If you are a welder, or you are working on a welding machine, you have to consider mainly about two things. First and foremost consideration is safety. It is the essential thing everyone should think before engaging in any work. Another point is the power supply. You should have a steady power supply to the machine. Otherwise, you are unable to do your job. If you are in an urban area, there is electrical power, and you can connect it. But think if you are in a remote area or, even though you have electrical power, but if there is a power cut, what would be the solution. So there should be a generator. Not just a generator, you should have the best welder generator combo with you. Welder generator is the essential equipment you need if you are a welder.
A better welder generator provides you with enough power to handle all welding works without relying on the main electricity. Further, it can be used as an emergency power source to run any power tool without the main electricity. You need to fill up the fuel tank with suitable fuel type and power it on.
Now no need to suffer on choosing the best generator for welding. We have done it for you. Here you can select one of the best welder generators among the following products with welder generator reviews. You can use these generators as a stick, TIG or MIG welder generator combos.
Table of Contents
The Best Welder Generator for the Money
Miller Electric Engine Driven Welder Generator Review
Miller’s engine-driven welding generator has featured with unbeatable arc performance. This is an independent generator which gives the better output.
This provides 6200 watts of continuous power with a peak of 6500 watts. It can easily move and takes up a little truck space since it is a small footprint and lightweight. Further, this is the best welder generator for the money.
Generator power has guaranteed to give all the power which machine required under Accu-rated, not inflated, and standard power measuring.
This miller electric engine driven welder generator provides the most robust and most reliable generator power. Weld and generator output give better results than other machines. All outputs have rated at 104F (40C) to provide maximum performance.
Features
- 6.25-gallon fuel capacity
- Fuel type is Gasoline.
- Standard auto-idle while not in use.
- Reduce fuel consumption and noise.
- Standard electric start.
- Receptacle covers.
- Hour meter easily tracks the run hours.
- Single-range amperage control makes amperage level settings easy.
- 120V GFCI and 240V receptacles.
- 3600 RPM engine weld speed.
- A reliable air-cooled OHV engine enhances better engine performance.
Pros
- Easy to move and handle.
- Better output
- Quality product.
- The efficiency of fuel use.
- Easy amperage level control.
- Enables with air-cooled OHV engines.
Cons
- Higher maintenance cost.
- Some machines may stop working in continuous usage.
Best Engine Driven Welder Generator
Lincoln Electric Engine Driven Welder Generator, Ranger 225 Review
Lincoln Electric Ranger 225 generator is a multiprocessor which can use as a stick, TIG, Flus core or MIG welder generator.
There is an enclosed case that protects the engine and enables with three service access doors. It also leads to generate lower noise of 76.4dBA at 23ft. And 100.7 dB sound power at rated output.
This welder generator provides a smooth DC welding output for several stick electrode types. There are 10,500 watts peak Single-Phase AC generator power and 9000 watts of continuous power for generator, inverter welder or plasma cutter.
The engine is a 23HP Kohler Gasoline engine with two cylinders and four cycles overhead valve. This is the best engine driven generator with air-cooled design. There is a 12-gallon tank for more efficient work and enables with oil drain extensions to make easy the oil changes.
Features
- Output range is 50-225A DC and 15-25V CV
- 12-gallon Gasoline tank.
- Weldable metals are steel and stainless steel.
- Engine displacement is 674cc.
- It also provides power to run lights, plasma cutters, tools, inverter welders and many more.
- Peak generator power is 10,500 watts, and continuous power is 9000watts.
- This has rugged reliability since welding and AC generator outputs rated at 104 Fahrenheit.
- Weight is 233kg.
- Dimensions 29.9×21.5×42.3 inches.
- Duty Cycle – 210A DC/25V/100% or 225A DC/25V/40%
- The motor is Max OCV, and it powers at 3700 RPM.
Pros
- It is a multiprocessor.
- Easy to maintain due to three service doors.
- Lower noise.
- Protects the engine.
- Has a wide range of welding amp.
