Portable vs. Whole-Home Generators — Which Is Right for You

By Forgy Electric

When the power goes out, having a generator can mean the difference between comfort and chaos. But with so many options, homeowners often ask:👉 Should I get a portable generator or invest in a whole-home standby system?

Both have their advantages, and the right choice depends on your needs, budget, and lifestyle. Let’s break it down.

Portable Generators

What They Are

Portable generators are compact, gas-powered units that you can roll out and plug in when the power fails. They’re typically started manually and can power essential circuits or appliances through extension cords or a transfer switch.

✅ Pros

• Affordable: Usually between $500–$2,500, depending on size.

• Flexible: Can be used for home backup, RVs, or job sites.

• Quick Setup: No permanent installation required.

⚠️ Cons

• Manual Operation: You must start it and connect it during an outage.

• Limited Power: Usually powers only a few circuits or appliances.

• Fuel Storage: Requires gasoline or propane on hand.

• Noise & Fumes: Must be used outdoors for safety.

💡 Best For

Homeowners who want a budget-friendly backup solution for short outages or just need to power essentials like the fridge, furnace, and a few lights.

🏠 Whole-Home Standby Generators

What They Are

Whole-home (standby) generators are permanently installed systems that automatically turn on within seconds of a power loss. They run on natural gas or propane and can power your entire home or selected circuits.

✅ Pros

• Automatic Operation: No setup—powers up instantly when the grid fails.

• Full Coverage: Keeps HVAC, lights, and appliances running seamlessly.

• Long-Term Reliability: Connected to your gas line, so no refueling required.

• Adds Value: Increases property value and resale appeal.

⚠️ Cons

• Higher Cost: Installed systems typically range from $7,000–$12,000+, depending on size.

• Professional Installation Required: Needs a licensed electrician and plumber.

• Periodic Maintenance: Requires yearly service to stay in top condition.

💡 Best For

Homeowners who experience frequent or long power outages, work from home, or rely on medical or critical systems that must stay on at all times.

Choosing the Right Option

Feature	Portable Generator	Whole-Home Generator
Startup	Manual	Automatic
Fuel Type	Gasoline / Propane	Natural Gas / Propane
Power Capacity	Limited	Whole-house or partial
Maintenance	Owner-serviced	Professional yearly
Cost Range	$500–$2,500	$7,000–$12,000+
Installation	Plug-and-play	Permanent system

Forgy Electric Can Help

At Forgy Electric, we install and service both portable generator connections and whole-home standby systems. Whether you just need a transfer switch for your portable unit or a full automatic setup, we’ll help you choose the right generator for your home, budget, and lifestyle.

We handle:

• Transfer switch installations

• Whole-home generator installation & maintenance

• Load sizing and system design

• Annual servicing and inspections

Don’t wait until the next outage hits. A properly installed generator keeps your lights on, food safe, and family comfortable—all year round.