Storm season in Australia can flip the switch on your everyday life—literally. An unexpected storm power outage can leave you in the dark, spoil your food, and disconnect you from the entire world. This is where an inverter generators come in handy, giving you emergency power exactly when you need it.
Inverter generators are a modern, quiet, and fuel-efficient power solution that can keep your essentials running smoothly and safely during an outage. Those looking for easy-to-use and storm-ready, reliable power that’s gentle on sensitive electronics will find that inverter generators—especially those by Gentrax—tick all the right boxes. Planning to buy one? Check out this article for a guide on choosing the best inverter generator for your specific home backup power needs.
Why Choose an Inverter Generator for Storm Backup Power?
Is a generator for a house necessary? Why should I choose one as backup power in case of storms? Here are some benefits of choosing an inverter generator:
Quieter Operation
It’s often an understated advantage until you experience it yourself. But trust us when we say that a quiet generator for residential use is worth it.
Inverter generators are known for their low-decibel output. They’re quiet enough for you to hold a conversation nearby, so you’ll definitely enjoy using one during power outages as it can power your essentials quietly while you regroup with your family members and plan for emergencies. Storms are stressful enough without adding noise pollution, and an inverter generator lets you get that much-needed rest. Seriously—you'll thank yourself for it (and so will your neighbours!).
Fuel Efficiency
Once you experience a storm in Australia and shut yourself in your home with a limited fuel supply, you’ll understand how every drop counts. Inverter generators can adjust their engine speed based on demand, so they can run longer on a single tank. In short, a fuel efficient generator can be used longer with the same amount of fuel and you’ll spend less time worrying about refuelling. That's definitely a plus if you like to be prepared for anything.
Clean Power Output (Pure Sine Wave)
Modern homes are filled with sensitive electronics, from laptops and TVs to modems and medical devices, all needing stable power. But not all generators can give you the right kind of power. You’ll need a safe generator for electronics—one that delivers a pure sine wave output that won’t fry your gadgets. That’s exactly what an inverter generator is known for.
Gentrax proudly features pure sine wave generator models that guarantee safe, reliable performance. These models let you keep your electronics safely powered during an outage with zero damage.
Portability
One of the best inverter generator benefits during a storm power outage? Portability. As inverter generators are more lightweight and compact compared to traditional ones, they’re easier to maneuver. If you need to move it to a safer spot or a drier area outside, it’ll be so much more convenient than doing it with a traditional generator. Modern models, like the ones by Gentrax, are designed with this in mind—often with wheels, ergonomic handles, and a lightweight and space-saving form factor that’ll help you out a lot when storms strike.
How to Choose the Best Inverter Generator for Home Backup During Storms?
So, where do you begin? How do you choose the best inverter generator for home backup power during storms? Fret not—here are easy-to-follow steps you can review to make choosing easier:
Step 1: Assess Your Home’s Essential Power Requirements
The first step is to understand your emergency power needs. This will help you determine what size generator for house backup you’ll need.
To do this, calculate generator wattage requirements by listing all the appliances you plan to power during an outage. Their labels or manuals will indicate their wattage information. Appliances have two wattage values: starting watts (surge power) when the device turns on and running watts for continuous use. Usually, these two are the same, but some appliances have a higher surge power requirement, like air conditioners and refrigerators.
Here are some rough estimates:
Refrigerator: 600W (surge), 200W running
LED light bulbs: 10W
Phone charger: 10W
Small fan: 75W
Add up the running watts and factor in the highest starting watts. Choose an inverter generator that matches the total watt requirements on your list, leaving a little extra headroom to avoid overload. For example, since our list is 315W (running watts) and 600W surge, a 700W or higher inverter generator will be more than enough to run all the essential appliances indicated.
Step 2: Determine the Crucial Features of a Home Backup Inverter Generator
The best generator for home backup will depend on the features you value. Here’s a generator features checklist that you can refer to. Generally, it’s ideal that your generator model has all these features, but you can also decide which features you want to prioritise and which ones you can live without.
Power Output (Wattage)
First on the list is the power output. Once you know how much wattage you need to successfully run all your essentials, check the power output of the portable generator models you’re eyeing and choose the one that best suits your needs. Gentrax offers a wide range of options to cover everything from basic to heavy-duty home backup needs.
Runtime and Fuel Efficiency
The generator runtime is also an important factor to consider, as this will tell you how long you can use it to keep your devices powered. Ideally, models that can run 6 to 10+ hours on a single tank are great for storm power outages. Gentrax generators are highly fuel efficient, so they’re worth considering, as this means they can run for a long time with fewer refuels during storm outages.
Number and Type of Outlets
It’s also important that you choose a model with enough 240V Australian generator outlets and ideally some USB ports. Having a variety of outlets on your inverter generator means you can plug in several devices at once. Gentrax covers these essentials, so you can plug in directly without extra adapters, making it a more convenient experience for you.
