10 questions to ask when hiring a generator

If you're considering generator hire for your work site or residential use, there's a lot you need to think about when choosing the right model for your needs. As well as making sure it satisfies your power requirements, you should also check what features and options are available for the best experience.

Here are 10 basic questions to ask yourself when hiring generators in Australia.

What size generator do you need?

The most important consideration is the size of generator you need in terms of power. Generators are available for all power requirements, from a 1kVA small diesel generator to large shipping container-style generators producing as much as 1400kVA.

If you don't know what size you need, your generator hire company can calculate it for you, if you provide the details of your power requirements. This needs to include starting power as well as running power and the number of systems that will be running at the same time.

Do you want a stationary or portable generator?

Portable generators (1-10kVA) are compact and lightweight, and suitable for most small to medium power applications. Depending on their size, they come in briefcase, rollframe and trailer-mounted types for ease of movement.

Larger generators are skid-mounted and may need to be moved by tilt tray or crane truck, depending on access at your site.

What type of power do you need?

If you're hiring a generator for home use, you probably need single phase power to run your appliances and home electronics. Industrial sites with heavier load requirements typically use three phase power. Make sure you know which one you need.

How many hours will it operate per day?

It's not just the fuel efficiency you should be checking, but also the fuel tank capacity. If you want your generator to run for many hours each day without refuelling, you'll need a model with a large tank.

Do you need a WorkCover approved generator?

If you're hiring a generator for a work site, you need to make sure it meets WorkCover safety standards. Ask your supplier about safety features such as circuit breakers, earth leakage switches and waterproof outlets.

Is noise a factor?

Silenced generators feature super-sound-reduced canopies for quiet and efficient operation. This can be ideal for keeping the peace in residential neighbourhoods and avoiding noise complaints.

Do you want any advanced features?

Once you've taken care of the essentials, you can compare features such as key-start, remote start or automatic startup when mains power goes out for greater convenience.

Do you need a distribution board?

If the generator won't be hard-wired, you'll need a distribution board. Your supplier will need to know how many outlets you need and what configurations.

Do you need onsite re-fuelling?

If you're too busy to handle refuelling yourself, your generator hire firm may offer on-site refuelling to help you maintain uninterrupted power. Generators are supplied fully fuelled.

What accessories do you need?

Make sure you've got everything you need by talking to your supplier about cable covers, extension leads, load banks, switchboards and other generator accessories.

Talk to the generator specialists

Coates has the largest fleet of generators for hire in Australia. We offer portable, silenced and skid-mounted generators from 1-1400kVA. If you need a diesel generator for rent, find your nearest Coates branch.