What Size Generator Do I Need? The Complete Generator Buying Guide for Ireland

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Ireland · Generator sizing · Backup power

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Petrol, diesel, inverter generators, automatic transfer switches and solar-compatible backup power explained.

When the electricity goes off in Ireland, you quickly discover just how much of everyday life depends on it.

No heating controls. No Wi-Fi. No fridge or freezer. No lights. And if you're working from home, running a farm or operating a business, the consequences can be considerably more expensive than a cold cup of tea.

The good news? You don't necessarily need to spend thousands to prepare for a power cut.

At SolarBoss, our generator range starts at just €299 including VAT, with options covering everything from occasional outdoor power to professionally configured automatic backup systems for homes and businesses.

But there's a big difference between a €299 petrol generator and a €5,900 diesel standby generator. Choosing correctly means understanding what you actually need to power, how long you need it running, and whether you want to start the generator yourself or have the system manage everything automatically.

This guide covers it all.

Explore this guide · 18 sections

1. 1. How does a generator work?
2. 2. What size generator do I need for my home?
3. 3. Generator kW versus kVA: what's the difference?
4. 4. Petrol or diesel generator: which is better?
5. 5. What is an inverter generator, and do I need one?
6. 6. Inverter generator versus inverter-friendly generator
7. 7. What is an ATS (Automatic Transfer Switch)?
8. 8. Remote start, electric start and two-wire start explained
9. 9. Can a generator work with solar panels and a home battery?
10. 10. Hyundai generators for compatible solar inverter systems
11. 11. Can a generator power the house and charge solar batteries at the same time?
12. 12. Single-phase versus three-phase generators
13. 13. Will a generator run my heat pump, electric shower or EV charger?
14. 14. How long can a generator run?
15. 15. How much does a generator cost in Ireland?
16. 16. Generator safety in Ireland: what you must know
17. 17. Frequently asked questions about generators
18. 18. Which generator should you buy?

1. How does a generator work?

A conventional generator is surprisingly straightforward.

A petrol or diesel engine drives an alternator that produces electricity. Instead of drawing electricity from the national grid, you're generating it on-site using fuel.

Most standard generators produce 230V single-phase or 400V three-phase AC electricity, depending on the model.

There are three common ways to use that electricity:

• Direct appliance power: Connect suitable appliances or tools directly to the generator's outlets.
• Property backup: Have a Registered Electrical Contractor install appropriate equipment so a generator can supply designated electrical circuits when the grid fails.
• Solar battery integration: Connect a suitable generator through a compatible hybrid inverter arrangement, allowing it to support backup loads and potentially recharge batteries during an extended outage.

The third option is particularly interesting for homeowners already using solar panels and battery storage.

Shop the full SolarBoss generator range.

2. What size generator do I need for my home?

This is probably the most important question in the entire guide.

A generator isn't sized according to the number of bedrooms in your house. It's sized according to the electrical appliances you need to operate at the same time.

A small generator may comfortably power lighting, broadband and refrigeration. That same machine could become overloaded the moment somebody turns on an electric kettle.

Generator size guide

These are illustrative categories, not guaranteed appliance compatibility. The generator's continuous output, connection ratings and motor-starting capability determine what it can actually supply.

Common household appliance power requirements

These are indicative examples only. Actual consumption varies by appliance, operating cycle and model. Motors and compressors may draw substantially more power when starting.

A practical example: keeping the essentials running

Imagine a household needing power for:

• Fridge: 150W
• Freezer: 150W
• Broadband: 15W
• Lighting: 100W
• Heating controls and pumps: 250W

The estimated running requirement is 665W.

That sounds tiny, and it is.

However, a fridge or freezer compressor may briefly demand several times its normal running power when starting.

A suitably specified 2–3kW generator could be a practical option for this type of arrangement, provided the starting loads and connections are compatible.

Now imagine somebody switches on a 2,500W kettle.

Your running demand jumps to approximately 3,165W, before allowing for any motor starting surge.

