Explore the Types of Generators & Find the Best One!

Having an adequate power source like a power generator available at your project site is an important part of guaranteeing that your project can stay on schedule at all times. This is because most job sites for construction, engineering, and manufacturing make use of heavy equipment that rely on external power sources in order to operate. However, different job sites also have varying degrees of power requirements and worksite specifications. Because of this, knowing your way around different types of power generators is a must when selecting a generator for rent or purchase.

In this article, we go over the different types of generators that you can rent or buy for the benefit of your team to make any onsite work easier, safer, and more efficient. When faced with power outages in your worksite area or blackouts from harsh weather conditions, it is best to know which equipment will withstand these emergency conditions. If you have been on the lookout for the right type of power generator to suit your needs but have no idea where to start, then this is the best read for you. Read on and learn about the different types of power generators and how you can decide on the best one for you and your team!

What are the Different Types of Power Generators to Choose From?

Like how different tools within a toolbox can perform different tasks and match different screws, the same can be said for different generator types. With so many types of generators to choose from, it is important to consider some factors before you choose a generator to include in your heavy equipment rental or purchase order in the Philippines.

Depending on the purpose that you want your generator to meet as well as how much power you think it will need to supply to other equipment units in your jobsite, scroll below to get an idea on the best generator type for your project.

Diesel Generators

Commonly referred to as a diesel genset by veterans in the industry, this type of generator is powered by the very fuel in its namesake. Diesel generators are known to be one of the lowest risks of fire hazards when used with diesel in its tank, they do offer some flexibility in terms of its fuel source. This generator type can consume other natural gases and liquid fuels in place of diesel should the need arise.

Recognized as one of the sturdiest types of power generators around, the Diesel Generator is a good choice for rugged job sites. With its durable build, it has a longer life span with cooler fuel processing— producing less heat even in tight working conditions such as mines or underground construction sites. Because of their inexpensive fuel source, high energy density, and simple operation, this generator type is a fast favorite among industry veterans and newbies alike.

Do note that diesel generators work best in dry weather conditions, since moisture in the air and surroundings can risk engine failure and cause toxic and environmentally harmful emissions to be released into the air.

Choose This If: You have a very dry and hot project site and you wish to keep operation and fuel costs for your power generation at a minimum.

Natural Gas Generators

If you want a stationary generator that is discrete, easy to refuel, and fitting as a temporary power source, then you may want to consider a natural gas generator as your chosen power generator type. Natural gas generators are among the most widely-used generators especially for homes and offices. The preference for natural gas generators is largely due to their subtle and quiet operation as well as their readily available fuel source.

Natural gas generators are typically installed above ground for easy access, and are largely loved because of their low fuel costs so you can top up as needed. Many homes actually connect their natural gas generators to a central natural gas line, so these power sources are almost always full. Since their invention and frequency of use during outages caused by natural calamities, most natural gas generators are built to withstand harsh conditions through its durable exterior.

Choose This If: You require a low-profile and discrete power source but do not mind the time and financial investment that installation may cause you. These are especially useful as temporary power sources in case of emergencies, but are also suitable for use in industrial settings. Do note that they do not have the same level of longevity as your standard diesel genset.

Gasoline Generators

While natural gas generators may see wide use in residential and commercial settings as backup power, gasoline generators a popular contender because of their versatility and portability. This power generator type is the most commonly used of all because of their wide range of applications as well as their low unit and fuel costs.

Suitable across a wide range of environments like the home, construction and maintenance sites, as well as outdoor campgrounds, their small size makes them easy to load up into a car or truck and ferried along to where they are needed. Keep in mind that though they can produce an impressive amount of power within a small package, they are known to be noisy and disruptive when in use and reliable for moderate amounts of power within a short period of time. While they can easily be refueled with additional gasoline, bear in mind that they also perform better in warm climates and conditions.

Choose This If: Your project has a shorter deadline that requires reliable power output across a short period of time or you are working on a project site that needs plenty of generator portability across the location for safe heavy equipment operation.

Which Type of Power Generator is Best for Use in My Project?

While we described three commonly used types of power generators for your consideration, only you can accurately asses the different needs and specifications of your project and job site best. Consider the following factors as you make your final choice:

• Project Site: How big is the site of your project? Do you foresee a need for portability in order to power different pieces of heavy equipment across a large area?
• Environment: Is your project underground and exposed to cool, moist, environments? Or is it located in a highly-urbanized and busy business district?
• Equipment: What type of equipment and power tools do you need your generator to power? Are they large vehicles that require an external power source for operation? Or perhaps you need a reliable and safe energy source for your power tools?
• Length of Project: How long do you think your project will take to complete? Is it a prolonged period of time spanning several weeks that requires your generator to be refueled or topped up? Or can the task be done within a day?
• Location: What is the proximity of your job site to the city? Is fuel readily available should you run out of it in the middle of a task?

Assess all these factors and you are sure to make the best decision for yourself and your team. If you are still unsure on what the best choice of power generator type is, then feel free to reach out to our team of experts!

At Hastings Motor Corporation, we carry high-quality generator sets from world-class brands like Denyo and Mitsubishi. With durable and high-caliber generator units that span various power outputs, we are confident that we can provide your jobsite with the exact power source it needs to get the job done and stay on track. Contact us today for our recommendations on the best generator for your project, as well as other heavy equipment rental and purchasing needs you may have!