Best Generator Brands

Russ says:

15 October 2018

I have a CNC router that has a 7.5kw 3 phase spindle, it needs 380 to 415V 3 phase input to a VFD inverter. I can power the rest of the machine off my 240V single phase mains power so I only need a generator to power the spindle. I am wondering if a 3 phase 8kva diesel generator would handle this.

My Generator Response
Hi Russ, I think it would depend on what the input power requirement is of the VFD... but the VFD should allow you to use less power the use the CNC machine, meaning an 8kva generator should be fine. Just remember that when using single phase power from a three phase generator, the single phase outlet produces one third of the generator's power capacity. Thanks.

Sam says:

26 July 2018

Hi I have been looking for a good generator between 4kw to 6kw... Honda and Yamaha seems expensive for me...I am looking at pramac px8000.. How good is this generator and the durability?

My Generator Response
Hi Sam, in Australia we don't have the Pramac PX8000 model, but we do have the Pramac ES5000 and ES8000 models which are very comparable: Fitted with AVR, wheel & handle kit, powered by Honda engines: Pramac Honda 5kVA Petrol AVR Generator Pramac Honda 7.2kVA Petrol AVR Generator In each case, they are a cheaper option than Honda or Yamaha branded equivalents, but you are still getting a very high quality genset. We find these models are popular for people requiring a generator for home back up, or for small rural requirements. Thank you

Gary says:

10 December 2017

Gday, major storms have left us without power at my workshop, last time it took 4 days to restore, so time to invest in backup i think. I keep meat along with other overflow from home fridge/freezer in it. How much power do i need to run a 420lt Mitsubishi frost free fridge (no fancy electronics on it etc), a low wattage LED light or two and a fan maybe at times? Do I need pure sine wave if I run a TV at times? Are the Briggs&Straton models for worksites suitable, assuming the right output current?

My Generator Response
Hi Gary, thanks for your question. For your described application, we would recommend a small portable inverter generator around 2000-3000 watts in size. This will run your fridge-freezer, some lights, fans and TV during a mains power outage. An inverter style generator will produce pure sine wave power making it suitable to run electronic devices such as TV's laptops, mobile phones, tablets etc. I would recommend you consider the following popular portable home backup inverter generator models: Cromtech 2400w Inverter Generator - a budget option that is very compelling in terms of price. Yamaha 2400w Inverter Generator - premium option, extremely quiet. Yamaha 2800w Inverter Generator - also a premium option, has a long range fuel tank for extended run time.

Diana Hidalgo says:

28 July 2017

I am looking for an electric generator I can use for my business, let's say for events I would like a 30kVA. Which brand would be better for me?

My Generator Response
Hi Diana, We are here to help. First of all, we will need to know if you have any three phase equipment that needs to be run. Usually, small to medium size events will have some three phase apparatus. If you are unsure, you can contact your electrician to determine what type of generator will be most suitable. Alternatively, you can give us a call on 1300 400 122 and we can advise, or get you in contact with one of our recommended electrical contractors in your area. We have a range of Single Phase Stationary Generators and Three Phase Stationary Generators that would be suitable for your application. The Pramac 32kVA Three Phase Perkins Diesel Generator is a popular model for prime power commercial applications. The GSW30P features a fully bunded base, lockable control panel, emergency stop and fully integrated auto start control panel. Complete with full safety features including alarm and shutdown for low oil, overheating and voltage control protection, the unit is fully pre-delivered and tested in Australia and backed by National service network. Hopefully this information was helpful. Regards Paul

B ryan Clarke says:

17 June 2017

Hi ,I have been looking at the GTO40 4kva Promac Pure sign wave Gen as it seemed to fit our backup power needs. All the web pages I have been on I am unable to find a single review which seems a little odd to me , wondering if you had any feedback please ? as they a well priced. Regards Bryan

My Generator Response
Hi Bryan, thanks for your question. We don't stock 'Promac' Generators (not to be confused with Pramac Generators! which we do stock) nor have we tested them, so unfortunately can't provide any in-depth reviews or advice relating to the Promac brand and their specific models. However, I would recommend you consider the following before making your decision: - what kind of warranty do they offer? (read the warranty statement particulars) - do they have a national service agent support network? I.e. if you need your generator serviced/repaired; is there a local agent familiar the Promac range? - similarly, if you require spare parts; are they easily available or difficult to source? Would you have to wait prolonged periods for a spare part? Overall, when it comes to generators, the old adage of 'you get what you pay for' mostly holds true and from our experience a 'Premium' brand is often the best bet, with some 'budget' brands suitable for limited applications. To delve further into this topic, we have a brief article here: Premium Generators vs. Budget Generators Many thanks.