Suddenly, a generator with a continuous rating of 2,650W is undersized.

That's why buying a generator purely because its label says '3kW' can be a mistake.

How to calculate the correct generator size

1. List every appliance that genuinely needs power during an outage.
2. Find each appliance's actual electrical input rating.
3. Add up the appliances likely to run simultaneously.
4. Identify motor-driven equipment and its starting demand.
5. Allow reasonable operating headroom and check the generator's continuous rating.
6. Check the available sockets, voltage, phase and individual outlet current limits.

For a home, identify whether you want essential backup circuits or wider property coverage. For a business, a qualified electrical designer should assess connected equipment and simultaneous demand.

SolarBoss tip: It is usually much cheaper to manage which appliances you use during a power cut than to buy a generator large enough to run every electrical appliance in your house simultaneously.

3. Generator kW versus kVA: what's the difference?

You'll notice that some generators are advertised as 3kW, others as 3.5kVA or 7.5kVA.

These figures are related, but they are not necessarily interchangeable.

• kW (kilowatts) measures real electrical power.
• kVA (kilovolt-amperes) measures apparent electrical power.
• The relationship depends on the electrical load's power factor.

As a general principle:

kW = kVA × power factor

For example, 6kVA at a power factor of 0.8 corresponds to 4.8kW.

However, you should never assume that every generator uses a power factor of 0.8. Always check the manufacturer's specific rated kW output.

Continuous power versus maximum power

This distinction is equally important.

Take the Pacini PCG3500.

Although sold in the 3kW class, its ratings are:

• Continuous output: 2,650W
• Maximum output: 3,000W

The continuous figure is the one you should use to plan normal sustained loads, subject to the manufacturer's duty and operating limits.

Maximum power is not permission to run the generator at that output all day.

Exceeding the appropriate rating may cause overload trips, voltage instability or equipment problems.

Also remember that a generator's total output is not automatically available from any individual socket. A 230V 16A outlet, for example, has a nominal limit of approximately 3.68kVA, even if the generator itself is much larger.

4. Petrol or diesel generator: which is better?

Both have their place, and the more expensive option isn't automatically the better purchase.

Petrol generators

Petrol generators are often a sensible starting point for occasional use.

Advantages include lower initial purchase prices on many models, relatively simple operation and useful portable options.

At SolarBoss, petrol generators start at €299 including VAT.

Some examples include:

• Pacini PCG3500 3kW — €299
• Hyundai HY3000L 3.5kVA — €349
• JCB IG2000 Petrol Inverter Generator — €459
• Hyundai HY2250Si Petrol Inverter Generator — €499

For occasional outdoor electricity, camping, mobile work or manually powered essentials, petrol can be excellent value.

Diesel generators

Diesel generators are worth considering where standby power, larger loads, fuel storage arrangements or longer operating periods are important.

Our diesel range begins with the Pacini LDG3600 at €719 including VAT.

Larger enclosed Hyundai diesel generators offer options for planned standby systems, including models with remote-start interfaces.

Diesel machines may offer advantages for extended operation, but actual fuel efficiency and running costs depend on the engine, load and generator design.

And don't assume every diesel generator is intended for continuous 24-hour commercial duty. The manufacturer's applicable rating and service intervals still matter.

Which should you choose?

For occasional manual backup, a petrol generator often provides the lowest initial cost.

For a property with a planned automatic backup arrangement, particularly where a hybrid solar inverter is involved, a suitable diesel standby generator may be a more appropriate investment.

Compare all diesel generators at SolarBoss.

5. What is an inverter generator, and do I need one?

This is where generator terminology starts confusing people.

An inverter generator is a petrol or diesel generator that uses electronic inverter technology to produce its regulated AC output.

Rather than relying solely on conventional alternator output, its electronics help regulate the electricity supplied to your equipment.

