Best Remote Start Generator Reviews 2024: Wireless Startup
If you are a lazy bone and want a remote start generator that can be started from 30 to 50 feet and provides a longer run time without dropping voltage, this guide is for you.
We have tested 25 remote start generators; consult with the owners and technicians to make a list of the 5 best remote start generators that provide super silent operation with desired watts, outlets, warranty, and durability.
Without further wasting time, let’s check out our quick summary:
List of The Best Remote Start Generators of 2024
1. Champion Power Equipment 4500 – The Best Remote Start Generator
FEATURES & SPECS
Champion power equipment 4500 watts is one the quietest remote start generators available in the market. I got my machine at the right time with perfect protective packaging; I got engine oil, some tool kits, a USB adopter, an oil funnel, a remote control, user manuals, and the generator itself.
The overall design and built quality are amazing, the combination of yellow and matt black is mind-blowing, Also it has three caring handles one is for moving and the other two are for lifting. Unlike other units Champion 4500 watts comes with built-in handles and wheels You don’t need to assemble anything, just need to pour the engine oil and start the generator.
Performance:
We have done several tests to check out the performance perfectly let’s have a look.
Capacity test: I have operated a vacuum cleaner (200w), a heater (1000w), microwave oven (1500w), and found no overload light or any voltage fluctuations. I also operate my RV air conditioner, whole lighting system, TVs and refrigerator, etc., and this beast has performed beyond my expectations.
Noise test:
At no load I got 60 – 61dB from 20 ft. away, however, on eco mode, I got 58 – 59dB from the same distance. At 30% load, I got 62 – 64dB on average from 20ft. away, however, on eco mode I got 62 – 63dB from the same distance. I am pretty satisfied with its super silent inverter technology.
Fuel test:
I fill up the 2.3-gallon tank and start the generator with a 30% load and surprisingly I got 13 hours of running time which is amazing, this machine will be your best choice for longer nights.
Ports and essentials:
- Remote control that can work from 80ft. away
- 4 mode intelliguage (runtime, Volts, Eco mode button, Frequency).
- EZ Start Dial.
- Dual 120V, 20AC with weatherproof rubber lap.
- 120V, 30A RV ready port with weatherproof rubber lap.
- ON/OFF battery switch.
- Parallel ports.
- Ground.
- Dual DC USB ports of 12V, 8A
- 8A circuit breaker.
- 20 and 30 Amp breaker.
Usage and Maintenance:
Well, this generator is pretty easy to operate and maintain, you just need to press the start button on the remote control or you can do electric or manual start as well.
When it comes to maintenance, you just need to remove the engine oil and carburetor doors to change the oil, filter, clean the carburetor, etc. Also, you will have a small compartment below the control panel to do maintenance of the battery. Unlike other models, it has an oil drain tube which makes maintenance easier.
Safe for the Environment and You:
I found that this generator complies with the standards of EPA and CARB which means this is safe for you, your appliances (fluctuation-free electrical power), and the environment as well, though it uses gasoline still it releases fewer Carbon footprints as compared to its competitors.
2. Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment iGen4500 – Runner-Up
FEATURES & SPECS
The Westinghouse iGen4500 is a premium solution for campers with 4500 starting and 3700 running watts. The unboxing experience was like a premium generator I got a remote control and box containing the engine oil, a funnel, a tool kit, a battery charger, and a user manual.
In my case the setup of the generator is a bit difficult I connect the battery and fill up the engine oil within a few minutes but the unit comes with a disconnected automatic choke cable, I removed a few covers located the cable, and connected it, though it is not that difficult task still it is a time taking process, the manufacturer should have to think about that.
The design and built quality are pretty awesome, You will find a combination of blue and black with a compact and easy-to-transport light weigh body, wheels, and telescopic handle on the bottom that can be hidden like a suitcase.
Capacity test:
I ran a microwave oven (1500w), a refrigerator (350w), a heater(1200w), and some other lights TV, etc., and got about 3600w which is pretty close to 100% load, surprisingly This machine didn’t even blink the overload lights which is amazing.
Also, I didn’t find any voltage drop as I am using a surge protector, make sure to get one if you have expensive voltage-sensitive equipment.
