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How do I choose the right generator for my home or business?

There are so many different generator options that you can use in your home or business, it can be very confusing when making your selection. Before we dig deeper into how to choose the right generator, you need to know what different types there are:

  • Recreational – lightweight, quiet, convenient, and portable
  • Trade / backup – heavier, louder, a choice of sizes
  • Stationary – large units for heavy commercial use. Diesel powered and can run for extended periods.

Generator Sub-Categories

In addition to the various types of generators on the market, there are also sub-categories you need to take into consideration:

  • Inverter generators – ideal for powering computers and other sensitive equipment. They are light, quiet and efficient. Recreational generators are often inverters, with some trade/backup styles also offering this option 
  • Automatic Volt Regulators (AVR) – prevent spikes in voltage, protecting appliances. This is used on trade/backup and stationary generators
  • 3 Phase – used in buildings with larger equipment, ideal for commercial backup purposes. Most stationary generators are 3 phase. If you are unsure, check with your electrician before making any purchases
  • Petrol powered – recreational and most trade/backup generators are petrol powered. They are cheaper, quieter, and lighter with a wide range of models to choose from
  • Diesel powered – diesel is often used to power trade/backup and all stationary generators. They are reliable and efficient, suitable for long operation

Tips to Choosing the Right Size Generator

The first question you probably have is how to choose the right size generator to meet your power needs:

  1. Identify what you want to power
  2. Determine the maximum total power requirement of your appliances or devices. Add the power consumption up for all the appliances you want to use. You can usually find this on the data plate or in the manual. It is often shown in watts
  3. Convert the generator kVA to Watts to make sure you choose the right size. Simply multiply the kVA by 0.8 to obtain the watts produced by the generator 

Generator Features

Now that you have an idea on what size generator you need, you can take some other features into consideration:

Starter Type

Trade or backup generators usually have an electrical, recoil, or dual starter system. Electric is convenient, but you will need a charged battery to get it started. Dual systems, enable you to use either. 

Portable

If you want something you can move around your home, then smaller generators will be your best bet. Smaller generators tend to be portable. Look for models with wheel kits and lifting bars, helping to make moving easier.

Warranty

Ensure you purchase from a reputable brand that offers a good warranty on their generators, giving you peace of mind should it stop working for any reason within a short period of time.

Parts and Services

Generators can be an important piece of kit, therefore look for a generator where the parts are readily available, along with nationwide service agents, ensuring your generator runs at optimum for many years.

Noise

Noise is a serious consideration when making your generator selection. Recreational generators tend to be quiet, while stationary generators are loud, though you can purchase a canopy to muffle the sound, and protect the generator.

Efficiency

Generators all come with different sized fuel tanks, whether they take petrol or diesel. When it comes to efficiency, you will find inverter generators tend to be more efficient, as are diesel generators, which tend to be more efficient than their petrol counterparts.

Conclusion

At DKP Electrics we are always available to help you with your generator selection. We do hope you found this information useful, helping you choose the right generator for your home or business. With so many options on the market, we understand making your selection can be daunting. Follow our above recommendations to find the perfect generator for your appliances.

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