This can be particularly useful for compatible:

• Computers and laptops
• Televisions
• Electronic controls
• Communications equipment
• Portable electronic devices

Selected inverter generators provide a manufacturer-specified pure sine wave output.

A conventional generator with an Automatic Voltage Regulator (AVR) is not necessarily equivalent to a pure sine wave inverter generator.

However, inverter technology alone does not guarantee compatibility with every sensitive appliance or solar hybrid inverter. The relevant equipment manufacturers' electrical requirements must still be checked.

SolarBoss inverter generator options

The Hyundai HY1000Si, priced at €399, offers 900W continuous output for lighter loads.

The Hyundai HY2250Si, at €499, provides 2,000W continuous and 2,200W maximum output.

For significantly larger requirements, the JCB IG8500DVE offers 7,200W running output for €1,499.

But there's another phrase you need to understand.

6. Inverter generator versus inverter-friendly generator

These are two completely different concepts.

An inverter generator uses inverter electronics to produce electricity.

An inverter-friendly generator, as categorised by SolarBoss, is a generator offering documented remote-start functionality that may be integrated with compatible hybrid solar and battery inverter systems.

An inverter-friendly diesel generator doesn't necessarily contain inverter electronics or produce certified pure sine wave output.

Likewise, a petrol inverter generator isn't automatically capable of communicating with your solar battery system.

For a generator to operate automatically with a compatible hybrid inverter, three conditions must be satisfied:

1. The generator needs an appropriate automatic start/stop control interface.
2. Its AC electrical output must meet the hybrid inverter's input requirements.
3. The installation must include suitable connection, protection and isolation equipment.

Remote-start capability is not proof of complete electrical compatibility.

This is why we've created a dedicated Inverter Friendly Generators collection to help customers identify models worth investigating.

7. What is an ATS (Automatic Transfer Switch)?

An ATS is one of the most useful accessories for a properly designed standby generator system.

ATS stands for Automatic Transfer Switch.

Think of it as an electrical traffic controller between your normal mains electricity supply and an alternative power source.

In a typical compatible standby arrangement:

1. The ATS detects that the grid electricity has failed.
2. It requests the generator to start.
3. The generator starts and establishes a stable electrical output.
4. The ATS transfers the designated loads to the generator.
5. When mains electricity returns and is stable, the ATS transfers those loads back.
6. The generator shuts down according to the controller's programmed sequence.

All of this can happen without someone manually starting the generator.

However, an ATS does not guarantee that the lights will never flicker.

There can be an interruption while the generator starts and stabilises. Equipment requiring uninterrupted power may need a suitable UPS or battery-backed system.

Does every generator have an ATS?

No.

Some generators support an optional ATS but do not include one.

Others have no suitable automatic-start interface.

An ATS must be matched to the correct generator controls, phase arrangement, current rating and electrical installation.

SolarBoss 100A Automatic Transfer Switch Kit

SolarBoss lists a 100A Compact Automatic Transfer Switch Kit, priced at €898.99 including VAT.

The kit includes a compact 100A single-phase changeover unit, a compatible 20-metre cable and a generator-side ATS control module.

It is listed for selected Hyundai models, including the DHY6000SE and DHY8000SELR, subject to installation checks.

The selectable single/three-phase DHY8000SELR-T should not be assumed compatible with that single-phase kit without explicit confirmation.

The ATS kit is currently listed as sold out; contact SolarBoss about availability before planning an order.

Browse generator accessories and ATS equipment.

8. Remote start, electric start and two-wire start explained

These features sound similar, but they do different jobs.

Manual recoil start

This is the traditional pull-cord system.

You physically start the generator when electricity is needed.

Simple and relatively inexpensive, but you'll have to go outside to start it.

Electric key start

An onboard electric starter turns the engine using a starting battery.

More convenient than a pull cord, but an electric-start generator isn't necessarily capable of automatic operation.

Remote-control start

Some generators can start using a handheld remote or supplied control device.

This allows you to start the machine without standing beside it.

