What size portable generator do I need?

You'll want to consider the wattage of the appliances you want to power and factor in a safety margin. For basic needs like lighting and a refrigerator, a 2,000-3,000-watt generator is usually sufficient.

Which Powermate portable generators are the top rated?

The <a href="https://www.homedepot.com/p/Powermate-PM9400E-7500-Running-Watt-Electric-Start-Gasoline-Powered-Portable-Generator-49-ST-CSA-P0080301/315473719?emt=plpfaq_2412_portablegenerators" style="text-decoration: underline;">PM9400E 7500 Running Watt Electric Start Gasoline Powered Portable Generator, 49 ST/CSA</a> is one of our top-rated Powermate portable generators.

What are the pros of a recoil start on a portable generator?

<a href="https://www.homedepot.com/b/Outdoors-Outdoor-Power-Equipment-Generators-Portable-Generators/Recoil-Start/N-5yc1vZbx9nZ1z1cr53?emt=plpfaq_2412_portablegenerators" style="text-decoration: underline;">Recoil start generators</a> offer a simple and reliable way to power up, but they may require some effort, especially in cold weather. <a href="https://www.homedepot.com/b/Outdoors-Outdoor-Power-Equipment-Generators-Portable-Generators/Electric-Switch/N-5yc1vZbx9nZ1z1cr0e?emt=plpfaq_2412_portablegenerators" style="text-decoration: underline;">Electric start generators</a> are more accessible but may require a battery or external power source.