10 Best Portable Generators For Construction Sites – Vales Wood

Portable generators come in handy for remote applications like construction sites and occasional power outages. However not all portable generators available on the market are worth it. It is because in the past few years many serious problems have been reported with portable generators. For instance, portable generators come with small engines and limited fuel tank capacity. Therefore they have a very short runtime and limited power output. Also, these engines are noisy and they have bad fuel economy due to inefficient fuel utilization.

Considering all these problems one may give up on getting a portable generator for the construction work. But the good news is that there are many reliable and dependable options available. However, it is a little tough to figure out an option that offers a reliable and trouble-free experience in the construction site application. Taking these concerns seriously, I’ve reviewed the ten best portable generators for construction sites. After independently testing various options, I filtered out the options that stood out in terms of quality and performance.

While buying a portable generator to power sensitive power tools on the construction sites I had multiple concerns in mind. I purchased this generator a few months back since it features class-leading power and runtime ratings. This generator offers 75000 running watts. After calculating the wattage requirement of all my power tools at the construction site, I was pretty satisfied with the power rating of the generator.

With maximum power usage, the generator offers a runtime between 7 to 8 hours which is pretty impressive considering its size and fuel tank capacity. The generator is powered by gasoline fuel that is highly portable and makes the generator a great opinion for remote applications. The generator is powerful enough to power various power tools like industrial-grade rotatory hammers and miter saws. Another thing that I was concerned about was the stability of the power supply. Power tools are highly sensitive to irregular voltage supply.

Thankfully this generator comes with Volta Guard which is a built-in overload protection system. The generator offers an electric start option for smooth and strain-free ignition. To make it works in low-temperature conditions the electric start feature is paired with cold start technology that gives you a smooth and quicks start even in low-temperature conditions The noise level of this generator is as low as a household vacuum cleaner. Even under maximum load, it produces a maximum noise of around 64 dBA from 23 feet.

To help you track the maintenance intervals and performance of the generator it comes with an intelligence system. It allows you to monitor the real-time performance of the generator like runtime, volts, hertz, etc. This feature is pretty helpful as it allows you to diagnose and solve problems at the earliest stages.

It’s been around 6 months since I’ve been using this generator occasionally in various construction jobs and so far I’m pretty satisfied with the power output and fuel efficiency. The thing that bothers me is its cumbersome profile. Though it is lightweight, it isn’t easy to move around. With small wheels at back and a solid bar in front, the weight distribution is horrible. Also, this generator was delivered without oil. Battery and wheel installation is a little tricky.

Champion Power Equipment 100813 comes with all these features that construction contractors expect. From low oil filters to real-time performance monitoring and built-in surge protection it has everything that ensures a safe operation with the least maintenance requirements. Its running watts are powerful enough to power multiple industrial-grade power tools.

Pulsar G12KBN portable generator is slightly pricier than Power Equipment 100813 but it outperforms it with its dual fuel technology. Dual fuel support makes it a perfect option for remote applications like construction and remote industrial areas. Generators can be either powered by gasoline or propane. If you have limited access to gasoline in an area you can switch to propane for an unstoppable experience in various conditions.

In addition to that, it offers more power than Power equipment 100713. Its running watt rating is 95000 watts for gasoline and 8500 watts for propane. With such an impressive power rating it can supply fuel to multiple heavy-duty power tools along with batteries and lights in a construction area. Its fuel tank capacity is 8 gallons for gasoline which offer a run time of 8 hours under 50% load.

Under maximum load, it offers a runtime between 5 to 6 hours which is good considering its power ratings and ability to power heavy-duty equipment. A powerful 4-stroke engine is the only reason for its stable power output and fuel efficiency. Its 4-stroke OHV engine uses fuel efficiency and ensures a stable power output even under the maximum load. Another thing that makes it a perfect fit for remote applications is its versatile socket panel.

It comes with a 12 V DC charging port where you can charge the batteries to keep your battery-powered tools active. In addition to that, you can hook up various tools and appliances with 120V outlets, one 30A AC/DC outlet, and one 50A outlet. The generator weighs around 300 lbs and comes with airless never-flat tires for ease of maneuverability.

The drop-down handle further enhances transportation and ease of handling. The automatic low oil shut-off feature automatically stops the operation when low oil levels are detected. In addition to that, it has a built-in real-time performance monitoring and wattage regulation system that ensures a hassle-free operation with little or no maintenance.