However, a handheld remote does not automatically mean a solar inverter can start the machine.

Two-wire remote start

This is particularly relevant to solar battery backup systems.

A compatible generator controller accepts a start/stop request through a dedicated control connection, often using a voltage-free or 'dry' contact.

A suitable hybrid inverter can be configured to issue that request when certain conditions occur, such as the battery falling below a selected charge level.

The generator uses its own starter battery and control system to start the engine.

Contact behaviour, electrical ratings and starting sequences vary by manufacturer and must be verified before connection.

ATS-interface start

Some generators instead use a manufacturer-specific ATS control interface.

A small module may need to be fitted inside the generator, with a matching cable and external controller providing the interface.

This is not necessarily the same as having a complete mains transfer switch.

For battery-triggered starting, the external controller must specifically accept the inverter's remote-start command. An ordinary mains-failure ATS controller does not automatically provide battery State of Charge control.

The key distinction: Starting a generator and transferring a building's electrical supply are two separate functions. An installation may require both start control and correctly designed changeover/isolation, depending on its architecture.

9. Can a generator work with solar panels and a home battery?

Yes, and this is one of the most interesting backup options available.

Imagine you have solar panels, a hybrid inverter and a battery system.

During normal operation, solar panels generate electricity, charge the batteries and help power your home.

If the grid fails, a properly configured hybrid inverter with backup capability may continue supplying designated circuits from solar energy and stored battery power.

But what happens during a prolonged winter outage?

Solar generation could be very low, and eventually the batteries may become depleted.

That's where a compatible generator can become useful.

How an automatically controlled system can work

Suppose a compatible hybrid inverter is programmed with appropriate generator-start and stop thresholds.

When the electricity goes off, the backup system initially powers the selected circuits using available battery and solar energy.

As battery charge falls, the inverter requests the generator to start.

Once the generator is running and its power has been accepted by the inverter, it can help supply supported loads and recharge the batteries.

When the programmed battery recovery threshold is reached, the system can request the generator to stop.

The batteries then continue supplying the backup circuits.

This means that, with the correct equipment and configuration, a generator does not necessarily need to run continuously throughout a power cut.

The actual behaviour depends on the inverter's operating mode, supported control functions and installed system.

Why this arrangement can be attractive

Rather than buying an enormous generator just to handle every possible household load, a carefully designed solar and battery system may allow a generator to operate in a more controlled manner.

The battery can provide stored energy when the generator isn't running, while the generator can help replenish that energy when required.

This can be particularly attractive for extended outages in rural areas.

Can any solar inverter do this?

Absolutely not.

A conventional grid-tied solar inverter normally shuts down during a power failure unless a properly designed backup arrangement supports continued operation.

Different hybrid inverter models have different generator functions.

Even where an inverter provides a generator start/stop relay, that does not automatically mean its AC input is compatible with a particular generator.

Never connect a generator to an existing solar installation without checking the exact inverter model and approved connection arrangement.

10. Hyundai generators for compatible solar inverter systems

SolarBoss offers five Hyundai diesel generators in its inverter-friendly range.

These are intended as potential options for suitable professionally designed systems, not a blanket manufacturer-certified compatibility list.

Hyundai DHY6000SE

The DHY6000SE is an enclosed diesel standby generator with 5.2kW stated maximum output.

It offers electric starting, AVR regulation and ATS compatibility.

Its automatic-start arrangement requires suitable generator-side hardware and an external control interface. Confirm the supplied revision's continuous rating before specifying critical loads.

Hyundai DHY8000SELR

This 230V single-phase diesel generator provides 5.5kW rated output and 6kW maximum output.

Its 30-litre fuel tank, electric starting and enclosed construction make it worth comparing for planned standby use.

For a hybrid inverter to control it automatically, an appropriate internal ATS module, matching cable and compatible controller are required.

Hyundai DHY8000SELR-T

The T variant offers selectable 230V single-phase and 400V three-phase operation.

