switch between your preferred type.

4,500-Watt Dual-Fuel Portable Inverter Generator

A mid-size dual fuel option with a power output of 3,700 running watts (4500 peak), this Westinghouse has a nice range of plug-ins: two 120-volt, 20-amp outlets; an RV-ready 120-volt, 30-amp outlet; and two USB-A ports. That allows you to connect several tools, appliances, and electronics. It also boasts a convenient push button to start and a wireless remote to control the generator from up to 260 feet away. Additionally, the generator makes it easy to switch between fuel sources with the turn of a dial.

Inverter Generator Deals

An inverter generator transforms raw electrical output, typically Direct Current (DC), into a clean and stable Alternating Current (AC), which is ideal for powering sensitive electronics such as laptops, smartphones, and medical devices.

According to Test Editor Bradley Ford when I spoke to him ahead of this past October’s Prime Big Deals Day, traditional generators may exhibit varying degrees of distortion in the sine wave of the alternating current they produce. While this distortion is generally not problematic for most electrical devices, it can pose a risk to tablets, laptops, televisions, and other smart devices, potentially causing damage due to surges.

Inverter generators not only deliver “cleaner” power, mitigating the risk to those sensitive devices, they can also adjust the engine throttle based on power demand, improving fuel efficiency. However, it’s worth noting that the downside of inverter generators is their higher cost compared to traditional models. But, maybe that’s incentive to buy one now while they’re on sale.

2,000-Watt Dual-Fuel Inverter Generator

One of the smaller gas and propane-powered options here, this Champion 2,000-watt inverter generator weighs just 39 pounds and measures 17.7 inches tall. That size makes the generator easy to transport, meaning it’s an excellent option for camping and tailgating. According to Champion, this generator can run for up to 34 hours on propane, which should be enough to get you through a long weekend without needing to refuel. As a bonus, the generator supports a parallel kit (also on sale), allowing you to link a separate generator of similar wattage.

4,500-Watt Inverter Generator

The Westinghouse is a more powerful inverter generator, featuring a variable speed engine that offers 3,700 running watts and 4,500 peak watts of output. However, unlike the Champion, this can only run on gas, so you’ll need to plan accordingly. The upside is the generator offers up to 18 hours of runtime thanks to a 3.4-gallon tank, according to Westinghouse, saving you from frequently needing to top it off. The generator has three ports: two 120-volt, 20-amp; and a 120-volt, 30-amp RV-ready outlet. Plus, its LED display tells you stats like the current output and estimated runtime.

2,250-Watt Inverter Generator

Another small but powerful option, the NexPow 2,250-Watt Inverter Generator is equally useful for power outages, job sites, and camping. It has a relatively small 79.7cc engine with an output of 1,800 running watts (2,250 peak). According to NexPow, this generator can run for over 10 hours at 25 percent load. There are two 120-volt, 20-amp outlets and USB-C port for connecting electronics. Additionally, the NexPow generator supports parallel functionality (meaning you can connect it to another of the same voltage) and a CO alarm to warn you in case of carbon monoxide buildup.

Solar Generator Deals

A portable power station that runs on sunlight is a flexible alternative to gas- and propane-powered generators. When venturing off-grid, traditional fuel sources won’t always be available. These provide renewable and eco-friendly electricity, making them an excellent choice for camping in remote locations. Additionally, portable power stations require little maintenance, meaning you won’t need to perform oil changes or fuel system upkeep. These devices also produce zero emissions and operate silently, making them safe for indoor use.

River 2 Portable Power Station

The beauty of EcoFlow’s River 2 solar generator is it’s tiny. It weighs just 7.7 pounds and is small enough to fit in a backpack. It has a 256-watt-hour (Wh) battery and can deliver 300 watts—enough to power a mini-fridge for over three hours or charge a phone from empty to full several times over. The power station has two USB-A ports, a USB-C port, two AC output ports, and a car port. There’s also a helpful LED display that will show you the remaining battery percentage, charge/discharge level limit, and more. Finally, you can charge the River 2 one of five different ways, including via solar and USB-C.

Explorer 300 Plus Portable Power Station

The Explorer 300 Plus is another lightweight option that’s tailor-made for camping and road trips. It features a 288-Wh capacity and 300 watts of output power, with five ports (including two USB-C) for connecting multiple devices. While the power station has a helpful LED display, Jackery also offers app support for easy battery management. There are four ways to charge the Explorer 300 Plus, but the highlight is the ability to top off the battery using one of the brand’s solar panels.

AC200Max Portable Power Station

The AC200Max is a more substantial solar generator, offering a 2,048-Wh capacity and 2,200 watts of output power (4,800 watts peak). That’s enough to provide hours of power to heavy-duty appliances, power tools, and electronics. The AC200Max also boasts four 120-volt, 20-amp outlets, a USB-C port, four USB-A ports, and two wireless charging pads to replenish your phone’s battery. In addition to being compatible with solar panels, Bluetti’s system allows you to connect supplemental battery packs for up to 8,192-Wh of backup.

Portable Generator Deals

All portable generators are inherently designed for, well, portability, as implied by the name. However, certain models are easier to move from place to place than others, whether you want to bring them to a camp site or construction site or relocate them around your property. Many of the models in this guide are small but also lightweight, ensuring you’re able to tote them in comfort. So, while technical specs matter, a generator’s size is an essential factor to keep in mind.

