Date 3.2.2023
Power Generator - Buyer's Guide
Do you need help with choosing the right power generator? This guide will help you choose the power generator with the right size and power for your needs.
Generator Power
When choosing a generator, the most important characteristic is the power of the generator. When choosing a power generator, you should always consider in advance what equipment the power generator will be used for. Before choosing an generator, the power (W) of the equipment to be used should be determined, usually indicated either on the nameplate or in the operating instructions. If the power of the equipment is given in horsepower, then 1 HP is 736W.
Brushed motor (example. small tablesaw or handheld powertool) requires x 1.2 times the power (W) of the tool.
Brushless motor (example. air compressor, water pump, tablesaw) requires x 2.5 times the power (W) of the tool.
| Generator Power | |
| Angle grinder 2000W (1-Phase) Brushed motor |
2000W x 1.2 = 2400W |
| Air compressor 1500W (1-Phase) Brushless motor |
1500W x 2.5 = 3750W |
| Table Saw 2800W (3-Phase) Brushless motor |
2800W x 2.5 = 7000W |
Single-Phase or Three-Phase Generator?
If the generator is only intended to operate 230V (1 phase) mains powered equipment then you do not need a 3-phase generator.
Note that in a 3-phase aggregate, the total power is divided into three phases. For example, a 6600W 3-phase aggregate will output 2200W per phase. So a 6600W 3-phase aggregate cannot be used with more than 2200W of 1-phase equipment.
Gasoline or Diesel generator?
Diesel power generator cost more to manufacture and thats why they are 30-40% more expensive than petrol aggregates. A diesel aggregate, on the other hand, consumes 20-30% less fuel, so it can become cheaper over a longer period of time, especially if the aggregate is used a lot.
In some countries diesel and petrol fuel is almost at the same price, which has reduced the demand for diesel aggregates. However, assuming that fuel prices will return to the same level at some point in the future, a diesel aggregate purchased now could be significantly cheaper in the future.
Generator Service
Like any fuel engine, an aggregate engine needs maintenance during its lifetime. You can service the aggregate yourself or at the engine manufacturer's dealership. An example of an aggregate maintenance manual:
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After first 20 hours of use
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After 50 hours of use
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After 100 hours of use
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After 300 hours of use
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Spare parts availability
Cheap power generators use almost always so-called "brandless" Chinese engines, for which spare parts can be very difficult to obtain - if at all. And if spare parts are available, but not directly from the importer's warehouse, the delivery time from China can be several months.
Power generators from top European manufacturers often use well-known engine brands such as Honda, Mitsubishi, Lombardini and Briggs & Stratton, for which spare parts are readily available both in Finland and elsewhere in Europe.
Customer Service
If you still have any questions regarding the purchase of an power generator, please feel free to contact our customer service or visit our store and we will help you choose the right power generator for you!