Whenever there’s a natural disaster, or something seriously disrupts the state of play of the normal world, portable generators are brought out to help those in need.

Whether hurricanes have taken out pylons, tsunamis destroyed reservoirs, or even volcanoes creating toxic ash in the air, you can always rely on a portable petrol generator to create the energy you need to reach tomorrow.

But, are they worth it for you, as a prepper?

There’s a huge number of pros and cons here, but unlike other areas we’ve covered for when SHTF, it doesn’t vary too much on your individual situation, because the benefits and negatives seem to be more universal than usual.

In this article, we’re going to do a breakdown to see whether it’s suitable for you.

Pros

Guaranteed Energy

A portable petrol generator is one of the most reliable pieces of equipment. It’s incredibly strong as they’re made of metal, can be set up anywhere, and, if fuelled correctly, guarantees you the energy you need.

Each model operates at a different level of efficiency, so depending on your choice, you’ll get what you need at a rate that suits you. Some operate at higher energies, which are more suitable for those who’re in a large group. And even if you’re just on your own, or with one or two people, you can always turn the power down.

Profitability

Although the initial costs are expensive, especially if you opt for a diesel generator, they do serve you very well in the long term – especially when compared to its counterpart of a permanent generator. Plus, if you’re facing an end of the world situation, it’s very unlikely that you’ll have a permanent generator to compare it to, anyway – so really it’s your only choice.

Highly Versatile

We take electricity for granted, as it’s such a mainstay these days – which highlights how bad it would be for you if the grid was to go down. So many of your appliances are reliant on it, from the freezer to the fridge, kettle, and lighting – but with the assistance of a portable generator, you can have all these back up and running again.

That’s why it’s so essential – because it can be utilised as a resolution to almost any issue you’re facing. The world we live in is one that runs on electricity, and even when SHTF, you’ll still have the same appliances to rely on. Imagine how dire the situation would be if your fridge stops working – it would be so much wasted food and the ability to keep basics like butter and milk cool would no longer be possible. 

In addition to just dining, generators are used by commercial customers across the globe to help with their operations, in sectors like construction, mining and agriculture. So you can rest assured you’re in safe hands with a good brand of generator like Hyundai. 

Cons

Relies On Fuel

It’s no secret that generators are very expensive, with decent beginner models you can trust starting from around £250. This is a lot of money that could be spent elsewhere, such as purchasing non-perishable goods or something equally essential.

In addition to the steep price of it which some people simply cannot afford, especially diesel generators, is the fuel that’s required to power the generator. As we’re sure you know, fuel prices in the UK are very high anyway and set to rise in the coming years, and in the event of a disaster they’re guaranteed to skyrocket just like they have with the invasion of Ukraine. 

Just look at the coronavirus pandemic – there was the fear that we were running out, so there were huge queues of cars all over from those who are unprepared. To make a proper reserve of fuel that’s actually worth having, you’ll need to spend thousands, which is a huge ask – and that’s even before you get to the weight of carrying it.

Fuel is heavy, and you’ll need to have gallons of it to keep a generator going. How are you going to transport that in jerry cans if you’re bugging out? Unless you have a vehicle, which will eat away at the fuel anyway, it’s going to be near impossible.

A more effective fuel, but with larger initial outlay is a wood powered generator. You don’t need to lug fuel around, you simply have to have a store of wood. It requires more maintenance than a petrol or diesel generator but is much more sustainable in a grid down situation where access to fuel might be limited or non-existent.

If you’re looking for an eco solution for your generator, why not consider a generator that charges on solar power for a lean, green, electric making machine. However, this is more like a huge power bank rather than something that can power a fridge for days on end. 

Has To Be Kept Outside

Due to the transportation and fuel issues, generators are only really suitable for those who are bugging in, or staying in one place. However, if you are stuck inside, then you also can’t use the generator, as you’ll risk carbon monoxide poisoning.

After everything you’ve been through, and are going to experience, this is the last thing you need to deal with. What’s more, the generator will have to remain within an extension cord’s length to your property so it can be used, and if you’re inside, this isn’t a proximity you will feel comfortable with.

What’s more, if you are leaving such a useful and expensive piece of kit outside, then due to the noise your neighbours are likely to know you have it and could steal if more easily if outdoors. 

It’s Noisy

As you can expect, masses of fuel combusting inside of a metal box isn’t the quietest thing on the planet. This is something you simply cannot risk when SHTF, as the noise can attract others to your party, and then you have another risk to deal with, especially if you’re using it at night.

Even if they aren’t looking to hurt you, other survivors may want to use the fuel to their advantage – to cook their food, dry their clothes or just heat their home.

It’s a dog eat dog world when SHTF, and you need to preserve everything as well as you can so if you can choose a quiet generator, only use it when you know nobody else is around, and if all else fails make sure it is muffled appropriately without risking safety.

Summary

When SHTF, it’s almost a guarantee that the electrical grid will go down, leaving you out of luck. Your food will perish, your heating water will be cold, and you’ll have to live a primitive lifestyle – unless you have a generator.

A primitive lifestyle isn’t the worst situation to be in, it’s more of an inconvenience that you’ll have to adapt to.

In regards to the cost of a petrol generator, admittedly it’s cheaper than a permanent one, but the chances of having one of these is very slim – you will have to consider the other costs, especially the transportation, and the small matter of not poisoning yourself and everyone else in your party.