Generators are still at the top of the chain as alternative and backup power supply. My go-to pick has always been the Predator Generator 875o, which is a powerful and reliable addition to my power supply regimen. It is simple to use and has all the features I need to enjoy quality power conveniently.
However, this powerhouse has been a bit hard to come across lately, and I went out to look for alternatives that could match up.
My first alternative is the Champion generator which is affordable for its capabilities. Furthermore, the generator gives me enough power to back up my house needs. My second choice is the TOMAHAWK generator which I can control remotely. My third alternative is the DuroMax, which, if not for its propane limitations, would be my second choice. However, this is the generator I have in my RV for camping and road trips.
These options are ideal for emergencies, job site use, household applications, and more, just like what Predator offers. Furthermore, they provide a clean power supply to my favorite devices and are large-capacity machines. Here is an in-depth look into these alternatives.
Best Alternative to the Predator 8750 Running Inverter Generator
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1) Champion Power Equipment 8500 Watt
- 62 dBA is great for RVs, tailgating, or camping with 8500...
- Power up the 420cc Champion engine with the handy rocker switch,...
- Monitor voltage, frequency and operating hours with ease, plus...
- 120/240V 30A locking outlet, two 120V 20A GFCI household duplex...
- Includes 3-year limited warranty with FREE lifetime technical...
There are a few generators that have a sturdy body and features that perform as well as their specifications, and Champion is one of them.
Champion is a great replacement for Predator 8750 because they serve me almost similarly. The Champion generator has a slightly higher wattage but is within the less than $2500 range like the Predator 8750.
The Champion generator has a running wattage of 7000 W, meaning it can do all the work that Predator does for me. It is not an annoyingly loud generator, and it has a running time of up to 14hrs on only 5.3 gallons of fuel, making it a reliable choice whenever I need backup.
Image Source: championpowerequipmet.com
The generator has some features I find really useful. For instance, the carbon monoxide auto shut-off system ensures no hazard is caused when the generator is on. When the generator is running, I can monitor its frequency and operating hours.
I can use the Champion generator in different situations because of its varied outlets. From the two 120V 20A GFCI household duplex outlets with clean power to the 120/240V 30A locking outlet and the 12V regulated automotive-style outlet.
With a freed lifetime technical support, Champion is a safer option for me to go for to ensure longevity.
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2) TOMAHAWK 9000 Watt Inverter Generator
- ELECTRIC START: With the click of a remote button, power your...
- 14.5 HOUR RUN TIME: Run your generator when you need it most, up...
- VOLTAGE SELECTOR: Giving you more usable power, choose Full...
- COMPACT & PORTABLE: With a robust wheel kit and locking handle,...
- OSHA COMPLIANT: Including GFCI Outlets, CO Detect, and more -...
TOMAHAWK is a perfect alternative to the Predator generator because of its runtime and switching capabilities. To start the generator, I do not have to physically access it since I can remotely start it. The generator further has an option where I can choose the usable power output, giving me the much-needed control to save on power.
Image Source: tomahawk-power.com
TOMAHAWK has a parallel compatibility feature that allows connecting two generators for more power. Furthermore, I can use the generator for up to 14 hours, giving me enough reassurance in case of an outage. With TOMAHAWK, I am never worried about noise since it runs at 62 dB.
I can choose whether to run the generator at 120 or 240V, increasing the efficiency of the generator and saving on fuel. TOMAHAWK has a working capability for a range of activities, including camping, residential and commercial purposes.
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3) DuroMax Generator
- Powerful DuroMax Engine: the XP12000EH is powered by a DuroMax,...
- Dual fuel technology: the ability to run on propane or gasoline...
- Plenty of power: with 12,000 starting watts and 9, 500 running...
- Maximum power: with DuroMax MX2 technology, get the maximum power...
- Powering everyone anywhere: like all DuroMax generators, the...
Image Source: duromaxpower.com
DuroMax is a great alternative to the Predator 8750 generator because of its convenience. The generator can use both gas and propane to run, which is great for RVing.
With a peak wattage of 12,000 when using gasoline and 11,400 when using propane, DuroMax powers through most of my needs. With DuroMax, I can achieve up to 19 hours when running at 25% load, which is what my household usually needs.
DuroMax is an RV-ready generator and a great home backup choice.
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How to Buy the Best Generator
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If a generator is your primary backup power supply unit, then you must select the correct one for the job. Whether it's your home or business, a good generator covers your needs.