2,500-Watt Portable Inverter Generator

As far as gas-powered models go, Champion’s 2,500-watt inverter generator is a svelte 39 pounds. Factor in the sturdy handle, and you should be able to transport the generator fairly comfortably. Beyond its size, it delivers 1,850 running and 2,500 starting watts and a runtime of up to 11.5 hours at 25 percent load. There’s also an economy mode, ensuring quieter operation, extended runtime, and improved fuel economy. On that noise front, Champion claims the generator emits a mere 53 decibels (dBA) from 23 feet, so it shouldn’t be too disruptive to anyone nearby.

Explorer 240 Portable Power Station

Weighing just 6.6 pounds, the Jackery Explorer 240 is one of the lightest solar generators available. It’s also small, measuring 9.1 x 5.2 x 7.9 inches, which is about the size of a compact toaster. It features a 240-Wh battery and an output of 200 watts, allowing you to power everything from a lamp to Bluetooth speakers and a CPAP machine. Like with other Jackery generators, you can replenish the Explorer 240’s battery several ways, including via a wall outlet or solar panel. According to Jackery, the 240 can go from empty to fully recharged in 5 hours if you use a SolarSaga 100-watt solar panel.

River Portable Power Station

The EcoFlow River is a compact solar generator for enjoying the outdoors. It weighs 11 pounds and delivers an output of 600 watts, making it a versatile option for powering small to medium devices. In addition to replenishing the EcoFlow River’s battery with a solar panel, you can increase the power station’s capacity by connecting an additional River portable power station. Being able to link them like this allows you to power your devices for longer.

Yeti 200X Portable Power Station

The Yeti 200X is another solar generator about the size of a small cooler. It weighs 5 pounds and is only 7.9 x 5.1 x 5.1 inches. Befitting that profile, its output is only 187 watts (200 watts peak), meaning it can only power a few small devices at a time. Still, its size makes it ideal for charging a laptop or smartphone while you work remotely. It has a 120-volt, 20-amp AC outlet, two USB-C ports, two USB-A ports, and a 12-volt car port. Goal Zero says the power station supports simultaneous recharge and discharge, making it possible to juice a laptop while the device itself is connected to an outlet.

Home Backup Generator Deals

Portable generators with a higher power output can handle a more substantial electrical load, a critical capability during grid failures. These models serve as reliable power sources for appliances such as refrigerators, heaters, and medical equipment, providing some peace of mind. Additionally, with the capacity to connect to your home’s electrical grid, these devices are excellent for whole-home backup so you can keep the lights on and maintain a comfortable living environment.

13,000-Watt Dual-Fuel Portable Generator

This DuroMax has a robust 500cc engine that can power heavy-duty appliances like a refrigerator or home air conditioner. It can run directly to your house’s critical circuits through a manual transfer switch instead of you having to run extension cords to individual appliances. Additionally, the durable all-metal frame and wheels allow for easy transport. Like other models here, it can run on gas or propane, giving you the flexibility to choose your fuel.

8,750-Watt Inverter Generator

Like the DuroMax, this gas-powered Champion inverter generator can connect to a manual transfer switch to power your home. The 420cc engine can put out 7,500 running and 8,750 starting watts, so you can power larger appliances, lights, and more. It also features a convenient ignition switch, making it simple to start. There are five ports—including four 120-volt, 20-amp outlets–plus a small display so you can monitor voltage, total run time, and frequency. Champion says the generator will run up to 10.5 hours and produces only 72 dBA. Additionally, the generator features a foldaway handle and solid wheels, making it easier to roll around without worrying about a flat.

FAQs

Is Presidents’ Day a Good Time to Buy a Portable Generator?

As we said, now is the best time to buy a portable generator. The harsh weather of winter can bring unexpected power outages, so having a portable generator readily available can provide you with a reliable power source during an emergency. Plus, with spring around the corner, a portable generator makes for an ideal companion for camping. And looking even further to summer, you don’t want to get caught without power when it’s scorching out. A portable generator can keep an air conditioner running.

How Much Wattage Do I Need?

That depends on what you need to power. For a reliable estimate, identify the appliances or equipment you plan to operate, calculate their power consumption in watts, and then add them up. Doing this lets you determine the overall wattage you’ll need to support your power requirements.

As an example, a refrigerator typically requires between 300 to 800 watts of electricity (depending on its size). Add in a few more small- and medium-size appliances, and you may need a portable generator that features an output of a few thousands watts. On the other hand, a laptop typically consumes about 100 watts, meaning if you just need something to power personal electronics, an output of 500 watts should be enough.

Which Type of Fuel Is the Best?

Generators typically run on gasoline or propane, and each fuel has its pros and cons. Gasoline is more widely available and provides reliable power output, making it a popular choice for general use. Plus, if you own other gas-powered tools, you can use the same gas between them. However, when an emergency does strike, gas may be in limited supply as local stations struggle to meet demand. Additionally, gas can degrade over time, giving it a shorter lifespan than propane.

Alternatively, you can opt for a portable power station, which feeds power from a battery. Unlike traditional generators, these devices don’t require fuel, providing a cleaner and more sustainable energy source. They also require much less maintenance over time, as there are no engines to fuel, oil to change, or carburetors to maintain. Notably, portable power stations are also safe to use indoors since they don’t emit carbon monoxide.

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