If you are preparing for scheduled outages, powering a job site for building projects, or powering your business during outages, a generator can be an angel. Yet with so many models, dimensions, and layouts available on the market, it can be disorienting buying a new generator. In this guide here, we give you all of the information that you will need to know prior to making your purchase.
Why in the World Would You Ever Need a Generator?
Generators provide backup or main power for a wide variety of situations. You might need one for:
- House backup during power outages
- Building construction sites without availability of mains power
- Outdoor usage such as fairs
- Rural homesteads or farms
- Operations that require constant power for servers or critical equipment
In all of these, the right generator provides stability and convenience.
What Types of Generators?
Two simple types of generators to consider:
Portable Generators
Compact, portable generators for infrequent or occasional usage. Ideal for domestic backup, caravan, campsite, or confined building purposes.
Standby (Fixed) Generators
Permanent installation, switch on automatically in case of power failure. Ideal for business offices, hospitals, data centres, and large homes.
Alternative fuels to employ:
- Petrol Generators – Perfect for light or occasional usage. Less expensive but not acceptable for regular usage.
- Diesel Generators – More power and longer lasting for extended utilization. Common in industrial and commercial settings.
- LPG Generators – Less pollution, cleaner fuel burn. Best suited for environmentally aware consumers.
Key Points to Remember
1. Power Output (Wattage)
Start with an estimate of total wattage of devices or equipment you will be operating. Buy a generator that has at least 20–30% more wattage than your estimated load to provide for spikes and safe running.
Generators are measured in kilowatts (kW) or kilovolt-amperes (kVA). About:
- Small caravan or house: 2–5 kW
- Medium caravan or site equipment: 5–10 kW
- Business or large house premises: 10–20+ kW
2. Runtime and Fuel Efficiency
Consider the runtime of the generator on a full tank. Diesel generators offer the longest runtime and least per-hour expense. Look for models with large fuel tanks, eco-modes, or automatic throttle control to ensure maximum efficiency.
3. Noise Levels
Generators are loud, especially for home use. Select models that are “silent” or “low noise,” typically in a soundproof enclosure. Be sure to check the decibel (dB) rating — less than 65 dB is quiet.
4. Portability and Size
If you need to move your generator (e.g., for festivals or mobile business), select a wheeled and handled portable model. Larger standby generators, however, will require professional setup and need to be contained in a weatherproof cabinet.
5. Automatic Start and Safety Features
Contemporary generators come with handy features such as:
- Automatic transfer switch (ATS)
- Low oil shut-off
- Overload protection
- Digital display panels
- Remote start
These products facilitate easier use and prevent the unit from being damaged.
Maintenance and Servicing
All generators require some maintenance — particularly filters, diesel sets. Always stick to the manufacturer’s servicing regime, and keep a little oil, filters, and fuel in good nick. Service contracts can be purchased from most UK dealers for peace of mind.
Tips on the Eve of Purchase
- Buy from a reputable UK dealer who offers warranty and post-purchase assistance.
- Always make sure your generator meets UK safety standards.
- If unsure about size, take the recommendation of a professional electrician or generator technician.
Buy a new generator and it is not just a matter of purchasing equipment — it’s an investment in having electricity whenever and wherever you need it. By considering your use, power requirements, and locality, you’ll be able to choose a long-lasting generator that will meet your requirements for many years to come.