Portable Generator or Standby Generator?

Selecting the Best Generator For Your Home

In the Flathead Valley of Montana, where weather can be unpredictable and power outages are not uncommon, having a reliable backup power source is a cornerstone of emergency preparedness. At Central Heating Cooling Plumbing Electrical, we understand the importance of ensuring that your home is equipped with the right kind of generator to meet your needs. We have 34 years of experience in Kalispell installing generators that are a perfect match for our customer’s needs.

Whether you’re considering a portable generator or a standby generator, each type offers distinct advantages. In this post, we’ll guide you through the essential information on both, helping you make an informed decision.

A portable generator is the lower-cost choice for running a few essentials, and you start it and plug things in yourself. A standby generator is permanently installed, starts on its own when the power goes out, and can power your whole home when it is sized for it.

Portable Generators: Convenient Power When You Need It

Portable generators are compact, mobile units that can be used to power essential appliances and devices during a power outage. They typically run on gasoline, diesel, or propane and can be moved wherever needed.

Advantages of Portable Generators

Flexibility and Mobility
As the name implies, their main advantage is their portability. You can use them in various locations, not just at home. This makes them a great option when you need to have power for a basecamp or a job site.

Cost-Effective
Portable generators are generally less expensive than standby models, both in initial purchase and in operating costs.

No Installation Required
These units are ready to use out of the box, with no need for professional installation. However, if you plan to use one to power circuits in your home, a licensed electrician should install a transfer switch to ensure safe operation.

Disadvantages of Portable Generators

Manual Operation
You must manually start them and plug in appliances. This can be challenging in the dark or during inclement weather. You must also ensure that you have a fresh supply of gas on hand to keep it running for an extended period of time.

Limited Power Supply
Portable generators typically offer less power than standby generators, which means you will have to prioritize which appliances to run.

Safety Concerns
Proper ventilation is essential when running a generator. Portable generators should never be used indoors, in enclosed spaces, or too close to a house to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.

Noise Levels
Because they have smaller engines and no enclosure, portable generators will be noisier.

Standby Generators: Reliable Power, Automatically

What is a Standby Generator?

Standby generators, also called whole-house generators, are permanent appliances installed outside your home that automatically provide power during an outage. They are usually powered by natural gas or propane and are designed to handle a higher power load.

Advantages of Standby Generators

Automatic Operation
They automatically turn on during a power outage, ensuring continuous power without any manual intervention. This can be a major advantage when the power goes out when you are away from home for an extended period of time. You’ll avoid spoiled food, frozen pipes and other expensive damage.

Higher Power Capacity
Standby generators can power your entire home when they are sized for it, not just a few appliances. See what size generator you need. Powering a refrigerator, HVAC system, sump pump and lighting is going to require a standby generator that can provide power to multiple circuits.

Increased Home Value
Installing a standby generator is a smart investment that can increase your home’s value and appeal to potential buyers. See does a standby generator increase home value.

Disadvantages of Standby Generators

Higher Cost
The initial purchase and installation cost is significantly higher than portable generators. However, when factoring in potential losses and inconvenience of an extended power outage, many homeowners consider the cost to be a form of insurance.

Professional Installation Required
Installation must be done by a professional, which adds to the cost and requires careful planning to ensure you are getting the right size generator for your needs.

Maintenance
While they’re built to last, standby generators require regular maintenance to ensure reliability.

Generator Safety Checklist

Standby generators

• Have a licensed electrician install it outdoors, away from windows, doors and vents.
• Use an automatic transfer switch so power switches safely between the utility and the generator.
• Let it run for 15 to 20 minutes each month, and schedule regular professional maintenance.

Portable generators

• Run it outside only, on a stable, flat surface at least 20 feet from the house, with the exhaust pointed away from the home. Never run it inside a home, garage, basement, crawlspace, shed or on a porch, even with the doors and windows open.
• Use heavy-duty, outdoor-rated extension cords that can handle the load.
• Install battery-operated or battery-backup carbon monoxide alarms outside sleeping areas and on each floor, and test them monthly.
• Turn the generator off and let it cool before refueling.
• Store it somewhere dry, and drain the fuel if it will sit unused for a long time.

Generator FAQ

How far from the house should a portable generator be?

At least 20 feet, with the exhaust pointed away from the house, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.

Do I need a transfer switch for a portable generator?

You need one to power circuits in your home through the electrical panel. A licensed electrician should install it. See what a generator transfer switch is.

Which generators does Central Heating Cooling Plumbing Electrical install?

Generac standby generators, sized and installed for your home.

Making the Right Choice for Your Home

When deciding between a portable and standby generator, consider your power needs, budget, and how much convenience you desire during an outage. For those who need to power a few essentials and prefer a cost-effective solution, a portable generator might be the way to go. However, if you’re looking for a worry-free, automatic solution with the option of powering your entire home, a standby generator is worth the investment.

While the cost can be a deciding factor, consider the long-term benefits and potential savings from avoiding hotel stays during extended outages or losses from spoiled food. The convenience and peace of mind a generator can offer during power outages can be invaluable.

At Central Heating Cooling Plumbing Electrical, we’re committed to helping the homeowners in Kalispell and the Flathead Valley find the best backup power solution for their needs. We’re here to provide expert advice and installation services to ensure that your home remains powered, safe, and comfortable, no matter what Mother Nature throws our way.

For more information on generators or to schedule a consultation, contact us today.