With so many options it can seem very confusing. How do you choose the right generator for your needs? Do I need an inverter generator? 3 phase generator? How many kVA?
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Have no fear! This helpful guide is the best place to start and will give you a simple overview of the most important things to consider when purchasing a generator. Now lets get cracking!
Its useful to put generators into a few categories:
Recreational These generators are the lightest, quietest and most efficient models around. They are designed to be super portable and convenient. They are popular for recreational activities such as camping and caravanning. But many people use them for outdoor events, commercial and backup purposes too. These range from 1 6kVA in size.
Trade/Backup These models are bigger, heavier and louder than recreational types. They are also available in a much greater range of sizes. They typically have an open, roll frame design. They are available with a wide variety of features including inverter models, different start options and petrol or diesel powered units. These range from about 2.8 20 kVA.
Stationary These are large units for heavy commercial/backup usage. They are diesel powered and available in single, 2 phase and 3 phase options. They are designed to run for extended periods of time and provide as much power as is required, even for large scale industrial or agricultural operations. Smaller stationary models are also popular for home and business backup. These start at about 9kVA.
Inverter Inverter generators create the cleanest power available, known as pure sine wave power because of the stability of the current wave. They are the best for powering sensitive equipment such as computers. They are often lighter, quieter and more efficient than conventional (non-inverter) generators. Recreational generators are nearly always inverters, and trade/backup style inverters are also available.
AVR An Automatic Voltage Regulator prevents spikes in voltage and is another way of protecting your appliances. They are used on trade/backup and stationary generators.
3 phase 3 phase power is used to power some buildings as well as larger equipment. These are used for commercial and backup purposes. Stationary generators are often 3 phase. If you want to power your home or worksite and you arent sure whether you need 3 phase power, it is best to consult an electrician (this is recommended if you want to power a building in any case).
Petrol powered All inverters and many trade/backup generators are petrol powered. They are generally cheaper, lighter and quieter as well as being available in a much larger range of models.
Diesel powered Available in trade/backup models and all stationary units. Diesel engines are more efficient and reliable, so are best suited for long operation.
Tractor pack PTO driven generators that are popular on farm sites. Powered by tractors they are a convenient solution to transport and use in rural areas.
Welder generators A generator combined with a welding unit in a single frame. It can be used for either purpose.
How to choose the right size generator is the most common question people ask, follow these steps and you will get it right.
Simply determine all of the appliances you would like to use at the same time.
This involves adding up all of the power consumption figures for your appliances. This information can be found on a data plate, or in a manual. This information is usually in watts, and if it is in amps it is best to convert it to watts for ease of choosing the right generator.
It is crucial to get the starting and running power requirement for each appliance!
Most appliances with electric motors or compressors require more power to start than to run. For some appliances this can be 3 or 4 times the running watts. Your generator needs to be able to start your appliances as well as run them. Make sure you find out the starting watts. This information is sometimes found on data plates and manuals, but often requires contacting the manufacturer/supplier or using a watt meter. Another option is giving the size of the motor to a generator specialist.
Generator sizes are given in kVA (kilo-voltamps), and this must be converted into watts so you know which appliances you can power.
Multiply kVA by 0.8 (this is known as the power factor) to obtain the watts produced by the generator.
e.g. 10kVA x 0.8 = 8kW (kilowatts), or watts
This is the rated power output for the generator.
Generators will be able to provide more power than this for a short period of time (this is known as the maximum output). How much depends on the engine and the alternator, a good rule of thumb is to treat the kVA given in the size as the maximum kW, so a 10kVA unit is likely to be able to produce 10,000 watts for a short time. It is not recommended to run a generator at this level for more than a few seconds, just long enough to start appliances. If it needs to run at its maximum level for longer than this, then you need a bigger unit. You will risk damaging the engine and voiding warranty if you overload your generator.
Hint: You may find that you dont need to start all of your appliances at the same time, or that you can turn some off while starting others, allowing you to use a smaller size of generator. For example, you may leave other appliances off while starting an air conditioner or compressor.
