Portable Generator Buyers Guide | Which Portable Generator Do You Need?
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Published: 14th May 2021

Portable Generator Buyers Guide | Which Portable Generator Do You Need?

Portable Generator Buyers Guide | Which Portable Generator Do You Need?

Portable Generator Buyers Guide | Which Portable Generator Do You Need?

14th May 2021

Every day, around Australia, homes and businesses use portable generators for emergency power, construction, job sites, powering outdoor events, and power backup. These generators are robust, compact, safe, reliable and easily moved; factors that make them one of the most popular generator models on the market today. To help guide our readers in purchasing a portable generator, we have combined the expert knowledge of our experienced team with customer feedback and reviews to construct this easy-to-use 'Portable Generator Buyers Guide'. This guide presents the information we know helps customer research in the lead up to a purchase. From our expert overviews, examining the product, applications to our most frequently asked questions on cost, benefits, drawbacks and features.

What is a Portable Generator?

Let’s start at the very beginning. A portable generator is a transportable device powered by diesel or petrol to generate electrical power. In locations where power outs occur or there is limited access to power, users can plug directly into the generator sockets to draw power. 

Portable generators come in one of two fuel types - petrol or diesel, with the petrol generators are typically used for residential, leisure and smaller trade applications while the more powerful diesel variety used in more demanding operations like mining, construction and a range of commercial settings. This style of generator is used in a huge range of applications throughout Australia and the world due to their ease of use, durability, cost and manoeuvrability, which we will discuss in more detail in the next section.

Benefits & Drawbacks of Portable Generators

The portable generator is considered a lower-priced alternative to a standby generator and has an interesting list of benefits and drawbacks worth citing for prospective buyers. 

This list contains our breakdown of the points we consider most important for review; cost, operating capacity, safety/risk and convenience. 

1. Firstly, let's consider the cost; The first cost consideration is the initial outlay made for the product. This amount will vary determined by purchase location and brand. Depending on your location, the machine will be shipped directly to you – so the more remote, the most expensive this will be. Those with a strong, proven reputation, such as Honda, will fetch a higher price in terms of brand. There is an interesting variation to this worth mentioning - take the Honda Powered 8kVA Petrol Generator. It comes under the brand GENESYS but is powered by a Honda GX390 engine, made in Italy and uses the premium Mecca Alte Alternator but attracts a price at only a fraction of the cost of a Honda generator. The final cost consideration relates to installation or operating costs – while these are normally considered low for these models, there is the ongoing cost of fuel, this operating cost is considered the most significant expense of running a portable generator, mostly due to fluctuating fuel costs.

2. Next, let's consider operating capacity; Blue Diamond's range carries portable generators from 5.8KVA - 10KVA, which means at the larger end (10KVA) can provide prime or backup power for 7 hours at 75% load. Depending on what your run time and capacity are, this can be a pro or a con.

3. Let's move now to safety/risk; The portable generator is plugged into the home/site via an extension cord that dictates its distance from the home - due to this, consideration must be given to the exhaust fumes, heat, and noise expelled as it will impact the surrounding area. The convenience factor is the final consideration in this list, bringing us back to the size of the tank and refuelling. Portable generators require refuelling, so you will need to buy, transport, and store fuel in preparation and monitor and fill the machine as required. All the listed pros and cons can and will have different impacts depending on your circumstances, so careful consideration is recommended.

How do Portable Generators Work?

Portable generators produce electricity by converting chemical energy into mechanical energy. To do this, fuel is used to power an internal combustion engine that drives an alternator, creating an electrical current. This current supplies power through the generator's exterior outlets. These outlets allow you to plug in extension cords, electric-powered tools and appliances.

Portable Generator Key Features

Some of the most common features found available with portable generator models:

  • Easy to transport (by hand, wheelbarrow or truck)
  • Safe to store
  • Reliable
  • Long run times
  • Low maintenance costs
  • Handles for manoeuvrability
  • Power output - capacity and duration variations
  • Easy access for refuelling
  • Fuel efficiency
  • Low noise levels
  • Compact design
  • Water or Air Cooled
  • Weather protected control panel
  • Durable and robust steel frame
  • Easy key start/remote start
  • Automatic transfer switch plug

What Portable Generator Should You Buy?

