Generators

Stale fuel. Westinghouse says the most common problem with generators, portable ones at least, is fuel left sitting until it gums up the fuel system. Here's how to spot it, plus the generator faults that follow close behind. Stale Fuel...

Running a generator 24 hours a day costs about $17 to $256 in fuel across the units we stock, at early September 2026 prices. Load decides where you land. Here's the working for a light, half and heavy day. Generator...

Yes, an electric-start generator charges its own battery while it runs. But a short run won't refill a flat one, the 12V socket isn't for it, and it still goes flat in storage. Here's why. Electric-Start Generator Batteries Charging While...

About 2 to 25 hours on a tank. How long a 3000W generator runs comes down to its tank and your load. Here are the makers' own figures for the 3000 watt generator models we stock. 3000W Generator Run Time...

For most campers, what size generator for camping comes down to 2kVA: enough for a fridge, lights and chargers, light enough to lift. Go 3kVA for caravan aircon. Before buying portable generators, check where you can run one. Size is...

The generator that lasts the longest is usually a well-serviced diesel on an industrial engine, then a petrol set on a name-brand engine like Honda's GX. Few makers publish an hours figure, so here's what to judge it on. Engine...

No, running or not. A portable generator left outside in the rain can short out, rust and let water into the engine. Here's what the IP rating on the panel covers, and how to keep it dry. Rain Risks for...

Most tradies need a 5kVA to 8kVA construction site generator, enough for a saw, a compressor and lights at once. Whole sites with sheds and plant go bigger. Here's how to size portable generators and meet site rules. Power for...

The answer to what size generator to run a fridge and two freezers is about 2kW, if you start them one at a time. All three starting together needs more than 5kW. Smaller generators cope if you avoid that overlap....

A 3kVA generator runs a fridge, lights and one big load at a time, like a microwave or caravan aircon. Exactly what a 3kVA generator will run depends on its badge, because generators are sold on different numbers. Get the...

A 20kW generator runs the everyday load of almost any house, big or small. The catch is a large split system starting up, and a 20kVA badge on generators only means about 16kW. Here's how to check yours. Floor area...

In the inverter generator vs regular generator call, the inverter wins for camping, caravans and quiet nights. A regular open frame usually gives more watts per dollar for tools and heavy loads. Four pairs from our generators show the gap....

A dual fuel generator is worth it if you already run LPG and your genny sits idle for months between blackouts. For most camping, caravan and work use, petrol, diesel or inverter generators suit better. Here's how to tell. If...

Generator fuel consumption runs from 0.35 to 4.6 litres an hour across the petrol and diesel units we stock, depending on size and load. Twenty-four hours costs $17 to $256 in fuel. Here's the working on real generators. Got a...

In the petrol vs diesel generator call, petrol suits camping and the odd blackout at about half the price. Diesel pays off only on long runs under steady load. Here's where the line falls across our generators. That's the short...

Working out what size generator you need is one sum: rated watts of everything on at once, plus the biggest start-up surge. Campers land near 2kVA, caravan aircon 3kVA, blackout generators 4-5kVA. Check the badge first. That's the quick answer...

For most buyers, the best inverter generator australia has to offer is a 3kVA unit like the Hyundai HY3500i: 3,000W, 60dB, 23kg, $1,354. Go smaller for camping, bigger for home backup. Here's how to size yours. Got your answer? Good,...

Ask a camping forum which of the portable generators on the market is worth your money and you'll get fifty different answers. Here's ours, backed by what we sell and service: the Westinghouse iGen2250 for most people, plus five picks...

Manuals say at least 1 to 1.8 metres, and well clear of windows and doors. So how close can a generator be to your house? Australian regulators we checked don't set a number, so here's who says what. Minimum Distances...

Ever wondered why your generator groans the moment you flick on the air con, oven, and dryer all at once? The short answer: those appliances chew through the most power. Keep reading to see which ones drain your generator fastest...

Ever had a neighbour's generator roar louder than a lawnmower at dawn? The short answer: a generator muffler, or silencer, tames that racket. Keep reading to learn how it cuts noise, keeps councils happy, and makes your generator far more...

