5 Best Backup Generators for Canadians in 2025
When an ice storm sweeps through Quebec and brings down power lines, or a summer wildfire pushes the grid to its limits in British Columbia, a dependable backup generator isn’t just a convenience, it’s essential for safety and peace of mind. Beyond keeping the lights on and the fridge running, it ensures critical systems like heating, internet, and even medical equipment stay functional when you need them most.
This guide takes a closer look at the five main types of backup generators and highlights five of the best models for Canadian households in 2025. By understanding the differences and weighing the options, you’ll be better equipped to choose a generator that gives you reliable protection, no matter what the season throws at you.
Why Canada Needs Backup Generators
Living in Canada means preparing for every kind of extreme. In the depths of a prairie winter, a power outage isn’t just inconvenient, it can quickly become dangerous when the furnace or boiler shuts down. In the height of an Ontario heatwave, losing electricity can turn a house into an oven without air conditioning.
The grid can fail for many reasons. Heavy, wet snow and freezing rain snap power lines every winter, while windstorms and tornadoes topple trees and damage infrastructure. In the west, wildfires are becoming an increasingly common threat, and planned outages in provinces like Alberta and British Columbia are now part of fire prevention strategies.
A reliable backup generator bridges these gaps, keeping essentials like heating, cooling, refrigeration, and connectivity running when the grid goes dark. It’s not just about convenience, it’s about peace of mind, knowing your home and family are protected when the unexpected happens.
Types of Backup Generators in Canada
Choosing the right generator is the first and most important step in preparing for outages. Each type has its own strengths, from portability to whole home coverage, and understanding these differences makes it easier to choose a model that suits your home, budget, and lifestyle.
Solar Generators
Often called portable power stations, solar generators are one of the most modern alternatives to traditional fuel-powered machines. They combine a large rechargeable battery pack with an inverter and multiple output ports, which can be charged via solar panels, a household wall socket, or even a car’s 12V port.
They’re best suited for short-term needs, such as keeping Wi-Fi running, charging phones, or powering a few small appliances during a brief blackout. They’re also popular for outdoor recreation like camping and cottage use. For city living, where outdoor fuel generators aren’t practical due to noise or fumes, solar models provide a clean, quiet, and eco-friendly solution.
Portable Generators
Portable generators remain the most recognisable option, typically fuelled by petrol, propane, or diesel. They include an engine, a fuel tank, and a control panel of outlets, offering dependable power in a range of situations. These units are versatile, a homeowner in rural Nova Scotia might run a well pump, refrigerator, and a few lights during a week-long outage, while contractors often use them on job sites or during DIY projects far from the grid. Because they’re mobile and available in different power ratings, portable generators are often considered the most accessible all round choice for households looking for reliable backup
Standby Generators
Standby generators are permanent systems designed to provide seamless, full home coverage. Installed outside the home much like an air conditioning unit, they’re connected directly to the electrical panel through an automatic transfer switch. This switch detects power loss and activates the generator within seconds, so lights, appliances, and heating systems come back on almost immediately. For a family in Calgary or Edmonton, a standby generator can keep everything from the furnace to the sump pump operating smoothly during multi day blackouts caused by winter storms.
Dual-Fuel Generators
Dual fuel models bring flexibility by allowing you to switch between petrol and propane. This versatility is particularly valuable in emergencies, when access to one type of fuel may be limited or delayed. If a major storm disrupts supply chains and petrol stations are closed, a propane tank offers an immediate backup. This adaptability makes dual-fuel units especially useful in remote or isolated regions of Canada, such as rural Saskatchewan, where severe snowstorms or road closures can cut communities off for days at a time. For households in unpredictable climates, dual-fuel capability ensures you’re never reliant on a single fuel source.
Diesel Generators
Diesel powered units are built for efficiency and endurance. They tend to be heavier and more robust than petrol alternatives, offering high output and impressive reliability. Because of their durability and cost effectiveness over long periods, they’re frequently used for commercial purposes, such as keeping farms, workshops, and small businesses running during outages. Their ability to run for extended hours without interruption makes them one of the most dependable options, though they do require more space and upfront investment compared to smaller portable models.