This makes it useful for customers needing different electrical configurations, but the output available depends on the selected operating mode and product revision.

Its total three-phase rating must not be mistaken for the amount available on one phase.

Hyundai DHY12500SE

This larger single-phase diesel generator is advertised in the 10kW maximum output class.

Its main attraction for some hybrid inverter applications is documented two-wire remote starting.

A compatible inverter's programmed contact may be able to request starting and stopping through the appropriate control interface, without requiring a mains-failure ATS purely to provide the start signal.

The applicable continuous rating and electrical compatibility must still be verified.

Hyundai DHY18COM-1

This larger diesel generator uses a 1,500rpm water-cooled engine and a Deep Sea Electronics DSE6120 MKIII controller.

It supports remote-start integration and is particularly worth investigating for larger planned standby arrangements.

Its applicable prime and standby power ratings must be confirmed from the supplied machine documentation before sizing an installation.

What about Solis S6 hybrid inverters?

Certain Solis S6 hybrid inverters include generator-control functionality and supported generator-input arrangements.

For example, selected single-phase S6-EH1P-L-PLUS models provide dedicated generator integration and programmable start/stop control.

However, Solis S6 is a family of products, not one inverter model.

Some are single-phase, some are three-phase, and generator connection arrangements vary.

A generator that can be remotely started by an inverter is not necessarily electrically suitable for that inverter's input.

For three-phase hybrid generator inputs, the generator must satisfy the specific manufacturer's three-phase requirements. A single-phase generator should not be assumed suitable.

We have covered these technical distinctions in greater detail in our separate guide:

Connecting a Generator to a Solis Hybrid Inverter: Hyundai & Solis S6 Guide

If you're purchasing a generator specifically for a solar battery system, we strongly recommend reading that guide before ordering.

11. Can a generator power the house and charge solar batteries at the same time?

Potentially, yes.

A compatible hybrid inverter can use accepted generator power to supply supported loads and recharge its batteries.

However, the generator has a finite amount of electricity available.

Consider a generator rated for 5.5kW continuous output.

If the supported household loads require 2kW, that leaves up to 3.5kW before conversion losses and other operating limits.

It does not mean the battery will necessarily charge at 3.5kW.

Charging depends on the battery, inverter, generator acceptance settings and the manufacturer's permitted operating limits.

Starting surges and sudden increases in household demand also need to be allowed for.

The electrical designer must confirm the correct generator size and settings for the exact inverter system.

12. Single-phase versus three-phase generators

Most ordinary Irish homes have a single-phase electricity supply.

A 230V single-phase generator will often be the type of machine being considered for that property, subject to load requirements.

Larger commercial premises, farms and workshops may use 400V three-phase equipment.

Three-phase generators can support suitable three-phase loads, but selecting the correct generator involves more than checking total kW or kVA.

Load distribution between phases matters, as does the maximum available output on each phase and socket.

At SolarBoss, our range includes models such as the Pacini LDG12S3 13.7kVA three-phase diesel generator.

Important: A generator advertising 13.7kVA total three-phase capacity does not make 13.7kVA available from a single 230V socket.

If you're uncertain about your supply type or equipment, ask your electrician before purchasing.

13. Will a generator run my heat pump, electric shower or EV charger?

Possibly, but these are exactly the loads that require careful planning.

Heat pumps

A heat pump's electrical consumption is not the same as its advertised thermal heating capacity.

A 6kW heat pump, for example, refers to a heating-output class rather than necessarily drawing 6kW of electricity.

Its input demand changes with operating conditions, while auxiliary electric heating and starting characteristics can significantly increase the load.

Check the heat pump's maximum electrical input, auxiliary heater settings and manufacturer's generator requirements.

Electric showers

An ordinary electric shower may consume 8–10kW or more.

That alone can exceed the entire continuous capacity of many domestic generators.

For most households seeking economical emergency backup, it makes more sense to prioritise essential circuits than to size the generator around an electric shower.

