Portable Generators Vs Whole Home Generators: Which Is Right For Your Needs

Most Americans worry about increased power outages, but very few have generators. It’s smart to address this issue and ensure that you have a backup power source so that in the event of an emergency, or simply inconvenient power outage, you can continue to have access to the electricity you need to go about your business.

Generators are a fantastic source of backup power. Regardless of whether you are out camping in the middle of nowhere or you are just concerned about power outages, they enable you to enjoy modern conveniences brought by electricity. However, with so many different types of generators out there, you may be confused about which option is right for you. This is especially true when it comes to portable generators and whole home generators.

You may wonder if you really need to invest in a whole home generator or if a portable generator is enough to meet your needs. The truth is that it depends on what you’re relying on your generator for. For lesser demands, a portable generator may be enough, but for more significant needs, you’ll want to opt for a whole home generator.

Here’s what you need to know about the differences between portable generators and whole home generators so that you can better understand which one may be right for you.

About Portable Generators

Portable generators are the little sibling to whole home generators. They’re cheaper and pretty easy to operate. You don’t need to worry about installing them, and while sure, you can use them to power your home, they are also, well, portable, so you can take them with you if you move or go on a trip. 

However, they don’t start on their own, you need to fill them with the appropriate fuel, and they may not have the capacity to power everything that you need. As such, when the power goes out, you have to actually go out to your generator, add fuel to it, start it, and then connect it to your home with a transfer switch. 

About Whole Home Generators

Whole home generators are significant compared to portable generators because they have to be. While portable generators are handy to lug around on camping trips or to meet lesser needs, whole home generators are supposed to do just that: provide enough backup power for your whole house, appliances and all. 

As such, they need to be installed, which includes steps like pouring a cement pad to put the generator on. Since they are permanently installed, you can’t take them with you if you move. However, they turn on by themselves when the power goes out, without you needing to do a thing. 

Which Is Right For You: Portable Generators Or Whole Home Generators?

The right type of generator for you will depend on why you’re looking for a generator. Portable generators and whole house generators differ in regards to their capacity and purpose.

Portable generators are great for those who want an affordable backup power source that they can take with them. You do need to be prepared for manual operation and close monitoring, though.

However, if you want enough standby power for your home, you’ll want to go for a whole home generator. While they are an investment, they’re very hands-off once installed, and are quieter and safer than their portable counterparts. 

Whole Home Generac Generators In Northern Utah

Generator Supercenter of Northern Utah provides whole home generators from Generac to homeowners in Northern Utah. As every home is different and everyone has different needs, our experts will help you find the ideal generator to meet your needs so that you can rest assured that even if the power goes out, your lights will stay on.

Contact us today or swing by our showroom in Riverdale, UT to learn more about the generators we offer and the services that we can provide you with.