Noise test:
I have done two tests on zero loads and the other on close to 100% let’s have a look at the results.
At zero loads (low idle) I got 61 -62dB from 20ft away which is a bit loud as compared to the champion’s 4500 watts.
With 96% load, I got 74 – 75dB, Again it is louder than my expectations but we push it to its capacity it makes sense to be so loud, at 50% load you may get moderate noise levels.
Fuel test:
The generator comes with 3.4 gallons of tank and the manufacturer has claimed that it can run about 18 hours with eco mode, however on eco mode with 30% of load I got about 15 – 16 hours of run time which is amazing. I must say this unit is also best for longer nights.
Ports and essentials:
- A remote start (From 75 – 80ft away the remote control works pretty well).
- Fuel ON/OFF switch.
- 120V, 30A AC RV ready outlet.
- Dual 120, 20A outlets.
- Parallel ports.
- 2 5V Dc USB ports.
- Reset button.
- Circuit breakers.
- Indicating lights (overload, low oil, output ready).
- A lead data center that shows the fuel level, remaining run time, voltage, and power output. Lifetime run hours etc.
- Ground.
- Overload reset.
- Efficiency mode.
- Push the start button.
- Battery charging port.
NOTE: You can get a dual model as well, but on propane (LPG) you will get slightly increased noise levels and decreased fuel efficiency and capacity.
Check out our guide about camping generators
3. Champion Power Equipment 200953 4250 – Best For Rv
FEATURES & SPECS
Champion 4250 is very close to my heart as this machine enhances my camping nights by supplying safe and eco-friendly power. Well, the package includes a USB adapter, engine oil, a funnel, a fold-away handle, and the generator itself.
The built quality and design of this generator pretty much resembled all 5000-watt generators, however, this generator comes with a remote start which is quite convenient for lazybones.
Performance:
This machine comes with a 224cc 4-stroke OHV engine that can produce 4250 starting watts and 3500 running watts, I have connected a heater (1500w), refrigerator (400w), and oven (1500w) to reach close to the capacity. Well, the results were pretty awesome I didn’t find voltage fluctuation or overload lights.
When it comes to the noise the manufacturers have claimed that this generator produces 64dB from 23 ft. away, however, this machine is pretty much louder than their statement so please don’t believe that.
Also, champions have claimed that this unit can provide 22 hours on 25% with a full tank of 4 gallons, however on 25% load I got 19.5 – 20 which is slightly lower but I am pretty satisfied with the fuel efficiency, it really helps me to spend my long nights.
Control panel overview:
- A touch panel 4 – mode intelliguage (shows volts, frequency, runtime, etc.).
- Indication lights (Overload, low oil, wireless pair, economy mode, choke).
- Push start button.
- 12v, DC 8A port.
- Parallel ports.
- Circuit breakers.
- Dual 120v, 20A Ac outlets.
- 120 V RV ready 30A outlet.
Note: All of the ports and outlets are weatherproof with rubber flaps or covers.
Safe for you and your environment:
Since the unit complains with EPA and CARB you don’t have to care about carbon footprints, low voltage, and other hazards, please don’t use it in indoor conditions.
4. Westinghouse WGen9500DF – Best For Whole House
FEATURES & SPECS
Westinghouse WGen9500DF is one of the best remote start generators for your whole house, I purchased my unit a few weeks ago and I am pretty satisfied with its runtime, capacity, and easy usage and maintenance. Well, I got the remote control, engine oil, wheel kit, attachable legs, tool kit, battery charger, propane hose, a user manual, and an angled oil funnel with the generator.
Though the generator is not compact and lightweight at all it has more than 200 lb. of weight but you can transport it easily by utilizing its foldable handle and rounded wheels.
The design is pretty ordinary like all high-capacity generators, but the built quality is a bit superior, it consists of a metal frame with a matte finish coating to protect it from rusting.
Performance:
This generator has a 457cc 4–stroke OHV powerful engine that can produce up to 12500 peak watts, 9500 running watts on gasoline 11200 peak watts, and 8500 running watts on propane.
