Power Outages Don’t Have to Leave Your Family in the Dark: The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Between Standby and Portable Generators

When severe weather strikes and the power goes out, having a reliable backup generator can mean the difference between maintaining your family’s comfort and safety versus enduring hours or days without electricity. The Wall Street Journal recently reported that the average utility customer experienced just over eight hours of power interruptions in 2020 — more than double the time in 2013. These lengthier outages are causing more homeowners to consider purchasing a generator for added peace of mind when the power goes out.

The two main options for residential backup power are portable generators and standby (whole-house) generators. Each has distinct advantages and drawbacks that make them suitable for different situations and budgets. Understanding these differences is crucial for making the right choice to protect your family during power outages.

Portable Generators: Affordable and Flexible Power Solutions

Portable generators are the more budget-friendly option for backup power. Portable generators are much cheaper to buy and install. You can save thousands by opting for a portable generator. Smaller portable generators cost between $500 and $1,500 and are capable of powering your home’s essential appliances. Smaller generators can cost as little as $400, while larger models will still only cost around $1,500.

These units offer several advantages:

• Lower upfront cost: Portable generators are significantly less expensive than a home standby generator. You can save thousands by opting for a portable generator. This is one of the reasons they are so popular.
• Easy setup: Portable generators are much easier to set up. There is no need to pour a cement pad or cover installation costs for a portable generator.
• Versatility: Because a portable generator can be moved, you can use it for many different applications.

However, portable generators have significant limitations. The portable models in our generator ratings run on gasoline, burning through 12 to 20 gallons per day, depending on the unit’s output and the load being powered. That means you’ll have to store a significant quantity of gasoline, start the generator manually, and refill it (when it’s off, to minimize fire danger) after running it for several hours.

Critical Safety Considerations for Portable Generators

Safety is a paramount concern with portable generators. Over the last decade, generators have killed an average of 70 individuals in the United States per year, an increase from the decade before. Over the last two decades, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has documented around 1,300 deaths caused by generators, with new studies revealing that the majority of these deaths occur during weather-related power outages.

The primary danger comes from carbon monoxide poisoning. Carbon monoxide emissions are the most pressing safety concern when it comes to portable generators. It is crucial to place portable generators outside and as far away from the home or building as possible to minimize carbon monoxide exposure. When placing a portable generator outside, make sure it’s at least 20 feet away from windows, doors and vents. Regardless of what a generator’s manual or another source states, the CPSC found that the best way to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning is to position the generator’s exhaust 20 feet away from the home or any other building that a person could enter.

Additionally, portable generators are not typically waterproof, meaning they cannot be used effectively during a storm, which is the number one cause for power outages.

Standby Generators: The Premium Power Solution

Standby generators represent the gold standard in backup power. “Home standby generators are expensive, but they’re the gold standard in backup power, and they outperform all other types of generators in our ratings,” says Paolo Fu, who leads generator testing at Consumer Reports. “If you can afford it, I’d tell you to pick a home standby generator every time.”

These permanently installed systems offer numerous advantages:

• Automatic operation: This generator requires no extra work after the initial installation by a licensed electrician and will automatically turn on in the event of a power outage. Due to their permanent nature, standby generators kick on automatically when the power goes out, unlike portables.
• Whole-home power: Standby generators tend to have more running power and are more reliable due to their power capabilities and sturdiness. They are typically strong enough to power an entire home’s electrical system.
• Extended runtime: Because of their fuel tank, these generators run for days or even weeks without refueling.
• Weather protection: Typically, they are much quieter than portables. This is because the units are often placed into an insulated structure that protects them from the elements. Because they are already covered, weather protection isn’t necessary.

The main drawbacks are cost and installation complexity. Standby generators are generally more expensive than portable generators, both in the initial purchase price and installation costs. Installing a standby generator requires professional assistance and may involve permits, which can add significant time and expense. Including professional consultation—which can be crucial in determining the appropriate-size generator—and installation, an average system costs about $10,000.

Making the Right Choice for Your Family

The decision between portable and standby generators depends on several key factors:

Frequency and Duration of Outages: Assess the typical frequency and duration of power outages in your area. If outages are common and lengthy, a standby generator might be more suitable. On the other hand, a portable generator could be the best choice for shorter, more infrequent outages.

Budget Considerations: Consider the upfront cost, installation fees, and maintenance expenses associated with both standby and portable generators. A clear budget helps you narrow down options that provide the best value for your investment.

Power Requirements: Determine which appliances and systems are critical during a power outage. This will help you decide on the wattage capacity you need in a generator to ensure seamless operation of essential household functions.

Professional Installation and Service

Regardless of which type of generator you choose, professional installation and maintenance are crucial for safe and reliable operation. For residents in North Carolina’s Triangle area, companies like Electrical Service Providers offer comprehensive generator services. Customer satisfaction is important to us. We want you to speak directly to a service representative and not an answering machine. Your problem may seem small, but at Electrical Service Providers, Inc., it will always receive the attention that it deserves.

When considering generator installation, particularly for those seeking professional In Home Generator Durham County, NC services, it’s essential to work with licensed electricians who understand local codes and safety requirements. Electrical Service Providers (ESP) has been in business since 2002. ESP started out performing wiring services to new construction, remodeling projects and residential homes. Our company’s president identified a market for electrical services to be performed in homes and businesses independent of new construction.

Professional installation ensures proper electrical connections, fuel line hookups, and compliance with local building codes. We use Flat Rate Pricing – you will know your cost before we begin your service. Our technicians arrive at your location in uniform in a stocked truck and we always clean up before we leave. You invite us into your home or business; it is our goal to leave it better than we found it.

The Bottom Line

Both portable and standby generators serve important roles in protecting families during power outages. Portable generators are great for occasional outages or on-the-go use, while standby generators are ideal for homes in areas with frequent storms or long blackouts. If you travel often or want flexibility, a portable unit may work better for you.

For families who experience frequent or extended outages, have medical equipment that requires power, or simply want the peace of mind that comes with automatic backup power, a standby generator is worth the investment. However, for those with limited budgets or infrequent power issues, a properly used portable generator can provide essential backup power at a fraction of the cost.

Whichever option you choose, prioritize safety through proper installation, regular maintenance, and strict adherence to manufacturer guidelines. Whether you choose a portable gas generator or a standby system, having reliable backup power gives you peace of mind during outages. The key is selecting the solution that best fits your family’s needs, budget, and safety requirements.