EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS

Portable vs. standby generator:
Which is the better home backup option for me?

The pros

• Mobility and ease of storage: It’s in the name. Portable generators are relatively easy to move around. You can toss one in the trunk and take it wherever you need it, then store it in your garage for when the storm hits.
  

• Lower costs: Portable generators range in price, but they’re generally a much smaller upfront investment than a home standby.  Maintenance costs tend to be lower as well. 
  

• Quick fix potential: When a storm hits and you don’t have a backup, it’s faster and easier to get ahold of a portable generator that will power the essentials. You can think about installing more permanent options once the storm has passed.
  

• No need for installation: Sometimes you need backup power ASAP. We always recommend using a transfer switch, but your portable generator can safely power one or two plug-in appliances, even without you making permanent changes to your property.

The cons

• Power output: Portable generators can power one or two essentials, but their output is generally more suitable for devices and smaller appliances—not entire homes.
  

• Outlet limits: Most portable generators only have a couple of 120v outlets. You’ll have to pick and choose between what you need to power.
  

• Manual operation: Portable generators need refueling, which can be inconvenient late at night or when the weather is rough. Plus, you’ll need to keep small engines, oil, filters and other components in good working order.
  

• Powering up: You’ll have to manually plug in appliances and devices, running cords throughout (and outside) the house. You can install a transfer switch to restore power via circuit quickly and more easily—but even then, you’ll have to manually get your generator started.
  

• Ease of setup: If you have difficulty carrying heavy objects, moving your portable generator and preparing for storms might be a challenge.
  


When is a portable generator the best option?

They’re ideal for smaller homes, condos and apartments where space and placement might be limited. Plus, if you don’t own the property you live in, you probably can’t make any permanent installations. Strict HOA restrictions and local codes can limit your options, too. In those cases, a portable generator may be your best bet—but be sure to check ordinances and regulations before you make a purchase.

Home standby generators are the ultimate long-term solution.

The pros

• Permanent peace of mind: You can count on a home standby generator to keep your home safe and comfortable in any conditions.
  

• Automatic response: When an outage hits, a home standby will sense the disruption and immediately restore power without any intervention or effort on your part.
  

• High capacity and output: A standby can easily restore power to your entire home, depending on the model. You don’t have to choose between your A/C or refrigerator—it’ll all be up and running in a heartbeat.
  

• Hassle-free operation: Your home standby is self-contained and largely self-sufficient. In most cases, it’ll run on natural gas or propane from your home’s existing fuel lines, meaning you won’t have to wrestle with gas cans or extension cords.
  

• High visibility: Easily monitor operations and handle maintenance alerts remotely with Mobile Link.
  

• Property value: A home standby is a home improvement. Just like a kitchen remodel or fresh coat of paint, it’s an investment that adds value to the entire property.
  


The cons

•  Upfront costs: A home standby is an investment, and costs vary depending on your situation. No matter what, it’ll require professional installation.
  

• Installation: Unlike a portable generator, a home standby isn’t a quick fix that you can grab off the shelf. Securing permanent backup power is a process, and it begins with in-home consultations.

When is a home standby the right option?

They’re ideal for single-family homes with enough space to install a permanent backup solution, assuming they meet local regulations.

Making the decision: Portable vs. home standby generators.

If you’re looking for a lower-cost, flexible option that can handle occasional outages and a variety of power needs, a portable generator might be the way to go. But if you need reliable, hands-off solution to keep your home running in any conditions, a standby generator is a smart long-term investment. Whatever option you choose, having any form of backup is better than none when bad weather comes your way. You can always start with a portable generator and consider home standby for the future as your needs change.