Portable vs. Standby Generators

There are two basic types of generators: portable and standby. Here, we break down the differences between the two options as well as the pros and cons of each.

Portable Generators: An Immediate & Mobile Solution

Can be operated quickly upon purchase, whereas standby generators must be professionally installed (meaning you must plan ahead).
Work well as a short-term solution during a utility outage.
Can power a few critical items and appliances (depending on its size), such as a refrigerator, TV and basic lights.
Must be set up outside the cabin, far away from living spaces.
Run on gasoline and need to be refueled every 6–8 hours.
Must not run when you leave the cabin or go to bed, due to fire hazards.
Must be brought to a dealer for repair and yearly maintenance.
Can come in handy when you want to transport your power to a project site, e.g., the kids’ treehouse that you’re building.

Standby Generators: A Long-Term Solution

Are connected to an existing natural gas or propane line and start automatically within minutes of an outage.
Can power an entire cabin (depending on size).
Are permanently installed. (Unless you’re an electrician, hire this out.)
Are more expensive to purchase and install than portable generators.
Offer protections against power surges/spikes, so they can run during the night or when you’re away from the cabin.
Require techs to come to your cabin for service and repair.
Protect your investment in your cabin. For example, during a power outage it can prevent your sump well from overflowing or your security system from failing.

– Amanda Grandy, a representative of Briggs & Stratton, also contributed to this article.

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