Portable vs. Standby Generators: Installation Differences

If you'd rather consult with an experienced and certified electrician, then feel free to contact Mr. Electric. We are proud to serve The Triangle and surround areas, and our live representatives are always ready to take your call or message.

Why Backup Power Matters

Power outages can be caused by anything from severe weather to aging infrastructure to planned maintenance. To make matters worse, outages are lasting longer and occurring more often lately. A backup power supply helps you avoid disruptions, keep food from spoiling, protect sensitive electronics, and - most importantly - keep your loved ones or your business safe.

But not all generators work the same way. To make the right choice, you ought to understand how portable and standby generators differ. Let's go over that now.

Portable Generators: Flexible but Limited

Portable generators are typically gasoline-powered units that you manually roll out and plug in during an outage. They’re great for short-term use if you're powering a few essentials like a refrigerator, TV, or some lights.

Their lower upfront cost and greater mobility are big selling points, but the manual setup and refueling are turnoffs for many homeowners and businesses.

Standby Generators: Automatic, Long-Term Protection

If you’re looking for something more seamless and powerful, then a standby generator may be the better choice. These systems are permanently installed outside your home or business - much like an AC unit - and are connected directly to your electrical panel and fuel supply (natural gas or propane). When the power goes out, they turn on automatically... no manual setup required.

Standby generators are convenient and typically powerful enough to power multiple circuits, if not an entire home, but they come with a higher price tag. Plus, they often involve permitting and demand professional installation.

The Installation Process of Each

Installing a portable generator involves fewer steps, but you still need to follow proper safety precautions. For example, using a transfer switch is critical in avoiding dangerous backfeeding into your home’s electrical system. This is where working with a licensed electrician is essential - even for portable generator setups.

Installing a standby generator is more complex. You'll have to evaluate your power needs, secure the right permits, handle gas line connections, and integrate the unit with your existing electrical system. That’s not something you want to DIY.

Choosing the Right Backup Solution

So, which is right for you: portable or standby?

If you only need occasional backup for a few items and don’t mind getting your hands a little dirty, then a portable generator might be the budget-friendly solution. If you want a set-it-and-forget-it system that keeps your entire household or business running during outages, then a standby generator is well worth the investment.

In any case, it is always advisable to have an electrician handle the generator installation. Whether it's for a whole standby system or the transfer switches in portable generators, an electrician's expertise pays off. The peace of mind alone is worth it.

Plus, you get an upfront price quote and a 1-year workmanship guarantee when you choose Mr. Electric. As a full-service electrical company, we make sure the whole electrical system is prepared for the new generator.

Call Mr. Electric TODAY

Whether you need an urgent electrical repair or want to schedule a generator installation, the dedicated professional electricians at Mr. Electric are always ready to take your call or message. Contact us today to get in touch with a dedicated member of our team.