Portable vs standby generator — which is better?

For New Brunswick homeowners, standby generators are generally the better long-term investment, especially given our frequent ice storms and extended power outages. However, portable generators can be a good budget-friendly option for occasional use.

Standby generators are permanently installed units that automatically start when power goes out. They're connected directly to your home's electrical panel and typically run on natural gas or propane. In New Brunswick, where ice storms can knock out power for days or even weeks, standby generators provide seamless backup power for your entire home. You'll never have to worry about being away when the power goes out, and there's no scrambling to set up equipment in dangerous weather conditions.

The main advantages of standby generators include automatic operation, whole-home power coverage, and the ability to run indefinitely with a natural gas connection. They're also much quieter than portable units and don't require fuel storage or manual setup. For New Brunswick's harsh winters, this convenience and reliability can be literally life-saving, especially for homes with electric heat, well pumps, or medical equipment.

Portable generators are wheeled units that you manually start and connect to your home through a transfer switch or extension cords. They're significantly cheaper upfront (typically $500-$2,000 vs $5,000-$15,000 for standby units) and can power essential circuits during outages. However, they require manual setup in potentially dangerous conditions, need regular refueling, and can't power your entire home simultaneously.

TSANB requirements mandate that any generator connection to your home's electrical system must be done by a licensed electrician with proper permits. This includes installing transfer switches for both portable and standby generators. Never connect a generator directly to outlets or attempt to backfeed through your panel - this can kill utility workers and damage equipment.

For New Brunswick's climate, standby generators make the most sense for homes with electric heat, well water, or vulnerable family members. The automatic operation during ice storms when you might not be able to safely operate a portable unit is invaluable. However, portable generators work well for occasional outages and homes with gas heat and city water.

Installation costs for standby generators typically range from $5,000-$15,000 including the unit, transfer switch, and professional installation. Portable generator setups with proper transfer switches cost $2,000-$4,000 total. Both require TSANB permits and licensed electrician installation for any permanent electrical connections.

Need help finding an electrician for generator installation? New Brunswick Electrical can match you with licensed professionals who specialize in backup power systems for Maritime conditions.