What are the differences between an automatic standby (permanent) generator and a portable generator?

During a utility power outage, an automatic standby generator provides numerous advantages over a portable generator:

• Automatic standby generators keep your home protected from deadly carbon monoxide poisoning which is a much greater risk with portable generators.
• Standby generators eliminate the need to haul a portable generator outside or run extension cords throughout your home.
• They provide protection 24/7, whether you’re home or away.
• With their sound-deadening enclosures, automatic standby generators are much quieter than portable generators.
• The units turn themselves off when utility power returns, so there is no need to monitor the unit during an outage.
• Because an automatic standby generator is hard-wired into the electrical system of your home, appliances like furnaces, well and sump pumps, and lights will operate as well as items you plug-in.
• Portable generators require gasoline and need to be refilled. Electrical outages may render gas pumps inoperable, and gas may be unavailable.
• A whole home backup generator is less expensive to operate because it runs on your home’s natural gas or propane fuel supply.
• The American Red Cross recommends permanently installed standby generators as a safer way to provide backup power to a home than a portable generator, especially if you have family members who require oxygen or have other medical conditions.

Learn more about GE Home Standby Generator features here.

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