How to Choose the Right Generator for Your Home
If you’ve ever sat through a power outage wondering how long you’ll be stuck in the dark, you’re not alone. Here in the Seattle area, storms and outages can strike at any time—taking out power lines, shutting down neighborhoods, and leaving families scrambling for light, warmth, and a way to keep the fridge running. The good news? A home generator can make sure you’re never left powerless again.
At Armada Design & Build, we don’t just remodel homes—we help families make them more comfortable, safe, and resilient. In this post, we’ll walk through the basics of home generators, the difference between portable and permanent systems, and how to decide which one is right for your home.
Why Generators Matter
Power outages aren’t just inconvenient—they can be costly and even dangerous. Spoiled groceries, frozen pipes, and lost heat can add up fast, not to mention the stress of being disconnected when you need power the most.
A reliable generator can keep the essentials running: lights, heat, the refrigerator, Wi-Fi, and even your morning coffee maker. Whether you want backup power for emergencies or full-home coverage during long outages, there’s a generator setup to fit your needs.
The Two Main Types of Generators
When it comes to home power backup, there are two main options: portable generators and permanent (standby) generators. Each has its own benefits, costs, and convenience level.
Portable Generators
Portable generators are the most common type—and for good reason. They’re versatile, relatively affordable, and easy to move around.
You can roll them out of the garage, plug in your essentials, and fire them up when the power goes out. Most run on gasoline, though some models can also use propane or natural gas. A “tri-fuel” generator, for example, gives you flexibility depending on what fuel is most available during a storm.
A portable generator can power a few essentials—like your fridge, lights, or Wi-Fi—or even most of your home, depending on its size and wattage.
Typical price range:
Smaller models start around $1,000, while larger, high-capacity units can cost $3,000–$5,000 or more.
It’s a great, budget-friendly way to keep things running and avoid the cost of spoiled food or a hotel stay during extended outages.
Permanent (Standby) Generators
Permanent or standby generators are the heavy hitters. Installed outside your home, they’re connected directly to your electrical system and kick on automatically the moment the power goes out.
These units run on natural gas or propane and use an automatic transfer switch that detects power loss and turns the generator on within seconds—no manual setup required.
You don’t have to worry about fuel cans, extension cords, or setup steps. When the grid power returns, the generator shuts off and switches you back automatically.
This type of system is ideal for homeowners who want zero hassle and maximum peace of mind, especially those who live in areas with frequent outages or who rely on medical or safety equipment that requires consistent power.
Typical price range:
Depending on the generator size and your home’s needs, professional installation generally runs between $7,000 and $10,000, and can go higher for large homes or full-home coverage.
Portable vs. Permanent: Which Is Right for You?
Here’s a simple breakdown to help you decide:
| Feature | Portable Generator | Permanent Generator |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | $1,000–$5,000 | $7,000–$20,000 (installed) |
| Power Source | Gasoline, propane, or tri-fuel | Natural gas or propane |
| Setup | Manual – must be started and connected during outages | Automatic – turns on instantly when power fails |
| Mobility | Portable – can be moved or stored | Fixed – installed outside permanently |
| Maintenance | Occasional use, needs refueling | Low maintenance, self-testing models available |
| Best For | Occasional outages or budget-friendly backup | Frequent outages or full-home protection |
If you don’t mind the hands-on setup and want something flexible and affordable, a portable generator might be the right fit. But if you prefer an automatic, hassle-free solution that protects your home year-round, a permanent generator is worth the investment.
Think of it this way:
A portable generator is like a reliable SUV—it’ll get you through the storm if you’re willing to drive it.
A permanent generator is more like autopilot—it keeps things running without you lifting a finger.
Professional Installation and Safety
Installing a generator, especially a permanent one, isn’t a DIY project. Proper electrical connections, fuel supply lines, and safety systems need to be handled by licensed professionals.
At Armada Design & Build, we handle every step—from helping you choose the right generator size to complete installation and setup. We make sure your system meets all local codes, runs safely, and provides the right amount of power for your home’s needs.
Why Homeowners Choose Armada Design & Build
As a local Bellevue-based company, we’ve helped countless families prepare for the unexpected. Whether it’s installing a permanent generator for an elderly homeowner who needs reliable heat or setting up a portable backup for peace of mind, our team delivers solutions tailored to your lifestyle and budget.
We’re not just contractors—we’re problem-solvers. Our goal is to make your home not only beautiful but also safer and more functional for whatever life throws your way.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, both portable and permanent generators give you something priceless—peace of mind. No more cold dinners, spoiled food, or nights spent in total darkness. Just steady, reliable power when you need it most.
If you’re thinking about installing a generator for your home, contact Armada Design & Build today. We’ll walk you through your options, recommend the best system for your home and budget, and handle the full installation—so the next time the power goes out, you can relax knowing your home is ready.