I am using my all garage equipment like an air compressor, different types of saws, heavy drill, etc., also I am operating my Oven, dryer, heater, air conditioner, and multiple lights, etc. as well, I didn’t find any voltage drop.
I must say this machine is ideal for both the house and the garage as well. When it comes to the noise level this machine is not that silent you have to compromise with the noise levels to get better capacity, I suggest you place it at least 120 ft. away from your house and make sure to place it in a well-ventilated area to mitigate the risks.
When it comes to the runtime I am getting 8 – 9 hours on a 30% load with a full tank of gasoline, however, on a half load, I am pretty sure that you will get 7 – 8 hours. I recommend you to operate it on propane if you have normal power consumption and have access to LPG, as LPG will be cheap and a single tank (15 gallons) can last for about 20 hours.
Ports and essentials:
- A remote start key fob that can be used from 260 ft. away, is pretty helpful In harsh weather or rainy days.
- A fuel selector.
- Push the start button.
- Run/stop engine button.
- Smart switch outlet.
- Datacenter to check out the voltage, frequency, and hours.
- Battery indicator.
- Battery charging port.
- 4 x 120v GFCI outlets.
- 120/240v, 30A Ac outlet.
- 120/240v, 50A Ac outlet
- Main breaker.
- Ground and reset buttons for each outlet.
Note: All the ports are covered with weatherproof rubber flaps, don’t worry about insects, snowstorms, and rainy days.
Safe for you, your environment, and your appliances:
This machine is tested in multiple safety and environmental labs to make sure that it doesn’t release a high amount of hazardous gases, fluctuate the voltage, and make sure that it is super safe to interact with. Still, I don’t recommend you to use it indoor conditions without any ventilation.
5. Ford 5,250W Dual Fuel Portable Generator – Best Dual Fuel Remote Start
FEATURES & SPECS
After a huge success in the vehicle industry, Ford is now entering the generator game. After hearing about the Ford 5,250W Dual Fuel Portable Generator I ordered it for my dad’s RV. Well, the packaging was pretty protective. I didn’t find any bent or cracks on the frame. The machine comes with a funnel, tool kit, screwdriver, wheel kit, bottom stand, engine oil, propane hose, and foldable handles.
Like other premium generators, this generator is pretty easy to assemble, also the built quality is pretty premium. The engine and other inner parts are coated with a durable steel frame.
Performance:
This beast has a powerful 224cc Single Cylinder 4-Stroke OHV Air-Cooled Engine that can provide 5,250 starting/4,250 running watts on gasoline; however, on propane, you will only get 4,750 starting/running 3,800 watts. I have done a capacity test on both gasoline and propane. Below are the results.
Gasoline: I connected about 3800w load and found it smooth running without any voltage drop.
Propane: I connected about 3500w load and found flawless operation. The noise is a bit high as compared to gasoline.
When it comes to noise, this machine is not super silent like the smallest generators. You have to place it a few meters away from your camp or house. Overall it is moderately roar that can be comprised to get top-notch performance.
The run time of this generator is pretty awesome. I got 10 – 10.5 hours of contentious runtime on half load with a full tank of gasoline, however, the runtime may decrease on propane but it will be a cheaper and good option if you don’t want to pour fuel again and again.
Ports and essentials:
- Remote control with a nice chain.
- Switch and go fuel selector (select the fuel without shutting off the engine).
- Engine ON/OFF.
- Voltage selector.
- 120v, 30A Ac Rv ready outlet.
- 2 x 120, 20A AC outlets.
- 120/240, 30A AC outlet
- Hours meter.
- Main breaker.
- Remote light.
- A bunch of reset buttons for outlets.
Easy to use and maintain:
Ford 5,250W Dual Fuel Portable Generator offers remote start (from about 100 ft. away), electric, and manual start. The operation of this machine is pretty easy, and also maintenance is not a big deal, we just need to change the oil, spark plug, and oil filter after a month or week depending on the usage.
Safety features:
When it comes to safety this unit is certified by various safety and environmental firms like CARB, EPA, CSA, etc. I didn’t find any voltage drops, sparks, dirty fumes, etc.
How to Purchase The Best Remote Start Generator
We have to take care of the following things to get our desired remote start generator.
