Portable vs. Standby Generators
When you talk about a generator for your home, you will generally have to choose between two primary options: a portable generator and a standby generator. Portable generators are what most people think of when they think of a generator, a device powered by a small engine that they can wheel out of their garage when they need power. Many people also use them for camping or when traveling in an RV.
Standby generators are permanent generators that are always connected to your home. They are generally powered by a natural gas or propane line, and this means they can easily fire up in the event of an outage to provide emergency power quickly.
Why Choose a Portable Generator?
Why should you choose a portable generator over a standby option? Each type of generator has its own benefits, and knowing more about them can help you make the best decision for your home and your situation.
Here are a few reasons to choose a portable generator:
- Available space: If you live on a smaller lot or don’t have a ton of available extra space, being able to store your generator when it isn’t in use can help you keep that space free. Standby generators will permanently occupy the space they are installed in.
- Budget: Portable generators are generally far cheaper than standby generators. For those looking for backup power without a huge upfront cost, a portable generator is the answer.
- Lack of available fuel lines: If you live in an all-electric home or neighborhood without access to a natural gas or liquid propane connection, then a portable generator might be your only option. Portable generators can run on gasoline, diesel, natural gas, or propane and have their own fuel tank for power.
- Maintenance: Portable generator maintenance is generally simple, and those who are mechanically inclined can often complete it themselves with little difficulty! Standby generators need more complex and intricate maintenance to run optimally.
One other major consideration has to do with how much power you will need during an outage. If you want to keep your entire home running the way it would with the grid on, then a standby generator will probably be the best option, as it can self-refuel and is usually much larger than a portable generator. Portable generators, however, are sometimes the more cost-effective option for those who are simply looking to keep a few things powered, such as your refrigerator and a few lights. This means you likely won’t need as much power capacity, and most portable generators can handle this kind of electrical load.