Ever seen a generator forget its job and start gobbling power instead of making it? The short answer: reverse power protection stops this costly role-swap. Keep reading to learn how it works, why it matters, and how it keeps both...

Ever wondered why your small generator doesn't fry your gadgets or flicker like a dodgy lightbulb? The short answer: a capacitor keeps voltage steady, smooth, and safe. Keep reading to see how this little component boosts performance, protects gear, and...

Ever fired up a generator at a campsite, only to cop dirty looks from the neighbours — or even a fine? The short answer: generators are banned because of noise, emissions, and safety risks. Stick around to see how Aussie...

When the lights go out mid-surgery, hospitals can't just say “oops.” The short answer? They rely on diesel, natural gas, and hybrid generators to keep life-saving equipment humming. Stick around to see why reliability, Australian standards, and a bit of...

Generators keep frequency steady by using governors, sensors, and clever control systems—like a band's drummer keeping everyone in time. Slip off-beat, and lights flicker, fridges grumble, and chaos follows. Curious how these hidden maestros pull it off? Stick around, the...

Ever had your generator sound like it's doing the cha-cha instead of quietly humming along? That's surging — the power swings up and down, often thanks to fuel hiccups, airflow troubles, or pushing it beyond its limits. The quick answer?...

Ever wondered why your lights don't flicker every time the fridge kicks in? Generators handle that magic with voltage regulation—it keeps power steady by adjusting output on the fly. Short answer: voltage regulation balances load changes. Keep reading to see...

Generators keep the lights on, but the wrong cord can turn you into a human toaster. The short answer? A heavy-duty, weather-resistant cord that matches your generator's power. Want to know about gauge, length, and Aussie safety standards? Stick around—your...

Ever had your generator sound like it's just run a marathon after powering nothing more than the kettle? Short answer: no, it's not normal for generators to bog down. Overload, bad fuel, or lazy maintenance could be to blame—stick around...

Ever wondered how generators manage to keep the lights glowing when everything around you has gone dark? The short answer: they take fuel, spin magnets, and churn out electricity. It sounds simple, but the science behind it is fascinating. Stick...

Ever felt like your generator room is turning into a sauna? The short answer: ventilate it properly with good airflow, vents, and exhaust systems. Why? To stop the machine from cooking itself, to clear out toxic fumes, and to stay...

Ever wondered why your generator talks in KVA, not plain old kilowatts? Short answer: KVA shows the total grunt — both real and reactive power. Keep reading to learn how this rating helps size your Generator properly, avoid costly mistakes,...

Ever parked your generator so close to the shed it felt cosy? Short answer: don't. generators need breathing room — for safety, cooling, and to avoid nasty surprises. Stick around and we'll cover exactly how much space you need, plus...

Ever had your generator sound like it's auditioning for a fireworks show? A backfiring generator simply means something's off—usually fuel, spark, or airflow issues. While it might just rattle your nerves, it can hint at bigger problems. Stick around to...

Ever wondered if generators are secret gadget killers? Short answer: yes, they can damage electronics if misused. Power surges and messy voltage don't mix well with your laptop or TV. Stick around—we'll unpack the risks, safe practices, and which generators...

Generators don't belong on wobbly ground like a café table with a dodgy leg. The short answer? Put them on something solid—like a concrete pad or a compacted gravel bed. The right base keeps them steady, safe, and running smoothly....

Ever wondered how many amps portable generators actually have? Short answer: anywhere from 8 to 60 amps, depending on size. That's the difference between keeping your fridge cold or running your whole house. Stick around—choosing the right amps saves headaches,...

Ever thought of plugging your generator into a regular extension cord like it's just another toaster? Short answer: don't. Generators throw out a lot more power than your household cords are built to handle. Push the wrong cord too far...

Generators leaking? Short answer: switch it off, stay safe, and track down the culprit quickly. Leaks can mean fuel, oil, or coolant—and none of them are friendly. Stick around and we'll walk you through how to spot the problem, fix...

Ever wondered what keeps an army camp buzzing when there's no power pole in sight? The short answer: generators—rugged, tactical, and sometimes even solar-powered. From dusty field ops to full-blown bases, the Aussie Army's power lineup is surprisingly versatile. Stick...

