How to pick the right generator

Whether you need backup power or a generator for a jobsite, learning about the different types can help you make the smartest choice for you.

Power

If renting a power generator is on your checklist, you might be surprised to discover a wide range of options available. There is a power generator type for every application, from powering machinery for large-scale highway projects to providing peace of mind in the event of a blackout. To help guide your decision, we will cover the most common types of power generator, as well as other factors to consider when renting a power generator for your business or worksite.

The different types of power generators

All power generators provide electricity, but different capacities make some better suited to certain applications than others. Choosing the right power generator type will ensure you get the amount and duration of power you need.

Standby generator

If uninterrupted power is critical to your small commercial space or your commercial or industrial business, a standby power generator is a must. When the power goes out, standby generators can immediately turn on and feed power to your facility. For commercial facilities such as hospitals, or for schools, this kind of power generator provides critical power backup to help ensure safe conditions and reduce downtime.

Standby power generators are available ranging from 20 kVA and up and over 250 kW for commercial facilities. Runtimes depend on the power draw and the fuel tank size.

Industrial generator

Like standby power generators, industrial generators can provide robust backup power, but they can also function as the main power source for energy-hungry projects. More rugged than standby generators, they are built to withstand a variety of industrial environments, and they offer far greater capacity.

Construction site? This is the best generator

The right jobsite power generator depends on the needs of the construction crew and project. For powering tools such as compressors and grinders, a small generator will do the trick. For more demanding applications, such as powering light towers or multiple applications, a higher capacity unit like a 100 kVA industrial generator will meet your energy needs.