What is The Best Generator for Hurricane Season?

• Published: 08/04/25
• Updated: 08/04/25

When hurricane season arrives, power outages aren’t just inconvenient — they can be dangerous. From spoiled food and sweltering heat to sump pump failures and medical risks, losing electricity during a storm can cause real harm. That’s why many homeowners are asking, What is the best generator for hurricane season?

At Wilson’s Refrigeration and Air, we recommend standby generators — and particularly Generac—for reliable backup power that kicks in automatically when storms strike. In this guide, we’ll walk you through what to look for, why Generac stands out, and how to prepare before the next hurricane hits.

Why Backup Power Is a Must During Hurricane Season

The Impact of Outages on Homes in Storm Zones

South Carolina and other hurricane-prone states experience frequent outages from downed lines, flooding, and high winds. These outages can last for hours — or even days — leaving your home without:

• Lighting and cooling
• Food storage
• Security systems
• Internet access
• Medical devices

Critical Systems That Depend on Power

Power loss affects more than just comfort. Your refrigerator, HVAC, sump pump, and even cell phone chargers are essential to your family’s safety and communication during a storm. That’s why backup power isn’t a luxury — it’s a necessity.

To better understand how backup power fits into emergency preparedness, explore FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Generator Guidance, which outlines the value of generators in storm-prone areas. 

Top Features to Look for in a Hurricane-Ready Generator

Automatic Start and Transfer Switch Capabilities

The best generators for hurricanes activate automatically when power is lost. This is essential during storms when manual startup is unsafe or inconvenient.

Fuel Source and Availability During Storms

Look for generators that run on natural gas or propane, which are more reliable and available than gasoline during severe weather disruptions.

Power Output: Whole-Home vs. Partial Coverage

Generators come in various sizes. A whole-home generator offers seamless, uninterrupted power for everything. Smaller systems can cover essentials like HVAC and refrigeration only.

Weather-Resistant Design and Placement

Your generator should be built for harsh outdoor conditions, with a corrosion-resistant enclosure and proper elevation to avoid flood damage.

Why Generac Is the Best Generator for Hurricane Season

Industry Reputation and Homeowner Trust

Generac is the #1 selling brand of home backup generators. Known for reliability, durability, and cutting-edge features, they’ve earned the trust of millions of homeowners nationwide.

Performance in Prolonged Outages

Designed for extended use, Generac generators can run for days with proper maintenance and fuel, keeping your home operational even through multi-day blackouts.

Smart Monitoring and Mobile App Controls

Generac’s Mobile Link™ technology lets you monitor generator performance and fuel levels from your smartphone — no matter where you are. For more technical details about how standby generators function and why they’re favored for disaster resilience, check out FEMA’s Standby Generator Technical Job Aid.

Installation Tips for Hurricane Generators

Why Professional Installation Matters

Improper installation can void warranties or put your home at risk. Always work with licensed professionals like Wilson’s Refrigeration and Air, who are trained in generator code compliance and safety.

Local Codes and Storm Zone Guidelines

In storm-prone areas like South Carolina, local building codes often dictate:

• Generator placement
• Clearance from structures
• Flood elevation requirements

Our team ensures your system meets all local regulations and performs optimally under pressure. 

How Wilson’s Refrigeration and Air Can Help

Generator Sizing and Selection Support

We assess your home’s size and energy needs to recommend the right size Generac generator — no guesswork, just reliable coverage.

Trusted Generac Installer in South Carolina

We’re a certified installer of Generac systems with years of experience helping homeowners in hurricane zones stay safe and powered up.

Get Hurricane-Ready with the Right Generator

Choosing the best generator for hurricane season can mean the difference between comfort and chaos. With Generac’s proven performance and Wilson’s expert installation, you’ll be protected, no matter what Mother Nature sends your way. Contact Wilson’s Refrigeration and Air today to schedule your generator consultation and get storm-ready with confidence.