Which portable generator can I use as a power backup for my house?

If you know the exact energy usage of your home, you can match that number with the energy output of the portable generator. If you don't know, then use this simple rule of thumb: 1,000-5,000 watts powers survival appliances, 6,000-8,000 watts powers multiple rooms, and 10,000-17,500 watts will power an entire, small house.

How do I know if I want a conventional generator or an inverter generator?

A conventional portable generator creates alternating current (AC) power, while an inverter generator produces direct current (DC) power and converts it to AC power. Converting DC power to AC power gives you a smoother electrical signal, so if you're using your generator for sensitive electronics like computers, you will probably prefer an inverter generator.

Which Kohler or Generac generators are the quietest?

The quietest generators will produce between 47 and 60 decibels (dB) of noise.