A generator is a highly convenient asset for any homeowner. Whether you work from home or enjoy the peace of mind that continuous power brings, this equipment can keep your house running smoothly. But should you buy a portable generator or a standby generator? Here, Corbin Electrical Services, Inc. discusses the differences between the two and why having a reliable home standby generator is best.
Portable Generator Pros and Cons
At a glance, a portable generator may sound great for a variety of applications on the job and on your property. They provide temporary, on-the-go power on an as-needed basis. Compact generators with wheels are easy to take with you wherever you need power, and they’re often cheaper to buy and install. Many models have outlets, so you can expand their reach by connecting an extension cord. These models are ideal for the following purposes and others:
- Special events and other recreational activities
- Disaster preparedness for unforeseen circumstances
- Tailgating at sports facilities
- Camping in the great outdoors
- Construction sites
Before purchasing, consumers must first consider the long-term value of a prospective generator. Will it be cost-efficient to run for extended periods, if needed? Those looking for full-home support may find a more permanent solution to be the better option. A few disadvantages of a portable generator include:
- Fuel: Many portable generators require gasoline, which adds to the cost of usage in the long run.
- Sound: Portable generators can be quite noisy.
- Power: Many models produce less power than standby models, which may not be ideal for a household.
- Safety: Users must keep safety in mind at all times – it’s best to run a portable generator outdoors and at least 20 ft. away from the home.
- Weather: Since many power outages happen in inclement weather, you’ll likely need to shield your generator in a storm with a durable canopy or cover.
Home Standby Generators
While residential generators may seem like interchangeable power sources, there’s a clear frontrunner for whole-house power. Home standby generators, or stationary generators, are a permanent fixture on your property. They’re designed to automatically kick on when the electricity goes out, creating a seamless power experience. You don’t have to worry about setting up or fueling up – it’s always at the ready when you need it most. Some of the advantages of a home standby generator include:
- Reliable performance: Standby generators are connected directly to the gas line on your property, so they can operate continuously for days or weeks at a time.
- Automatic connectivity: You don’t have to waste time managing manual connections.
- Power output: More powerful than portable options, these models provide automatic backup power to either the whole house or only the essential parts of your home.
- Comfort: Standby generators are powerful enough to run HVAC systems, so your household feels comfortable in any weather.
It’s also worth noting that partnering with a professional generator installer can help you get the most out of your investment. Companies like Corbin Electrical Services, Inc. work with dependable brands like Generac. They also offer expert generator maintenance and repair services so that your equipment performs well long term.
Do You Work from Home?
Residential generators offer a host of benefits for homeowners and families – but what about professionals? Many workforces operate remotely or on hybrid schedules, making it more important than ever to have reliable power in the home. Having a backup power source on your property means less unnecessary downtime – no matter what Mother Nature has in store.
If you work remotely in your home office throughout the week, a reliable generator helps ensure you can continually deliver to your clients and superiors. When a power outage occurs, simply wait for your generator to turn on and get back to business. What’s more, many modern generators have insulated, weatherproof housing that allows them to run relatively quietly, so you can maintain a peaceful work environment.
Find a Generator for Your Home
At Corbin Electrical Services, Inc., our team is dedicated to helping customers across New Jersey select the ideal generators for their property. We offer continued service after installation, including 24/7 monitoring via our virtual technicians, as well as a generator referral program for additional savings. For more information about installing a home standby generator, contact us today.
Corbin Electrical Services – “We Generate Peace of Mind”