Having a generator, especially in areas where power outages are a daily occurrence as they are in Pakistan. However, the decision on which type of generator to use can be a very difficult one. Should you invest in portable generators or standby generators? Each has its own unique characteristics, utility, or advantage. Let’s take a closer look at both and make it easier for you to decide.
What Are Portable and Standby Generators?
Before picking a generator, it’s good to know the basics about each type.
Portable Generators
These are small and portable generators. You can relocate them to where you deem appropriate. They are quite suitable for usage in situations like power blackouts, or during outdoor events. The majority of portable generators are fueled by gasoline, while others may be fueled by propane or diesel.
Standby Generators
These are permanently fixed and can be located either inside or outside your home or business. They come with special features that allow them to immediately activate themselves when there is a blackout. Natural gas or propane-fueled standby generators are used to provide power for an entire home or building. However, they need professional installation and are made for long-term use.
How Much Power Do You Need?
The first and obvious question that needs answering is the required level of power during the outage. Portability and standby generators provide power at different capacities.
Portable Generators
Portable units, in most cases, have less power-producing capability as compared to fixed units. Most of them have a wattage range of 1,000 and 12,000 watts. In most households, a portable generator between 3000 and 6000 watts should suffice to power lights and appliances such as refrigerators and small appliances.
So if you require sufficient wattage to power larger areas and or amplify the electricity supply to more appliances then you will need a portable generator with a higher wattage. But this equips you to pay much more for fuel and will be slightly on the costly side.
Standby Generators
Standby generators are much more powerful. These types of generators generally generate between 7000-20000 watts. This makes them capable of managing an entire home starting with the heavy appliances like the Air conditioner and water heater. However, if you need a power supply during long power failures, then a standby generator will be of more value to you.
Fuel Options: What’s Available and Affordable?
Fuel is another important aspect of consideration when approaching the issue of generator selection. Many a time fuel is scarce or available at a hefty price in Pakistan and hence contingencies should always be on.
Portable Generators
A majority of portable generators use gasoline as their fuel. Some models run on propane and others on diesel. Also, gasoline is relatively easy to get but it is not cheap and you have to worry that it might be a scarce resource in long power outages. Portable generators also consume more fuel, particularly when they have been operated at their optimum power, costs being an issue.
Standby Generators
These types of generators mostly use natural or propane gas as the power source on which they draw in order to generate electrical energy. These fuels are cheaper and in most cases, they provide power during shortages as compared to provided fuels. Also, the required fuel is readily available in many areas in Pakistan especially natural gas, and hence an easy source of energy. As much as it will be an added cost to install a gas line or propane tank, it will prove cheaper in the long run.
Installation and Maintenance
Are you willing to spare the effort required to establish and constantly monitor your generator? As far as installation is concerned these two types of facilities are wholly contrasting.
Portable Generators
It is relatively easy to set up a portable generator. All you need to use them is to put them outside, connect your gear, and turn it on. They do not require professional installation hence they can be considered a low-cost solution. But for that, they need constant maintenance. To maintain them you will be required to check the oil level and often clean filters as well as the spark plugs.
Standby Generators
While portable generators can be bought and used by anyone, standby generators have to be professionally put in place. They are wired into your home’s electrical network and the gas supply which is a specialist’s job. After installation, these systems are mechanized and therefore are more maintenance-free as compared to traditional conventional systems. They also use self-checks often enough that you won’t have to stress much about requiring that much maintenance.
What about the Cost?
Price sensitivity is one of the core concerns in the decision-making process. Let’s break it down:
Portable Generators
Portable generators are more affordable at initial cost. The prices are between PKR 30,000 and PKR 150,000 for the size and features of the car. However, they still have recurrent costs of fuel and other ordinary maintenance costs. In total, there are operating costs and they build up the more frequent the usage of the generator.
Standby Generators
Standby generators are however relatively expensive to buy, costing between PKR 150,000 and PKR 500,000 or even more. Other costs such as the installation of professional labor and gas connections also go into this amount. But they generally have lower operational costs in the long run provided they run on natural gas. However, once installed, they also require less maintenance and involve less manpower.
Which One Should You Choose?
Your choice depends on your needs, budget, and how often you experience power outages. Here’s a simple guide:
Choose a Portable Generator If:
- You need a temporary solution for short outages.
- You want something affordable upfront.
- You don’t mind setting it up manually each time
- You’re okay with regular maintenance and higher fuel costs.
Choose a Standby Generator If:
- You want a reliable, automated system for long-term use.
- You need to power an entire home or business.
- You prefer convenience and minimal maintenance.
- You experience frequent or extended power outages.
Also, Read >> How to Choose the Right Diesel Generator
The Bottom Line
Portable and standby generators have their benefits: They are convenient, especially for temporary power needs and events that are to be undertaken outdoors. While a standby generator could be slightly up to five times more expensive than an ordinary generator, it can be very handy for home or business use.
Also, think about how much power your system will consume, the type of fuel preferred and the total expense that you will likely incur. After considering the mentioned factors, you will make the right decisions when choosing the best generator to power your home or business.
Contact Power Zone now to find out more about our available options or get in touch with us for more information. Stop waiting for the next power blackout – get the required power solution today!