Standby vs. Portable Generators – Pros and Cons

Thanks to an aging electrical grid, millions of Americans depend on generators to protect their power supply during inclement weather conditions.

If you are thinking about investing in a generator for your home, you will have two types to choose from: standby or portable. The best choice is different for everyone because it depends on your home, needs, budget, and a variety of other factors.

Luckily, you don’t have to make the choice alone. The experts at Cannondale Generators have more than 25 years of experience in the field, and are happy to offer a helping hand. Here is what they have to say about each type of generator.

Portable Generators

Portable generators are not permanently installed to your home. They are typically stored in a garage or shed, and can be pulled out in a pinch to provide emergency power.

Pros

• Cheaper than standby units – can usually be purchased for as little as a few hundred dollars.

• No installation required.

Cons

• Not a complete solution – can only power a few of your devices.

• Produce high levels of carbon monoxide as they run. Can be fatal if not operated properly.

• Noisy.

• Needs to be refilled with gasoline every few hours. This can be difficult to do during a heavy storm.

• Prone to theft.

Standby Generators

Standby generators are permanently installed at your house. They connect to your existing gas line and automatically turn on when there is a power outage.

Pros

• Can power your entire home – including refrigerator, lights, TV, etc.

• Can operate for as long as the power is out.

• Hooks up to home gas line, meaning you never need to refill it.

• Automatically detects power outages and turns on within seconds.

• Increases home’s value.

Cons

• More expensive than portable generators.

• Professional installation is required.

If you live in Fairfield County, Connecticut, look no further than Cannondale for all of your standby generator needs. From sales to installation to annual maintenance, we do it all! Visit our website for more information or give us a call at (203) 762-2608.