Inverter Generators
Inverter generators represent a more advanced branch of portable models. Instead of producing raw current, they use sophisticated electronics to deliver clean, consistent power that’s safe for sensitive equipment such as laptops, televisions, and medical devices. They’re also quieter and more fuel efficient than standard portable units, with many models small enough to transport easily. For families in suburban neighbourhoods with strict noise bylaws, or for campers who value peace and quiet, an inverter generator offers an excellent balance of power, portability, and efficiency.
Whole House Generator Canada
The term “whole-house generator” generally refers to either a large standby system or a high capacity portable unit designed to handle the full electrical load of a home. These whole home backup power stations are the ultimate choice for homeowners who want complete peace of mind. Capable of powering everything, from central heating and air conditioning to refrigeration, lighting, and home security systems, they ensure that daily routines continue almost uninterrupted, even during extended blackouts. For households that prioritise comfort and safety above all, whole house generators deliver the most comprehensive coverage available.
5 Best Backup Generators in Canada
When it comes to the top performers in the Canadian market for 2025, these five models stand out for their durability, features, and ability to handle the unique demands of Canadian weather. From clean solar options to heavy duty fuel powered units, each has a place depending on your household needs.
1. EcoFlow DELTA 2 Max Power Station
The EcoFlow DELTA 2 Max Power Station is the go to choice for Canadians who want a balance of portability and reliable performance. Picture taking it along for a weekend trip to the Rockies or keeping it tucked away at home for unexpected city blackouts. With its 2 kWh capacity and 3.4 kW X-Boost output, it can comfortably run essentials like lights, a fridge, Wi-Fi, and even small power tools. Unlike many traditional batteries that lose reliability in sub-zero weather, its long lasting LFP battery is designed to deliver steady power during cold Canadian winters.
For homeowners and adventurers alike, this solar generator offers zero emission operation, minimal upkeep, and a simple plug and play setup that bridges the gap between compact portables and large standby systems.
2. EcoFlow DELTA Pro 3 Portable Power Station
For the Canadian homeowner who wants a rugged, highly versatile system that can tackle a major outage or power a large workshop, the DELTA Pro 3 is an unmatched solution.
If you need more muscle, the EcoFlow DELTA Pro 3 portable power station is a versatile all rounder built to manage heavier household loads or professional use. It’s capable of expanding from 4 kWh up to an impressive 48 kWh, making it suitable for anything from a single day’s outage to powering an entire home for multiple days.
This makes it ideal for families who rely on appliances like well pumps, central AC units, or even an electric stove. Its standout advantage is its rapid UPS (uninterruptible power supply) function, which switches in instantly to protect sensitive electronics such as computers and medical equipment.
3. EcoFlow DELTA Pro Ultra Whole-Home Backup Power
The EcoFlow DELTA Pro Ultra Whole-Home Backup Power is built for Canadians who want long term energy independence and whole home reliability. Its expandable capacity ranges from 6 kWh all the way to an astounding 90 kWh, with output scaling from 7.2 kW to 21.6 kW. This means it can keep an entire household powered for weeks, covering everything from heating and cooling to high demand appliances. Its seamless integration with the EcoFlow Smart Home Panel 2 allows it to connect directly to your home’s electrical system, switching on automatically during outages.
For a remote cabin in B.C. or a family home in Alberta seeking full control over their energy use, this model functions like an invisible second grid, clean, quiet, and fully dependable.
4. Predator 13000 W Tri-Fuel Portable Generator
For those who want traditional fuel power with maximum flexibility, the Predator 13000 W Tri Fuel Generator is a standout. Its ability to run on gasoline, propane, or natural gas makes it a reliable backup during supply disruptions. For example, on a farm in Saskatchewan where a blizzard might block access to petrol stations, switching to stored propane ensures uninterrupted power. With its high wattage output, it can easily handle essentials for a large home, such as a well pump, refrigerator, furnace fan, and lighting circuits. It’s rugged, powerful, and adaptable, making it a solid choice for households that prefer the security of a fuel based system.
5. Westinghouse WGen 11500 DFc Dual-Fuel Generator
The Westinghouse WGen 11500 DFC combines robust power with user friendly operation. Capable of running on both gasoline and propane, it delivers strong starting wattage to manage energy hungry appliances like furnaces and air conditioners without faltering. Its built-in carbon monoxide sensor adds a critical safety measure, while the remote start fob makes operation straightforward even in the middle of a storm. This dual fuel unit is popular with Canadian homeowners because it blends reliable performance, safety, and ease of use into one package, ensuring you’re ready for outages at any time of year.