Portable generators are used in a range of applications across a variety of industries. So when asking yourself 'which portable generator should I buy?', first consider the applications you will need to use it for. These usually fall under one of the following:

For this comparison, we have used the power capacity in kilowatts (KW) to differentiate their applications. To start by categorising portable generators in low power (5.8 - 6.5 KVA), medium power (8 KVA), and high power (9+ KVA) segments.

Beginning with the low power segment (5.8 - 6.5 KVA), generators in this segment are widely used in residential and commercial applications such as powering freezer, refrigerator, lights, and TV's up to water heaters, central air conditioning units and multiple appliances at the same time. 

The other two segments, the medium and high-powered generators, are found in a broad range of settings, from food vans right up to mining, trade, and onsite construction, used as reliable stand-by or prime power for commercial, recreational, and emergency applications.

For Trade and Work Site Use

It takes a robust generator to power a work site. The environment and workload are particularly demanding, with machines required to work continuously and consistently - while withstanding tough conditions. For trades and worksites, the most popular portable generator size is the 8KVA models. 

Recommended: 8KVA Portable Genesys Generator

This power level is suitable for welders, brick saws, air compressors and cement mixers, in addition to a whole range of other power tools and equipment. The Blue Diamond range extends from the all-purpose, high-performance Honda Powered Petrol 8KVA - a 2 x 15 Amp outlet workhorse powered by the reliable Honda GX390 air-cooled engine (AUD 2,500) to the Blue Diamond 8KVA Petrol Generator a feature packed generator that combines an impressive 8-hour run time with a reputation for reliability (AUD 1,500).

For Food Vans and Commercial Use

Portable generators best suited to commercial and food van applications have been made popular through features such as steady, clean power and, of course, very low noise - a must when customers may be consuming foods in close locations.

Recommended: Honda EM1000

Our recommendation for these applications is the Honda 9KVA Portable Generator - EM10000, with its 31-litre fuel tank that enables the machine to run for 6.5 hours, great for long days when an extended power supply is required. This generator is recommended for larger commercial applications, as its price tag is closer to AUD 6,500. Still, satisfied customers have reported that the model provides peace of mind to run sensitive equipment without fear of surges. For smaller operations, the very affordable Blue Diamond Petrol 8KVA Generator at AUD 1,500 is better suited. The model is incredibly fuel-efficient and a more manageable choice for vendors who use a generator intermittently. Either way, the range available through Blue Diamond has an option to cater for every size business - in addition to expert advice to make sure the generator selected is the right generator for your business.

For Home Backup Power

Using a portable generator to provide backup power is made easy through the options available on the Australian market today. These generators produce enough power to run essential appliances and items around the home or office in the event of a power outage or intermittent power. 

Recommended: Genesys 9KVA Petrol Generator

There are several backup generators options for home or small business use, ranging from the premium 5.8KVA 3 Phase Portable Diesel Generator available for $2199 to the entry-level Blue Diamond 8KVA Portable Petrol Generator available for $1500. The backup power application is particularly suited to these models, as they feature low noise output, remote start capabilities and powerful diesel engines, all supported by a 24-month warranty and comprehensive servicing.

For Mining Site Applications

Mine specific safety features, including bunding, emergency stop, containment trays, fire extinguishers, and weatherproof outlets, are critical features of the portable generator range used in the mining industry from Blue Diamond. 

Recommended: Genesys 6KVA Portable Diesel Generator- mine spec

The term ‘mine spec’ is often specified; still there is no fixed definition for being mine-site compliant as it constantly varies from state to state and from site to site. So, the range identified here are robust, diesel models typically purchased for use in the mining industry due to, compact design, low noise output, self-cooling, remote start, long run times, and course specifications for mine usage as steel bund, battery isolator and fire extinguisher. The range extends from the Blue Diamond 10 KVA Diesel Generator Compact Mine Spec in AUD 7,900 to the Blue Diamond 5.8KVA Diesel Silenced Generator Mine Spec for AUD 3,900. 

