Best Generators for Home Backup in the UK (2025 Buyer’s Guide)
Power cuts in the UK aren’t just an inconvenience, they can seriously disrupt daily life, especially in winter. Whether you're in a rural home prone to outages or just want peace of mind, a home backup generator is one of the smartest investments you can make.
We’ve helped hundreds of customers choose the right generator over the years, so this guide shares what we know plus a few of our top picks for 2025.
⚡ Our Top Generator Picks (Quick View)
1. Hyundai DHY8000SELR
2. Hyundai DHY6000SE
3. Hyundai DHY12500SE
1. Hyundai DHY8000SELR
Reliable, Long-Running Workhorse
If we had to recommend just one model for most UK homeowners, it’d be this one.
The Hyundai DHY8000SELR delivers 5.8kW of steady power with low noise, and the remote electric start means you don’t even need to leave the house during a storm. It runs for up to 30 hours at half load, which is ideal for longer outages. It’s also ATS-compatible, so you can have it kick in automatically during a blackout.
We’ve had customers in the countryside tell us it’s kept their entire home running comfortably for days.
2. Hyundai DHY6000SE
Compact and Capable
Need backup for just the essentials such as lights, heating, fridge? This is your model.
The DHY6000SE offers 5.2kW of power in a smaller, quieter package. It’s a solid option if you’re short on space or want a lower upfront investment. It’s also ATS-compatible, so you can have it kick in automatically during a blackout.
Ideal for city homes, smaller properties, or just keeping critical appliances running.
3. Hyundai DHY12500SE
For Larger Homes or High Demand
This one’s a beast and in a good way.
If you’ve got a larger property or high energy needs (workshop, electric heating, heavy-duty appliances), the DHY12500SE gives you serious power: 10kW to be exact.
We often recommend it for farmhouses, multi-story homes, or those who just want to power everything without compromise.
What to Look for in a Home Generator?
We get these questions a lot, here’s the short version:
How much power do I need?
Add up the wattage of the essentials you want to run. For most homes, 5–7kW will cover the basics (boiler, lights, fridge, sockets). Go bigger if you want to run everything.
Is it quiet enough?
All three models above run at around 70–72dB, which is about the volume of a vacuum cleaner. Not whisper-quiet, but fine in a shed, garage or side of house.
What’s better - diesel or petrol?
For standby use, diesel wins. It’s more efficient, safer to store, and diesel engines last longer. Petrol is better for lightweight portable models, but not for powering your house.
Can it start automatically?
Yes, ATS-compatible models like the DHY6000SE and DHY8000SELR can kick in automatically if the grid fails - as long as they’re wired in properly by an electrician using the ATS Module.
Real FAQs from Customers
Q: Can I install one of these myself?
Technically yes - but we strongly recommend having a qualified electrician connect it, especially if using an ATS.
Q: Where do I keep it?
Ideally outside or in a ventilated garage or outbuilding. All models come with a silent weatherproof canopy.
Q: How long will they run?
The DHY8000SELR can go up to 30 hours at half load, that’s two solid nights of power before refuelling.
Final Thoughts
Power cuts are frustrating - but they don’t have to grind your life to a halt. Whether you want to keep your family warm during a storm or ensure business as usual in your home office, there’s a generator that’ll do the job.
We’ve picked these three Hyundai models for a reason, they’re reliable, efficient, and built to last.
👉 Browse all generators at Equipmax
Need help deciding? Drop us a message we’re always happy to advise and help.