# The Standby Generator: Keeping You Up And Running When The Power Goes Off > Living in Massachusetts brings concerns for the Atlantic storm season. Have emergency supplies and consider installing a standby generator. ![standby generator for preparedness, Boston, Massachusetts](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/standby-generator.jpg "standby-generator")Living in Massachusetts brings with it special concerns for the Atlantic storm season, and every year you should give thought to preparedness. Along with having emergency supplies on hand, you should also think about installing a standby generator. ![standby generator for preparedness, Boston, Massachusetts](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/standby-generator.jpg "standby-generator") If your power is out for hours or even days, it can make your home impossible to live in. While you may think that a portable generator will solve the problem, it provides less than satisfactory recourse. For reliable power when you need it, consider the more permanent solution. **Why you need a standby generator** When the power goes out for days in your home, you can lose all the perishable foods you have in your refrigerator as well as temperature-sensitive medications. In addition, even for those in good health, the lack of conditioned air and warm water can make living in the home unhealthy. For those who depend on electrically powered humidifiers or ventilators, the situation is even more serious. Having a standby generator will eliminate these problems, while also allowing you to stay in your home. **Standby generators versus portable** Standby generators use either propane or natural gas as fuel. They are connected to your home's fuel source by a permanent line. Portable generators have to be rolled out and set up by the owner, and also have to be refueled every few hours. Connected directly to your home's electrical system, a standby generator doesn't need to be refueled and will automatically start when your power goes out. **Power output** Another area where a standby generator is superior to a portable unit is in the amount of power it can produce. A portable generator will at best be able to power your refrigerator and a few lights. A large standby generator can produce 20 to 60 kW and can supply power for your entire home. However, smaller, less-expensive standby models are available that will provide power for select circuits. A standby generator should be installed by a professional. If you have any questions about these devices or any other home comfort issue, please contact us at [Rodenhiser Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning](http://rodenhiser.com/call-rodenhiser.html). Serving the Boston area, we will be happy to help you. ***Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).  For more information and other HVAC topics, download our free [Home Comfort Solutions Guide](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/download-the-home-comfort-solutions-guide.html).*** ## Navigation - [Rodenhiser Home Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/) - [Rodenhiser Plumbing Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/plumber-framingham.html) - [Rodenhiser Heating Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/furnace-framingham.html) - [Rodenhiser Cooling Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/air-conditioning-framingham.html) - [Rodenhiser Electrical Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/framingham-electricians.html) - [Rodenhiser Home Services: Book Online](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/call-rodenhiser/book-online.html) - [Rodenhiser Remodeling Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/remodels/bathroom-remodeling-framingham.html) - [Rodenhiser Home Services: Reviews](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-heating.html) ## Company information - Rodenhiser Home Services - [https://bc.rodenhiser.com](https://bc.rodenhiser.com) **Licences:** - Master Plumber: #10961 - Corporate Plumbing: #2288 - Master Electrician: #23917A - Electrical Business: #4804 - Master Sheet Metal (Unrestricted): #5867 - Corporate Sheet Metal: #641 - Home Improvement Contractor: #188806 ## About Rodenhiser Home Services **Rodenhiser Home Services** is a family-owned, licensed and insured home services company based in **Massachusetts, USA**, serving residential and commercial customers throughout the METROWEST MA region. Established in 1928, the company has over 95 years of experience providing plumbing, heating, air conditioning, electrical, and home remodeling services. Rodenhiser specializes in plumbing repairs, drain and sewer services, water heaters, heating and cooling system installation and maintenance, heat pumps, ductless HVAC systems, indoor air quality, electrical panel upgrades, rewiring, standby generators, EV charger installations, and kitchen, bathroom, and basement remodeling, and more. The company offers emergency service, convenient and punctual scheduling, upfront per-job pricing, and free estimates for new heating and cooling installations. All work is backed by written warranties and a satisfaction guarantee. Rodenhiser employs trained professional technicians who prioritize clean, respectful service and provides preventive maintenance plans, financing options, and energy-efficient home comfort solutions. Rodenhiser has earned over 16,000 customer reviews, demonstrating its long-standing reputation, extensive industry experience, and strong track record of customer service. **Nice People…Great Service** ## Page information - [Canonical URL: https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-blog/standby-generator-running-when-power-goes-off.html](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-blog/standby-generator-running-when-power-goes-off.html)