With just a quick internet search, it’s clear that there are a variety of generators available and many different generator brands to choose from. While opting for a familiar name or a price point in your budget may seem like an easy way to select a power generator, protecting the safety of your home or business with sustained power requires some additional consideration of your property’s unique needs. Here are 5 questions to help you decide between a portable generator and a standby generator installation.
Since they are capable of delivering a higher power output, standby generators are suitable for powering entire homes or critical systems, such as medical equipment. On the other hand, portable generators are typically smaller in size, resulting in limited power output. During an outage, a standby generator installation is often able to sustain multiple appliances like refrigerators and sump pumps as well as other essential operations such as HVAC systems, while a portable generator may only be able to sustain one appliance and a plug-in light.
Standby generator installations are more permanent and long-term solutions for power outages. Often equipped with larger fuel tanks or a direct connection to the property’s natural gas line (if using this type of power generator fuel), they offer a longer runtime without the need for frequent refueling. Therefore, standby power generators serve as a reliable and convenient choice for homeowners looking for continuous power during outages. From the automatic operation to the seamless integration with your home’s electrical system, a standby generator helps ensure a swift transition to backup power as needed.
Unlike portable generators, standby generator installations are stationary and cannot be easily moved. Consequently, this lack of mobility may not work for businesses that require power on the go. For example, for nighttime lighting or powering tools in locations without existing electricity, a portable generator is essential. Understandably, power needs may change based on the construction project, event and many other considerations. Fortunately, generator rentals of all sizes are available from Northeast Generator.
Standby generators are a significant investment. Although they come with a higher upfront cost, property owners benefit from their presence in the long run and beyond their service during a power outage. In fact, Better Homes & Gardens highlights that a power generator installation may increase property value to a similar degree as a bathroom remodel. Regular maintenance further ensures that you can make the most of your investment by maximizing the lifespan of your standby generator. Portable generators cost less initially, but typically they have a shorter lifespan and can wind up costing more over time due to manual operation and less durable construction. Consequently, they often work best as a temporary solution versus a long-term one.
Often, portable generators require manual startup, which may not be ideal during an emergency. Severe weather conditions may also make the use of a portable generator unsafe. For example, as discussed by the Electrical Safety Foundation International, portable generators should not be used inside or in wet conditions. When immediate power is critical, standby generators are designed to seamlessly and safely continue supplying power to your home. When a power outage is detected, these generators start up automatically. Consequently, your property has access to power without manual intervention.
The choice between a portable generator and a standby generator depends on your specific needs, budget, and the level of convenience you require. While portable generators are great for temporary and mobile power needs, standby generators offer a more robust and permanent solution when the priority is continuous, automatic power during outages. Whether you are looking for the best home standby generator or a backup generator for your business, Northeast Generator is here to help. In addition to offering design builds and engineering services for customized generator installations, we also provide expert guidance throughout the power generator selection and installation process and experienced generator maintenance and repair services. For power generator solutions tailored to your needs, contact us today.
Ready to ensure uninterrupted power for your home? Contact us to get started on finding the perfect generator solution tailored to your needs.
As winter fades and the days grow longer, spring in New England brings a welcome change. However, along with blooming flowers and warmer temperatures, the season also brings heavy rains, strong winds, and unpredictable storms—all of which can lead to power outages. Being prepared now can save you from the inconvenience and potential dangers of losing power when the next storm hits.
Generators are great tools to keep your home powered during a power outage, but to keep everyone safe and avoid accidents, it’s important to use them correctly.
Generators are great tools to keep your home powered during a power outage, but to keep everyone safe and avoid accidents, it’s important to use them correctly.