I Tan says:

8 February 2017

Hello Lachlan, I am looking at various options to power a mobile coffee van. I have decided i need a generator between 5.5KVA to 7 KVA. Would an AVR generator such as the Yamaha EF7200E produce a clean enough wave to power the likes of a coffee machine, fridges and grinders. Or would you deem it necessary to go down the route of the more expensive Inverter generators? Thank you.

My Generator Response
Hi there, for mobile coffee/food van operation we always recommend an inverter generator. They are quiet, fuel efficient and you will not damage any appliances that have in-built electronics. The Yamaha EF7200E is a fantastic generator, but it is primarily designed for home backup power, or certain trade/farm applications. Not for your type of application. Some mobile catering businesses will use an AVR or conventional generator and ensure minimum loads are applied at any one time to reduce any voltage surges that may cause appliance damage, but I would not recommend that. I would suggest you opt for an inverter generator, even though it is likely to be more expensive as you pointed out. Many thanks.

Gene says:

13 December 2016

Hi Lachlan, I'm trying to narrow down a list of brands capable of providing a reliable unit for the following business application: 240VAC System consists of a geophysical winch with electric line to power downhole logging tools, system acquisition system laptop. Normal recommendation from geophysical manufacturer is a 6 kW generator at sea level but considering the work will be conducted at an altitude of 4600 masl they are recommending to increase to a 8kW generator to account for lower efficiency of the gen. The geophysical measurements are susceptible to electronic noise so the generator needs to be of the pure sine wave / inverter type. Appreciate your opinion.

My Generator Response
Hi Gene, in terms of inverter generators around the 8kVA size, I can recommend the below models. These are portable air cooled gensets, operating at around 3000rpm. If you require extended, continuous run time for days on end, then it is recommended you look at Diesel Stationary Water Cooled Gensets. Portable Inverter Generators around 8kVA in size: Dunlite 7kVA Kohler Powered Inverter Generator Dunlite Honda 8.8kVA Inverter Generator

johan says:

30 October 2016

Dear Admin, What is the best diesel generator 5kva with fuel consumption around 5 liters for 12 hours? thanks a lot

My Generator Response
Hi Johan, for a diesel generator around that size with extended run time, I would consider the below options: Himoinsa 5kVA Diesel Generator Kubota 6kva Lowboy Diesel Generator Many thanks.

dave b says:

22 June 2016

Hi There, I need a generator for a domestic construction project. I understand that all generators have limits to their output. I am not expecting to cover all power tool requirements that might normally be needed on a job. So i'm thinking around a 10kva diesel unit, which could cover a couple of power saws/drills etc. being used at the same time. Could you suggest perhaps a budget, mid range and top end option. Please feel free to point out any pertinent factors that you think need to be considered. Cheers

My Generator Response
Hi Dave - thanks for your question. Typically for a domestic construction job site, people will opt for a portable generator so the unit can be moved around. When you are talking a power requirement of 10kVA in diesel, you are really looking at large stationary generators which are designed for whole of building backup. So for your application, I would suggest you consider a portable petrol generator - the most common size for running worksite drop saws, drills, compressors etc. is an 8kVA. We would recommend an Australian assembled genset powered by a genuine Honda engine such as the Powerlite 8kVA Generator - this is the generator we sell to tradesmen, farmers, contractors etc. for the same tasks as you have in mind. If you know that your particular equipment and requirement will be more than 8kVA in power, then there are other good honda powered portable petrol options in 11kVA up to 16kVA. If you were set on a diesel generator, then you could consider a portable model such as the Powerlite 7.5kVA Diesel Generator powered by a Yanmar diesel engine. If you would like to talk further about your options, please feel free to call us on 1300 400 122. Many thanks

Greg Ellis says:

4 May 2016

Hi - I've just moved from the city to a semi-rural area and need a generator to power the water pump and appliances in the event of power failure. What would you recommend? And what, if any, do you see are the particular advantages of Diesel over Petrol generators?