Stationary generators are rated for prime power or standby power. Prime power is the amount of output the unit can handle continuously, for extended periods, it is also known as the continuous rating. Standby power is for shorter intervals, typically when used for backup. The prime power capability of a given unit will be lower than the standby power. It is recommended that prime power units have high quality, durable engines designed to handle heavy loads. To determine the best unit for your application it is best to speak to a large generator specialist.
Now that you know about the different kinds of generator out there, and how to size it correctly you should have a pretty good idea of what you are looking for. Below are some additional features and components to consider when making the choice.
Starter type Trade/backup generators include models with electric, recoil or dual starter systems. An electric starter increases convenience, but you also need a charged battery (the battery will come with the generator). A dual system allows you to use either. There are also remote start options that can be wired or wireless.
Portability Most generators, other than the smallest models, are too heavy too easily carry around. Look for models that are equipped with wheel kits and lifting bars to make moving them easier.
Warranty and reliability A generator is no good if it cant produce power so it makes sense to go with as reliable an option as you can. There are many brands of generator out there, but if you look for a reputable brand that uses premium components then you are less likely to encounter problems. A local brand that can be contacted easily and will promptly follow through on warranty claims is ideal. Welling & Crossley is an Australian company with branches in every state. Other reputable brands will also have Australian branches for easy communication.
Parts and service Being a piece of machinery a generator requires servicing and sometimes replacement parts. At Welling and Crossley we have hundreds of dealers and service agents nationwide.
Noise level Noise is often a consideration depending on your application. Recreational generators are the quietest. Stationary generators are loud and often have canopies to muffle and protect the unit.
Transfer switch A transfer switch for a generator is used when the unit is providing back up power to a building. It allows for the buildings circuits to be powered as normal, and therefore does not require additional extension cords running to appliances in the building. There are two kinds, an automatic transfer switch (ATS) and a manual transfer switch. An ATS is used in conjunction with a remote start generator and will automatically start the generator and power the building if the other power source is lost. A manual switch requires an operator to start the generator, plug it into the building and then flip switches on the switchboard to transfer power. A licensed electrician must install any transfer switch for a backup system and should be consulted when considering the design of the system.
RCD outlets Residual Current Device designed to trip the circuit. This increases safety for users and appliances and are often compulsory on trade and work sites.
Fuel tanks and efficiency Generators come with a variety of fuel tank sizes. Inverter generators are more efficient than conventional types. Diesel powered units are more efficient than petrol powered models. Trade/backup generators may have long range fuel tanks added.
Mine spec These models are designed to meet mine site safety specifications and come with features such as RCD outlets, fire extinguisher and an emergency stop.
We hope this guide will be useful in helping you to choose the right generator for your needs. It gives you an introduction to the all of the key concepts. We look in more depth at certain topics in other articles and videos so please have a look at those too.
Inconveniences from power outages can be severe, especially if you depend on energy for important duties. A reliable generator is a crucial piece of equipment, whether its used to power a remote construction site during a storm or to keep the lights on at home. SparkGenerators specializes in offering top-notch generators to suit all of your power requirements.
As was already noted, generators are a necessary component of contemporary living. In times of blackouts or in places without access to the electrical grid, they offer backup power. Generators can be utilized for outdoor activities or as a source of energy independence in addition to offering safety and comfort during crises.At
We, SparkGenerators, have extensive knowledge of the generator market. We take great pleasure in our knowledge and dedication to customer satisfaction. We offer a wide selection of generators from the leading companies in the sector and can offer professional guidance on picking the ideal generator for your needs.
In this buying guide, well give you a thorough rundown of all the important things to take into account when selecting a generator, such as power output, fuel type, runtime, mobility, and noise level. We will also discuss the various generator kinds that are available, including diesel generators, inverter generators, standby generators, and portable generators. By the end of this article, you will know exactly how to select the best generator for your requirements and feel confident about your choice.
At SparkGenerators, we are focused on providing our clients the best generators possible along with top-notch customer support. We are here to assist you at every stage of the process since we recognize that choosing the best generator might be a difficult undertaking. Now lets get started on the important aspects to take into account while choosing a generator!
One of the key elements to take into account when choosing a generator is its power output. The kinds of tools and appliances that the generator can power will depend on its power output, which is expressed in watts.