Cons
- It only supports DC welding.
- It may not work in heavy industries.
Best Welder Generator to Power a House
Lincoln Bulldog 5500 Welder Generator Review
This a one the best welder generator to power a house with 4000 Watts continuous and 5500 Watts peak AC generator power. This is easy to use and portable.
Bulldog welder generator can be used for various types of applications like grinding, power on pumps, lights, motor starting and emergency power. This can handle up to 3.2 mm stick electrode with only the AC. It gives up to 140 amps of AC output for many applications.
It has a Kohler CH395 8.9 HP engine that can deliver 16.7 amps of power. And also, this generator enables with four 120 volts outlets to connect additional appliances.
Lincoln Bulldog 5500 generator has a gasoline engine which fuel tank can fill up with 1.9 gallons of gasoline. You can work more since this is an efficient fuel type.
There is a 1.25 inches diameter rugged tube frame to provide sturdy, all-around protection.
Further low-lift grab bars give more leverage for lifting the generator on and off truck beds. You can move this generator from one place to another since it is lightweight and easy to carry. This can consider as the best welder generator combo since it’s durability.
Features
- It gives 4000 watts power, and the peak is 5500 watts.
- Has 1.9 gallons gasoline tank.
- Duty cycle is 125A AC/20V/30% or 100A AC/25V/60%.
- Has 8.9HP generator motor at 3600 RPM power.
- Recoil start type.
- Amperage range is 70-10.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Lightweight
- Durable
- Efficient
- Can be used for a variety of applications
- Best welder generator to power a house
Cons
- Only AC current
- Only works with stick welding
- Not suitable for industrial usage
Buying Guide to Choose Best Welder Generator Combo
When you are buying a generator for welding, you should consider many aspects. Since you buy it for tremendous work, you have to choose the best welder generator combo.
Some may ask, who should buy a welder generator? A welder generator mainly uses by maintenance service providers, building workers, and people who engage in repairs.
The best generator for welding should fulfill all requirements of the user. Mainly the primary goal of using a generator is power. Then it should enable all qualities to provide better output. When you buy a welder generator, you should consider the following aspects.
Power Output
The main thing is power. It should have better power output. Initially, you have to recognize the process or task you run from this generator. Then you can decide the suitable power output.
Usually, Stick, MIG and TIG welding has a typical process and can use the general machine. But some machines are only capable of specific work. So you have to select wisely the suitable generator, which gives a proper output.
If you are working with other machines with the power of the generator, you should buy a welder generator with more output. As an example, if you are doing stick welding only, then a small amount of output is enough. But if you need power for multiple types of equipment, you may need a significant amount of power output.
Type of Power output
There are two types of power which namely AC and DC. These types refer to the polarity of the electrical current that the machine produces and runs through electrodes. The power output of welder generators also varies among these two types.
DC electricity only flows into one side, and it has a consistent polarity voltage. DC is the most commonly used power type since it produces a smooth weld and a stable arc.
AC electricity switches direction, and it has periodically reversing voltage. AC welder generator needs for welding magnetized material, TIG welding aluminum, machine repairs and seam welding. DC is more affordable than AC. So you have to decide the type of current before purchasing a generator.
Portability
If you are planning to do your work in different locations, or you have a mobile welding service, it’s better to have a portable welder generator.
It should be easy to carry and also design also have to enable the lightweight. Machines that have tube design enhance the portability as well as more compact. Some tools come with wheels to carry easily by rolling, and all these portable welder generators are easy to lift with your hand or a crane.
So, weight is another important consideration when you are selecting the best welder generator combo.
Cost
Price of the generator is the most important thing since you should have the ability to afford the machine. Prices may depend on the quality, feature, and brand.
You have to buy the generator which matches with your cost. And also, even though you can buy an expensive one, it’s better to consider the reliability of price and quality.
Powerful and quality machines are usually costly. And also, the price of welder generators in big and reputable brands will higher than other fewer quality products. So you have to be careful when purchasing a machine like this.