Ever wondered if running generators means flicking off the main breaker? Short answer: yes—you should. It stops backfeeding, protects your gear, and keeps utility workers safe. Stick around and you'll learn the simple steps that make your backup power safe,...

Can generators catch on fire? Short answer: yes, and it's no joke. Between leaking fuel, dodgy wiring, and Australia's sizzling heat, your trusty backup power can turn into a backyard bonfire. Stick around to learn the sneaky causes, warning signs,...

Ever wish your generator had a mate to help carry the load? Short answer: yes, you can connect multiple generators in parallel. This setup means more power, better reliability, and flexibility when you need it most. Stick around—we’ll break down...

When the lights go out, most Aussies wish they had a magic switch. The short answer: yes, you can connect a generator to your house—but only if it’s done safely and legally. Stick around, because knowing the right method could...

Ever wondered if a generator could actually go boom? Short answer: yes, but it’s rare. Bursts usually come from poor maintenance, fuel leaks, or overheating. Stick around and you’ll learn the warning signs, the myths, and the safety steps that...

Ever argued over whether generators are AC or DC at a weekend barbeque? No? Just us? Well, here's the short answer: they can be either—depending on what you're using them for. Stick around to find out which type suits your...

What is a surge protector for generators? Short answer: it’s your gadget’s bodyguard, stopping wild power spikes from frying your gear. Generators can be lifesavers in blackouts, but without protection, they’re like giving your TV a dodgy handshake. Keep reading...

Short answer: absolutely, if it's used the wrong way. This silent gas can build up fast, turning a lifesaver into a real danger. Keep reading to learn the warning signs, safety tricks, and how to run your generator without risking...

The short answer: it's the bit that turns spin into electricity. Without it, your ute's fridge, lights, or even farm pump wouldn't run. Stick around to see how this unsung hero keeps generators powering Aussie homes, cars, and worksites every...

Some might, most won't. Old-school diesel and petrol generators could still crank to life, but modern inverter units are much more fragile. Keep reading to learn what happens to generators during an EMP, how to protect them, and which gear...

The short answer: brands like Generac, Briggs & Stratton, and NorthStar are still built in the USA. They're tough, reliable, and engineered to strict standards. Keep reading to see which American-made generator is worth your money and why it matters...

Can a generator come with sushi-level precision? Pretty much. Japan's Honda, Yamaha, and Kubota are known worldwide for reliability, smart design, and long-lasting performance. From camping trips to heavy-duty farms, Japanese engineering has built a reputation Aussies trust. So, what...

Ever wondered if your generator's been working hard or just loafing about? That's where hour meters come in – they track every minute your generator runs, making maintenance dead simple and helping you dodge costly breakdowns. Whether you're on a...

One minute your generator's humming along—next minute, dead silence. Sound familiar? If your generator shuts off after starting, it's usually a simple fix: low oil, stale fuel, or a blocked air filter. Stick around—we'll break down what's really going on...

Ever feel like your generator just isn't packing the same punch it used to? You're not imagining things — but it's not old age or magnet decay to blame. Short answer: no, generators don't naturally get weaker with time —...

Let’s be honest—no one wants to be stuck in the middle of a blackout with a generator that won't start. If your battery's gone flat, that magic electric-start button becomes pretty useless. The short answer? Use a multimeter to check...

Power’s out, the sausages are mid-sizzle, and your generator’s packed it in—sound familiar? If your circuit breaker’s tripped and you're staring at the panel like it owes you money, don't stress. Resetting a generator breaker is easier than you think...

Yes. Most caravans and RVs plug into a generator with a 15A lead, from the generator's 15A outlet to the van's inlet. The catch is the safety switch: on many generators, your van's RCD can't do its job. What You...

A generator can sit without being used for about a month with petrol in the tank, and far longer if you drain or stabilise the fuel first. Here's the timeline, and what to do at each stage. Generator Storage Timeline...

Ever had generators act like stubborn toddlers refusing to wake up? The short answer: they usually won't start due to fuel issues, dead batteries, or spark plug troubles. Stick around—because knowing the "why" is half the battle, and I'll show...

Ever wondered where DC generators sneak into daily life? Short answer: everywhere—from mines and factories to cars, railways, and even your camping trip. They're the unsung heroes keeping machines buzzing and lights glowing. Stick around to see just how many...

