Depending on the power and type of fuel, generators can power both small appliances and entire business or shopping complexes.
In Ukraine, power outage programs have been re-enacted, which has increased the demand for generators among Ukrainians. Experts from the ITC.ua portal told how to choose a generator and compiled a rating of popular models.
What to consider when buying a generator
Before purchasing a generator, you need to calculate the required power. To do this, you need to determine the total power of all devices that will be connected to the generator, and also add 20-30% to it in case of power surges or additional use. 2-3 kW is enough to power small household appliances, but to power a large house, it is recommended to choose a 10 kW generator.
It is also worth considering the difference between nominal and starting power. The generator powers the device at starting power and powers the device at nominal power the rest of the time.
Important
As for fuel types, diesel engines are more suitable for long-term use, but in winter they need “winter” fuel. Gasoline models are considered less economical and require frequent charging. Small generators designed for hiking are manufactured using gasoline. Gas-powered or combined with gas models require the device to be “fed” with gas or constant refueling with a gas cylinder, and connection to the main gas pipeline is carried out only by appropriate services. Large gas generators are used to power large buildings, offices or shopping centers.
Popular generator models
Konner&Sohnen BASIC KSB 22i S
The basic model of the Konner&Sohnen generator runs on gasoline. Its nominal power is up to 8 kV, and its starting power is up to 2 kW. The device weighs 15 kilograms, has a low noise level and is equipped with a pair of 230 V sockets.
The generator can be refueled with 92 or 95 gasoline. As noted in the publication, compared to other Konner&Sohnen models, the BASIC KSB 22i S requires more frequent refueling due to the fact that its tank has a working life of only 4 hours at 50% load. The cost of this model varies from 21 to 36 thousand hryvnia.
EcoFlow Smart Generator (Dual Fuel)
EcoFlow’s Smart Generator (Dual Fuel) is a generator with a combined gasoline or propane fuel system and a 4-liter tank. When running on gasoline, it can handle a workload of up to 1.8 kW and when running on propane, it can handle a workload of up to 1.6 kW. The generator weighs 30.5 kilograms, has a single output and is much less noisy than traditional models.
According to experts, this generator is designed for those who use charging stations as their main source of power when there is no light for a long time. Suitable, for example, for camping or hiking. EcoFlow Smart Generator (Dual Fuel) “gasoline” costs 35,970 hryvnia.
Hyundai HHY1050Si
The Hyundai HHY1050Si generator also runs on gasoline, has an input power of 1.2 kW and a nominal power of 1 kW. Its 2.5-liter tank is enough for 4 hours of continuous operation. The device weighs 11.5 kilograms.
Hyundai HHY1050Si provides stable energy, which is important for sensitive electronic devices. The presence of USB allows you to charge small electronics and gadgets. It is suitable for powering small devices, but this power is not enough for long-term power outages. The cost of the generator is from 14,150 to 16,800 hryvnia.
Karcher PGG 6/1
The Karcher PGG 6/1 gasoline generator has a nominal power of 5 kW and a maximum power of 5.5 kW. A 25-liter tank is sufficient for 10 hours of operation and up to 6.5 hours at full power. The weight of this device is 85 kilograms.
According to the portal experts, this model is suitable for providing electricity to a house, cottage or garage and can work for a long time, which is important during power outages. The generator is equipped with three sockets, an electric starter to start the engine and an automatic voltage regulator. The price of the Karcher PGG 6/1 is from 26,299 to 43,999 hryvnia.
ITC Power GG3300F
The ITC Power GG3300F generator version also runs on gasoline, has a nominal power of 2.8 kW and a maximum power of 3 kW. Tank capacity – 15 liters. The device is equipped with two 16 A automatic sockets and has a DC 12V output.
As experts note, this model is also suitable for powering the house, but only for an average number of household appliances. The generator’s power is enough to power a refrigerator, TV or microwave. Its price is from 12,000 to 18,000 hryvnia.
Vulcan SC13000-III
The Vulkan SC13000-III gasoline generator is one of the most powerful generators in the manufacturer’s product range. Its nominal power is 8.8 kW with an initial load level of up to 9.6 kW for a single-phase network, and 10 kW for a three-phase network – with a maximum load level of up to 12 kW. The device is equipped with two sockets: 230 V and 400 V. The 45-liter fuel tank allows 9 hours of operation at full load. The weight of the generator is 175 kilograms.
As stated in the publication, Vulkan SC13000-III has a built-in automatic voltage regulator AVR, so it is suitable for sensitive electronics. It is protected according to the IP23 standard, equipped with a voltmeter and hour meter. The cost of this model starts from 110,000 hryvnia.
Let us remind that in Kiev the authorities want to quadruple the amount of reimbursement of the cost of independent electricity sources. The city covers 75% of the cost of equipment, but the maximum amount of assistance does not exceed 80,000 hryvnia per piece of equipment.
It was also stated that charging stations are more suitable for apartments than generators because they are quiet, compact and safe. Being compact and lightweight makes them easy to store and carry. Some stations can also be paired with solar panels.
Source: Focus
Ashley Fitzgerald is an accomplished journalist in the field of technology. She currently works as a writer at 24 news breaker. With a deep understanding of the latest technology developments, Ashley’s writing provides readers with insightful analysis and unique perspectives on the industry.