Choosing the right generator brand can be a daunting task, especially with the multitude of options available in the market. Whether you’re preparing for power outages, looking to support your business operations, or planning for outdoor adventures, selecting a reliable generator brand is paramount. At S&A Generators, we understand the importance of making an informed decision. We believe a generator should be high-quality but also not break the bank. Let’s explore some indicators you should look for when choosing a generator in South Africa.
Quality and Affordability
We believe that everyone should have access to a dependable power source without compromising on performance. Yet, your generator should also not break the bank. Look for a product that strikes a balance between quality and affordability.
Global Reputation
Don’t settle for an unknown brand – penny-wise may become pound-foolish. A trusted brand with a global reputation means you can expect a high-quality product for your investment and the correct parts when you need to have your generator serviced.
Comprehensive Product Range
Select a brand with an extensive product range that caters to a broad spectrum of requirements, from residential backup power to industrial and commercial solutions.
Cutting-Edge Technology
Generators equipped with cutting-edge technology are essential for two compelling reasons: promoting green health and saving money. Other reasons you should prioritise a brand that stays on top of technology are reliability, noise reduction and advanced safety features.
Local Support and Service
Local support ensures that you will have access to expert technicians and maintenance teams who understand the unique challenges and requirements of the region. This means quicker response times and minimising downtime during power outages. Additionally, local service providers are familiar with the local regulations, safety standards, and environmental considerations.
Now that we’ve delved into the indicators of an exemplary generator brand, does any manufacturer tick all these boxes? Yes, indeed! At S&A Generators, recommend KOHLER SDMO generators.
Why S&A Generators recommend KOHLER SDMO generators.
KOHLER SDMO generators are renowned for their durability, ensuring they stand the test of time even in the harshest conditions. When you choose KOHLER SDMO, you’re investing in a reliable power solution that won’t drain your budget. One of the main reasons we recommend KOHLER SDMO is its global reputation for excellence. With a presence in over 150 countries, KOHLER SDMO has established itself as a leader in the generator industry. Their commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction has earned them a loyal customer base worldwide. When you opt for KOHLER SDMO, you’re choosing a brand trusted by millions. Yet, no two power needs are the same, and KOHLER SDMO understands this better than anyone.
In an era of constantly evolving technology, KOHLER SDMO stays ahead of the curve. Their generators are designed to be eco-friendly, with reduced emissions and fuel consumption. By choosing KOHLER SDMO, you ensure your power needs are met and contribute to a greener future. KOHLER SDMO generators also incorporate cutting-edge technology to ensure efficiency, reliability, and ease of use. With features like remote monitoring and automatic transfer switches, KOHLER SDMO generators provide peace of mind and convenience. However, they’re not only about superior products; they also take customer service seriously.
At S&A Generators, we understand the importance of excellent customer support and service. KOHLER SDMO shares our commitment to customer satisfaction. With a strong presence in South Africa, including dedicated service centres, you can trust that your generator will receive the attention it deserves. KOHLER SDMO’s local support network ensures that maintenance and repairs are hassle-free.
When it comes to selecting the right generator brand, there are several factors to consider. Quality, affordability, reputation, product range, technology, local support, and environmental responsibility are crucial in making an informed decision. At S&A Generators, we believe that the KOHLER SDMO brand excels in all these aspects, making it our top recommendation.
Contact S&A Generators and let us take care of your generator installation, maintenance, repairs and generator support. Your reliable power source is just a call or click away!
Decoding the Signs: Is It Time to Replace Your Generator?
How Important Are Generators For The Industrial Sector?
Can You Run A Generator Continuously?
In a country where loadshedding is often topped with more unpredictable power outages having a reliable generator is a must for homeowners and property owners. Generators can be your saving grace, ensuring the lights stay on and essential appliances keep running. But just like any other machinery, generators have a lifespan. How do you know when it’s time to bid farewell to your trusty power backup and welcome a new one into your life? Let’s dive into the key indicators that suggest it might be time to replace your generator.
Age matters
Generators, like all machines, age over time. The first clue that it might be time to retire your current generator is its age. Most generators have a lifespan of around 10 to 20 years, depending on the brand, usage, and maintenance. If your generator is reaching or surpassing this age range, it’s worth considering a replacement. With technology refining itself at breakneck speed, updating your outdated generator to a modern one will give you improved efficiency and many more years of service.
