A Guide To Choosing Between A Standby and Backup Generator

If you are in the market for a generator but know very little about them, you are probably overwhelmed by the number of options available. But if you are looking for a generator for a residential application, your options technically narrow down to two: a standby and a backup generator. Read on to learn about the key differences between the two.

What is a standby generator?

Standby generators are designed to power up your home in the event of a sudden power outage. They monitor your home’s power supply 24/7, and if a blackout is detected, the generator will automatically turn on without disrupting the electrical supply in your home. 

Standby generators are generally more expensive as their purpose is to act as a 24/7 backup for your electrical system in the event of a sudden power outage, which is especially valuable if you run a business from home or if you have critical systems that you need to keep running. 

What is a backup generator?

Backup generators work on a “as needed” basis. When there is a power outage in the home, backup generators need to be started manually, meaning you would need to be on site at the time of the outage in order to turn the generator on. In addition to that, you need to run extension cords from the generator to the desired appliance to power it up. 

Backup generators are powered by gas, so you need to refill them from time to time. They are considered more affordable.

Conclusion

Both standby and backup generators are a good solution to support the power supply in your home in the event of a power outage. Choosing between the two comes down to your specific needs and your budget. If you need a stable and uninterrupted power supply in your home, go for a standby generator. If power outages are not a frequent occurrence in your region, opt for a backup generator. 

If you need to hook up a power generator in your home, A.S. Electrical has got you covered. A fully licensed and insured electrical company, we provide a wide range of electrical services, including backup generator installation in Toronto and the GTA. Call (905) 887 7632 to get a free estimate!