The Complete Guide to Generators: Powering Homes, Businesses, and Beyond

When the lights go out, the value of reliable backup power becomes crystal clear. Generators are more than just machines — they’re peace of mind during outages, storms, and emergencies. Whether you’re a homeowner looking to keep the essentials running, a farmer protecting livestock and equipment, or a business ensuring operations never skip a beat, generators are one of the smartest investments you can make.

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about generators: the different types, how they work, key benefits, and what to look for when choosing one.

A generator is a device that converts mechanical energy into electrical energy. Put simply: it creates electricity when you need it most. Instead of depending solely on the utility grid, a generator ensures that lights stay on, appliances keep running, and equipment remains powered.

1. Portable Generators

• Best For: Short-term or occasional use, camping, tailgating, or temporary power during smaller outages.

• Fuel Sources: Gasoline or propane.

• Pros: Affordable, mobile, and easy to use.

• Cons: Limited power capacity requires manual setup and not designed for whole-home use.

2. Standby Generators

• Best For: Whole-home, business, or farm backup power.

• Fuel Sources: Natural gas or propane, permanently connected to your property.

• Pros: Automatic startup during outages, large power capacity, can run for days.

• Cons: Higher upfront investment and requires professional installation.

3. Inverter Generators

• Best For: Sensitive electronics, outdoor events, or smaller power needs with quiet operation.

• Fuel Sources: Gasoline or propane.

• Pros: Compact, quiet, fuel-efficient, produces clean power.

• Cons: Lower output than traditional portable or standby units.

1. Peace of Mind – No more worrying about spoiled food, frozen pipes, or lost productivity during outages.
2. Safety – Keep lights on, medical devices running, and security systems active.
3. Convenience – Automatic transfer switches ensure power flows seamlessly during an outage.
4. Property Protection – From sump pumps to HVAC systems, generators prevent costly damage caused by power loss.
5. Versatility – Generators aren’t just for emergencies; they’re useful for outdoor recreation, job sites, and events.

• Power Capacity – How much do you need to run? (Think refrigerators, HVAC, lights, and critical systems.)

• Fuel Type – Gasoline, propane, or natural gas availability may guide your decision.

• Noise Level – Important for neighborhoods or recreational use.

• Automatic vs. Manual Start – Do you want the generator to power on instantly when the grid goes down?

• Installation & Maintenance – Some models require professional setup and ongoing servicing.

While many manufacturers build quality generators, Generac has become the industry leader for standby power solutions. Known for reliability, efficiency, and innovation, Generac offers systems that integrate seamlessly into homes, farms, and businesses.

Some key advantages of Generac:

• Automatic Activation – Powers on within seconds of an outage.

• Fuel Flexibility – Runs on natural gas or propane for convenience and extended use.

• Smart Technology – Remote monitoring and diagnostics to keep you in control.

• Range of Sizes – From essential-circuit coverage to whole-home solutions.

At Precision, we’re proud to be an authorized Generac distributor and installer. Our team helps you choose the right generator for your needs, handles installation with precision, and provides ongoing service so your system is always ready.

Whether you’re protecting your family, securing your business, or safeguarding your farm, a Generac standby generator gives you confidence and control when the unexpected happens.

Don’t wait until the next storm hits—power your peace of mind with Generac and Precision.