While some power outages are merely an inconvenience, others can deprive people of electricity and comfort for days. Living in Pittsburgh, you know how unpredictable the weather can be. Portable generators have become vital to safety across Pittsburgh and its neighborhoods.
The best places to buy portable generators offer low prices, expert guidance and long-term service. Here are Pittsburgh’s top four local stores with the best selection of portable generators.
1. Best Overall Local Selection of Portable Generators: Busy Beaver Building Centers
Busy Beaver Building Centershas the best overall selection of portable generators for power outages in Pittsburgh. The home improvement store has top brands, ranging from Generac to Firman. These machines produce up to 7,000 watts of power for your home. The company has multiple locations across Pittsburgh, making these portable generators accessible to residents of Western Pennsylvania.
Busy Beaver Building Centers stands out due to its easy-to-shop layouts and well-stocked aisles. You can count on the associates for knowledge and expertise on portable generators and all things home improvement. If you find a better deal elsewhere, Busy Beaver Building Centers will match the price.
Key features of Busy Beaver Building Centers:
- Price-match guarantee
- Great Deals+ loyalty program
- Outstanding customer service
- Multiple stores in the Pittsburgh area
According to Busy Beaver Building Centers, “Our team lives in the communities we serve, offering practical solutions and reliable support for every project. We prioritize customer care, integrity, and service — making every shopping experience positive and personal.”
2. Best for Budget Options: Harbor Freight
Harbor Freight purchases generators directly from factories, rather than through distributors, allowing customers to receive better deals. The company has three locations in the metro area, serving Pittsburghers from West View to Pleasant Hills. You can find additional Western Pennsylvania locations in Washington and Lynnwood-Pricedale, as well as great deals on portable generators at all locations.
These stores carry Predator Generators, which are exclusive to Harbor Freight. The portable machines range from 1,800 watts to 13,000 watts, providing customers with more options. Predator Generators help with power outage preparation in Pittsburgh by providing an 18-hour runtime. You can easily pack up the four-wheeled system and move it with the folding handle.
Key features of Harbor Freight:
- Business model with low costs for customers
- Generators up to 13,000 watts
- Predator Generators exclusive to Harbor Freight
- Membership with additional discounts
According to Harbor Freight, “For over 45 years, our reputation has been built on providing quality tools at the lowest prices. We sell over 7500 quality tools and products, so you’re sure to find the right tool with the features you need at an unbeatable value.”
3. Best for Quick Availability During Emergencies: Lowe’s
Lowe’s is the best choice for emergencies because the store prides itself on its disaster response capabilities. For decades, the store has maintained backup generators to ensure a quick reopening. Therefore, customers can get generators for themselves during power outages. The company has strategic partners to help Pittsburgh residents before, during and after storms.
Pittsburgh residents can find Lowe’s locations in Homestead, McCandless Township and other nearby areas. At each store, you’ll find leading generator brands like Kobalt and DuroMax. Shoppers can use Lowe’s online portable generator buying guide to ensure they find the best solution for their needs. You can use these generators for storms, camping and other needs.
Key features of Lowe’s:
- Leading brands like Kobalt and DuroMax
- Portable generator buying guide
- Generators for camping, outdoor events and emergencies
- Loyalty program with members-only gifts
According to Lowe’s, “Maintain power flexibility at home, on jobsites or on the go with a dependable portable generator from Lowe’s. Ideal for camping, outdoor events or emergency situations, portable generators offer reliable, versatile power solutions wherever and whenever you need them. For a comprehensive power solution, consider pairing your portable generator with a dependable generator power inlet box or convenient generator transfer switch kit to safely integrate backup power into your home electrical system.”
4. Best for High-End/Professional-Grade Generators: Golden Eagle Equipment
Golden Eagle Equipment is a Pittsburgh staple. The locally owned store in Irwin has exemplary power equipment, service and parts. Customers can find Echo portable generators with outputs of up to 10,000 watts and a quiet operation. These machines are terrific for supporting large properties and multiple appliances. You also get a digital multimeter to access critical information.
The other option is an EG-3500, which runs for up to 10 hours at a 50% load. Regardless, each Echo generator from Golden Eagle Equipment includes a warranty. Consumers get coverage for three years, whereas businesses receive a 90-day warranty. When you enter the store, you get professionalism and knowledge from the friendly staff.
Key features of Golden Eagle Equipment:
- Large dealer of outdoor power equipment
- Carries Echo generators
- Up to 10,000 watts of power
- Locally owned Western Pennsylvania business
The company says, “As always, Golden Eagle Equipment offers its customers the brands they know and trust. It also strives to serve its customers more conveniently … Moving ahead, we look forward to continuing to offer our customers — in the Pittsburgh area and beyond — top-notch products and services.”
How to Determine Your Power Needs
Knowing where to buy a generator can positively affect your power outage preparation in Pittsburgh. Before checking prices, it’s essential to determine which stores have the best selection. Here are seven criteria used to determine the top businesses in the metro area for portable generators.
| In-stock selection | Check store websites and apps for in-store and online stock. |
| Fuel types | Review the selection for various fuel types, including gasoline and propane. |
| Power outputs | The selection should also include various generator sizes and power outputs. |
| Price transparency | The store must be transparent in its online and in-store pricing. |
| Staff expertise | Employees should be able to explain technical concepts, such as running watts and diagnostics. |
| Accessory availability | Customers may want safety accessories like CO detectors, transfer switches and extension cords with GFCIs. |
| Post-purchase support | The store should handle warranty claims and facilitate repairs after the purchase is complete. |
Types of Portable Generators for Pittsburgh Homes
Before purchasing a generator, it’s essential to understand the various types. There are several options to consider, each with its own pros and cons. Here are the four types of winter storm generators for Pittsburgh homes.
| Generator type | Pros | Cons |
| Conventional | Low up-front costHigh power outputWidely available | LoudUnstable voltageLess fuel efficient |
| Inverter | Cleaner powerQuietFuel efficient | Higher up-front costLower maximum powerComplex maintenance |
| Dual-fuel | Fuel flexibilityLong-term storageClean-burning fuel | High up-front costsComplex maintenanceLess power on propane |
| Solar | Silent operationLow maintenanceFree recharging | IntermittencySpace constraints for panelsStorage limitations |
FAQs About Pittsburgh Portable Generators
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about portable generators to help you make an informed decision.
1. What Portable Generator Brands Do Different Stores Carry?
Major retailers carry leading brands like DuroMax, Generac and Westinghouse. Others may have exclusive brands, such as Predator Generators.
2. Which Stores Typically Offer the Widest Variety of Generators?
Home improvement stores, such as Busy Beaver Building Centers, offer a variety of generators.
3. What Size Portable Generator Will Run a House?
The right size depends on how many appliances you wish to run. For instance, experts say a portable generator with 5,000 watts has enough energy for a refrigerator, lights and a small AC unit.
Using Winter Storm Generators to Keep Residents Safe
Unpredictable weather is a reality across Pittsburgh and Western Pennsylvania. Therefore, a reliable portable generator is a wise investment for your safety and comfort. These machines are beneficial year-round, whether during a winter blizzard or a summer thunderstorm. Understand your wattage needs and find a generator at local retailers
Disclaimer: This article is paid content. Pittsburgh City Paper does not endorse the services described, and the content was provided by the sponsor.