Pulsar G12BKN is one of the most dependable power backup solutions that you can buy for commercial and remote applications. The generator packs all the power that you need to run heavy-duty power tolls on a job site. With class-leading run-time and impressive fuel efficiency, it stands among the best generators for construction sites.

Generac GPE8000E portable generator is the next option to qualify for the list of best portable generators for construction sites. The generator is rated for 10000 starting watts and 8000 running watts. With this power rating, this generator stands among the most powerful portable generators and can power multiple heavy-duty tools without limiting the speed and performance. The generator comes with high-capacity fuel tanks of around 7.9 gallons and offers a run time of 10-11 hours under 50% load.

It is a great way to power your heavy-duty tools at remote sites where electricity isn’t available. Also, it is one of the most reliable power backups in case of occasional power outage sessions. It comes with a versatile connectivity option allowing you to hook up all types of gadgets to it. The power outlets on the panel include a 12V DC charging port, four 120V GFCI outlets, and one 120/240 AC/DC outlet. All these options offer seamless connectivity of multiple tools simultaneously.

The generator uses a premium Grade Generac OHV engine that offers incredible fuel efficiency. It uses fuel efficiency and ensures stable power output till the last level of the fuel. I was also very impressed by its Idle control system. This system monitors the load and watt rating. It regularizes the power output to prevent overloading and underloading.

All these features give you the confidence to hook up your expensive and sensitive power tools with this generator. Oil level monitoring in that generator can be a hassle when you are working on challenging construction sites. Generator operation with low oil levels can lead to irreparable damage to the monitor. Its low oil shut-off feature reduces the maintenance requirements of the generator.

This generator is equipped with both a pull start and an electric start options. The battery-operated electric start feature is not a reliable option. The battery needs to be charged regularly and it drains out very quickly. The pull cable mechanic is poorly built and doesn’t offer strain free experience. However, you can manage this issue by upgrading the electric startup system on the generator.

Generac GP8000E portable generator is an efficient and powerful power backup that can power multiple power tools simultaneously. Its fuel efficiency and power output stability are more than impressive and I highly recommend it for construction job sites. The noise level depends upon the load but it isn’t very loud.

A-iPower SUA1500ECV is one of the most powerful portable generators that you can buy for the most demanding applications like construction sites. This gas-powered generator packs all the power that you need to run various heavy-duty tools simultaneously. The generator is equipped with a 680cc 4-stroke engine that offers 15000 starting watts and 12000 running watts. What sets it apart from all other portable generators is its high-performance twin-cylinder technology.

This engine offers class-leading fuel efficiency and delivers an incredible peak-watt rating with little fuel combustion. Another major concern of the buyers while buying a generator for a sensitive power tool is output stability. This generator features Pure Sine Wave Technology with less than 5% Total Harmonic distortion.

This feature ensures that you get a stable voltage even under the maximum load. In this way, it eliminates the chances of tool damage due to overloading and underloading. The fuel tank capacity of the generator is around 7 gallons which can offer a run time of 6-7 hours under 50% load. Run time is not very long but since it can power multiple power tools at the same time you will get the best work speed possible in big construction projects.

Moreover, this generator features premium-grade stainless steel housing that makes it highly rugged and impact-resistant. However, it adds a lot of weight to it. It weighs around 420 lbs and stands among the heaviest portable generators. For ease of maneuverability, you will get never-flat wheels with generators that are pretty easy to install.

An intuitive control panel on the front side of the generator lets you monitor and control all its features. A performance monitoring system means low maintenance requirements and fewer chances of damage. The low oil automatic shut-off feature is another good thing that you will get with A-iPower portable generator. It produces a noise level of 82 dB at 34 feet which is acceptable considering its size and rated watts.

A-iPower SUA15000CEV can juice multiple heavy-duty power tools at the same time. Its built-in sine wave technology combined with an ultra-powerful engine makes it a dependable option for more demanding applications like a construction site.

Next on the list is another dual fuel generator. It is a competitively priced option that features enough power to light up various corded electric tools at a construction site. The generator features dual-fuel technology which is probably the biggest perk when you work remotely. In case of limited or no access to a specific fuel type, you have an option to shift to another fuel.

