Advantages of a Backup Generator vs. a Portable Generator

advantages of a backup generatorIf you live in an area that is subject to more than just an occasional power outage, investing in backup power is a good idea. In general, there are two ways to provide your home with power during an outage: a backup generator and a portable generator.

Both backup generators and portable generators have their pros and cons. At first glance, the lower price tag on a portable generator might seem pretty appealing. But, like anything, you get what you pay for. This blog focuses on the advantages of a backup generator compared to a portable generator.

Can Provide Power to Entire Home

Most portable generators are powerful enough to power the lights and some small appliances. However, they have significant limitations when it comes to the amount of power they can put out. On the other hand, a standby generator is enough to power the entire home: lights, appliances, heating, cooling, and more.

Many areas experience power outages during extreme weather. For people living in these areas, going without access to heating and cooling for too long may become dangerous. Especially for these homeowners, a backup generator is the obvious choice because of its ability to power an HVAC system.

Permanently Installed and Doesn’t Require Set-Up Each Time it is Used

Although portable generators typically cost less up-front, they take a lot more manual labor to be used. They are often heavy and difficult to move, and they require frequent fuel refills. However, a backup generator is permanently installed outside the home similar to an air conditioning unit. It is hard-wired into the home’s electrical system. It does not require the homeowner to even lift a finger when it is needed.

Automatically Powers Your Home, Even While You’re Away

To be useful, a portable generator has to be moved (likely from a garage or shed), and manually turned on. Because a backup generator is hard-wired into the home’s electrical system, it receives a signal when the power is out. Immediately after this signal is received, the generator automatically turns on, providing power to the entire home. This is especially helpful in homes that use a sump pump, those who rely on electric medical devices, or folks who store food long-term in a deep freeze or other refrigeration unit. If you are at work, on vacation, or otherwise away from home, your backup generator will automatically come on and allow these necessary appliances to keep functioning. You don’t have to do a thing!

Increases Home Value

We believe that a great deal of their value lies in their convenience, function, and the peace of mind they offer. However, a backup generator is a home improvement that increases home value as well. In fact, according to this report from Remodeling Magazine, on average, homeowners across the country can expect to increase the resale value of their home by 54 percent of the cost of purchasing and installing a new backup generator. That means that if you spend $12,860 on a backup generator, your home resale value increases $6,940. Not only do you get to enjoy the benefits of your generator while you’re living in your home, but your resale value increases as well.

Still Have Questions?

We’re happy to help! The experienced professionals at Midwest Generator Solutions are eager to help you choose the right backup generator to meet your needs. Send us a message or give us a call today to get started!

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