Emergency Generator Buying Guide 2024

The market for industrial generators alone was worth almost $20 billion in 2023. Strong growth in the industrial and residential markets shows the number of people looking to buy a generator.

An emergency generator is becoming increasingly important. Storms, wildfires, severe weather, and other natural disasters seem to be more and more frequent. Aging energy infrastructure in the U.S. will continue to cause problems.

A backup power source is essential for your home, business, or industrial site. Looking at all the types of generators available can leave you wondering which one to choose.

Learn more about some of the top generator brands and how to pick a generator that meets your needs.

Generac

Generac is a leading brand for residential and industrial generators. The company was founded in 1959 and has its headquarters in Waukesha, Wisconsin. Whether you’re looking for a portable generator or a hardwired one, Generac has highly-rated models available.

Generac Portable Generators

Generac has mobile power solutions for consumers, businesses, and industrial applications. Portable generators run on diesel or gasoline.

Generac has developed a line of battery energy storage solutions that work with diesel generators. These hybrid systems can power varying load requirements.

They have more efficient fuel consumption and fewer emissions. Reducing emissions is important for compliance with EPA regulations.

Generac Standby Generators

Generac standby generators can run on natural gas or liquid propane. You need to choose one or the other when you install the system. Output ranges from 7.5 kW to power home essentials to 150 kW for commercial applications.

Generac industrial generators run on natural gas or diesel. The company also offers bi-fuel generators that can run on both types of fuel. If natural gas isn’t available, the generator can run on diesel.

Natural gas generators can provide up to 1,000 kW. Diesel generators can supply up to 2,000 kW.

Kohler

Kohler offers a range of residential and industrial generators. The company has been manufacturing generators since 1920 and has its headquarters in Kohler, Wisconsin.

Kohler products are known for their reliability and longevity. The company emphasizes the quiet operation of its residential standby generators. Standby generators run on natural gas or liquid propane.

Diesel, natural gas, and liquid propane fuels are options for Kohler industrial generators. Their generators meet U.S. EPA standards for stationary emergency power. The most powerful models provide more than 2,000 kW.

Caterpillar

Caterpillar is a top name in commercial and industrial generators. The company, which is now headquartered in Irving, Texas,  has been designing and producing generators since the 1930s.

Caterpillar generators are designed for high efficiency and optimized fuel consumption. They’re durable and long-lasting. They meet global emissions standards.

Caterpillar offers stationary and mobile generator sets. They run on diesel or natural gas. Cat power systems are available with 5 kW to more than 5,000 kW.

You can configure the generator set to meet your needs no matter how large or small the application.

Honda

Honda is a well-known and trusted name for generators. Honda was founded in 1948 and has its headquarters in Tokyo, Japan. Honda generators have a reputation for fuel efficiency and quiet operation.

Honda focuses on portable generators. Honda generators can power a home or business.

The economical EG series features quiet four-stroke engines with a long run time. The EM Deluxe offers more features, like electric and remote start. Deluxe generators have wide handles and wheels for easier transportation.

Honda has a line of Super Quiet generators. They’re a quieter choice that doesn’t compromise on quality.

Choosing the Right Emergency Generator

You have several factors to consider when choosing an emergency generator. The first major consideration is whether you need a residential or industrial generator.

Residential demands aren’t the same as industrial. You want a generator designed for your application.

Total Power Required

For residential, commercial, or industrial applications, you need to know your power requirements. You want a generator that will power your equipment, but you don’t want to pay for more power than you need.

To calculate the power your generator will need, you need to know:

• Power consumption when the equipment is running
• Power consumption at start-up

The generator should be able to provide the peak power consumed by all the equipment that will start at the same time. You should add a safety factor into your calculations for additional security.

Type of Fuel

Different types of generators will have different fuel options. For compact generators with lower power output, gasoline is a possibility. Gasoline is readily available, but it’s less efficient than other fuel sources.

Diesel is very efficient and widely available. Diesel engines are reliable and have a long lifespan. You must take special precautions when storing diesel to prevent it from degrading.

Natural gas has lower emissions than diesel or propane. It’s convenient if your site already has gas lines because the generator can connect directly.

Propane is less efficient than diesel or natural gas. However, it burns cleaner than diesel. It won’t degrade over time, which is important for an emergency generator.

Portable vs. Stationary

Portable and stationary generators have pros and cons depending on what you need.

The smallest generators are portable. A portable generator gives you flexibility. You can change your mind about the best location and simply move the generator.

Portable generators can be louder than standby generators, though. They’re designed for short-term use. Many homeowners choose a portable generator because it’s less expensive than a stationary generator.

Stationary generators can handle industrial applications. They can power a home during longer power outages. They start automatically when the power goes out, which is simpler for the operator.

Find Your Next Emergency Generator

An emergency generator gives you peace of mind. Choosing a brand like Generac, Kohler, or Caterpillar gives you assurance about quality. To find the right model, factors like how much power you’ll need and the fuel source are important considerations.

Swift Equipment Solutions offers a robust selection of new and refurbished industrial generators. We’re committed to ensuring that all used generators we sell are in like-new condition. You can buy from us with confidence.

Contact Swift Equipment Solutions today for the most up-to-date list of our generator inventory, and let our experienced staff help you find the right emergency generator at the right price.