Duromax XP12000EH uses a 470cc OHV engine that can provide 12000 starting watts and 95000 running watts. With this power rating, it can easily power various tools like heavy-duty diggers, impact drills, and impact wrench at the same time. It is a backup power-ready solution and you can connect it to the main supply of the site to get the power output at multiple outlets. Also, it comes with various DC and charging outlets to help you get a direct power supply for specific tools or equipment.

Another best part of this generator is DuroMax MX2 technology. The technology uses an alternate wattage receptacle allowing you to operate the generator either at 120 V or 240V. For maximum power, it is recommended to operate the generator at 120 V. The Idle control unit improves the fuel efficiency of the engine by optimizing the RPMs as per the power requirements.

A low oil detector and automatic shut-off feature save it from breaking down in case of low oil operation. With a fuel tank capacity of around 7 gallons, it offers a runtime of around 7 hours under 50% loads. Under maximum load, it offers a runtime between 4-5 hours depending upon the RPM level. The generator comes with sturdy never-flat wheels and weighs less than 250 lbs making it pretty easy to maneuver.

It’s been part of my power backup system for more than 2 years and I’m pretty happy with its performance and efficiency so far. The biggest issue I’ve ever faced with this generator is its tough assembly. It needs professional-grade assembly since instructions provided in the manual aren’t easy to comprehend. Also, it was delivered with some missing parts which further complicate the process.

Duromax XP1200EH generator with backup ready profile and stable power output is one of the best portable generators for construction sites. It is a competitively priced unit that does compromise quality and efficiency making it a reliable option for construction applications.

Westinghouse is known for producing highly efficient power backup solutions; this one is also no exception. WGen9500 is designed as a home or RV power backup solution but I was impressed by its performance in construction site applications. The biggest perk of getting this generator is its fuel efficiency.

With a fuel tank capacity of around 6.6 gallons, it offers a class-leading runtime of around 10-12 hours under 50% load. It is powered by a 457 cc 4-stroke OHV engine that delivers enough power to light up multiple power tools simultaneously. The starting watt rating is 1200 watts and the peak watt rating is 9500 watts.

It has built-in overheat and surge protections that ensure that your sensitive equipment is safe against overloading and underloading damage. A remote key Fob feature coupled with a battery-powered electric start feature offers a trouble-free startup in remote applications. Also, it has cold start technology that lets you ignite the engine even in freezing cold conditions.

It uses sturdy never-flat wheels and rugged cast iron sleeves making it a rugged option for challenging construction site applications. Low oil automatic shut-off features prevent it from breaking down due to the operation at a low oil level. The low oil tank capacity is the biggest limitation of this generator. It can only hold 1 quart of oil at a time. Low oil tank capacity means more frequent oil refills.

Westinghouse WGen9500 is designed to power heavy-duty appliances of big households and its power is sufficient enough to run multiple heavy-duty tools at construction sites. With a foam-padded handle, handy lift bracket, and rugged never-flats wheels, it is one of the best portable generators for construction sites.

DuaroMax XP13000HX is a dual fuel generator that gives you the freedom and flexibility of the fuel choice. The generator packs a lot of power that is sufficient enough to run multiple power tools simultaneously without limiting the speed and performance. With all copper welding and a 500c OHV engine, you can expect a stable and smooth power output under the maximum load.

With a starting watt rating of 13000 watts and running watt rating of 10,500 watts when operated on gasoline. On propane, you will get 12000 starting watts and 8500 rated watts. All these figures reveal that this generator lets you enjoy the power of stationary generators with the convenience of portable generators. To lower the maintenance requirements and monitor the real-time performance of the generator it has been equipped with an all-new control center.

This panel consists of a handy push-button start and a digital meter that contains information about the voltages, RPMs, wattage, and fuel and oil levels. Plus a fuel interface is also there that lets you perform the fuel type settings within seconds. Its CoAlert system automatically shuts off the generator when higher levels of CO emission are detected. It is a CARB and EPA complaint and you can use it in any state.

From a fully loaded power panel to rugged wheels and a handy lift bracket it has multiple features that make it a great choice for tough applications like a construction site. Its fuel tank capacity is around 7 gallons offering a run time of around 7 hours under 50% load. Unfortunately, the generator lacks an overload protection system or voltage regulator. So make sure you don’t hook up tools beyond their power output capacity.

DuroMax XP13000HX with incredible fuel efficiency, ability to use two fuel types, and electrical start feature stand among the best portable generators for construction sites. It is a backup-ready generator giving you a smooth experience right out of the box.

