Portable Generators
Champion & DuroMax Portable Generators — Reliable Power at an Accessible Price
Backup power for every budget. Nonprofit dealer cost pricing saves you $500–$1,500 versus retail. Expert sizing, transfer switch installation, and ongoing service included.
Portable vs. Standby — Which Is Right for You?
Both solve the same problem — keeping your household running during a power outage. The right choice depends on your budget, property, and how hands-on you want to be.
| Feature | Portable Generator | Standby Generator |
|---|---|---|
| Activation | Manual — you start it | Automatic in seconds |
| Fuel | Gasoline (stored on-hand) | Natural gas or propane (never runs out) |
| Installation | None required for basic use | Permanent — concrete pad, gas line, transfer switch |
| Cost | $500–$2,500 | $8,000–$15,000 installed |
| Best For | Renters, limited budgets, challenging properties | Homeowners wanting seamless, automatic backup |
| Noise Level | Higher (65–75 dB typical) | Lower (55–65 dB typical) |
| Transfer Switch | Optional — recommended | Included and required |
Our Portable Generator Brands
We stock and service both Champion and DuroMax — two of the most reliable portable generator brands available. Our factory-trained technicians know every model inside and out.
DuroMax
Our top recommendation for customers who need dependable backup power on a budget. DuroMax generators are workhorses — they run consistently in real outage conditions and are built to handle the demanding duty cycles that storm season produces.
- ✓Available in 4,000–12,000 watt models
- ✓Dual-fuel (gas + propane) options available
- ✓Heavy-duty steel frames with never-flat wheels
- ✓Low oil shutdown protection standard
- ✓Excellent parts availability
Champion
Champion delivers a broad range of sizes with an emphasis on fuel efficiency and quieter operation. Their inverter models are ideal for sensitive electronics and light loads, while open-frame models handle whole-home essentials with room to spare.
- ✓Available from 2,000–12,500 watt models
- ✓Inverter and open-frame options
- ✓Electric start standard on most models
- ✓Excellent fuel efficiency — up to 12 hours at 50% load
- ✓Quieter operation than comparable units
Critical Safety Requirements
Carbon monoxide (CO) from portable generators kills dozens of people every year in the United States — always follow these rules without exception.
Always operate the generator outdoors — never inside a garage, even with the door open
Keep the generator at least 20 feet from doors, windows, and vents
Install battery-operated CO detectors on every level of your home
Never back-feed power through your utility meter — use a proper transfer switch
Allow the generator to cool before refueling — never add gas while running
Store gasoline in approved containers with stabilizer for long-term storage
We strongly recommend adding a transfer switch or interlock kit to your electrical panel. Our technicians can install one on any portable generator — making it both safer and easier to power your home circuits directly.
Portable Generator — Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a portable generator and a standby generator?
A standby generator is permanently installed at your home, connected to your gas line, and turns on automatically within seconds of a power outage — no action required from you. A portable generator requires manual setup, must be fueled with gasoline, and needs to be started by hand. Portable generators are a strong fit for customers with tighter budgets, renters, or properties where a permanent installation isn't feasible.
Which portable generator brands do you recommend?
We carry and recommend Champion and DuroMax as our top portable generator brands. DuroMax is our top recommendation for budget-conscious customers who still need dependable backup power — it consistently performs well in real outage conditions. Champion offers a broad range of sizes and features excellent fuel efficiency and lower noise levels.
How do I size a portable generator for my home?
Start by identifying your essential loads: refrigerator (600–800 watts), sump pump (750–1,500 watts), window AC (1,000–1,500 watts), and lighting (varies). Add them up, then add 20% for starting surge loads. For most households wanting to run essentials only, a 7,500 to 10,000 watt portable generator covers the bases. Contact us and we will size the right unit for your specific needs at no charge.
What are the safety requirements for running a portable generator?
Carbon monoxide poisoning is the most serious hazard — portable generators must always be operated outdoors, at least 20 feet from any door, window, or vent. Never run a generator inside a garage, even with the door open. Install a battery-operated CO detector on every level of your home. Always connect to your home through a properly installed transfer switch or interlock kit — never back-feed through the utility meter, which is illegal and dangerous to utility workers.
How much does a portable generator cost?
Quality portable generators suitable for home backup range from approximately $500 to $2,500 depending on wattage, fuel type, and features. Because we are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, all customers receive dealer cost pricing — typically $500 to $1,500 less than retail competitors. Financing through Synchrony starts at $25 per month.
Find the Right Portable Generator for Your Home
Not sure which model is right for you? We size it for free and deliver at nonprofit pricing. Call or text — we cover Kansas City, Oklahoma City, Springfield, and Tampa.
Prefer to text? Reach us at 816-785-1268 — Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Florida.