The quietest generator on fuel is a small petrol inverter. The quietest in our generators range measure 53 to 54 dB(A) at 7 metres on light load. None are silent, and most box figures don't compare. That's the short answer....

Thinking about backup power? You're not alone—plenty of Aussies are after a reliable generator without all the offshore fuss. If you've ever wondered which generators are actually made in Canada and worth your cash, we've got you sorted. Not sure...

Ever had that sinking feeling when something goes walkabout? If it's a generator, it's not just frustrating—it's expensive. Thankfully, modern tech means tracking your generator isn't just possible, it's downright smart. Whether it's for theft prevention, maintenance, or fleet management,...

The 20-20-20 rule for generators is a US memory aid, not an Australian rule. Keep the generator 20 feet from your house, let it cool 20 minutes before refuelling, and the third 20 varies. Here's the Aussie version. Where the...

Generators weren't dreamt up by one genius—it took a team. Michael Faraday kicked things off in 1831, but inventors like Pixii, Siemens, Edison and Tesla powered the idea forward. Curious how sparks, magnets, and rivalries shaped modern power? Stick around—this...

Generators and water are a terrible mix—think hairdryer in the bath. The short answer? Disconnect, dry, clean, and check before restarting. But there's more to it: saltwater vs freshwater damage, safety steps, and prevention tricks. Stick around—you'll save money, headaches,...

Wondering how many things you can plug into your generator? Short answer: only as many as its wattage allows. Push it too far and you'll trip it—or worse, fry your gear. Keep reading to learn how to balance watts, plugs,...

Worried your shiny new generator might vanish faster than a free sausage sizzle at Bunnings? The short answer: you can't make generators completely theft-proof, but you can make them very hard to pinch. With the right mix of locks, barriers,...

Yes, a portable generator can run 24 hours a day. Westinghouse says its units can go 24/7 if operated and maintained to the manual. Here's how to keep a portable generator going around the clock. Running a Generator Around the...

Ever pushed your luck with a dodgy powerboard? Generators don't find it nearly as funny. The short answer is yes, overloading a generator can damage it. From overheating to sudden shutdowns, the risks are all too real. Keep reading as...

Ever thought of running a petrol generator in your lounge? Bad idea—unless you fancy a lungful of invisible poison. The short answer: only battery, solar, or fuel cell generators are safe indoors. Wondering which one will keep your fridge humming...

Ever wondered if portable generators need grounding? Short answer: yes—sometimes. It depends on the type and safety features. Grounding keeps you shock-free, your gear safe, and the rules happy. Stick around to learn when it's a must, when it's not,...

Ever thought of running generators indoors during a blackout? Short answer: absolutely not—unless you fancy invisible, deadly gas as a housemate. Carbon monoxide makes them too risky. But don't worry, safer alternatives exist. Stick around and I'll show you smart,...

Ever thought of chucking a generator in the basement to keep it dry and out of sight? Short answer: you can—but only if it's well-ventilated and professionally set up. A basement install can be clever or downright dangerous, so let's...

When the power cuts out mid-dinner or mid-cricket, a generator might just be your new best mate. Short answer: Yes, you can use a generator to power your house in Australia — but only if you choose the right one...

Not while you're asleep and nobody's watching it. Energex says to turn your generator off at night, and carbon monoxide gives no warning. If you must leave a generator running all night, here's how to do it properly. What Australian...

Need power for your camping trip, blackout, or tradie tools? Inverter generators are the quiet achievers - literally. They're used to run sensitive electronics, power homes during outages, and fuel outdoor fun. Want clean, quiet, and portable power? Keep reading...

A 5kVA generator runs a house's essentials and a 10kVA runs most of it, big aircon aside. That's what size generator to power a house, and your inlet matters as much as the badge on generators. Here's the working. Whether...

When the next big storm rolls in, the last thing you want is a generator that's undersized - or panic-buying one at the hardware store while everyone else is doing the same. So what size generator do you actually need...

Ever tried sprinting with a fridge strapped to your back? That's exactly what starting generators under load feels like - for the generator, that is. Short answer? Yes, it's bad. It puts a huge strain on the system, wastes fuel,...

