Portable vs. Standby Generators: Pros and Cons

Unexpected power outages, destructive storms, and natural disasters can happen when we least expect them. They can strike at a time of year that can make day-to-day life difficult or even impossible without the luxury of electricity. For times like these, prepared homeowners may choose to have a residential generator. 

These amazing machines use some sort of fuel– either gasoline, propane, or natural gas–and a process called electromagnetic induction to convert mechanical energy into electrical energy. That generated electricity can then be used to supply electricity to your lights, appliances, and more.

But with so many options available, how can you know what type of generator you need for your home? Are you better off choosing a standby generator or opting for a portable model? What is the difference between a standby generator and a portable generator? What are  the pros and cons of each type of generator? And how do you know which kind of generator best suits your needs? The experts at Generator Pros have answers!

What Is A Portable Generator?

For residential use, the capacity of portable generators available on the market generally ranges from 1,000 to 12,000 watts. They are relatively small pieces of equipment that are typically stored in sheds, garages, or elsewhere out of the elements. Once the electricity is out for whatever reason, a homeowner will need to retrieve their generator and set it up in a safe place, far enough away from the home. It is typically fueled with gasoline and can supply power via plugged-in extension cords.

What are the Pros of Portable Generators?

Due to their smaller size, portable generators can be relatively easy to store. They are also inexpensive when compared to other generator options and do not require professional installation. Portable generators can easily be moved around your property, nearest to the window or door through which you can feed an extension cord to keep food from spoiling in a freezer or refrigerator. They can also be useful for camping or other off-grid activities.

What are the Cons Of Portable Generators?

Many portable generators actually do not produce “Clean Power”, or a steady frequency, which is VERY important for most appliances that have electronics and control boards. Thus many portables can cause damage to appliances like microwaves, refrigerators and TV’s.  They also require a decent amount of manual effort to set up, fuel, and keep running, which can be hazardous or inconvenient during bad weather. Fuel can also be problematic to secure in a widespread weather event or natural disaster. Due to their limited storage tank, they will require frequent refueling. Thus you will need to babysit them. Ideally, you will store necessary fuel on site, but gasoline has a limited shelf life and is also dangerous to store. And while a small portable generator can be safely used to power several appliances, it cannot power an entire home. Depending on the setup of your home and the ventilation, a portable generator can pose serious health and safety risks–every year, people die from carbon monoxide poisoning while utilizing generators after a storm or natural disaster. There are also other inherent risks to consider, like electrocution, shock, fire, and burns. Portable generators are also quite noisy while running.

What Is A Standby Generator?

Also known as whole-house generators, standby generators are, as the name suggests, always on standby, ready to kick into gear any time that the electricity cuts out. A standby generator is directly connected to your home’s electrical system via a transfer switch. They are permanently and professionally installed in the ideal spot on your property, often atop a cement pad. Fuel is  natural gas, propane or diesel, and it is supplied by a direct line. Standby generators typically range in generating capacity from 10,000 to 60,000 watts for most homes, while commercial systems can be much larger.

What are the Pros of Standby Generators?

Standby generators require no effort or inconvenience when the power goes out–they automatically switch on and keep your home powered, even in the worst weather conditions. Since a standby generator’s capacity is much higher than a portable model, it is able to power your entire home, including various appliances and heating and cooling systems. You will enjoy all the typical comforts of home, even during a prolonged power outage. A built-in fuel supply allows a standby generator to run continuously for as long as you need it.

What are the Cons of Standby Generators?

Due to their higher capacity and greater capability, standby generators are more expensive than portable models. They also require professional installation, which adds to the cost, along with a permanent outdoor site, which will take up some of your outdoor living space. Regular maintenance and professional service are also needed to ensure that the unit is working properly. And of course, due to the very nature of the equipment, a standby generator can be noisy, though they do tend to be quieter than portable models. The “cons” of opting for a standby generator are really just features of the product, which may or may not be doable, depending on your situation.

Should You Get A Portable Or Standby Generator?

There are many reasons why a homeowner may choose either a portable or standby generator. For those who rent, a portable generator makes obvious sense, as they do not own the property and so cannot install a standby generator. The same could be true if you do not plan to live in your current home for very long, although it definitely can be a selling feature in many locations and can add value to the home. A portable generator is also useful for those who are often out in remote areas without electricity, whether for work or play. Some users may also prefer the manual control of a portable unit.

On the other hand, homeowners with the means and space are best served by a standby generator. They are more dependable and require less effort to operate. The convenience, ease of use, and peace of mind that a standby generator provides are unparalleled, along with the comfort it affords during what would otherwise be a trying time. For especially the elderly or those who rely on medical devices or other vital technologies, and those who work from home, a standby generator is a must. And while maintenance on a standby generator can feel daunting, your friends at Generator Pros can handle that task for you, no problem at all.

Your Local Ohio Source for Standby Generators

Generator Pros is your resource for premier models of GENERAC generators, whether you need a residential, commercial, industrial, or mobile model. We handle all phases of the installation, maintenance, and repair of standby generators, and offer services in both Northeast Ohio and Northwest Pennsylvania. Our experienced team of technicians is factory authorized for installation, service, and warranty work, and our company’s 30+ years of business means that we have what it takes to tackle any job that comes our way. We love helping our community to be more prepared in the face of increasing weather-related events and outages.

Get in touch with us today to learn more about our full suite of services and to get started on your journey to increased protection from power outages and power quality issues.