Generator FAQ

Where can I take my generator for repair?
Head over to our Generator Parts and Repairs section to view different generator brands and find repair service, manuals and also DIY repair tips.

Where can I buy parts for my generator?
If you have a broken generator and looking to buy parts, visit our Generator Parts and Repairs page and find the generator brand you’re looking for and see all different parts you can buy.

Where can I find a certified authorized dealer for my generator?
It is not difficult to find a certified authorized dealer for a generator; however, this depends greatly upon your location as well. Most generator manufacturers have official stores distributed throughout the globe. You can search for authorized dealers through their website and can visit these stores for buying the machine or for any other queries related to your machine.

Similarly, in countries where generator manufacturers do not have official stores in, they have a vast network of official suppliers and dealers. These are certified and authorized retailers that offer products, warranties, and sometimes repair services as well. You can easily locate these merchants by browsing the internet.

What size of generator do I need for my home?
Generators come in a variety of power options to cater to the requirements of different customers. Generators can be used to power a small apartment as well as a big house. To ensure that your generator has appropriate output to power your house, first list down all the important appliances you wish to run. This is very important as a lower output in contrast to the requirement can be ineffective while a higher output can be costly. Once you have decided upon all the important appliances you wish to run on the generator, sum up their wattages. This will help you put in perspective the appropriate wattage you require to run all the appliances.

Most retailers would do this homework for you when you go to buy the generator. They will ask you about all the items you want to power by the generator and then suggest you an appropriate machine.

How much does it cost to install a generator?
The primary factor that dictates the installation cost for a backup power generator is its size. Small generators in the 7-10 kW range that can run a few household systems like fans, lights, and a few appliances but cannot sustain the entire household demand an installation cost of anything between USD 500 to USD 1000. Mid-size generators in the 12-20 kW range that can run household heating systems are larger and can cost over USD 1000 to install. Large units in the 22-45 kW range are stationary and are positioned permanently; installation charges for these systems can easily exceed a few thousand dollars.

How loud is a power generator?
There is an assumption about generators that they are quite loud. While power generators are indeed loud, it also depends upon the size and the model of the generator. The rapid change in technology over the past few years has enabled manufacturers to develop efficient and less-noisy generators. So, if you are concerned about the noise, you might want to survey the product line-up of the manufacturer. However, depending upon the size and power output of the machine, power generators are expected to produce noise ranging from 50db to 95dB.

How long does a generator last?
The longevity of a generator depends primarily on its operational RPM or how fast its prime shaft spins in order to generate electricity. Cheap screamer generators that run at 3600 rpm are poorly built and designed. You are lucky if you get anywhere close to 2000 hours of life out of these machines. Cheap screamers from quality manufacturers like Honda or Briggs and Stratton can last as long as 5000 hours if you take good care of them and perform regular maintenance. 1800 rpm generators are commercial grade units and can last from anywhere between 5000 hours on the cheap end to over 20000 hours.

How much does it cost to run a generator?
Generators are complicated pieces of machinery. They can be entrusted with the responsibility of supplying energy in case of power outages. To do that, multiple components work in harmony. Besides the cost of maintenance and repair of these components, if they break down, there is the cost of fuel as well. How much fuel a power generator requires depends upon two factors. These factors are; load and size. The bigger the load and size, the more fuel will be required and vice versa. Moreover, since generators do not come with catalytic converters, they are not much efficient in terms of fuel combustion or pollution.

What kind of maintenance service does a generator need?
Generators are a mechanical application of engineering and electronics. It consists of multiple components that are responsible for the smooth running of the machine. While these components are prone to wearing off with time like any other machine, a properly maintained machine will not cause you much trouble. Some of the components that require regular maintenance include;

– Oil Filter
– Air Filter
– Spark Plugs
– Battery

It is suggested that you inspect and maintain your power generator at regular intervals for efficient and smooth running. Some generator companies will also offer professional inspection and maintenance services to their customers. If your generator company provides such a service, you should opt for that.

Can I install a generator myself?
It is not a question of whether you can or cannot, but should you? And the answer is no for obvious reasons. Generators are high-wattage machines that require expert knowledge and delicacy to install. Especially when wiring the machine to the local power circuit. Therefore, it is highly recommended that you only let a professional take care of the installation process. Unlike changing car oil, installing a power generator is not something one can learn from a tutorial. It requires expertise and caution. Moreover, any alterations in the process can result in damage to the warranty.

What type of oil should I use for my generator?
Generators are mechanical devices that are driven using internal combustion engines, similar on the ones in your car or motorcycle. This means that like your car or motorcycle, it needs oil for lubrication and cooling. Maintaining your oil levels and replacing it at the proper intervals is far more important than the actual oil you use. However, your manufacturer will still have a recommended oil variant for your particular generator model. 30W oils from companies like Briggs & Stratton or Honda are perfectly suited for use in your generator. Synthetic oils are more expensive but offer better lubrication, so use the best you can afford.

How much power do I need?
How much power you require depends upon the size of the building and the number of appliances you wish to power. Manufacturers offer a larger variety in terms of models and power outputs to cater to demands ranging from houses to big offices. To understand how much power you require, it is important to first understand the purpose you will be using the power for and the appliances you will be using. The priorities of a household will differ from that of an office. Regardless, of the building, list down the appliances you wish to power. Sum up the wattage required to run them. This will help you in your buying decision. Or you can always consult your retailer for expert advice.

What is a transfer switch?
You can learn all about transfer switch and where to buy one in our What is transfer switch? article.

What’s the difference between Single and Three Phase?
Single phase and three phase refer to the supply of electricity. The single phase requires only a single conductor for the flow of electricity while the three-phase requires three. Supply from the single phase is much smaller than three-phase but is more than enough for small houses. However, for larger houses utilizing more electricity to run more appliances, three phase is required for efficient as well as the sufficient flow of electricity.

How are decibel levels calculated on generators?
Decibels of any sound are usually measured in two ways; dB(L) and dB(A). Manufacturers measure a generator’s noise in dB(A). This refers to the noise of the generator at a certain distance from the machine. The standard is set at 7 meters.

Can I use a generator during inclement weather?
Generators are designed to be used as power backup, so it doesn’t make much sense to own one that cannot be used in conditions when power outages take place, such as during storms. Most generators are well shielded from electrostatic discharge and other environmental effects. So as long as you have properly installed your system and your ground connections are in order, you will be fine. For use in cold weather, most modern generators come with fuel warming systems that allow clean and easy starts even at low temperature conditions.

How exactly does a generator work?
Generators utilize mechanical or chemical energy and use it to convert it into electrical energy. A typical fuel-powered generator uses combustion to produce mechanical force. This causes the shaft to rotate an armature. This armature spins within a magnetic field and as a result of this entire process, the current is produced.