Ever plugged in a generator and crossed your fingers? Short answer: Australian Standard AS/NZS 3010 covers how generators should be safely installed and used. But there's more to it—like noise limits, emissions, and compliance marks. Keep reading to stay safe,...

Not sure if your generator should nap with a full belly or an empty tank?Short answer: it depends on how long it's snoozing and where you live.Stick around — we'll break down the best way to store your generator so...

Short answer: Technically yes, but it's risky—and potentially illegal—if you don't follow the right safety steps. From carbon monoxide to wet weather dramas, there's a lot to get wrong. Want power without the panic? Keep reading. Not sure which generator...

Ever filled up your generator thinking, "Too easy, I'll leave it ready for next time," only to wonder months later if you've accidentally created a ticking time bomb of gunk and engine grief? You're not alone. The short answer: yes,...

Generators aren't immortal—most small ones last somewhere between 1,000 and 4,000 hours, depending on their type, care, and how you use them. Treat them well, and they'll keep powering your BBQs, camping fridges, and blackout nights without complaint. Want yours...

Generators can stay outside in winter — yes, but only if you treat them better than your barbecue. Cold, wet weather can cause rust, flat batteries, and starts that take more swearing than turning. Stick around for simple tricks to...

Ever stared at the servo pump wondering if E10 will kill your generator? You're not alone. Yes, you can use ethanol-blended gasoline in many generators—but it depends on the model, storage habits, and maintenance. Keep reading to avoid costly mistakes...

Yes, you can plug your TV into a generator—if you choose the right one and take a few precautions. Generators can keep your binge-watching dreams alive during blackouts, but there's more to it than just plugging in and hoping for...

Yes, you can install generators on rooftops—if your building can handle the load and you tick off the safety boxes. It's a clever way to free up space and push noise away from daily life. Stick around, because the fine...

The power's out, it's pushing 40°C, and you're melting quicker than an ice block at a summer barbecue. The big question: can generators actually run your air conditioner? The short answer is yes—but only if you've got the right size,...

In a dry, ventilated shed or garage, away from anything with a flame, cooled down first. Where you keep a generator when not in use matters because of the fuel in it. Here's how each spot stacks up. Best Places...

Generators don't come with a "guess the power" button—thank goodness. The best tool to measure generator output is a digital multimeter, giving you quick and accurate readings. But before you dash off to the hardware store, hang tight—because smart monitors,...

Wondering what it costs to get generators installed? Short answer: anywhere from $500 for a simple setup to $50,000+ for big commercial systems. Prices swing with size, complexity, and council rules. Stick around—we'll break down the numbers so you don't...

Ever tried making a cuppa mid-blackout? A kettle will run on a 2500–3000W generator, though going for 3500–4000W is the safer bet. Generators aren't just about hot water—they're about handling surges, keeping things safe, and fitting your lifestyle whether at...

If power comes on while the generator is running, what happens depends on the hookup. Appliances plugged into a generator won't notice. A generator backfeeding house wiring can be badly damaged when the grid returns. What Happens When Power Returns,...

Worried about your generators vanishing mid-trip? Short answer: lock them up, keep them close, hide them well. Thieves love easy targets, but with chains, covers, and alarms, you'll camp stress-free. Stick around for clever tricks that keep your power—and your...

Generators can run on diesel, petrol, natural gas, LPG, or even dual-fuel—think of them as picky eaters with different tastes. Each fuel comes with its own perks and quirks. Stick around to find the one that keeps your lights on...

Generators don't like sitting idle — running one with no load is a bad idea. It can waste fuel, wear out parts, and shorten its life. Curious why empty running causes so much trouble (and how to avoid it)? Keep...

Ever wondered if running a generator without a load could cause harm? Short answer: Yes, it can. It may seem harmless to let your generator run idly, but over time, it can lead to inefficiency and even costly repairs. Keep...

Thinking of tucking your generator into a cosy little box to keep it safe from the weather? Don't. Generators and enclosed spaces go together like a barbecue in a tent - dangerous and downright silly. The short answer? No, you...

Thinking of chucking your generator in the shed and calling it a day? Not so fast! Yes, you can run a generator in an outdoor shed - but only if it's ventilated, safe, and up to code. Generators aren't backyard...

