With power outages in the UK becoming more of a concern due to unpredictable weather, increased energy demand, and the growing reliance on technology in the home, many homeowners are considering investing in a generator to keep things running when the lights go out. Whether you live in a rural area where blackouts are more frequent or you simply want peace of mind during winter storms, having a backup generator can make all the difference in protecting your comfort and safety.
Choosing the right type of generator for your home, however, isn’t as straightforward as picking one off the shelf. The right model depends on what you want to power, how long you expect to use it for, and whether you want it to kick in automatically or operate it manually. Understanding the differences between various types of generators—and what each one is best suited for—is key to making a smart, reliable investment.
Portable Generators for Occasional Use
If you’re looking for something affordable and simple to use in the event of a short-term power cut, a portable generator might be all you need. These units are compact, usually petrol-powered, and can be wheeled out as needed. They’re particularly handy for powering essential appliances during an outage, such as fridges, freezers, lamps or small electric heaters.
Because portable generators typically have a limited power output, they aren’t designed to run an entire house—but they’re ideal for covering the basics until the mains power is restored. They do require manual setup, and you’ll need to run extension cords or connect the generator to a transfer switch if you want it to feed directly into your home’s circuits.
For homeowners looking for an entry-level backup solution or something that can also be used for outdoor activities or tools, a portable generator offers flexibility. However, it’s worth remembering that petrol generators should never be run indoors due to the risk of carbon monoxide build-up. They also tend to be noisier than other options, so they’re better suited for temporary use rather than continuous backup.
Standby Generators for Whole-Home Backup
If your priority is to keep the entire home running as usual during a power outage, a standby generator is the most robust and hands-free option. These are permanently installed units that automatically activate when they detect a power failure, restoring electricity to pre-selected circuits or even the whole house, depending on the size of the system.
Standby generators are often powered by diesel, natural gas or LPG and are connected directly to your home’s fuel supply. Because they kick in automatically, they’re ideal for households with vulnerable residents, home offices that need uninterrupted power, or properties where heating systems rely on electricity to function.
These generators are generally quieter, more powerful, and more efficient than portable models—but they do require professional installation, including the addition of an automatic transfer switch. While the upfront cost is higher, the peace of mind and long-term reliability they offer make them an attractive solution for homeowners who want full protection from outages.
Inverter Generators for Cleaner Power
Inverter generators sit somewhere between the portable and standby categories, offering a more refined output suitable for powering sensitive electronics such as laptops, TVs, and smart home systems. They’re quieter and more fuel-efficient than traditional portable generators, and their compact size makes them easy to store and transport.
What sets inverter generators apart is the quality of the power they produce. Unlike standard generators that can deliver fluctuating voltage levels, inverters provide a stable sine wave output that’s safe for delicate appliances. This makes them particularly popular with homeowners who want to power a home office or entertainment system without the risk of power surges.
While inverter generators can’t typically power an entire home, they’re a smart choice for those who want a reliable, quiet, and efficient way to keep essential electronics running. They're also ideal as a backup for those who experience short, infrequent outages and need to maintain specific systems or devices without disruption.
Considering Fuel Type and Availability
One of the most important considerations when choosing a home generator is the fuel type. Petrol generators are widely available and affordable, but they require careful storage and frequent refuelling, and petrol can degrade over time if stored improperly. Diesel generators are more efficient for longer use and typically more durable, but they’re noisier and better suited to outdoor installation. Natural gas and LPG generators are cleaner-burning and can be connected directly to the home’s fuel supply, making them a convenient and low-maintenance choice if gas infrastructure is available in your area.
Your location, fuel costs, and the availability of refuelling options will all play a part in determining which type of generator is most practical. For those living in more remote areas, ensuring a consistent fuel supply is essential, particularly if you rely on your generator during extended outages or harsh winter weather.
Understanding Power Output and Load Needs
Generators come in a wide range of power outputs, measured in kilowatts (kW). To find the right size for your home, you’ll need to work out how much power you’ll need during an outage. This means thinking about which appliances, lights, and systems you want to keep running and calculating their combined wattage.
Some households may only need enough power to keep a few key devices running—such as the fridge, freezer, lights, and a couple of sockets—while others might want to maintain heating, cooking, broadband and even electric showers. In general, a portable generator might offer between 2 to 6 kW, suitable for limited use, while standby systems can provide anywhere from 7 kW up to 20 kW or more, which is enough to support entire households.
It’s important to leave room for power surges that happen when devices start up. Items like kettles, washing machines and pumps can use more power on startup than they do during regular operation, so oversizing your generator slightly is often a smart move to prevent overloads.
Planning for Professional Installation and Safety
If you’re installing a permanent generator for your home, you’ll need a qualified installer to ensure everything is set up safely and in accordance with UK regulations. This includes fitting an automatic transfer switch, which detects when the mains power fails and safely transfers the electrical load to the generator without backfeeding into the national grid.
Backfeeding is dangerous and illegal, as it poses a serious risk to utility workers and neighbours. It’s one of the main reasons why generator systems should always be handled by certified professionals who understand both the technical and safety requirements involved.
Your installer will also ensure the generator is located in a suitable outdoor space with adequate ventilation and sound considerations, and they’ll advise you on maintenance, servicing intervals and how to test the system periodically to ensure it works when needed.
Deciding What’s Right for Your Home
Every home has different needs when it comes to backup power. A small rural cottage may need a diesel standby generator to weather long power cuts, while a family in a suburban home might be perfectly well served by a portable or inverter model for occasional outages. It’s not always about buying the biggest or most expensive unit—it’s about choosing the one that fits your property, your lifestyle, and your peace of mind.
Before making a decision, consider your home’s layout, the essential systems you want to keep powered, and your budget for both installation and ongoing fuel costs. It’s also worth thinking about how often you experience power cuts and how much inconvenience you’re willing to tolerate when they happen.
Staying Comfortable When It Matters Most
A reliable generator can be a lifeline during a power outage, whether it’s keeping the lights on, the heating running or the freezer from defrosting. With the right setup, you can maintain a sense of normality and safety no matter what’s happening outside. Investing in the right type of generator for your home means you’re prepared for the unexpected, and you won’t be caught off guard when the next power cut arrives.