My Generator Response
Hi Greg - thanks for your inquiry. Firstly, you would ideally know how much power your appliances draw, then you will know what size generator you require. Particularly for your water pump; depending on the size and type, many water pumps can have quite a high starting power requirement. To get the starting and running power requirements for your appliances (ideally in Watts), you can contact the appliance manufacturer, use a wattage meter to take a reading on each appliance, or speak to an electrician. However, to give you an idea - for your type of domestic rural backup application, a very popular model is the Yamaha EF7200E Generator. It produces 6000 watts of power, comes with a long range fuel tank, electric start and automatic voltage regulation. You can either run your appliances directly from the generator, or have an electrician fit a transfer switch between the generator and your home switch board, so when there is a blackout you restore power to your home by switching over the power source to the generator. If you want a generator that will automatically restore power to your home when mains power fails, then you can look at our Auto-Start Generator range. Again, to make the best choice, you will ideally know how much power you need. In terms of fuel type - Diesel engines have the reputation of longer life and greater fuel efficiency. However Diesel gensets are typically larger and more expensive than Petrol models. We find that people will opt for a Diesel Generator for your type of application if they are already running other diesel equipment on their property such as tractors etc. Lastly, we also have a range of Gas Backup Generators which are very efficient and convenient, however they do require a bit more installation cost up front. If you would like to talk further about the above, please feel free to give us a call on 1300 400 122. Thanks.

Heidi MacGregor says:

16 April 2016

Hi, I'm wanting some advice please, I require a generator for a refrigerated cake unit display. The specs on the unit are Voltage 220 240v, 50 Hz Power input 747.7w Current 4.13A Thanks, if you could please give me some units to purchase would be great Heidi

My Generator Response
Hello, Heidi - thanks for your question. The info you have provided doesn't state the peak (or maximum) wattage your fridge requires at start up. A fridge will require a surge amount of power at initial start up to get going for a short period, then drop back down to a constant running watts to keep the fridge running at the desired temperature. To give you an idea, a standard domestic fridge will peak at around 1200 watts (give or take) and then drop back down to around 300-400 watts (give or take) continuously. Unfortunately, the important peak wattage figure you need to size the right generator is often not provided on the product data plate or in the product manual - so, you may need to contact the fridge manufacturer and ask their technical dept. for the peak wattage that the fridge draws. Alternatively, you can use a wattage meter to measure the watts yourself, like in this video HERE. To give you an idea of the generators that would likely be suitable for your application (subject to finding out the peak watts that your fridge requires), here are some recommended options: Yamaha EF2400iS Yamaha EF2800i You may be able to get away with a smaller generator, or you may require a larger generator - it just depends on that peak wattage figure. Many thanks - please feel free to give us a call on 1300 400 122 for further questions.

warren says:

9 December 2015

Hi, what would you recommend for a generator around 5kw that has a really good sine wave? We use them for battery charging through a solar inverter to the Aquion salt water batteries ( 3 x 2.4kw stacks). These inverters need to see a stable grid frequency, voltage and sinewave - or they just cut out and say grid fault. So is there any testing and who puts out the cleanest signal that you know of ? Also need auto start stop features in this environment. Cheers

My Generator Response
Hi Warren, for the size you need in an inverter generator, the Yamaha 6300iSE is your best bet. This unit produces 5500 watts of continuous pure sine wave power and can be fitted with remote starting capability. Feel free to call us on 1300 400 122 to discuss further if you wish - cheers, Steve.

Ryan says:

25 November 2015

Hi - I am currently looking into the purchase of a 2kva invertor generator. The primary purpose will be as a back up for our business operation due to a power outage. I am wanting to power retail 2 - 3 cash registers, 1 printer and 2 eftpos machines. I have the honda and briggs and stratton units currently in service. I have seen the Gensafe GHS2000I. Do you have any information relating to these units on the quality? They state that the unit is yamaha powered etc etc Thanks Ryan

My Generator Response
Hi Ryan, we don't stock Gensafe, nor have we tested them so apologies we can't provide you with too much insight on that specific brand. I will say, however, that for your intended business use it is advised that you opt for a premium brand; they're built to higher spec, have longer warranties and are backed by national service networks. Cheaper 'budget' brand generators can be ok for light recreational/home use, but are not recommended for business applications. Additionally, I'll also say that you should be weary of some cheaper power equipment brands using "Honda" or "Yamaha" engines in their products - often these are not legitimate engines from either Honda Australia or Yamaha Australia and therefore there can sometimes be issues getting any warranty issues honored. Thanks, Steve.

ADJETEY says:

21 November 2015

I need a gen set as power backup for my house. It will power one 2.0hp Samsung split AC, one 450lt deep freezer, one 280lt refrigerator and four security lights.