Calculate Your Power Needs (Running/Starting Watts):
Before purchasing a unit make sure to check out how many starting and running watts you will have to consume, if you only want to run and charge a few devices, run a refrigerator, TV, and some lights a 2000 watts generator with 2200 starting/1800 – 2000 running watts will be enough for you, even you can operate all of these appliances simultaneously.
If you want to operate high-power devices like air conditioning, ovens, Heaters, etc. you should go for a high-wattage generator like 5000 watts or even more, depending on the usage.
Fuel Type, Tank Size, and Run Time:
A dual fuel generator will be a good choice if you have access to both LPG and gasoline however if you don’t have, you can go for gasoline but it should have at least 1 gallon of fuel tank if it is a small wattage generator, however, for a large capacity generator, it should have 3 – 4 gallons fuel tank.
When it comes to runtime, your machine should provide at least 7 – 8 hours of runtime on 50% load so that you can spend longer nights smoothly.
Do You Really Need A Remote Start Generator?
Being a user remote start generator is a lifesaver for me in harsh weather, I don’t want to step out of my house or RV. Though you have to take care of the battery and remote start mechanism, still it will pay you in the rain, in real winter, etc.
It is also pretty handy for me when I am on hunting with my friends since none of us are willing to go outside at night.
What Type Of Remote Start Generator Do You Need (Inverter Or Conventional):
The conventional generator produces direct AC, however, the inverter generator first converts AC (alternative current) to DC (direct current) and then converts it to AC which results in extremely less harmonic distortion.
You will get a smooth voltage curve that will never hurt your expensive appliance Also inverter generators are pretty silent as compared to conventional ones. Champion Power Equipment 4500 is the best remote start inverter generator on our list.
Noise Levels:
Noise ratings should be below if you are going to use a portable inverter generator, however, if you are going to get a higher capacity generator, you have to compromise about the noise levels since they are a bit loud. I generally place my bigger units a few meters away from my house or camp.
Note: If a generator produces 60 – 64dB from 25 ft. away with 50% – 60% load it is a wise decision to get that one.
Outlets And Essentials:
Your selected machine should have the following outlets and essentials.
- 120V, 20amp Ac outlets, 120V, 30amp RV ready Ac outlet, 120/240, 30amp twist lock Ac outlet.
- USB ports.
- LCD to observe the runtime, fuel usage, volts, wattage, etc.
- Indicator lights ( overload, low fuel, etc.).
- Reset, electric start, ON/OFF, etc. buttons.
- Ground and main breaker.
- Fuel selector dial if it is a dual fuel unit.
Safety Features (Certified From Safety And Environmental Firms):
Your selected generator should be certified by some safety and environmental firms like EPA, CARB, etc. so that you can operate your expensive appliances fearlessly, also it should be safe for your environment.
Durability:
Generators are not that cheap we have to spend $400 – $2000 or more, and we expect to get benefits for at least a few years but what if your machine stops working within a month? Make sure to get a durable machine.
Sadly we didn’t get any indications about the durability from the manufacturer but there are some tips to find out whether it will be durable or not.
- Check out the review of the machine.
- look for the warranty if it is about 3 to 4 years this is a clear indication that the manufacturers are pretty sure about the durability of the product.
- Check out the engine, frame, and other parts it should be durable.
How Much Does A Remote Start Generator Cost?
Since a remote start generator is a bit costly as compared to the ordinary generator you will have to spend a little more.
Since we have reviewed almost 25 remote generators to make this guide we have found that you can get a remote start generator from $420 – $2000 depending on the wattage and size. A bigger generator with more power will cost you more; however, a small portable generator will cost you less.
Warranty And Customer Support:
Great customer support and warranty define the seriousness of the brand with its product, You have to select a machine with at least 2 years of warranty and should have decent customer support so that if you find any broken part you can replace it without any hassle.
Josh is a highly skilled electrician with specialized expertise in the field of generators. With years of experience under his belt, he has established himself as an expert in all aspects of generators, ranging from installation and maintenance to troubleshooting and repairs. Josh’s in-depth knowledge of electrical systems and his commitment to staying updated with the latest industry advancements make him a reliable and sought-after professional.