EV charging

A typical 7.4kW single-phase EV charger is a substantial load.

Charging from a generator may require compatible EV charging equipment, carefully controlled current and suitable electrical protection.

It shouldn't be assumed that a generator capable of supplying ordinary household loads can also charge an EV at full speed.

For most emergency backup systems, temporarily suspending EV charging may be the sensible option.

14. How long can a generator run?

There are two different questions here:

How long will one tank of fuel last?

And:

How long can the generator safely operate before it requires servicing or a break?

The first depends on fuel tank capacity, engine efficiency and electrical load.

Manufacturers sometimes quote impressive runtime figures at relatively low loads.

A generator advertised as running for 16 or 30 hours should not be assumed to deliver that runtime at maximum output.

The second question depends on the engine, operating conditions, service intervals and applicable duty rating.

Many portable generators operate with 3,000rpm engines.

Larger stationary-style machines, such as the Hyundai DHY18COM-1, may use 1,500rpm engines and be designed for different duty profiles.

A slower-running generator may be worth considering for demanding standby applications, but its suitability must be judged against the actual duty rating and maintenance requirements.

Don't forget the practical details

When buying, consider fuel storage, refuelling frequency, noise, servicing, starting-battery maintenance, operating weight and spare-parts availability.

An electric-start generator also needs a healthy starting battery. If that battery is flat during a storm, automatic starting may fail.

No generator is completely maintenance-free.

15. How much does a generator cost in Ireland?

SolarBoss offers options across several price points.

Here are examples from our range:

Prices checked 25 October 2026 and subject to change. Check each product listing for current pricing, stock, delivery and specifications.

Budget for more than just the generator

For a manually operated portable generator, the purchase cost may be the biggest initial expense.

For a professionally connected standby installation, you may also need suitable changeover equipment, electrical protection, cabling, control modules, commissioning and installation work.

Automatic-start functionality may require additional equipment.

The generator's retail price is not necessarily the finished cost of backing up a home or business.

16. Generator safety in Ireland: what you must know

Generators are extremely useful, but incorrect installation or operation can be deadly.

Carbon monoxide

Petrol and diesel generators produce carbon monoxide, a poisonous gas that can kill without warning.

Never operate a combustion generator inside a house, garage, shed, enclosed outbuilding or partly enclosed space, even with a door open.

Irish Government emergency guidance advises using portable generators outdoors in well-ventilated areas at least 7 metres from doors, windows and ventilation openings, with exhaust directed away from the building. Follow any greater manufacturer clearances.

Use an appropriate outdoor weather-protected location that does not restrict ventilation or allow exhaust to accumulate.

Maintain working carbon monoxide alarms in the home, store fuel safely and never refuel a hot or running generator.

Electrical connection and grid isolation

Never connect a generator to a property by plugging it into an ordinary wall socket.

This dangerous practice, sometimes called backfeeding, can energise electrical circuits and potentially endanger ESB Networks personnel.

ESB Networks requires standby generators to be properly installed and isolated from the network using suitable changeover arrangements.

A Registered Electrical Contractor (REC) should design, install, test and certify the relevant building connection.

The contractor must address earthing, neutral arrangements, protective devices, voltage, frequency, switching and system compatibility.

ESB Networks also advises informing its local Customer Services Supervisor when installing standby generation.

For further guidance, see ESB Networks' standby generator information and Safe Electric's Registered Electrical Contractor directory.

17. Frequently asked questions about generators

What size generator do I need to run a house in Ireland?

For selected essentials, a correctly specified generator in the 3–6kW class may be sufficient for many households. Whole-property coverage, high-power heating equipment and large motor loads may require considerably more. Calculate actual simultaneous demand, starting surges and connection limits before choosing.

Is a 3kW generator enough during a power cut?

It can be enough for modest essential loads such as lighting, broadband and selected refrigeration, provided the exact running and starting demands are within the generator's ratings. It will not necessarily support a kettle, immersion heater or other high-power appliance at the same time.