My Generator Response
Hi Adjety, ideally you would find out the exact wattage requirements of all your appliances you intend to run, particularly the starting wattage requirements of your Air Con and Freezer - often this important number is not stated in the manual and you may have to contact the manufacturer to find it out. Once you know the wattage requirements of your appliances, you can then get the right sized generator. Alternatively, you can get an electrician to take a reading on your home. One of the most popular choices for your type of application is the Yamaha EF7200E - great for home backup power, particularity if you want to run larger appliances such as Air Con units etc. You can either run appliances directly from the generator, or have an electrician wire it up to your home switch board which enables you to manually switch the power source for your home over to the generator. The other very popular option is an auto-start generator which will detect when there is a mains blackout, automatically start up and provide full power to your home. If you are on mains gas, then the Generac Auto-Start Gas Powered Generators are a great choice. There are also some quality Petrol and Diesel Powered Auto-Start options. In the case of an auto-start generator, you will require an electrician to connect it to your home. Thanks, Steve.

Jus says:

3 November 2015

Hi, best generator for a jayco camper trailer? We will be living in it with 2 kids for 12 months on rural land while house is built. Have a solar system with battery backup, but am concerned about this for winter months or dark days.

My Generator Response
Hi Jus - thanks for your question. You have a few options; if you just intend to have the generator as a backup option to recharge your battery packs and perhaps run some small appliances (phone, laptop, lights etc.) directly if required, then the most popular units are the Yamaha EF1000iS and Yamaha EF2000iS; they're lightweight, quiet and fuel efficient. It is recommended that you use a battery charger between the generator and your batteries to properly regulate the power. However, if you also want to run some common larger camper trailer/caravan appliances directly, i.e. air-conditioner, microwave, washing machine, coffee machine, hair dryer etc. then you'll need a slightly larger generator. The most popular units in this case are the Yamaha EF2400iS and the Yamaha EF2800i - both are common choices for caravan use, as well as for home power backup and for small rural applications. Given you will be relying on it for a lengthy period for your living arrangement, it is recommended you opt for premium brand that are built to handle regular use if required, come with a 48 month warranty and national service support. It is not advised you go with a cheaper Chinese-made brand. This article may also help you: Choosing the Right Portable Generator For Your Camper Trailer Cheers, Steve.

Tony says:

29 October 2015

Hi I am looking for a new generator as our old Honda 2kva has finally died, after many years of use. It will be used to power the beach shack, we are typically there for 5 days straight run 2 fridges and some lights these visits occur 12 times a year, we also give the generator a rest so it would run for say 16-18 hrs then give it a rest when we go to sleep. Can you recommend what generator would be suited to this type of use? Cheers

My Generator Response
Hi Tony, thanks for your question. For your type of application, the most suited and most popular model is the Yamaha EF2800iS inverter generator. This unit has an 11 litre fuel tank, providing 17 hours run time (at quarter load) and weighs only 29 kilos. Please let us know if you have any further questions?. Cheers, Steve

tim says:

21 October 2015

Hi does any one know of any generators for sale that are German made ?

My Generator Response
Hi Tim - good question. Some of our most popular types of diesel generators use the German-made Hatz Diesel engines. Their air-cooled diesel engines are considered a premium option to power portable diesel gensets for trade, construction, farming and industrial applications. Australian-assembled Generator brands such as Powerlite and Crommelins use Hatz engines in some of their diesel models, with our most popular hatz powered unit being the Powerlite 7kVA Diesel Generator. Cheers, Steve.

Misty says:

3 October 2015

Question - Hyundai generators = made where??

My Generator Response
Hi Misty, Hyundai generators are made in China. They are considered a budget option for infrequent use only, i.e. occasional back up power in the case of mains blackout. Hyundai have a limited service network with a handful of accredited agents in each state. If you require a generator for more frequent use then we would recommend you opt for a premium brand suited to your type of application, which will have longer warranties, a larger service network support and their generators are built to much higher standards able to handle more regular use. Thanks, Steve.

Victoria Moffatt says:

5 August 2015

Hi, I am looking for a generator to run a laptop, as well as a small veterinary Ultrasound machine and a couple of other electronic itmes (panel reader and indictaor unit for weigh scales, both can also be run off car battery) I will be using it in cattle yards so I'd like soemthing quiet and portable, which can run for up to 8 hours at a time. I would be using it regluarly 2-3 times a month. Thanks! Victoria

My Generator Response
Hi Victoria, for your requirements we would suggest a Yamaha EF1000iS Inverter Generator; it produces pure sine wave power up to a maximum of 1000 watts making it perfect for small electronic appliances. It has a run time of 12 hours at quarter load, weighs less than 13 kilograms (dry weight), is rated at less than 50 decibels at quarter load (extremely quiet), and comes with a 4 year domestic warranty. Please let us know if you have any more queries - thank you!

