Portable Backup Power

Portable Generators

Flexible backup power for outages, projects, jobsites and recreation. Portable generators give you power where you need it without requiring a permanently installed standby system.

Flexible Power

Power Where and When You Need It.

Portable generators produce electricity wherever temporary power is needed. They can support individual appliances, tools and equipment directly or, with properly installed transfer equipment, provide backup power to selected circuits in a home.

Unlike a home standby system, a portable generator is manually positioned, started and connected when power is needed. That flexibility makes portable generators useful for outages, projects, jobsites, camping and other situations where permanent installation isn't necessary.

The right portable generator depends on what you plan to power, the wattage those loads require, the fuel source you prefer and how easily the generator needs to move.
Portable Power

Built to Go Where the Power Is Needed.

Portable generators combine flexible power with the ability to move from outage backup to projects, jobsites and recreation. The right model depends on how much power you need, how you'll use it and how portable you need it to be.

Generac portable generator
01 / Fuel Options

Fuel That Fits the Way You'll Use It.

Many portable generators operate on gasoline, while dual-fuel models can provide the option to use gasoline or propane depending on the generator. Fuel type, storage and expected runtime are important considerations when comparing models.

02 / Portability

Built to Go Where You Go.

Weight and portability matter along with power output. Smaller inverter generators are designed for easier transport, while larger portable models often use wheels and folding handles to make moving higher-output equipment easier.

Choosing Your Generator

Sized for the Job. Sized for the Home.

Portable generators are available across a wide range of outputs, from compact inverter units for smaller electrical loads to larger open-frame generators capable of supporting multiple appliances, tools or pieces of equipment.

Understanding both running watts and starting watts is important when choosing a generator, especially when powering equipment with motors, pumps or compressors that may require additional power when they start.

Start by identifying the equipment you expect to run at the same time, then account for both continuous running wattage and any additional starting wattage those loads may require.
Selection of Generac portable generators
Before You Choose

Think Beyond Maximum Wattage.

Output matters, but the best portable generator also needs to fit how and where you plan to use it.

Power Needs Determine which appliances, tools or equipment need to operate together and how much starting and running power they require.
Fuel & Runtime Consider the generator's fuel type, expected runtime and how you plan to store fuel safely when the generator isn't in use.
Portability Think about weight, wheels, handles, storage and how frequently the generator will need to be moved.
Noise & Use A quieter inverter-style unit may fit recreation or lighter loads, while larger open-frame models may better suit higher-output needs.
Portable Generator Options

Different Power for Different Jobs.

Portable generators range from compact inverter-style equipment to larger open-frame units. The right format depends on where you'll use it, what you'll power and how much output and portability you need.

Quieter Inverter Power

Inverter-style portable generators can provide quieter operation and compact portability, making them useful when lower operating noise and easier transport are priorities.

Higher-Output Portable Power

Larger open-frame generators trade some portability and quiet operation for increased output, making them useful for larger electrical loads, projects and backup-power needs.

Portable Power Starts With Safe Operation. Portable generators must always be operated outdoors and positioned well away from windows, doors and vents to reduce the risk of carbon monoxide entering the home.
Safe Generator Use

Know How Your Generator Will Connect Before the Power Goes Out.

Portable generators can supply equipment directly using appropriate extension cords, but powering circuits inside a home requires a different setup.

If you plan to connect a portable generator to your home's electrical system, properly installed transfer equipment or a generator inlet should be handled by a qualified electrical professional. A portable generator should never be connected directly to a wall outlet.

Need Portable Power Without a Gasoline Engine?

Portable power stations use rechargeable battery storage instead of an engine and fuel. They're worth comparing when quiet operation, indoor-friendly stored power and portability matter more than the output or extended runtime of a traditional generator.

Explore Power Stations

Want Backup Power That Starts Automatically?

If you'd rather have a permanently installed system that can respond automatically when utility power goes down, explore Benge's home standby generator options.

Explore Home Standby

Find the Backup Power That Fits Your Needs.

Compare all Benge's generator options or visit your nearest Benge's Hardware for local help choosing the right portable power solution.