Standby Generators vs. Backup Generators: Which One Do You Need for Your Home?

When your power goes out, you want a reliable solution to keep your lights on and appliances running. Two options to consider are standby generators and backup generators, but what’s the difference, and which one’s right for you?

Standby Generators

Standby generators offer automatic operation, seamless transition to backup power, and the capacity to run your entire house. Here’s a closer look at what sets them apart from backup generators:

Automatic Operation

Standby generators are designed to kick in automatically when your main power source (usually the electricity from your utility company) fails. They are always on standby, ready to provide power as soon as an outage is detected. This means you don’t have to be home or manually start the generator in case of a power outage.

Permanent Installation

Standby generators are typically permanently installed on a concrete pad or a stable surface near your home. They are connected to your home’s electrical system, including the main electrical panel. This setup requires professional installation.

Fuel Sources

Standby generators usually run on natural gas or propane, which are directly piped to your home, so you don’t have to worry about refueling them during an outage.

Power Capacity

Standby generators come in various sizes and can provide enough power to run your entire house, including appliances, heating/cooling systems, and lights.

Cost

Standby generators are more expensive than backup generators due to their automatic operation, installation complexity, and higher power capacity. Costs can vary based on your specific needs and the size of the generator you get.

Backup Generators

If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly way to keep essential appliances running during power outages, backup generators, also known as portable generators, are worth considering. Unlike standby generators, they require manual operation and offer portability, making them ideal for temporary use. Here are their key features and how they differ from standby generators:

Manual Operation

Backup generators do not start automatically. You need to set them up, start them, and connect them to your essential appliances or circuits during a power outage. This requires your presence and manual intervention.

Portable and Temporary

Backup generators are smaller and portable, making them suitable for temporary use during outages. They can be moved around and stored when not in use.

Fuel Sources

Backup generators often run on gasoline, propane, or diesel fuel. You need to keep a supply of the chosen fuel on hand and refuel the generator as needed.

Power Capacity

Backup generators come in various sizes, but they usually provide enough power to run critical appliances, such as refrigerators, heaters, or a few lights. You’ll need to choose the size that meets your specific needs.

Cost

Backup generators are more affordable than standby generators because they don’t require permanent installation, automatic operation, or extensive electrical connections. However, their cost can vary based on their size and features.

Which Type of Generator Is Best for Your Home?

If you want seamless, automatic power during outages and have a higher budget, a standby generator is a great choice. If you prefer a more affordable option and are willing to manually set up and operate the generator during outages, a backup generator is a good choice.

When trying to figure out which type of generator is best for your home, consider the power requirements of your essential appliances and decide whether you need whole-house coverage or just a few critical circuits.

Ultimately, your decision should be based on your lifestyle, the level of convenience you desire, and your budget. It’s also a good idea to consult with a professional electrician or generator expert to help you make the right choice for your specific situation.

In the end, whether you choose a standby or backup generator, the goal is the same: keeping your lights on when the world goes dark. It’s your power choice!

Need help finding a generator for your home? Contact us today. We’ve been around since 1992, and we’re pros at helping families like yours keep the lights on, even when the grid goes out!