Rugare Nyakunu says:

25 May 2015

I want to run a pair of tyre warmers for my race bike. Specifically Hot Hoops DS Warmers. I want something cheap and quiet. I'll be using it about 1-2 a month only. What would you recommend? Thanks

My Generator Response
Hi Rugare, thanks for your inquiry. We have sold generators to a number of customers for this exact application. Probably the first thing to do is find out the exact starting and running wattage requirements for your tyre warmers; this will ensure you get the right sized generator. From past experience, we have sold other customers the <Yamaha EF2400iS inverter generator - its quiet, fuel efficient and comes with a 4 year warranty. Again, it also depends on how much power your particular warmers draw, you may be able to get away with a smaller model such as the Yamaha EF2000iS which is lighter. I hope that helps - cheers, Steve

Savvas says:

19 April 2015

Hi guys I am looking for a generator as a home backup and occasional use for picnics and camping and would like to know 1)what are the most reliable brands? 2) is the brand gensafe a reliable brand?

My Generator Response
Hi and thanks for your question; for your dual purpose requirement (home backup and recreation), we would suggest a Yamaha; they are the most reliable brand, come with a 4 year warranty and national service network of over 200 accredited service agents. Our most popular dual purpose model is the Yamaha EF2800I which is an inverter generator that provides up to 17 hours run time (at 1/4 load) and weighs under 30kg's. It delivers 2800 watts at peak and a continuous running output of 2500 watts, so just be sure that this will be enough power to run your intended appliances; you may find our Generator Buyers Guide helpful to ensure you get the right sized generator for your particular appliances. As for Gensafe, we do not stock this brand so cannot comment on its reliability except to say that if this is particularly important to you, then a premium brand such as Yamaha is the obvious choice - this article here on Premium v Value for Money Generators will likely be helpful. Cheers!

Peter Cannon says:

8 December 2014

Guys, I'm looking for a 5 - 6kva petrol or diesel generator to use to power my home in the event of blackout. I'd like the generator to be as quiet as possible, with a long-range fuel tank. I'd also want wheels to move the unit around when required. Can you help me?

My Generator Response
G'Day Peter - we can certainly help you out. These are the generators we would recommend for your type of application: 1) Yamaha 6300w Inverter Generator - Electric start. Produces a max of 6300w and a continuous output of 5500w. 17L tank which gives you approx 12hr run time at qtr load. This model is on wheels and produces 58db @ qtr load (the quietest option available). This model is 91kgs. 2) Pramac 5.3kva Petrol Generator - Electric start. Produces a max of 4800w and a continuous output of 4000w. 18L tank gives you 11hrs at 75% load. This model can be optioned up to include the handle and wheel kit and produces 71db at 7m. This model is 76kgs. 3) Pramac 6kva Diesel Generator - Electric start. Produces a max of 5400w and a continuous output of 4400w. 24L tank gives you 18hrs @ 75% load. This model can be optioned up to include a handle and wheel kit and produces 67db @ 7m. This model is 186kgs. The Yamaha 6300w inverter generator is probably the best option, given its noise level, power output and ease of mobility. However, if you wanted auto-start capability, then the two Pramac models can be configured with your mains panel to automatically start in the event of a blackout. Let me know if you have any more questions? Fell free to call us on 1300 400 122

David Buckenara says:

3 December 2014

Hi, What do you recommend as the best generator for a Caravan? It's a Jayco Sterling Outback. Thanks, David

My Generator Response
G'Day David - it all depends on what you intend to run obviously, but the number 1 selling caravan generator is the Yamaha EF2400iS. It is ultra quiet for its power output (around 54decibles at quarter load) and extremely fuel efficient; you'll get around 9 hours of run time at approx. quarter load. It was recently rated the number 1 generator among it's peers by Caravan & Motorhome on Tour magazine after undertaking a massive generator comparison test It is the most popular model for caravans largely because it can run most caravan A/C units...however because there are so many different air conditioner models, and appliances you might want to run with your caravan, you really need to know the exact starting and running wattages of your appliances. To be 100% sure you get the right size generator for your Caravan appliances, refer to our buyer's guide which takes you through the simple steps: Generator Buyers Guide