How Much Do Portable Generators Cost?

There is a portable generator fit for every purpose and budget. To provide a comparison below outlines a cost overview regarding fuel type, features and power output of the current portable generator models available through Blue Diamond. The higher the price, the more features, power and running time/capacity the model will have, with diesel models always attracting a more considerable investment due to their petrol counterparts due to the durability and consistent delivery of high-power levels.

At the top level, portable generators range from AUD 5,500 AUD 7,900 for the large 9KVA to 10KVA models. These models are typically seen in mines and used in demanding industrial applications and are mostly available as diesel, although petrol models are available also. With their growing popularity due to features such as; auto start, large fuel tanks, low noise levels, numbered outlets, long estimated run times and capacity. These are powerful, portable machines well made for extended periods on-site where ample power supplies are required.

In the mid-section, our portable generators are in the 6.5 - 8KVA range. This power level is well suited to trade and worksites and has a cost range of AUD 1,500 to AUD 2,300 and diesel and petrol fuel types. The features of this style are commonly associated with a worksite; robust, reliable, and easy to transport, and being equipped with noising reducing canopy making them able to be used in built-up areas. These models have a solid fuel capacity and running time, making them especially useful as a consistent source of power in a demanding workday and waterproof outlets designed to meet the standard requirements on a busy job site.

Finally, the last group, the 5.8KVA generators, with models available with minespecs. These models are typically from AUD 3,900 to AUD AUD 1,800 and can deliver 10– 12 hours on a tank of fuel. This style of generator is reliable, compact with a weatherproof canopy and easy to transport.

Summary & Finding a Portable Generator Supplier

Portable generators have grown in popularity over the past ten years in Australia due to their ability to make one investment work across various applications. Outlined above the the main factors to consider when finding out what portable generator you need - from benefits and drawbacks, features, application-specific model suitability, and cost breakdown. Whether it is the power to your food van, a construction site, or in a demanding industrial setting, Blue Diamond Machinery has a vast choice of portable generators designed specifically for your needs. For further information or to speak with our expert team members on anything you have read today, please contact our team on 1300 998 647.

Every day, around Australia, homes and businesses use portable generators for emergency power, construction, job sites, powering outdoor events, and power backup. These generators are robust, compact, safe, reliable and easily moved; factors that make them one of the most popular generator models on the market today. To help guide our readers in purchasing a portable generator, we have combined the expert knowledge of our experienced team with customer feedback and reviews to construct this easy-to-use 'Portable Generator Buyers Guide'. This guide presents the information we know helps customer research in the lead up to a purchase. From our expert overviews, examining the product, applications to our most frequently asked questions on cost, benefits, drawbacks and features.

What is a Portable Generator?

Let’s start at the very beginning. A portable generator is a transportable device powered by diesel or petrol to generate electrical power. In locations where power outs occur or there is limited access to power, users can plug directly into the generator sockets to draw power. 

Portable generators come in one of two fuel types - petrol or diesel, with the petrol generators are typically used for residential, leisure and smaller trade applications while the more powerful diesel variety used in more demanding operations like mining, construction and a range of commercial settings. This style of generator is used in a huge range of applications throughout Australia and the world due to their ease of use, durability, cost and manoeuvrability, which we will discuss in more detail in the next section.

Benefits & Drawbacks of Portable Generators

The portable generator is considered a lower-priced alternative to a standby generator and has an interesting list of benefits and drawbacks worth citing for prospective buyers. 

This list contains our breakdown of the points we consider most important for review; cost, operating capacity, safety/risk and convenience. 

1. Firstly, let's consider the cost; The first cost consideration is the initial outlay made for the product. This amount will vary determined by purchase location and brand. Depending on your location, the machine will be shipped directly to you – so the more remote, the most expensive this will be. Those with a strong, proven reputation, such as Honda, will fetch a higher price in terms of brand. There is an interesting variation to this worth mentioning - take the Honda Powered 8kVA Petrol Generator. It comes under the brand GENESYS but is powered by a Honda GX390 engine, made in Italy and uses the premium Mecca Alte Alternator but attracts a price at only a fraction of the cost of a Honda generator. The final cost consideration relates to installation or operating costs – while these are normally considered low for these models, there is the ongoing cost of fuel, this operating cost is considered the most significant expense of running a portable generator, mostly due to fluctuating fuel costs.