Generators aren't just noisy boxes—they're your ticket to power when everything else goes dark. To start one, check the fuel, do a quick safety scan, and hit the switch or yank the cord. That's it! Stick around to learn the...

Most home generators last 1,000 to 2,000 running hours if they're petrol, and far longer if they're a serviced diesel. How many years that is depends on your use, so here's how to work out yours. Generator Lifespan in Running...

Ever had your phone die mid-text? Now imagine that, but it's your whole house. Generators that run out of fuel don't just stop—they leave you in the dark, literally. It can damage the unit, mess with electronics, and make restarting...

Generators can flood when too much fuel chokes the engine—usually thanks to a dodgy carburettor, an overzealous choke, or poor storage habits. Sound familiar? You're not alone. Plenty of Aussies have pulled the starter cord only to get nothing but...

Generators are noisy lifesavers—but can you shove one in a box and call it a day?Short answer: yes, but only if done right. Poor airflow can turn your power backup into a fire hazard. Stick around to learn how to...

When the lights go out, don't let your business fumble in the dark.Short answer? Add up the essential power your gear needs and match it with a generator that can handle the load. Generators aren't one-size-fits-all, and picking the wrong...

Generators: the unsung heroes when the lights go out. The short answer? Standby generators are fixed in place and switch on automatically when there's a blackout. Portable ones are mobile, manual, and easy to move around. Both do the job—but...

Generators hate winter as much as we do—minus the hot cocoa. To winterise a generator, clean it, add fuel stabiliser, check the battery, and swap in cold-weather oil. Simple, right? But a few missed steps can leave you freezing. Keep...

No. Plugging a generator into an outlet feeds power backwards through your house wiring and out to the street. It's called backfeeding, it's illegal in Australia, and it can kill someone you'll never meet. Backfeeding Through a Power Point A...

One generator is usually enough—but if your fridge, lights, and Netflix all scream "me first," you might need more. Generators aren't one-size-fits-all. It really comes down to the size of your home, what you want to keep running, and how...

The best caravan generator for most vans is a 2.5 to 3.5kVA petrol inverter, which runs a typical rooftop aircon. Heat and restarts catch small units out. Here's how to pick caravan generators and where to run one. No aircon...

Generators aren't like your in-laws—you can't just ignore them and hope for the best. Most need an oil change every 50 to 100 hours of use. But wait—how often you change the oil also depends on how you use it,...

Generators are lifesavers—until they try to barbecue your shed. So, what kind of fire extinguisher should you keep near a generator? A Class ABC dry chemical one. It tackles fuel, electrical, and everyday fires like a pro. Stick around to...

Not while it's running. A tarp over a generator sits against a very hot exhaust, and Energy Safe Victoria says don't cover one. You can still keep it out of the rain, and here's how. Why a Tarp Over a...

Thinking of plonking your generator on the grass? Hold that thought! While technically you can, it's not the brightest idea—fire risk, fumes, and lawn carnage await. Short answer? You can run a generator on the grass, but it's not recommended...

No. Running a generator in a garage with the door open still lets carbon monoxide build up, and Australian health authorities say so in writing. Here's why the open door doesn't help, and where to run it. Why an Open...

Running generators in a carport might sound like a no-brainer. It's covered, close, and out of the rain, right? But here's the kicker—your carport could turn into a deadly trap. Short answer: No, it is not safe. Portable generators pump...

Don't plug anything into an inverter generator that needs more than its running rating, or more than its starting rating when a motor kicks in. Power quality is rarely the problem. Overloading is, plus one safety-switch catch. Loads That Overload...

Generators are fussy beasts — they hate soggy lawns and wobbly ground. The short answer? Your generator should sit on a flat, sturdy surface like concrete or a composite pad. Why? For safety, stability, and fewer meltdowns (the generator's, not...

Generators can be lifesavers during blackouts - but can you run one in a residential area? Short answer: yes, but only if you follow the rules. Between council regulations, fire risks, and that one neighbour who's always ready to call...

Generators are great - until you wonder if parking one outside will turn your backyard into a hazard zone. Short answer? Yes, you can have a generator outside - if you do it right. From dodging carbon monoxide to quieting...