Can a generator run central heating?

Often, yes, where the electrical supply is compatible and the generator can support the heating controls, pumps and any additional equipment. A heat pump may need a more detailed electrical assessment.

Can I plug my generator into the house?

Never through an ordinary wall socket. Connecting to building circuits requires an appropriate professionally installed and isolated electrical arrangement.

Does an ATS automatically start a generator?

A suitable ATS combined with compatible generator controls can request starting following mains failure and transfer designated loads. The generator must support the required interface, and the ATS and installation must be correctly matched.

Is two-wire start the same as an ATS?

No. Two-wire start is a control method used to request generator starting and stopping. An ATS transfers electrical loads between permitted power sources. Both functions may be involved in a complete system, but they are not interchangeable.

Do I need a special generator for solar panels?

If you want integration with a hybrid solar inverter, the generator must meet that inverter's AC input requirements and any automatic-start control requirements. Not every generator or solar inverter supports this.

Can my Solis inverter automatically start a generator?

Certain Solis hybrid models offer generator start/stop functionality. The exact model, firmware, control interface, generator output and installation arrangement must be checked. Not every Solis inverter has the same capability.

Will an inverter-friendly generator recharge my solar batteries?

It may, where the hybrid inverter supports generator-fed battery charging and the entire arrangement is compatible and correctly commissioned. Remote-start capability alone doesn't guarantee battery charging.

Will an automatic generator switch off when the electricity comes back?

A properly configured mains-failure ATS system can return the supply to the grid and shut down the generator. In a hybrid inverter system, stopping may instead be controlled by battery charge thresholds or other programmed conditions. The behaviour depends on the specific installation.

Are silent generators actually silent?

No. 'Silent' or 'silenced' generally refers to noise-reducing construction rather than an absence of sound. Compare manufacturer noise measurements at the same distance and operating conditions.

Do generators come with an ATS included?

Not necessarily. Some generators are ATS-compatible but require separately purchased modules, cables, controllers or changeover switches. Always check the product specification.

What's the cheapest generator at SolarBoss?

At the time of writing, the Pacini PCG3500 3kW petrol generator is listed at €299 including VAT.

Is a portable power station the same as a generator?

Not quite. A portable power station stores electricity in a rechargeable battery and delivers it through suitable output connections. It doesn't burn petrol or diesel while operating. Compare its stored energy in Wh or kWh with its maximum AC output in W or kW. Battery power stations are another option for shorter, lower-power requirements.

18. Which generator should you buy?

The answer comes down to what you want the generator to do.

If you simply want an affordable way to keep a few essentials running during occasional power cuts, a modest petrol generator could be perfectly adequate.

If you need portable power with a specified inverter output, compare dedicated petrol inverter generators.

If you're planning a fixed, professionally connected standby system, an enclosed diesel generator with appropriate automatic starting and transfer equipment may be a better fit.

And if you already have solar panels and battery storage, there's an opportunity to investigate a properly integrated generator arrangement that can support selected loads and help recharge batteries during an extended outage.

But don't spend thousands on a generator before identifying your actual requirements.

At SolarBoss, we specialise in supplying solar, battery and backup power equipment, with generator options from Pacini, Hyundai and JCB.

Not sure which generator to choose?

Tell our team:

• What you want to power
• Whether it's for a home, farm, workshop or business
• Whether you want manual or automatic operation
• Whether you have an existing solar and battery system
• The make and exact model of your inverter, if applicable
• Whether your property uses single-phase or three-phase electricity

We can help narrow down the equipment options so you can discuss final installation and compatibility with your Registered Electrical Contractor.

Browse all SolarBoss generators

Shop inverter-friendly generators

Explore automatic transfer switches and accessories

Call SolarBoss: (01) 539 4769

SolarBoss supplies generator and backup power equipment. Electrical installation, manufacturer compatibility and commissioning requirements must be established for each individual system before connection.