GENERATOR GUIDE

Key Factors and Frequently Asked Questions

 

With so much choice, choosing the right Generator for you and the application is important as you need it to cope with the demands and workload intended. To help we have put together the key factors to consider and a summary of the most "Frequently Asked Questions" to keep you informed and guide you to the best suited unit. 

If you are still unsure as to which Generator would be best suited for you then feel free to ask one of our experts via our Contact Us page. 

Seddons are - Tried. Tested. Trusted.

What Kind Of Equipment Will I Be Running?


First of all, before purchasing a generator, you will want to identify the various different tools and appliances you want to operate with a generator. Different tools require different levels of power and certain appliances will need more than stated due to start up of the motor inside. Once the motor is started the need for power is usually reduced but you will need a bigger generator because of the initial start up. Sensitive equipment such as laptops will need clean and stable electricity to power them so an AVR or Inverter technology will be needed on the generator chosen.  

What Size Of Generator Do I Need?


After knowing what kind of equipment you want to operate on a generator, making sure you get the right size is key. Not enough power and you won't be able to operate all the equipment you need to run. To determine the size of generator you will need to identify the required power for each appliance in watts, this should be on the manufacturers data plate. If you are unsure or the tool doesn't have a data plate then contact the manufacturer to get this information.

Once you have this information then add up the required Watts for each item which will be ran at the same time on the generator. If the tools or appliances have a motor then you will need to make allowances for this, you will usually need 2 - 3 times the listed wattage for the initial start up of the motor. With all this information to hand you will need to choose a generator which exceeds the number of watts you have arrived upon.

Should I Be Looking at kVA Ratings or kW Ratings?


As you start to look at generators you will notice they are will have two different ratings, kVA which stands for kilvolt-amperes and kW which stands for kilowatts. kW is the rating you want to look at predominately as this is the amount of 'actual power' which an electrical system has. It's showing you how much power is being converted to an output which can be used. kVA is the measure of 'apparent' power, it's telling you how much power is being used in the electrical system overall. Unfortunately all of this power generated isn't able to be used, which is why manufacturers will give a power factor rating to show you how efficient their units are.

You can convert kVA ratings to kW ratings and vice versa as long as you have the power factor rating of the generator. To work this out you can follow the simple formula below :
 
  • Convert kW to kVA - kW / Power Factor = kVA
  • Convert kVA to kW - kVA x Power Factor = kW
Working with the kW rating makes it a lot easier to determine which generator model would power your tools and appliances, especially as manufacturers will use Watts as the measurement of power needed.

Will I Be Running Sensitive Equipment?


Some tools and appliances will require a clean and stable form of electricity to power them, these units are classed as sensitive equipment. It's not always recommended to run sensitive equipment on a generator, before this is carried out, it is best to check with the manufacturer of the tools or appliances to see if they can recommend it or not. 

In order to have the clean and stable electrical output, your generator will need AVR or Inverter technology, this ensures that the output doesn't surge or go up and down which could damage your equipment. Currently only two of our generator manufacturers have this technology on selected models, Honda and Pramac.

What Kind Of Sockets Will I Need?


Generator sockets come in various different sizes and types dependant on the output of the generator and the voltage they are able to produce. Our range of generators vary dependant on the model so it is best practice to check what socket your tools and appliances need beforehand. The type of sockets usually found on generators are : 
 
  • 13 Amp - UK 3 Pin Plug Socket - 230V Output
  • 16 Amp  - Industrial Plug Socket - 115V, 230V or 400V Output
  • 32 Amp - Industrial Plug Socket - 115V, 230V or 400V Output
The colour of the sockets usually determines what output they are too, Yellow is 110 - 115V, Blue is 230 - 240V and Red is 400V which are only found on 3 phase generator units.

Do I Need Petrol Or Diesel?

 

A lot of the time with generators it is personal preference whether you have a petrol powered unit or a diesel powered unit. However there are certain models with specific technology that may force your hand to having one or the other, additonally some working environments will specify which type of generator you may have to have on site. If you require a large output it's likely that the generator will be a diesel unit as these are predominately larger units and generate more power.

How Long and Often Will The Generator Be Running?


Dependant on your line of work and the tools or appliances you wish to run off the generator, you may need to look for a unit with a long running tank. A Long running tank allows the generator to run for extended times without the need to be refilled. Diesel units tend to come with these fuel tanks as standard.

Will Noise Be An Issue?


In some working environments, built up areas and some leisure environments there are stipulations on how loud your equipment can be. If you are planning on using a generator in a specific place, such as for a catering van in a built up area, then we would recommend checking with the local council or whoever has the authority to give you this information before purchasing a generator. Our range of silenced generators are designed to fall below the accepted noise levels but in each area these levels can be different. 

Take A Look At Our Range of Generators

We have been supplying Generators for many years and our staff have extensive generator and replacement spare parts knowledge to help you choose the right unit for your needs. We can answer any queries you may have related to either the generator, replacement spare parts, service, repair and warranty work if required.

Since 1951 our staff have provided a first-class customer service and have been sharing their many years of product knowledge with customers - Buy your GENERATOR from Seddons. Contact Us for techincal help and assistance.


Seddons are - Tried. Tested. Trusted.