Explanation of Wattage Requirements for Different Applications
Its important to understand the wattage needs of the items and appliances youll be using before choosing a generator. While some items, like air compressors and welders, require significantly higher wattages, others, like refrigerators and lights, require relatively low wattages.
Here are a few instances of common wattage needs for various applications:
Refrigerator: 600-800 watts
Microwave: 1,000-1,200 watts
Television: 200-400 watts
Air conditioner: 1,500-3,500 watts
Circular saw: 1,500-2,500 watts
Air compressor: 1,000-6,000 watts
Welder: 2,500-10,000 watts
By adding up the wattage requirements of the appliances and tools you will be powering, you can determine the minimum power output you will need from your generator.
Little portable generators and big backup generators are only two examples of the various sizes of generators. The maximum wattage production and runtime of the generator are governed by its size. A short comparison of the various sizes is shown below:
Big portable generators are perfect for powering heavy equipment and appliances on construction sites as well as providing emergency backup power for residential residences. These generators normally produce 8,00012,000 watts of power.
Its crucial to choose a generator that will be both powerful enough to meet your needs and portable enough to satisfy those needs. To fulfill all of your power needs, SparkGenerators offers a broad range of generator sizes.
The fuel type of a generator is another important factor to consider when selecting a generator. Different fuel types have their own pros and cons, and the choice of fuel type will depend on your specific needs and preferences.
Its crucial to think about fuel usage and cost while choosing a generator. The amount of gasoline used by a generator will influence how long it can operate on a single tank, and the price of fuel will impact the generators long-term operating costs.
For various fuel kinds, below are some rough estimations of fuel usage and price per hour in euros:
Gasoline: 1.9-3.8 euros per hour, with a consumption of 1.9-3.8 liters per hour
Diesel: 2.9-4.8 euros per hour, with a consumption of 1.1-2.3 liters per hour
Propane: 1.9-2.9 euros per hour, with a consumption of 0.5-1 liter per hour
Natural gas: 0.07-0.14 euros per hour, with a consumption of 5.6-11.2 cubic meters per hour
At SparkGenerators, we offer generators that run on all four of these fuel types, so you can choose the option that works best for you. We can also provide guidance on fuel consumption and cost to help you make an informed decision.
One of the key considerations when choosing a generator is whether you need a 1 phase or 3 phase generator. This is determined by the type of equipment you need to power, as well as the power requirements of that equipment.
A 1 phase generator is designed to provide power to equipment that requires a single-phase power supply. This includes most household appliances, as well as many small business applications. 1 phase generators are typically less expensive and easier to use than 3 phase generators, making them a popular choice for residential and small business applications.
A 3 phase generator, on the other hand, is designed to provide power to equipment that requires a three-phase power supply. This includes larger industrial equipment, such as motors, pumps, and compressors. 3 phase generators are typically more expensive and require more expertise to operate than 1 phase generators, but they are essential for powering larger equipment and industrial applications.
When choosing between a 1 phase and 3 phase generator, its important to consider the specific power requirements of your equipment, as well as the available power supply at your location. Additionally, if you plan to use a generator for both residential and industrial applications, it may be worth considering a dual voltage generator that can switch between 1 phase and 3 phase power supplies.
When selecting a generator, runtime and fuel economy are crucial factors to take into account because they affect how long the generator can operate on a single tank of fuel and how much gasoline it will use. What you need to know is as follows:
Discussion of the Relationship Between Runtime and Fuel Efficiency
Fuel efficiency and runtime are closely related. A generator will often run longer on a single tank of gasoline the more fuel-efficient it is. However, other elements including the generators power output, the load it is powering, and the fuel it uses also have an impact on runtime and fuel economy.
For instance, a smaller generator might be more fuel-efficient than a larger one, but because of its smaller fuel tank, it might also have a low lifespan. Similar to this, a generator operating at half load will use less fuel than one operating at full load, but it will run for a longer period of time.Explanation of How to Calculate Runtime and Fuel Consumption
You must know the generators fuel consumption rate and the capacity of its fuel tank in order to compute runtime and fuel consumption. Here is how you do it:
Fuel consumption rate: This is the amount of fuel the generator consumes per hour of operation. It is usually measured in liters or cubic meters per hour. To calculate fuel consumption rate, divide the generators fuel consumption by its power output.