Even though initial cost high, maintaining cost will be less since machines come under quality brands are durable and less cost for repairs. It’s your responsibility to buy the best welder generator combo that matches your requirements for a reasonable price.
Duty Cycle
The duty cycle of a generator indicates how long the welder generator can run continuously at given amperage within a ten-minute cycle. In most cases, cycle duty goes up when amperage goes down. If there is a lower amperage, your machine can run for a longer duration.
The duty cycle of the generator will be the same, even though the generator supports multiple processes
Fuel consumption
Engine-driven welder generators mainly use three types of fuel. They are gasoline, diesel and liquid propane (LPG). If you want the best welder generator combo, you have to consider the fuel efficiency.
Gasoline is more affordable than the other two types. Most small and portable generators run by gasoline since gas engines yield relatively low fuel consumption. And also they can work in cold weather efficiently.
Since diesel provides longer run time, it mainly uses machines which run for more extended periods.
Propane is the most expensive fuel type since it gives more benefits. It burns cleaner than other models, and it can store for a more extended period. Propane can be used in an area that is not well ventilated.
Accessories
When you are buying a new machine, you may need some accessories to support that machine. So you need to have a better knowledge of the most suitable accessories for your new welder generator.
Common accessories for a generator are as follows,
- Extension cables for remote control operation.
- Cylinder tank racks and hose assembly for LP gas models.
- Carts and trailers for heavy units.
- Portable wire feeder
- Connector kit for MIG wire
- Welding gun.
- Electrode hose and clamps for stick welding.
- TIG torch and tungsten electrodes for TIG welding.
- Collets and nozzles.
These accessories may vary from the welding type and the generator type. So you have to have a good knowledge of these accessories before buying a generator for welding.
Warranty
Usually, if we buy a machine or any good, we consider the warranty. When it comes to the welder generator, the best welder generator combo should have a warranty of two to three years minimum. It should be capable of both machine and engine.
Companies provide these warranties separately for the components of the generator. So, you should be aware of the elements which have warranties in the generator. Usually, engines and batteries have warranties separately.
Usually, quality machines with best brands have more extended warranties, and they are pricey. Most companies asked to take the device to the nearest outlet if there is an issue and they repair it free. But some cheaper brands don’t give excellent warranties, and there may be costly repairs. So it’s better to buy a generator with a good warranty, and it is worth it.
Noise
The noise level of a machine should be considered when you buy that. It will depend on the area where you work. If you work in a remote area and there are no residents nearby, a certain level of noise isn’t a problem. But if you work in an urban neighborhood or an apartment where there are many people, you should consider more on the noise level.
If you are working in an area where there are more houses, it’s better to stick to a certain noise level, which is no higher than 90 dB. This sound is much louder than a vacuum cleaner. Then it won’t be a disturbance to others. But anywhere a generator with lower noise is good since it also can affect your hearing.
Conclusion
All these products are some of the best welder generator combos in the market. All these products enable better fuel efficiency and durability. You can choose any of them by the better study. We have mentioned these product details with the best welder generator reviews.
You can select any products according to your requirement. As an example, if you are looking for the best generator to power a house, it’s better to buy a Bulldog 5500 generator.
We have provided all the details you need regarding the generator. Further, if you work with aluminum or metal that is magnetic, you should purchase a generator with AC output, which supports TIG.
As well as we hope, our buyer guide also helps you in purchasing the best generator for welding. We have included all the things you have to consider when you buy a generator. So you can get a better idea from this to purchase the best welder generator to your home or work.
Hi,
Thanks for this in-depth review. I am a welder and work remotely. I frequently go out for my project and it trouble a lot when there is no electricity.
I used a second-hand generator from home-depot before but that disappointed me too.
So, I am looking for a new generator that supports me a lot but concerned about its performance.
Thankfully, I have come across to your website and find this in-depth review. I am going to buy “Miller Electric Engine Driven Welder Generator”. Thanks again for this great review