2. Next, let's consider operating capacity; Blue Diamond's range carries portable generators from 5.8KVA - 10KVA, which means at the larger end (10KVA) can provide prime or backup power for 7 hours at 75% load. Depending on what your run time and capacity are, this can be a pro or a con.

3. Let's move now to safety/risk; The portable generator is plugged into the home/site via an extension cord that dictates its distance from the home - due to this, consideration must be given to the exhaust fumes, heat, and noise expelled as it will impact the surrounding area. The convenience factor is the final consideration in this list, bringing us back to the size of the tank and refuelling. Portable generators require refuelling, so you will need to buy, transport, and store fuel in preparation and monitor and fill the machine as required. All the listed pros and cons can and will have different impacts depending on your circumstances, so careful consideration is recommended.

How do Portable Generators Work?

Portable generators produce electricity by converting chemical energy into mechanical energy. To do this, fuel is used to power an internal combustion engine that drives an alternator, creating an electrical current. This current supplies power through the generator's exterior outlets. These outlets allow you to plug in extension cords, electric-powered tools and appliances.

Portable Generator Key Features

Some of the most common features found available with portable generator models:

  • Easy to transport (by hand, wheelbarrow or truck)
  • Safe to store
  • Reliable
  • Long run times
  • Low maintenance costs
  • Handles for manoeuvrability
  • Power output - capacity and duration variations
  • Easy access for refuelling
  • Fuel efficiency
  • Low noise levels
  • Compact design
  • Water or Air Cooled
  • Weather protected control panel
  • Durable and robust steel frame
  • Easy key start/remote start
  • Automatic transfer switch plug

What Portable Generator Should You Buy?

Portable generators are used in a range of applications across a variety of industries. So when asking yourself 'which portable generator should I buy?', first consider the applications you will need to use it for. These usually fall under one of the following:

For this comparison, we have used the power capacity in kilowatts (KW) to differentiate their applications. To start by categorising portable generators in low power (5.8 - 6.5 KVA), medium power (8 KVA), and high power (9+ KVA) segments.

Beginning with the low power segment (5.8 - 6.5 KVA), generators in this segment are widely used in residential and commercial applications such as powering freezer, refrigerator, lights, and TV's up to water heaters, central air conditioning units and multiple appliances at the same time. 

The other two segments, the medium and high-powered generators, are found in a broad range of settings, from food vans right up to mining, trade, and onsite construction, used as reliable stand-by or prime power for commercial, recreational, and emergency applications.

For Trade and Work Site Use

It takes a robust generator to power a work site. The environment and workload are particularly demanding, with machines required to work continuously and consistently - while withstanding tough conditions. For trades and worksites, the most popular portable generator size is the 8KVA models. 

Recommended: 8KVA Portable Genesys Generator

This power level is suitable for welders, brick saws, air compressors and cement mixers, in addition to a whole range of other power tools and equipment. The Blue Diamond range extends from the all-purpose, high-performance Honda Powered Petrol 8KVA - a 2 x 15 Amp outlet workhorse powered by the reliable Honda GX390 air-cooled engine (AUD 2,500) to the Blue Diamond 8KVA Petrol Generator a feature packed generator that combines an impressive 8-hour run time with a reputation for reliability (AUD 1,500).

For Food Vans and Commercial Use

Portable generators best suited to commercial and food van applications have been made popular through features such as steady, clean power and, of course, very low noise - a must when customers may be consuming foods in close locations.