Fuel tank size: This is the size of the generators fuel tank, usually measured in liters or cubic meters.
Once you have these figures, you can calculate runtime and fuel consumption as follows:
Runtime: To calculate runtime, divide the size of the generators fuel tank by its fuel consumption rate. For example, if a generator has a 20-liter fuel tank and a fuel consumption rate of 2 liters per hour, its runtime will be 10 hours.
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Fuel consumption: To calculate fuel consumption, multiply the generators fuel consumption rate by the number of hours it will be running. For example, if a generator has a fuel consumption rate of 2 liters per hour and will be running for 10 hours, it will consume 20 liters of fuel.
At SparkGenerators, we offer a range of fuel-efficient generators with different runtime and fuel consumption rates to suit your needs. We can also provide guidance on how to calculate runtime and fuel consumption so you can make an informed decision.
Portability and mobility are important considerations when choosing a generator, as they determine how easy it is to move the generator from one location to another. Heres what you need to know:
The importance of portability depends on the intended use of the generator. If you need a generator for outdoor activities such as camping or tailgating, youll want a generator that is lightweight and easy to transport. If you need a generator for home backup power, you may not need it to be as portable, but youll still want it to be easy to move around in case of an emergency.
Comparison of Different Types of Generators in Terms of Weight and Size
Generators come in a range of sizes and weights, from small, portable models to large, heavy-duty ones. Here are the main types of generators and their average weight and size:
Portable generators: These are the most common type of generator, and they are designed to be lightweight and easy to move. They typically weigh between 20-50 kg and are compact enough to fit in the trunk of a car.
Inverter generators: These are a type of portable generator that are designed to be even more lightweight and compact than traditional portable generators. They typically weigh between 10-20 kg and are ideal for outdoor activities.
Home standby generators: These are larger, more powerful generators that are designed to provide backup power for your home during a power outage. They are typically installed on a concrete pad outside your home and are not meant to be moved. They can weigh anywhere from 200- kg.
Industrial generators: These are heavy-duty generators that are designed for commercial or industrial use. They are typically mounted on a trailer or skid and can weigh several thousand kilograms.
At SparkGenerators, we offer a range of generators with different weights and sizes to suit your needs. Whether you need a portable generator for outdoor activities or a standby generator for your home, we can help you find the right generator for your needs.
The noise level of a generator is an important consideration, especially if you plan to use it in residential areas or for camping trips. Heres what you need to know:
Explanation of the Importance of Noise Level for Residential and Camping Applications
Generators can be noisy, and this can be a problem if you plan to use it in a residential area or for camping trips. Loud generators can disturb your neighbors or fellow campers, and they can even violate noise regulations in some areas. Its important to consider the noise level of the generator before making a purchase.
Comparison of Different Generators Noise Levels
Generators are rated in decibels (dB), and the lower the decibel rating, the quieter the generator. Here are some typical noise levels for different types of generators:
Portable generators: These generators typically have a noise level of around 60-80 dB, which is about the same as a lawnmower. Some inverter generators can be even quieter, with noise levels as low as 50 dB.
Home standby generators: These generators are usually located outside the home, so noise is less of a concern. However, they can still produce a noise level of around 70-80 dB.
Industrial generators: These generators are designed for heavy-duty use and can produce a noise level of up to 120 dB, which is about the same as a rock concert.
At SparkGenerators, we offer a range of generators with different noise levels to suit your needs. Whether you need a quiet generator for residential or camping use or a heavy-duty generator for industrial applications, we can help you find the right generator for your needs.
Portable Generators
Portable generators are a popular choice for many people because of their versatility and convenience. Heres what you need to know:
Description of How Portable Generators Work
Portable generators work by converting mechanical energy into electrical energy. They typically have a small gasoline or diesel engine that powers an alternator, which produces AC (alternating current) electricity. The AC electricity is then converted into DC (direct current) electricity, which is stored in a battery. Portable generators can then be used to power a variety of appliances and devices.