Generator | Type | Capacity / Output | Key Features | Ideal Use / Scenario |
EcoFlow DELTA 2 Max | Solar Generator | Up to 6 kWh, 3,400W output | LFP battery (3,000+ cycles), expandable, fast AC/solar charging (up to 1,000W), quiet operation | Weekend cottages, RV trips, city power backup, small home appliances |
EcoFlow DELTA Pro 3 | Portable Power Station | 4–48 kWh, up to 4,000W (X-Boost up to 6,000W) | LFP battery (4,000+ cycles), fast charging (solar/AC/car), portable with wheels & handle, smart app control, X-Boost | Small homes, RVs, workshops, off-grid use, high-demand appliances |
EcoFlow DELTA Pro Ultra | Portable Power Station | 6–90 kWh, 7.2–21.6 kW output | LFP battery (3,500+ cycles), auto battery heating, fast solar/grid charging, plug-and-play solar, whisper-quiet | Whole-home backup, modern homes, remote cottages, off-grid living, high-demand appliances |
Predator 13000 W Tri-Fuel | Traditional Gas Generator | 13,000W | Runs on gasoline, propane, or natural gas; high power output | Large homes, emergency backup, flexible fuel availability, high-wattage appliances |
Westinghouse WGen 11500 DFc | Dual-Fuel Generator | 11,500W | Gasoline or propane, remote start fob, built-in carbon monoxide sensor, high starting wattage | Homeowners needing reliable dual-fuel backup, furnaces, AC, lights, convenience and safety features |
How to Choose the Best Backup Generator Canada
Choosing the right backup generator can feel daunting, but breaking the process into a few key considerations makes it much easier. By carefully assessing your household’s needs, fuel options, and budget, you’ll be able to pick a system that fits your lifestyle and gives you peace of mind when the power goes out.
Assess Your Power Needs
Start by listing the appliances and systems you can’t go without during an outage. For some households, this might be the furnace, fridge, Wi-Fi router, and a few lights. Others may want the ability to run central air conditioning, an electric water heater, or even a home office setup. Check both the starting and running wattage for each item and calculate the total power you’ll require. This step forms the foundation for choosing the right generator size and type.
Consider Your Typical Outage Scenarios
Think about how outages usually affect your region. If you live in downtown Toronto or Vancouver, blackouts are often short lived and infrequent, so a smaller portable or solar generator may be enough. By contrast, if you’re in a rural area of Northern Quebec or the Prairies, storms or heavy snowfall can leave you without power for several days. In that case, investing in a more powerful standby unit is often the wiser choice.
Think About Fuel Availability
Fuel access can make or break your generator’s usefulness. Petrol is widely available but can be hard to secure during major weather events. Propane offers easier storage and a longer shelf life, making it a strong alternative. If your home has access to a natural gas line, a standby generator connected directly to it provides near unlimited fuel, sparing you the stress of refuelling. Weigh the pros and cons of each option based on what’s realistically available where you live.
Evaluate Portability vs. Permanence
Portable generators give you flexibility, you can use them at home, bring them to a job site, or take them camping. They require manual setup but offer more freedom of use. A standby generator, on the other hand, is a permanent fixture tied into your home’s electrical system. It turns on automatically during an outage and can keep your household running without any effort on your part. The choice comes down to whether you prioritise mobility or seamless, hands off reliability.
Check Noise and Safety
Noise levels vary significantly between models. Conventional portable generators are usually loud, while inverter and standby units are much quieter, making them more suitable for neighbourhood settings. Safety is equally important, look for built in features such as automatic low oil shutoff and carbon monoxide sensors, especially if you’re considering a fuel burning model. These features provide an extra layer of protection for your household.
Budget and Incentives
Backup power is a major investment, so factor in not just the purchase price but also installation, fuel, and long term maintenance costs. For Canadians exploring renewable options, it’s worth checking for government support. Under the Canada Greener Homes Initiative, certain solar generator systems or energy efficient retrofits may qualify for grants or loans, which can significantly reduce the financial burden.
Maintenance Tips for the Backup Generator
A generator is only as dependable as the care it receives. With a simple routine, you can ensure it’s always ready to perform when the power goes out; whether that’s during a blizzard in Manitoba or a thunderstorm in Ontario.