If the wattage requirement of your job sites is more than 12,000 watts, consider Generac 5734 heavy-duty portable generator. It is designed as a power backup solution for big industrial settings. It is a gasoline-powered generator that packs sufficient power to outperform many stationary generator systems.

Along with multiple power tools at construction sites, it can generate power for many other Jobsite applications like lights, charging big batteries, etc. Its ultra-powerful 992 cc engine offers 22,000 starting watts and 15000 running watts. Its stable power output even under the maximum load and low CO emission makes it a perfect option for industrial-grade applications.

What sets it apart from all other options on the list are its low maintenance requirements. The OHV engine boasts a fuel pressure lubrication feature taking its fuel efficiency and smooth power output to a whole new level. The idle control features are also there that optimize the power output as per the power demands.

In this way, it significantly reduces the noise level and helps save a lot of fuel. For an effortless start in all situations, this generator is equipped with an electric start feature. It is a battery-powered feature that comes with a battery and a handy battery recharge jack. It uses a large fuel tank that can store up to 16 gallons of fuel.

It offers a run time of 10 hours under half load which is impressive considering its running watt rating. It weighs 350+ lbs and is a little hard to maneuver. However, its well-balanced profile combined with handy loft brackets and never-flat wheels makes the handling a little easier.

Generac GP12500E is an ultra-powerful portable generator that can outperform a big stationary power generator at a limited cost. The generator produces a lot of power with very low fuel consumption and low emissions making it one of the best portable generators for construction sites.

The Duromax DS10000E gas-powered generator has made its way to the list of best portable generators for construction sites. It is a versatile generator featuring a highly functional power panel. From multiple receptacles to amperage outlets it contains multiple connectivity options for various appliances and power tools.

With a 470 cc OHV engine, it generates enough power to run multiple power tools and heavy-duty appliances at the same time. Its built-in power optimization features adjust the RPMs as per the power demands of the system. This feature improves fuel efficiency and helps you get more power with less fuel. Also, this feature reduces the noise significantly making it a great power backup for noisy construction sites.

The patented MX2 technology gives you freedom of choice to operate the generator at 120V or 240 receptacles. It has two 120V receptacles that let you get maximum power output even under the maximum load. The generator has a fuel tank capacity of around 3 gallons which is pretty low considering its application in commercial grade projects. However, with incredible fuel efficiency, it offers a decent runtime of around 5 to 6 hours under 50% load.

The generator weighs 260 lbs and comes with a sturdy wheel for ease of maneuverability. This is a backup-ready generator including multiple outlets on the power panel. However, the outlets are not covered. It leads to serious damage especially when the generator is used in vulnerable environments like a construction site. The average noise level of this generator is 80 dB under 70% load which is pretty much lower than many other options in the power rating.

Duromax DS10000E gas-powered generator is a commercial-grade unit that generates enough power to run multiple heavy-duty appliances simultaneously. Its ability to optimize the RPM reduces fuel consumption and noise making it one of the best portable generators for construction sites.

The final option on the list of best portable generators for construction sites is champion power equipment 100111. It is an expensive yet most dependable portable generator that you can buy for tough Commercial grade applications. What sets it apart from all other options on the list is its ultra-powerful engine. It features a 717 cc V-Twin engine that generates more power with less fuel. Its starting watt rating is 15,000 watts and its running watt rating is 12,000 watts.

Moreover, it is equipped with a battery-powered electric start feature for a hassle-free startup. It is one of the very few generators that come with fully dependable electric start features. It comes with a handy toggle switch and the package and the package also includes a battery. Like all other advanced power equipment generators, it is also equipped with IntelliGauge technology.

This technology helps you monitor the wattage, voltage, fuel level, and runtime to keep a track record of generator performance. It enables you to figure out the problem and find a solution before a serious breakdown in the generator. It is back up ready generator with a versatile power panel. From AC/DC charging outlets to 3-prong sockets and various receptacles, it has multiple options where you can hook up your tool and appliances.

Its noise level is pretty low considering its power rating and ability to support heavy-duty appliances. The biggest issue reported with this generator is oil leakage. Also, the generator doesn’t offer an automatic low oil shut-off feature which may lead to serious damage. The good news is that the generator is backed by a 3-year warranty and lifetime technical support by Champion Power Equipment.

