Tools and Tips > Choosing the Right Generator

A generator is an expensive device, and you need to make sure that you buy the right one! Before making your final decision, there are a few important questions that you need to answer:

What are your Power Needs?

• For an office or at home, a stationary generator might be perfect. But if you are in the construction industry, or need a standby power source when camping or engaging in outdoor activities, you might want to consider a portable generator.
• Normally it is not cost effective to use a generator to run all the electrical equipment in your office, business or home when there is a power outage. Therefore, decide upfront which appliances and devices are most important, and select the capacity of your generator accordingly.
• Remember that some appliances initially require much more power to get started than others, and that the power needed may drop substantially once they are up and running. Typical examples are air conditioners and fridges.
• To ensure that your generator lasts and to minimise maintenance costs, keep in mind that the generator should not operate at more than 80% of its load capacity for a lengthy period. It should never be operated at its maximum power output for more than 30 minutes.
• It is advisable to utilise the konwledge and expertise of a qualified electrician to assist you in choosing the best generator for your requirements. He will be able to perform a load test to determine the required kVA rating.

Where will the Generator be Located?

• Position your generator as close as possible to the distribution board. Cables are expensive, and the length required will have a significant effect on your installation costs.
• A generator needs to be accessible for servicing and maintenance. Make sure that there is enough open space around it (at least a meter on each side).
• Employees and neighbours will be affected by a noisy generator. Make sure that the generator is loacated far enough from the office, or the neighbour's fence! Or, better yet, buy a silent generator!
• As a generator exempts hazardous fumes,it should either be installed outdoors, or in a room with sufficient ventilation. If installed outdoors, it should be done underneath a roof.
• Ample airflow is essential around the generator, to ensure that it does not overheat. Therefore enough space between the generator and roof is important if the generator is installed outdoors, while an indoor generator needs a room with sufficient ventilation.

After Sales Service

• A generator needs to be serviced regularly to ensure that it performs optimally throughout its lifespan. The first service should occur after 50 hours' running time and thereafter at regular 100 hour intervals.
• Services should be done by a qualified technician only, to ensure the validity of your warranty.
• When buying a generator, make sure that the warranty does not have loopholes that will leave you in dire straits when something goes wrong.
• Make sure that spares for the model that you're buying are readily available, and that there are technicians with appropriate qualifications to fit these parts.