Comparison of Different Types of Portable Generators
There are several types of portable generators, each with their own advantages and disadvantages. Heres a comparison of some of the most popular types:
Conventional portable generators: These generators are the most common type and are known for their affordability and reliability. They can provide enough power to run essential appliances and tools, but they can be quite loud and produce a lot of emissions.
Inverter portable generators: These generators are designed to be quieter and more fuel-efficient than conventional generators. They use advanced electronics to produce a clean, stable power supply that is safe for sensitive electronics like laptops and smartphones. They are more expensive than conventional generators, but their superior performance is worth the cost for many users.
Dual fuel portable generators: These generators can run on either gasoline or propane, giving you more options for fuel. Propane is often less expensive and more environmentally friendly than gasoline, and it produces fewer emissions. Dual fuel generators can be more expensive than conventional generators, but they offer added versatility and convenience.
Solar portable generators: These generators use solar panels to convert sunlight into electricity, making them a clean and renewable energy source. They are great for camping trips and other outdoor activities where a conventional generator is not practical. However, they can be expensive and may not provide enough power for all your needs.
At SparkGenerators, we offer a range of portable generators to suit your needs. Whether you need a conventional generator for emergency backup power or an inverter generator for camping and tailgating, we can help you find the right generator for your needs.
Standby Generators
Standby generators are a reliable and convenient source of backup power for your home or business. Heres what you need to know:
Description of How Standby Generators Work
Standby generators are permanently installed outside your home or business and are connected to your electrical system through an automatic transfer switch. When there is a power outage, the transfer switch automatically switches the power source from the utility grid to the standby generator, restoring power to your home or business within seconds.
Standby generators are powered by propane or natural gas, which means they can provide reliable backup power for days or even weeks in the event of an extended power outage. They are also quieter and produce fewer emissions than portable generators.
Comparison of Different Types of Standby Generators
There are several types of standby generators, each with their own advantages and disadvantages. Heres a comparison of some of the most popular types:
Air-cooled standby generators: These generators are less expensive than liquid-cooled generators and are designed for smaller homes or businesses. They are typically less powerful than liquid-cooled generators, but they are still capable of providing reliable backup power during a power outage.
Liquid-cooled standby generators: These generators are more expensive than air-cooled generators but are more powerful and can provide backup power for larger homes or businesses. They are also more durable and require less maintenance than air-cooled generators.
Whole-house standby generators: These generators are designed to provide backup power for your entire home or business, including heating and cooling systems, water heaters, and other large appliances. They are more expensive than smaller standby generators but provide complete peace of mind during a power outage.
Commercial standby generators: These generators are designed for larger businesses and can provide backup power for a variety of commercial applications. They are available in a wide range of sizes and can provide reliable backup power for extended periods of time.
At SparkGenerators, we offer a range of standby generators to suit your needs. Whether you need a small air-cooled generator for your home or a large liquid-cooled generator for your business, we can help you find the right generator for your needs.
Inverter Generators
Inverter generators are a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts, RVers, and homeowners who need a reliable and efficient source of power. Heres what you need to know:
Description of How Inverter Generators Work
Inverter generators are a type of portable generator that use advanced technology to produce clean, stable power that is safe for sensitive electronic devices. They work by using a special electronic circuit that converts the generators raw power into a high-quality AC power that is similar to the power you get from the utility grid.
Inverter generators are designed to be lightweight and compact, making them easy to transport and store. They are also more fuel-efficient than traditional generators, which means they can run for longer periods of time on a single tank of fuel.
Comparison of Different Types of Inverter Generators
There are several types of inverter generators available on the market, each with their own advantages and disadvantages. Heres a comparison of some of the most popular types:
Portable inverter generators: These generators are designed for camping, tailgating, and other outdoor activities. They are lightweight and compact, making them easy to transport, and they are also relatively quiet compared to traditional generators. Portable inverter generators are available in a range of sizes, from small 1,000-watt models to larger 4,000-watt models.
Standby inverter generators: These generators are designed to provide backup power for your home or business in the event of a power outage. They are permanently installed outside your home or business and are connected to your electrical system through an automatic transfer switch. Standby inverter generators are more expensive than portable models but provide complete peace of mind during a power outage.