Still, there are several types of generators in the consumer market. At a glance, it may seem challenging to peruse through all the different products available. However, the process will become simple with the information in this guide. Consider these key factors when buying a generator
a) Identify Your Needs
It's obvious that we all have different needs when it comes to electrical supply. Thus, you must identify your requirements because it will determine factors such as the wattage and generator type that suits your needs. For instance, if you have several large load machines in the home, you will probably need more power than one with a few lights in a room. Even more, some with an indoor garden or anything close would require a large-capacity generator.
b) Application
Since generators are suitable for domestic and industrial use, you should determine whether you want one for power backup for your home or a business. The specific way in which you expect to use the generator is key. It helps you narrow down to a particular generator category. Yes, generator categories are several, and it's best when you can learn to narrow down specific brands in relation to your needs.
c) Wattage
Determine the type of load you want to run for which you should conduct a correct power analysis. Overloading a generator is the leading cause of power failure, and this can easily compromise the functionalities of your appliances. Just as you would with your car at optimal speed all day, the same applies when using generators. Most appliances require a high current when they start, and this is the surge level. Thus, your generator must have adequate power to cope with the energy demand.
d) Fuel Type
It is good to determine the generator fuel type because you can use it to estimate the cost of fuel. Also, there are several fuel and cost-efficient generator brands on the market.
e) Load Type
The nature of the load also has a significant impact on the kind of generator chosen. For example, you may either require a generator to power large or small devices including sensitive electronics. Other models can not boast of handling delicate electronics as Predator does.
If you are operating sensitive devices, then go for an inverter generator, or you may compromise your generator. Inverter generators also provide a better quality of power.
f) Electrical Usage
There are various types of generators, and you also need to determine their scope of use. For instance, a portable generator is ideal for running small devices but not a whole house. Usually, they have a power range of between 1 kW to 15kw and are suitable for use on electrical machines. These include saws, fans, grinders, lights, and more. They are ideal for home or construction improvement projects, where there is no electricity close by.
The residential types are the whole house backup supply units, which you can use to operate the appliance in your house during a power outage. Also, the standby generators supply power between 7KW and up to several hundred KWs. These generators let you use electricity, independent from the electrical grid.
g) Backup Power With A Transfer Switch
A transfer switch when using a large generator is key. Usually, a manual transfer switch is used to switch the utility power produced by the grid to back up power with just the simple push of a button. It's also easy to use, but ensure you know the location of the button, especially when dark. An automatic transfer switch is convenient because it senses when there is a power outage. When the power comes back on, it switches back to the power grid. Thus, this makes the generator use highly convenient for your needs.
A transfer switch is also installed along with the generator. A manual transfer switch helps to switch from the utility power supplied by the grid to the backup power when you press a button. It is easy to use, but you will have to locate the button yourself when there is a blackout. An automatic transfer switch (ATS) senses automatically when there is a power cut and turns on by itself with minimal delay. When the utility power gets restored, it switches back to the grid power and shuts the generator off.
h) Power Requirements
It would be good if you could determine the amount of power required to run all your electrical appliances. Individual watts are often indicated on the electrical equipment. Other devices have additional starting units, which you can add to the total watt level. You can determine the starting wats by multiplying individual watt levels by 3. Remember to track your estimated total wattage because you need to get a generator that can supply more power than your load requirements.
Here are some appliances, and their average wattage levels, to help you give you an idea of the average power supply requirements. They include;
- Toaster – 1000 to 1600
- Toaster 1050 - 1500
- Vacuum Cleaner - 1100 - 3200 + Starting watts (multiply individual watts by 3)
- Water Heater – 1900 - 3000
- Iron Box - 12000
- Fridge 700 - 1000 (starting watts)
i) Noise Level
A noisy generator is not comfortable to use for long periods. There are ways to quiet down a generator, but getting a quiet one from the word go is the best approach.
While the generators above are a great alternative, the Predator Generator 8750 was my go-to option. So, why is it my first pick for a backup generator?
Predator 8750 Features
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1) 20cc/ 13HP Air Cooled OHV Gas Engine
Perhaps the most significant aspect of this generator is the powerful 420cc/ 13 HP air-cooled OHV gas engine, which is one of the most efficient and powerful types on the market. Also referred to as a pushrod engine, it features a piston engine with valves in the cylinder head on top of the combustion chamber. This design is different from the conventional flathead engine, where the valves are found under the combustion chamber in the engine block.
In contrast, the OHC engines feature overhead camshaft engines with overhead valves. These are inefficient when compared to the OHV engine in the Predator 8750 generator. For this reason, the Predator 8750 is an outstanding performance in power supply applications.
