Home generators can provide peace of mind and convenience during a storm or a power failure. However, there are many types of home generators, and not all generators do the same things. Knowing the differences between the types of generators can help you choose the best home generator for your home and needs.
Know the Types
Home Standby Generators
Home standby generators, like the Generac Guardian generator, are designed to supply power to your house for a long time if need be. They're a permanent, non-moveable fixture that must be installed by a licensed electrician. Some standby generators are run on propane, natural gas, or diesel fuel supplied to your home.
Usually these generators are connected to WiFi and can be controlled via an app. They perform self-diagnosis and will alert you when there's a problem. They're designed to be weatherproof and will start automatically during power outages. If you're hoping for a seamless experience with your generator, the home standby is for you.
Best Home Standby Generators: Generac Home Standby Generators
Portable Power Stations
Portable power stations are basically giant batteries that can be used indoors or outdoors. They run quietly and have limited power. Many of them are recharged by electricity, although some have solar panels to recharge in the light of day. Portable power stations are useful if you need to supply extra power to something indoors, because they produce no emissions. They do not need to be installed by a licensed electrician.
Best Portable Power Station: Goal Zero Yeti 400 Lithium Portable Power Station
Portable Generators
Portable generators can be used anywhere except in enclosed spaces. Because they run on gasoline, they can produce deadly emissions that must be vented to fresh air. Portable generators are limited in their use because they require much more effort to use,a strong person must move them from where they are being stored, fueled up. Then unless you have an electric starter you will need to pull the rope to start them. they're very noisy and cannot be run indoors.They need to be monitored, you can’t leave them unattended. You need to manage what it’s going to power in your house so as not to overload them. If you keep a portable generator onsite, you'll need gasoline on hand to keep it running. Mix your gasoline with a stabilizer for long-term storage.
Best Portable Generator: Generac Portable generators
Inverter Generators
Inverter generators are similar to portable gas powered generators, with some useful exceptions. Inverter generators run more efficiently than gas generators, and only supply as much power as is needed to run connected devices. Inverter generators are far quieter than gas powered generators.
Best Inverter Generator: Champion 2000-Watt Stackable Portable Inverter Generator
What Are Your Goals?
The type of generator you decide to install should depend on your goals for your generator. Do you need backup power to run air conditioners and sensitive electronics, no matter what the conditions? If so, then a home standby generator is what you're looking for.
Do you need a generator that can run indoors or out, but will only power a few things? Try a portable power station. If you're not sure which device is best, talk to an electrician.
Contact a Licensed Electrician
Patnode Electric sells and installs Generac generators in homes around Hartford, Tolland and Windham counties. Contact us today to make an appointment for a consultation about your generator installation.