Noise Level (dB Rating)
If you want a quiet inverter generator, then you must check the noise level of each model before buying one. Lower decibel ratings mean quieter generators. If you’d like a reference, the sound of a conversation is roughly rated between 50 and 60dB. Inverter generators that operate within this range, like Gentrax models, are quiet enough to power your home essentials in peace.
Portability
Portability is another important factor to consider as it allows for easy mobility during emergencies. Look for features such as lightweight frames, ergonomic handles, and wheels—these things make it convenient to move and carry your portable generator around. For instance, Gentrax features models that are built tough yet compact, making them easy to maneuver.
Pure Sine Wave Output
A pure sine wave output means stable, safe power even for sensitive devices. Not all generators have this feature, which poses risks for gadgets like laptops and mobile phones. To avoid dealing with costly repairs, see to it that you opt for a pure sine wave generator like the ones at Gentrax for safe, uninterrupted output.
Safety Features
Safety must always be your top priority when looking for a backup power source. Generator safety features like low-oil shutdown, overload protection, and circuit breakers keep not only your devices safe but your entire family too, so they’re a must. Be sure to look for these features in an inverter generator. Gentrax models take user safety very seriously and even include weather-protected outlets too—a major plus for storm use.
Operating Your Generator Safely During and After Storms
Inverter generators promote storm safety by providing you with stable backup power during outages. However, using one also comes with risks. Ensure you operate your generator safely during and after storms with these tips:
Safe Setup
The cardinal rule in generator safety is to never run your generator inside your home, garage, shed, or near windows and doors. Carbon monoxide is deadly, and inverter generators can emit a deadly amount. Avoid CO poisoning risk by always keeping it well away from living areas. Putting up a carbon monoxide detector in your home is also a good safety precaution.
Proper Placement
Generator placement is also important in keeping your generator safe. Aside from setting it up away from living areas, you must also place your generator on a flat surface and ensure it stays sheltered from the rain. You can also use a dedicated generator tent or a well-ventilated canopy structure.
Connection Method
Is it better to use a transfer switch vs extension leads? While outdoor-rated extension leads can be used to power devices, if you want to power the entire house, it’s better to have a transfer switch installed professionally. It’s much safer and more convenient, so we say it’s worth the investment.
Refuelling
If you need to add more fuel, make sure you turn off the generator first and let it cool. Safely store fuel in approved containers and put it away from the house or any ignition sources.
Why Gentrax is Your Reliable Partner for Storm Backup
Looking for a trusted generator brand that can give you the best and most reliable power during storm outages? Look no further - Gentrax home backup generators all the way!
Proven Reliability
Gentrax is a trusted name in Australia with over 80,000 units sold and an average rating of 4.6 stars. When it comes to home backup and emergency power, you can’t go wrong.
Pure Sine Wave Output
Gentrax is the best generator brand for home use, delivering only the best and cleanest pure sine wave output for all your electronics. You won’t ever have to worry about expensive repairs with an inverter generator that keeps your electronics safe and sound.
Quiet and Efficient
Looking for the best portable generator during a stressful storm? Gentrax has just what you need. Our inverter generator models can run efficiently and discreetly at an average of 58dB, so you can still get a peaceful sleep despite the poor weather conditions.
Tough and Versatile
Gentrax generators are adventure-ready. This means they’re designed to be tough enough to handle the unique Australian conditions–both weather and power challenges. From coastal towns to outback homesteads, our various models are built to handle anything.
Local Trust
If you’re after a reliable generator in Australia, go for Gentrax. Backed by a capable Aussie team, we offer not just the best units but also excellent local support and fast delivery. Whatever it is you need, you’re guaranteed the best purchasing experience ever.
Stay Powered Through Any Storm
Storm power outages can disrupt your entire household, so storm preparedness in Australia means having a reliable home backup power solution. This is why selecting the right inverter generator is so important—as this can ensure your comfort and safety throughout the entire ordeal.
Ready to buy your own unit? Use this inverter generator guide or head straight to our website for Gentrax generators. Quiet, efficient, and safe, we have everything you’re looking for in a portable power source to back up your home during storms. Shop now and ensure you’re always ready for any storm with reliable, long-lasting power.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size inverter generator do I need for a power outage?
It depends on what you want to power. Most homes need at least a 2000W to 3000W generator for essentials.
Can I run my whole house with an inverter generator?
Inverter generators are best for running essential appliances, but if you’re running a whole house, you may need larger-scale portable power sources to accommodate the required amount of energy.
Are inverter generators safe for electronics?
Yes. They produce clean pure sine wave power, which is safe for laptops, TVs, and other sensitive devices.
How long can an inverter generator run during a storm?
Most models run between 6 and 10 hours on a full tank, depending on the load and fuel efficiency.
Is it okay to use an inverter generator in the rain?
No. Always keep it dry and covered in a well-ventilated shelter to avoid damage or safety risks.
