Portable vs Standby Whole-Home Generators
See Comparisons on Power, Price, & More 
In the event of a power outage, having a backup generator can be the difference in maintaining the safety and comfort of your family and home. If power outages caused by severe weather occur often in your area, you should consider investing in a dependable backup power source to improve your emergency preparedness. Portable and standby generators are the two leading types of generators for residential use, each with its own set of benefits and drawbacks. But which one should you purchase?
In many cases, the decision between a portable or a backup generator comes down to your budget and power requirements. Read on to learn which variables are most important in your situation and how to select the best generator for your home.
What Are Portable Home Generators?
Portable home generators are small generators that can be moved from one location to another and must be manually started in the event of an outage. Portable generators can either have home appliances plugged into them directly or feed power by plugging directly into your house’s electrical system. This type of generator can output anywhere from 1,000 to 8,500 watts and comes in different sizes.
What Are Standby Home Generators?
Standby home generators, also known as permanent generators, automatically turn on when the power goes out. Standby generators connect directly to your home’s electrical system and fuel supply. This type of generator can output larger amounts of power and is quieter than a portable generator.
Key Differences Between Portable And Standby Home Generators
| Standby Generators | Portable Generators | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | $2,500 - $12,500 | $300 - $3,000 |
| Power Output | 5,000 - 20,000 watts | 1,000 - 8,500 watts |
| Fuel Type | Oten runs on natural gas or propane | Runs on gasoline, diesel, or propane |
| Installation Requirements | Must be installed by a professional | Easier to install and move around |
| Noise Level | Typically quieter than portable generators | Can be noisy during operation |
| Maintenance | Requires regular maintenance and professional servicing | Requires regular maintenance and periodic testing |
| Startup Requirements | Can automatically start when the power goes out | Must be started manually during an outage |
| Compliance Requirements | Must comply with local codes and regulations | May require permits or compliance with local regulations |
| Safety Features | More built-in safety features | Less built-in safety features |
| Power Capacity | Can provide power for extended periods of time | Limited run time based on fuel capacity |
Should You Purchase a Portable or Standby Home Generator?
The type of generator you should purchase depends on your budget and the amount of power drain your appliances create. Portable generators are great at providing temporary electrical power for homeowners who may only experience a few short outages every year. Standby generators are common for homeowners who may experience longer power outages, sometimes for more than a day. For greater help finding the right generator, see our guide on how to choose the right generator for your home.
Hire a Local, Reputable Home Generator Installer
No matter which generator type you choose, both will require proper setup. When you want to plug the generator directly into your home’s electrical system, it’s best to consult with a professional. Portable and standby generators require the necessary hookups to be installed by a certified electrician in order to connect to your home’s electrical circuit.
Contact Ideal Electric, a reliable whole-house generator installation company. Allow us to make the installation process a breeze with our over 30 years of experience installing, repairing, and maintaining generators. We provide free quotes and can walk you through everything needed to setup your new home backup power source.