Recommended: Honda EM1000

Our recommendation for these applications is the Honda 9KVA Portable Generator - EM10000, with its 31-litre fuel tank that enables the machine to run for 6.5 hours, great for long days when an extended power supply is required. This generator is recommended for larger commercial applications, as its price tag is closer to AUD 6,500. Still, satisfied customers have reported that the model provides peace of mind to run sensitive equipment without fear of surges. For smaller operations, the very affordable Blue Diamond Petrol 8KVA Generator at AUD 1,500 is better suited. The model is incredibly fuel-efficient and a more manageable choice for vendors who use a generator intermittently. Either way, the range available through Blue Diamond has an option to cater for every size business - in addition to expert advice to make sure the generator selected is the right generator for your business.

For Home Backup Power

Using a portable generator to provide backup power is made easy through the options available on the Australian market today. These generators produce enough power to run essential appliances and items around the home or office in the event of a power outage or intermittent power. 

Recommended: Genesys 9KVA Petrol Generator

There are several backup generators options for home or small business use, ranging from the premium 5.8KVA 3 Phase Portable Diesel Generator available for $2199 to the entry-level Blue Diamond 8KVA Portable Petrol Generator available for $1500. The backup power application is particularly suited to these models, as they feature low noise output, remote start capabilities and powerful diesel engines, all supported by a 24-month warranty and comprehensive servicing.

For Mining Site Applications

Mine specific safety features, including bunding, emergency stop, containment trays, fire extinguishers, and weatherproof outlets, are critical features of the portable generator range used in the mining industry from Blue Diamond. 

Recommended: Genesys 6KVA Portable Diesel Generator- mine spec

The term ‘mine spec’ is often specified; still there is no fixed definition for being mine-site compliant as it constantly varies from state to state and from site to site. So, the range identified here are robust, diesel models typically purchased for use in the mining industry due to, compact design, low noise output, self-cooling, remote start, long run times, and course specifications for mine usage as steel bund, battery isolator and fire extinguisher. The range extends from the Blue Diamond 10 KVA Diesel Generator Compact Mine Spec in AUD 7,900 to the Blue Diamond 5.8KVA Diesel Silenced Generator Mine Spec for AUD 3,900. 

How Much Do Portable Generators Cost?

There is a portable generator fit for every purpose and budget. To provide a comparison below outlines a cost overview regarding fuel type, features and power output of the current portable generator models available through Blue Diamond. The higher the price, the more features, power and running time/capacity the model will have, with diesel models always attracting a more considerable investment due to their petrol counterparts due to the durability and consistent delivery of high-power levels.

At the top level, portable generators range from AUD 5,500 AUD 7,900 for the large 9KVA to 10KVA models. These models are typically seen in mines and used in demanding industrial applications and are mostly available as diesel, although petrol models are available also. With their growing popularity due to features such as; auto start, large fuel tanks, low noise levels, numbered outlets, long estimated run times and capacity. These are powerful, portable machines well made for extended periods on-site where ample power supplies are required.

In the mid-section, our portable generators are in the 6.5 - 8KVA range. This power level is well suited to trade and worksites and has a cost range of AUD 1,500 to AUD 2,300 and diesel and petrol fuel types. The features of this style are commonly associated with a worksite; robust, reliable, and easy to transport, and being equipped with noising reducing canopy making them able to be used in built-up areas. These models have a solid fuel capacity and running time, making them especially useful as a consistent source of power in a demanding workday and waterproof outlets designed to meet the standard requirements on a busy job site.

Finally, the last group, the 5.8KVA generators, with models available with minespecs. These models are typically from AUD 3,900 to AUD AUD 1,800 and can deliver 10– 12 hours on a tank of fuel. This style of generator is reliable, compact with a weatherproof canopy and easy to transport.

Summary & Finding a Portable Generator Supplier

Portable generators have grown in popularity over the past ten years in Australia due to their ability to make one investment work across various applications. Outlined above the the main factors to consider when finding out what portable generator you need - from benefits and drawbacks, features, application-specific model suitability, and cost breakdown. Whether it is the power to your food van, a construction site, or in a demanding industrial setting, Blue Diamond Machinery has a vast choice of portable generators designed specifically for your needs. For further information or to speak with our expert team members on anything you have read today, please contact our team on 1300 998 647.

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