Run the Generator Regularly
To prevent parts from seizing and to keep the engine lubricated, run your generator for about 20 to 30 minutes each month. This practice is especially important for standby models, which may sit unused for long stretches.
Check and Change the Oil
Like any engine, a generator depends on clean oil to function properly. Check the oil level before every use and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for oil changes. Skipping this step can shorten the unit’s lifespan significantly.
Inspect and Replace Air Filters
A clogged air filter forces the engine to work harder, reducing performance and efficiency. Inspect it regularly, especially after extended use, and replace it whenever it looks dirty or worn.
Examine the Battery
Generators with an electric start rely on a healthy battery. Make sure it holds a charge and consider using a trickle charger to keep it topped up, particularly if the unit is stored for long periods.
Test the Transfer Switch (for Standby Units)
The automatic transfer switch is the brain of a standby generator. Periodically test it to confirm it responds quickly and switches power seamlessly during an outage.
Keep Fuel Fresh and Safe
Petrol doesn’t last forever, it begins to degrade after a few months. Use a stabiliser to extend its life, or better yet, drain the tank and run the carburettor dry before long term storage. Always store fuel in proper containers and away from the generator itself.
Clean and Protect the Unit
Dust, moisture, and debris can cause unnecessary wear. Keep the generator clean and, if stored outdoors, protect it with a weather-resistant cover. This step is especially valuable during Canada’s harsh winters.
Keep a Logbook
Keep a simple log of your maintenance tasks, noting dates for oil changes, test runs, and filter replacements. A written record helps you stay consistent and ensures you never miss a critical check.
FAQ
Which Backup Generator Is Best for Canadians?
The right generator ultimately depends on your household’s priorities and situation. If you want a seamless, whole home solution that automatically kicks in during an outage, a standby generator offers the highest level of convenience and security.
For families who value flexibility and affordability, a dual-fuel or portable inverter generator provides reliable power for essentials and can be taken to a cabin, campsite, or worksite when needed. If you live in an urban setting, or simply prefer a cleaner and quieter option, a solar generator is an excellent alternative, delivering dependable backup without fumes, fuel storage, or noise.
How Much Does a Backup Generator Cost in Canada?
Backup generator costs in Canada vary greatly depending on the size, type, and installation requirements. A small portable generator suitable for powering a few essentials during a short outage can start at around $500. For households looking at a permanent standby generator, expect to spend anywhere from $5,000 to $20,000 or more, once you factor in the unit itself, professional installation, and possible upgrades to your home’s electrical system.
Do I Need a Permit to Install a Standby Generator in Canada?
Yes, in most parts of Canada, you’ll need a permit to install a standby generator. Because these units are wired directly into your home’s electrical panel and may connect to a natural gas or propane line, the work must be carried out by a licensed electrician and sometimes a licensed gas fitter. Installations must follow the Canadian Electrical Code (CEC) as well as any provincial or municipal regulations.
Are Solar Generators Reliable in Canadian Winters?
Yes, today’s solar generators are built to perform reliably even in Canadian winters. While solar panels naturally lose some efficiency during overcast days or when covered with snow, they can still produce power when there’s daylight. The batteries themselves are usually designed with cold weather performance in mind, and many units can also be recharged from a standard wall outlet or a vehicle when the sun isn’t an option. Advanced systems, such as the EcoFlow lineup, use lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries, which are more stable and better suited to colder climates than traditional lithium-ion cells.
Is a Home Generator Purchase Worth It?
For many Canadians, investing in a generator pays off in both practical and personal terms. Beyond the obvious benefit of keeping your lights on, it safeguards your home by preventing food spoilage, maintaining heating or cooling systems, and ensuring medical equipment or work devices remain powered. In a country where winter storms, summer wildfires, and grid strain are becoming more common, that kind of security can make all the difference.
Conclusion
In Canada, where a sudden winter storm or summer wildfire can leave homes without power for days, a backup generator isn’t just about comfort, it’s about resilience and preparedness. The right system, whether it’s a compact portable unit, a clean solar power station, or a full standby generator wired into your home, ensures you can keep essential systems running and avoid unnecessary hardship. By weighing your household’s priorities, fuel options, and outage risks, you can invest in a generator that not only meets today’s needs but also offers long-term peace of mind for you and your family.