Hybrid inverter generators: These generators are a combination of portable and standby models. They are designed to be portable but can also be connected to your homes electrical system through a transfer switch. Hybrid inverter generators are a versatile option that can be used for camping, tailgating, or as a backup power source for your home.
At SparkGenerators, we offer a range of inverter generators to suit your needs. Whether you need a small portable inverter generator for your next camping trip or a standby inverter generator to provide backup power for your home, we can help you find the right generator for your needs.
Diesel Generators
Diesel generators are a popular choice for many applications due to their durability and fuel efficiency. Heres what you need to know:
Description of How Diesel Generators Work
Diesel generators use a diesel engine to convert fuel into mechanical energy, which is then converted into electrical energy through an alternator. Diesel generators are typically more fuel-efficient than gasoline generators, and they are also known for their durability and longevity.
Diesel generators are often used as backup power sources for hospitals, data centers, and other critical facilities. They are also commonly used in the construction and mining industries, as well as for agricultural and industrial applications.
Comparison of Different Types of Diesel Generators
There are several types of diesel generators available on the market, each with their own advantages and disadvantages. Heres a comparison of some of the most popular types:
Portable diesel generators: These generators are designed for outdoor activities, camping, and other applications where a reliable source of power is needed. They are usually compact and lightweight, making them easy to transport, and they can be used for both residential and commercial applications.
Standby diesel generators: These generators are designed to provide backup power for homes, businesses, and critical facilities in the event of a power outage. They are permanently installed outside the building and connected to the electrical system through an automatic transfer switch. Standby diesel generators are more expensive than portable models but provide complete peace of mind during a power outage.
Industrial diesel generators: These generators are designed for heavy-duty industrial applications, such as mining, oil and gas, and construction. They are typically larger and more powerful than portable and standby models and can provide power for extended periods of time.
At SparkGenerators, we offer a range of diesel generators to suit your needs. Whether you need a small portable diesel generator for your next camping trip or a large industrial diesel generator for your construction site, we can help you find the right generator for your needs.
Choosing the right generator for your needs is crucial to ensure that you have a reliable and efficient source of power. Here are some key factors to consider:
Assessment of Your Power Requirements
The first step in choosing the right generator is to assess your power requirements. Determine the total wattage of the appliances, tools, or equipment that you need to power simultaneously. Make sure to choose a generator that can handle your peak power needs without overloading.
Determination of Your Fuel Preference
Decide on your preferred fuel type based on your specific needs and budget. Gasoline is a popular choice for portable generators because of its availability and ease of use. Diesel generators are more fuel-efficient and can run for longer periods of time, making them a great choice for backup power and industrial applications. Propane and natural gas generators are also available and can provide a more cost-effective and environmentally-friendly option.
Consideration of Your Runtime Needs
Determine how long you need your generator to run on a single tank of fuel. This will depend on the amount of power you need and the frequency of refueling. Choose a generator with a fuel tank capacity and fuel efficiency that can meet your runtime needs.
Evaluation of Your Mobility Requirements
Consider where you will be using your generator and whether you need it to be portable or stationary. Portable generators are lightweight and easy to move, making them a great option for outdoor activities and job sites. Stationary generators are permanently installed and can provide backup power for your home or business.
Assessment of Your Noise Tolerance
Think about the noise level of the generator and whether it will be suitable for your application. If you plan to use the generator in a residential area or camping site, choose a model with a low noise level. Inverter generators are known for their quiet operation, while diesel generators can be noisier but provide higher power output.
By considering these factors and assessing your specific needs, you can choose the right generator that will meet your power requirements, fuel preference, runtime needs, mobility requirements, and noise tolerance. At SparkGenerators, we have a wide selection of generators to choose from and our expert team can help you find the perfect generator for your needs.
In conclusion, choosing the right generator for your needs is crucial to ensure that you have the power you need when you need it. As we have discussed in this purchasing guide, there are several factors to consider when selecting a generator. These factors include power output, fuel type, runtime and fuel efficiency, portability and mobility, noise level, and generator type.
At SparkGenerators, we are committed to providing high-quality generators that meet the needs of our customers. With our expertise in the field and our wide range of products, we can help you choose the perfect generator for your needs.Top of Form
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