Tips To Get The Right Generator Rental

We live in a world that is dependent on electricity. When we face a power outage, we’re plunged into darkness, at the mercy of the weather outside and unable to keep our electronics charged. Food in our fridges may go to waste and medical emergencies may arise. To combat all these inconveniences, companies and individuals alike may choose to rent generators instead.

Most of us don’t need a generator daily or even monthly, but we do need to use them from time to time. If you don’t know anything about renting generators, read the tips below. Then come on down to Synergy Equipment at one of our locations in Florida, Georgia or South Carolina to see our selection of generator rentals. 

What Type?

The first thing you need to ask yourself is why you’re looking for a generator. Different generators cater to certain needs. Most generator rentals have four basic applications:

Emergency generators ─ These machines are mostly used in homes. They’re wired into the home’s electrical system, with dedicated circuits to provide light, heat and refrigeration. Their usual power is between 3,000 to 5,000 watts and they’re mostly used when there’s an extended power outage. They often run on batteries or gasoline. 

Professional generators ─ Mostly used for construction or light industrial work, these bigger generators come in portable units, which are hauled to a worksite and parked while they’re in use. They produce around 5,000 to 10,000 watts and are most suited for places where you need short-term power. These machines usually need propane or gasoline to run. 

Recreational generators ─  As you might guess from the name, these generators are best for when you want to pursue some leisure activities, like camping trips, RV journeys or backyard parties. With power outputs ranging from 800 to 3,000 watts, these generators aren’t meant to handle your heavy-duty projects. 

Industrial generators ─ These are the behemoths of generators and the most expensive models on the market. They’re built to provide electricity to large units like factories and hospitals. Their output starts at 10,000 watts, they run on diesel or natural gas and they’re usually too powerful for individual usage. Industrial generators are only purchased by businesses and large organizations. 

Keep in mind that, because generators produce so much heat, there’s a danger of them overheating. To avoid this, all generators have cooling systems. The ones that are below 7,500 watts are usually air-cooled, while those of higher wattage are liquid-cooled. Air-cooled machines use radiator fins on the engine to keep cool, while liquid-cooled ones use a belt-driven fan.

What Size?

When renting a generator, make sure that you have a space in mind for it. This will help you avoid getting a machine that’s bigger than your storage space. Remember that the size also affects the total power output and you don’t want to get a generator that isn’t powerful enough to keep up with your tasks. Talk to us at Synergy Equipment about what you want the generator to be able to handle and we’ll recommend the best models for you. 

If you don’t have the space for a big generator, but you have a greater need than a small unit can meet, consider renting two generators instead. This also works for large work sites where your power needs are spread out, so you need more than one generator to give all your machines juice.

Know Applicable Laws

Some areas have certain sound restrictions, which means that you can’t operate any loud machines in those places. As you may already know, generators can be loud. Talk to your dealer about any laws you have to comply with and they’ll recommend the most compatible models. You can get a smaller generator rental that doesn’t make much sound or get a generator enclosure that blocks most of the sound. 

Know All About Operating

We usually rent when we think it’s a waste to buy something. To keep those savings, ensure you use your generator only as instructed. Make sure all cables, cords and accessories are properly insulated and grounded. The exhaust should be ventilated. Install carbon monoxide detectors if you’re placing it indoors. Don’t overload your machine, as this causes the power to cut off. Since these machines heat up quickly, don’t place anything on or near them that can melt or is a fire hazard. 

Now that you know a bit more about generator rentals, why not come down to Synergy Equipment and have a look at the models we’re renting? We have locations across Florida, Georgia and South Carolina!