Champion Power Equipment combines fuel efficiency with built-in voltage stabilization technology and a powerful engine making it one of the best portable generators for construction sites. It is slightly more expensive than other options in this range but gives you a long-term performance with a few maintenance requirements.

Before buying a new generator for commercial grade applications, you must consider its specs and some attributes to avoid issues in the future. To help you make a well-informed decision I’ve composed this guide discussing various features of a portable generator designed for construction sites.

Wattage Or power RatingRating

The most important part of the process is wattage requirements. You need to calculate the power that you need to run all your tools and appliances at a construction site. The average power requirements of a construction site lie somewhere between 8,000 watts to 15,000 watts. You can also calculate the watt requirements by summing up the starting watts and running watts requirements of the tools that you want to operate simultaneously. Anything less than 7,000 watts may not work for demanding applications like construction sites.

Surge Protection

A stable and consistent power supply should be among your top concerns as heavy-duty power tools are highly sensitive to power changes. Overloading or underloading can cause a serious breakdown inside the tools. Advanced generators come with built-in voltage regulators that ensure a stable and smooth power output allowing you to hook up your expensive power tools with generators.

Runtime

The run time of the portable generator is another important feature. The run time of the generator depends upon various features like fuel tank capacity, wattage rating, and fuel efficiency. A regular portable generator with 8000-10000 rated watts should offer a runtime of at least 7 hours under 50% load. If the run time of the generator is less than 7 hours, you may not get the desired results. If you work on sites where the only power source is the generator, you should consider more powerful options offering a runtime of 12+ hours.

Fuel Type

Most of the portable generators are powered by gasoline as it is easily accessible in most states. However, for remote applications, it is advised to buy a generator offering dual fuel support. Many portable generators allow you to operate the engine either with gasoline or propane. This freedom of choice enhances the functionality of a generator in various working environments. If you work in areas where access to fuel is limited I highly recommend you choose dual fuel generators to enjoy an unstoppable experience.

Fuel Economy

Runtime time and power generation cost of the generator highly depend upon the fuel economy. Ultra-powerful equipped with a fully optimized power generation system, use less fuel to generate more power. It reduces fuel consumption and improves the runtime of the generator.

Also, the generator with good fuel economy or is known for low emissions. You must look for a generator with an idle control system. This system optimizes the power generator and controls the RPMs as per the power demands of the system. In this way, it minimizes fuel consumption and also reduces the noise level.

Oil Tank Caity

The oil tank capacity of the generator is another key feature that you need to consider. A higher oil tank capacity means less frequent oil refilling. Portable generators use a lot of oil to maintain smooth performance. If the oil tank’s tank capacity is less than 2 quarts you may need to refill it with every 4th fuel refilling. Therefore it is advised to look for generators with big oil tanks.

Fuel Tank Capacity

A big fuel tank means fewer refills and more runtime. For a gas-powered portable generator designed for commercial applications, you must look for a fuel tank capacity of at least 7 gallons. Anything less than 7 galls now will not work for commercial grade applications.

Automatic Low Oil Shut Off

If you operate the generator with low or no oil, you may end up getting a serious or irreparable breakdown in the generator. In a tough environment, it’s not possible to constantly monitor the oil level in the generator. Advanced portable generators automatically shut off when low oil levels are detected. It allows you to refill the oil tanks on time and help you prevent serious or irreparable damage to the system.

Noise Level

The noise level of the generator can be a serious concern for workers on construction sites. Low-quality or less efficient engines produce a lot of noise. However advanced generators with fuel-efficient engines and voltage regulators produce relatively low noise levels. For a safe and healthy environment, you should look for portable generators offering a noise level of less than 75 dB.

So here I come to the end of the review of the best portable generators for construction sites. I’ve put loads of effort into composing this review guide to make it worth it. Now it’s your turn to decide. All the options reviewed above are tested for quality and performance but here are my top three picks from the list:

• Champion Power Equipment 100813 9375/7500-Watt Portable Generator for an affordable price, low noise production, built-in surge protection, and impressive power rating.
• Generac 5734 GP15000E 15000 Running Watts for incredible running watt rating, best in class runtime, electric start feature, and least maintenance requirements.
• Champion Power Equipment 100111 for Intelligauge features, ability to power heavy-duty power tools, low noise rating, and impressive fuel economy.

I’m hopeful that this review and buying guide will help you choose the safe and dependable option for your construction site applications. I highly recommend you buy a generator with dual fuel support so that you have multiple choices available in the remote applications.