Choosing the Right Backup Power Solution for Your Home or Business

Power outages are becoming more common due to grid strain, extreme weather, and increased electrical demand. For homeowners and businesses alike, having a reliable backup power solution is no longer just a convenience. It is an important part of protecting comfort, safety, and critical systems. Today, there are three primary backup power options available: portable generators, standby generators, and battery backup systems. Each serves a different purpose, and the right choice depends on how much power you need, how long you want to stay operational, and how seamless you want the experience to be.

Slazik Electric offers professional installation and support for all three backup power options, helping customers select a solution that fits their electrical system, budget, and long-term goals.

Portable Generator Backup

Portable generators are often the most familiar option for backup power. These units are typically gasoline or propane powered and are designed to supply temporary electricity during short outages.

Portable generators can be a good solution for limited needs such as powering a refrigerator, lighting, or select outlets. They require manual setup and operation, including refueling and starting the unit when an outage occurs. In most cases, a transfer switch is required to safely connect the generator to a home or building’s electrical system.

This option works well for customers who experience occasional outages and want a lower upfront cost solution. However, portable generators are not designed for long-term or automatic backup and require active involvement during each outage.

Standby Generator Backup

Standby generators provide a more permanent and automated solution. These systems are installed outside the home or building and are typically powered by natural gas or propane. When a power outage occurs, the generator automatically starts and supplies power through a dedicated transfer switch.

Standby generators are capable of supporting large electrical loads and can power most or all of a home depending on system size. They are well suited for customers who want reliable backup power without manual operation.

Slazik Electric is Generac certified, allowing customers access to professionally installed standby generator systems that meet current electrical codes and manufacturer requirements. Standby generators are a strong choice for homes with medical equipment, businesses that need to remain operational, or anyone who wants dependable backup during extended outages.

Battery Backup Systems

Battery backup systems represent a newer approach to backup power. Instead of relying on fuel, these systems store electricity and provide power silently and instantly during an outage. Battery systems can be charged from the grid, solar, or both, depending on the configuration.

Battery backup systems are especially popular for customers who want clean, quiet operation and fast response during outages. They can support essential loads or be designed for larger backup capacity depending on system size. Batteries also offer benefits beyond outage protection, such as load shifting and energy optimization.

Slazik Electric is certified to install several leading battery systems, including Tesla Powerwall 3, FranklinWH aPower 2, and FranklinWH aPower S. These systems can be paired with existing electrical systems and, when applicable, solar energy to create a flexible and future-ready backup solution.

Comparing Backup Power Options

Each backup power solution serves a different need:

• Portable generators offer affordability and flexibility but require manual operation

• Standby generators provide automatic and long-duration backup for larger loads

• Battery systems deliver quiet, instant power with modern energy management features

Choosing the right solution depends on outage frequency, power requirements, fuel availability, and whether automation or clean energy is a priority.

Professional Installation Matters

Backup power systems must be installed correctly to operate safely and reliably. This includes proper load evaluation, transfer equipment, permitting, and utility coordination when required. Improper installation can create safety hazards or lead to system failure when power is needed most.

Slazik Electric provides full-service installation, coordination, and support for portable generator connections, standby generators, and battery backup systems. Their certifications ensure that each system is installed to manufacturer standards and current electrical codes.

Finding the Right Backup Solution

There is no one-size-fits-all backup power solution. Some customers prefer the simplicity of a portable generator, while others value the automation of a standby generator or the efficiency of battery storage. The best approach starts with a professional evaluation of the electrical system and a clear understanding of backup goals.

Slazik Electric works with homeowners and businesses to design and install backup power solutions that provide peace of mind, reliability, and long-term value.