A simple guide to choosing the generator that’s right for you.
Winter is on its way and load shedding is likely to follow hot on its heels. And, with our intermittent electricity woes come fewer productive working hours, more takeaways, and cold showers. In that moment, most of us consider a generator, but few of us follow through. Johan Kruger, National Sales Manager for Husqvarna South Africa, believes that often people opt to stay in the dark because of the perceived costs or just find the thought of choosing and installing a generator too overwhelming.
According to him, a generator is more affordable than one would think and relatively simple to install if you partner with a good supplier. “The reality is that with the work-from-home and hybrid working models becoming the way of the future, our home has become our office and needs to be equipped accordingly. This will ensure that we can earn an income regardless of whether or not our national electricity supply is available.”
Johan offers a simple guide to help ensure you are not left in the dark this Winter:
Technicalities – which generator is right for you?
There are generators and there are GENERATORS. This is how you decide which one suits your needs:
1. Make a list of all the appliances and tools you’d like to be able to use when there’s no power.
2. Use a site like https://www.daftlogic.com/information-appliance-power-consumption.htm to get a rough idea of how much power each item on your list draws.
3. Add it up to find your power requirement.
4. Decide how much you’re prepared to spend on a generator.
5. Use the table below (Power and Money) to find your sweet spot.
6. Contact your nearest Husqvarna Agent for the latest specials.
Installation and Maintenance
“Another common reservation is installing and maintaining a generator,” continues Johan, “where to put it, how to connect it and turn it on.” He explains that there are basically two types of generators:
Standby Generators: These require professional installation and are connected to your electricity system. They work by closely monitoring your home’s voltage supply. Whenever a problem is detected, the generator will automatically turn on to ensure no lost power but is a relatively expensive option.
Portable Generators (like those in the Husqvarna range) work by turning an onboard alternator (fuelled by a petrol motor) into electricity that is then used to power your appliances or tools. It is fitted with outlets into which an extension cord can be plugged directly and will feed electricity to the items you need to be powered. It requires a manual start when electricity is required but there are no installation costs and the unit is mobile, affordable and versatile.
“A generator is actually a very simple purchase once you know what your needs are. If you’re not sure, any Husqvarna agent will be happy to guide you in choosing the right model to light up your winter. Considering the unstable electricity supply and the pressure to maximise earning potential, a generator really is an essential tool in South Africa today,” concludes Johan.
