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Given the combination of natural disasters and the incredible demands placed on our aging electrical grid, most Bay Area homeowners understand that power outages are just a fact of life. But you don’t have to simply accept that you’re going to lose power periodically; by investing in a high-quality generator, you can keep on living life like normal even while your neighbors are sitting around in the dark.
However, before you decide to have a generator installed, it’s important to identify the best type for your situation. We’ll try to help by sharing some of the differences between the two primary types of generators available to Bay Area homeowners: portable generators and standby generators, like Generac Generators. We’ll outline some of the pros and cons of each type, so that you can make an informed choice for your family.
Standby Generators vs Portable Generators: What Is the Difference?
Both standby generators and portable generators perform the same basic task: They supply your home with power during an outage. But they do exhibit a few key differences you’ll want to understand to ensure you pick the option that best suits your budget and energy needs.
Standby vs Portable Generators: The Basics
Standby generators are permanently installed systems that automatically turn on when your power goes out (often within mere seconds). They’re wired directly into your home’s electrical system and are powered by natural gas or propane.
Portable generators, on the other hand, are smaller, manually operated units that typically run on gasoline. They generally produce less power and require manual startup and refueling.
Key Differences Between Portable and Standby Generators
A few of the additional differences between these two types of generators include:
- Installation: Standby generators require professional installation, and they are connected to your home’s electrical panel and fuel supply. Meanwhile, you can set up and plug in a portable generator yourself.
- Power Output: High-end standby generators can power your entire home during an outage, but portable units rarely produce this kind of power. They’re usually only capable of powering a few circuits.
- Startup: Standby generators are designed to start up automatically whenever there’s a power disruption. But portable generators will need to be wheeled into place and then cranked up manually during outages.
- Fuel Source: Standby generators are connected to a permanent fuel source, such as a natural gas line or propane tank, while portable generators typically run on gasoline, and you’ll have to refill manually.
- Cost: Standby generators typically cost more than portable generators. A high-quality standby generator may cost $5,000 or more with installation, while a portable unit will generally run between $400 and $1,500.
- Noise Level: Usually, standby generators are relatively quiet, and many models are even housed inside a sound-reducing enclosure. Portable generators, on the other hand, can be quite noisy.
- Maintenance: You’ll need to have a professional service your standby generator periodically, while portable generators require you to change the oil regularly and obtain occasional tune-ups.
Best Situations for Each Kind of Generator
Neither type of generator is inherently better than the other; they’re simply best used in different situations.
Typically, standby generators are ideal for homes that experience frequent outages or homeowners who want the convenience and reliability they provide. They’re also the ideal choice for homes with critical power needs, such as medical equipment.
By contrast, portable generators are better suited for budget-minded homeowners and those who don’t mind triaging their power needs during an outage and only having the ability to power a few key circuits. They’re also great for supplying power away from the home, such as during camping trips.
Bottom Line: Which Kind of Generator Is Right for Bay-Area Homeowners?
Given their ability to power your entire home (when properly sized), most Bay Area homeowners will prefer a standby generator. They eliminate the need to pick and choose which of your appliances and circuits remain powered and which ones you’ll have to do without. It eliminates the need to ask yourself whether you’d rather have power for your fridge or your HVAC.
Additionally, standby generators are much more convenient. You don’t have to run out in the rain to turn a standby generator on, nor do you have to refill it with gasoline (not to mention drive to a gas station to purchase the fuel in the first place). Additionally, they are usually much quieter than portable generators, which you and your neighbors will appreciate.
Best of all, financing is often available, which can help homeowners enjoy all of the benefits of a standby generator without having to pay for everything up front.
With that said, there are definitely situations in which it makes sense to purchase a portable generator. If, for example, you have budgetary limitations, a portable generator may be the only viable option for your home. And while it will require manual operation and be insufficient for powering your entire home, it’s better to have some power than no power during an outage.
Portable vs Standby Generators: FAQ
Still have questions about the differences between portable and standby generators? Not sure which one will work best for your situation? We’ll try to help by answering some of the most common questions we hear from homeowners below!
Should I get a portable or a standby generator?
Deciding whether to get a portable or standby generator requires you to consider a variety of factors, including your power needs, the frequency of outages in your area, and your budget. However, most homeowners who can afford the higher initial investment will find that a standby generator is the better option, thanks to the convenience and reliability it provides.
What are the disadvantages of a standby generator?
The only real disadvantage of a standby generator is the higher initial cost and need for professional installation.
What are the disadvantages of a portable generator?
There are a few disadvantages to portable generators, such as the need to fuel and start them manually. They’re also rarely capable of powering an entire house.
How big a generator do I need to run a 2000-square-foot house?
You’ll usually need a generator capable of supplying 15,000 to 20,000 watts to power an entire 2,000-square-foot home. With that said, every situation is slightly different, and it’s always important to discuss your specific needs with a licensed electrician.
Does a generator reduce homeowners’ insurance?
Yes, you may enjoy lower homeowners’ insurance premiums after installing a standby generator. This is essentially because your insurance company will feel more confident that your home’s critical systems (such as your HVAC unit and any sump pumps you have) will continue to work in the case of an outage.
Is a whole-house generator a tax write-off?
Generators aren’t automatically tax-deductible, though they can be in some cases. You’ll simply need to discuss your situation with a tax professional to know for sure.
Choose Alpha Omega Electric for All Your Generator Needs
Portable generators can be an effective backup power solution for some homeowners, but if you’d prefer the kind of dependable protection a standby generator provides, it’s important to have it installed properly. The electrical experts at Alpha Omega Electric are ready to help and carry out the entire generator installation process for your home. We’ll be sure that your system not only operates properly but also safely, so that you can be confident that you’re ready for the next outage.
Contact us today to schedule your free estimate!