2) Electronic Start with Recoil Back-Up
Predator 8750 is a long-standing model featuring an electronic start function with recoil backup. The recoil backup ensures the generator starts safely without injuring the user or causing damage to the internal components. The electric start lets me turn on the generator with just the simple push of a button.
With an average run time of 12 hours, this generator is an excellent addition to my power supply regimen during power outages.
3) Low Oil Indicator
The Predator 8750 generator comes with a convenient, low-oil converter, which indicates when the generator requires additional oil. It’s a convenient feature because keeping track of the oil level can be difficult.
The Predator 8750 is a gas-powered generator and requires oil to function. Thus, when the oil goes low in this generator, it will give a warning in the form of a beeping LED. When the oil is extremely low, the generator will shut down automatically preventing any further damage to the internal components.
Since failing to replace or check the oil level causes generator damage, the Predator brand has included the auto-shutdown feature, which helps improve the performance and longevity of the machine.
4) Heavy Duty Steel Roll Cage And Circuit Breakers
Thus, the Predator Generator 8750 features a heavy-duty steel roll cage, which can resist damage. Furthermore, such a heavy-duty design means the generator can withstand high-impact drops or forces to make it a long-lasting unit. While the steel roll cage makes this unit durable, it does so without adding any unnecessary weight to the overall structure of the generator.
Even better, the generator features convenient circuit breakers for ease of use. A circuit breaker is an automatically operated switch that will protect the device's electrical circuit from damage. Usually, this occurs due to excess current produced from a short circuit or an overload in the power supply setup. It is a primary function that interrupts the flow of current, especially when a fault is detected in the generator's functions.
5) 76db Sound Level In Operation And 12 Hour Run Time
The sound and average run time of a generator is also a crucial factor that I consider. The Predator 8750 will only produce 76db sound when in operation. While this level is way louder than normal human conversation, it makes sense for such a large generator. More so, the best part is that I can install it outdoors, where the generator's hum won't affect my daily life. It might be loud, but not as loud as some of the gas generator brands that are out there on the market.
As far as the run time goes, this unit offers an exceptional 12-hour run time. This way, I have adequate time to get a better solution if the power outage is not addressed soon. Plus, the 12-hour run time means that I have more than a whole night of power.
6) Accessories
This Predator Generator features accessories including a spark plug wrench, DC charging cable, screwdriver, an oil funnel (since the generator uses natural gas), and a wheel kit, making using the generator easy and efficient. Some of these accessories may be sold separately, as is the case with most generators. I had to get a conversion kit as the generator did not come RV ready. The accessories that the Predator generator uses are fairly affordable tools.
Overall
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There are various factors I consider before buying a generator. In this guide, I have provided information on the predator generator 8750 review, which is one of the most formidable portable generators on the market. It sets up easily, and the powerful OHV engine is highly efficient. Operating at 76db of sound, this unit is slightly loud, but this makes sense because it's large and it’s a gas generator. Thus, equip yourself with this unit and make the power supply convenient.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Predator Generator 8750
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i) What can an 8750-watt generator run?
With an 8750 Predator generator, you can run high-power users like food trucks, job sites, air conditioners, home backup, or emergency backup systems. Predator generators pack up to 7000 watts, and with a 6.6-gallon fuel tank, you are guaranteed enough power. You can hook up the generator to a direct line in a grid, making Predator a reliable option compared to others.
ii) How much is the Predator Generator 8750?
The Predator 8750 generator averages $1140 and is one of the most affordable generators in the market. Unlike the other conventional generators, Predator does a lot for its price.
iii) How many hours does a Predator generator last?
The Predator generator can run for half a day on a 50% load, with a fuel consumption of 0.55 GPH. Different generators can run for varied periods.
iv) What’s the difference between a Predator and a Honda generator?
Honda and Predator do not share a manufacturer, and that is their main difference. When it comes to performance, you must compare individual generators with their specific features to see which works best. For instance, compared to the Honda EB10000, you will find some similarities and differences.
Both the Honda and the Predator have an electric start and run on a gas engine. There are similar accessories available, including a digital display, varied output options, circuit protectors and more.
There are differences between the is in the wattage output, where Honda has 10000 while Predator has 8750 watts. Also, the prices differ a bit, and Honda is on the higher end, with Honda being quieter by about 3 dB.
Final Take
What most Predator Generator reviews agree on, including this one, is how the 8750 is up to the task. However, the Predator 8750 has been a bit hard to come by lately. With enough searching, you can find the unit online. TOMAHAWK, DuroMax and Champion provide great alternatives to the Predator 8750. There are other reliable Predator generators that could come in handy for less power-demanding needs.
