Generators Buying Guide

Generators Buying Guide
Generator VS Power Station VS Power Banks

Choosing the right power solution for your needs is important. Whether you're powering a workshop, providing energy for leisure activities, or seeking a compact solution for outdoor use, it's important to understand the differences between Generators, Power Stations, and Power Banks. Selecting the wrong unit could result in inadequate performance, potential damage to sensitive equipment, or even safety risks. This guide will help you determine the ideal option based on your usage scenario.

Generators

A Generator is a device that converts mechanical energy into electrical energy, an answer to the question: how does a generator produce electrical energy? Typically powered by petrol or diesel, generators are best suited for high-demand applications, such as construction sites, workshops, and emergency home use.

Wattage

Your generator must be capable of handling the highest wattage appliance you intend to use. If you're powering multiple devices simultaneously, calculate the combined wattage and add an additional 20% safety margin to prevent overloading the unit. Pay close attention to devices with induction motors, like pressure washers, chop saws, and freezers, which may require up to three times their standard wattage during start-up.

So, if you have a chop saw with a 600-watt rating and you plan to run 300-watt LED work lights at the same time, you’ll use the following calculation:

• Chop Saw: 600W x 3 = 1800W (start-up)
• LED Work Lights: 300W
• Sub Total: 2100W
• Plus 20% margin: 2520W

Required Generator Output: 2520 Watts minimum

In this case, Sealey 3100W Generator G3101 would be the ideal to choose.

Domestic or Professional Use

Some models are designed for light domestic or leisure activities, while others are built for heavy-duty professional work. Professional-grade generators feature higher output, better cooling, and longer runtimes, making them suitable for continuous operation in challenging environments.

Noise level and portability should also be considered, especially for leisure or residential use. Look for models marketed as ‘silent generators’ for minimal disruption.

Sensitive Equipment

When powering sensitive electronics like laptops, televisions, or medical equipment, you will need to purchase an Invertor Generator. These deliver a stable, low-distortion current, protecting delicate components. Consider the Sealey G2000I for a silent generator for camping or mobile office setups.

Power Outlets

If you plan to use your Generator on UK construction sites, you will need a model that has 110 volt power outlets, as 230 volt equipment is not permitted under UK Health and Safety Regulations. Some Sealey generators comply with this requirement are DG5000, GG7500, DG7000 and G5501.

Fuel Type

Generators are powered by petrol or diesel. Choose based on your accessibility to fuel, petrol for general use, and diesel for agricultural or fleet-based environments. Using a single fuel type across all your machinery helps prevent misfuelling and improves logistics.

Featured Products

2,000W
Inverter Generator
4-Stroke Engine
230V

Model No.
G2000I

5,000W
Generator
4-Stroke Engine
110/230V

Model No.
DG5000

5,500W
Generator 13hp
4-Stroke Engine
110/230V

Model No.
G5501

6,000W
Generator 13hp
4-Stroke Engine
110/230V

Model No.
GG7500

Power Stations

A Power Station, sometimes referred to as a battery-powered generator, is a rechargeable energy storage unit designed for both off-grid and portable use. These are perfect for motorhome generators or caravan holidays, where quiet operation and zero emissions are crucial.

Functionality and Capacity

Power stations do not generate energy themselves; instead, they store it from a wall socket or solar panel. Ideal for tools under 2000W and providing energy to camping electric battery needs, they are a cleaner and quieter solution than fuel-powered units.

The Dellonda DL164 power station delivers enough power to run essential tools, lights, or small appliances, ideal for tradespeople working in confined indoor spaces or overnight jobs.

Suitability

While not a full substitute for large generators, modern power stations are ideal for:

• Short-term energy during power outages
• Outdoor leisure (camping, hiking, caravanning)
• Low-noise zones (residential or hospital areas)
• Charging phones, drones, laptops, and lights

Sustainability

Many models are compatible with solar charging, which provides long-term, sustainable energy for eco-conscious users.

Top Tip:
Battery life cycles and recharge time are critical when evaluating power stations. Make sure to check how long the unit lasts under typical usage conditions and how quickly it can be recharged between uses.