Increased repair frequency
Has your local generator service provider become a regular visitor to your house? While occasional maintenance is normal, frequent breakdowns and repairs can signal a deeper issue. Constant repairs not only add up in terms of cost but also leave you vulnerable to power outages when you need your generator the most. If your repair technician‘s name is on speed dial, it might be time to explore the option of investing in a new generator.
Reduced performance
Generators should deliver consistent and reliable power. If you’ve noticed a decline in performance – such as struggling to handle your usual load or experiencing power fluctuations – it’s a sign that your generator might be on its last legs. With the increasing demands of modern households, it’s crucial to have a generator that can keep up without compromising on performance and protect your appliances.
Fuel efficiency woes
In a country where fuel costs can be a significant concern, the fuel efficiency of your generator matters. Older models may not be as fuel-efficient as their newer counterparts. If you’ve noticed a considerable increase in fuel consumption without a corresponding increase in power output, it’s time to consider a more efficient replacement. Newer generators often come with advanced technology that maximises fuel usage, saving you money in the long run.
Noise and emissions
Is your generator making more noise than usual? Excessive noise and emissions are not only annoying but also indicative of underlying issues. Modern generators are designed to operate quietly and produce minimal emissions. If your current generator is creating a disturbance or emitting toxic fumes, it’s time to explore quieter and eco-friendly options available on the market.
Weathering the storms
South Africa’s climate can be harsh, with extreme weather conditions ranging from scorching heat to heavy rain and even occasional snow. If your generator has endured its fair share of these weather challenges over the years, it might be showing signs of wear and tear. Exposure to the elements can degrade a generator’s components and affect its overall performance. Consider replacing your generator if it has weathered one too many storms.
As a homeowner or property owner in South Africa, navigating the challenges of load shedding, weather fluctuations, and power outages requires a reliable and efficient generator. Recognising the signs that your generator is inefficient can save you from the frustration and inconvenience of sudden breakdowns. If your generator is ageing, requiring frequent repairs, underperforming, or becoming less fuel-efficient, it clearly indicates that it’s time to consider an upgrade.
When it comes to ensuring uninterrupted power supply, S&A Generators stands as your trusted partner. With a range of cutting-edge generators equipped to handle South Africa’s unique challenges, S&A Generators is committed to keeping your lights on and your appliances running. Our services extend beyond providing generators; we offer expert advice, installation, and maintenance to ensure your power backup system is always ready to step in when the grid goes down. Ready to upgrade to a reliable and efficient generator? Contact us today and discover how we can tailor a power backup solution to your needs.
Can Generators Cause Damage to Electronics?
Can You Run A Generator Continuously?
Where Should A Diesel Or Petrol Generator Be Placed?
How To Extend The Life Of Your Generator
The new generator in position and awaiting wiring to connect it to the client’s power system.
In South Africa, resilience is key, especially with Eskom’s unpredictable load shedding. Finding the right generator placement for backup electricity, including diesel or petrol generators, becomes crucial. These generators, affectionately known as ‘gennies,’ are vital for navigating through power outages, providing light and stability during the darkest hours.
While the whirring, purring, and (if it’s poorly maintained) rattling sound of generators has become a familiar tune around the neighbourhood, the skill of installing generators certainly isn’t commonplace.
Firstly, did you know that a licensed electrician is required to carry out generator installations? Secondly, were you aware that generator installations in South Africa must adhere to the South African National Standard (IS0 SANS 8528 series of standards)? Thirdly, you can’t pick and choose where you place your generator! Here are some critical guidelines to consider when deciding where to position your generator:
Don’t box the generator in.
Operate your generator outside in a ventilated space to prevent carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning due to engine exhaust. CO, a colourless, odourless gas, causes numerous fatalities annually by displacing oxygen in the blood, leading to oxygen deprivation. Symptoms include dizziness, shortness of breath, fatigue, and headaches, and it poses risks to unborn children and pets. Avoid installing your standby generator inside, including garages, under carports, or close to windows. Position the generator’s exhaust above your home’s roof to ensure fumes are dispersed by the wind. Always consult professional installers, adhere to local building codes, and use a transfer switch for safe standby generator installation.
Keep your generator on solid ground.
Generators, equipped with substantial engines and alternators, demand a stable, level surface to support their significant weight over time. For safe generator placement and installation, it’s crucial to position the generator at least five meters away from any residential building, adhering to local building codes and ensuring protection against carbon monoxide exposure. Planning ahead to identify a designated location is advisable. In the absence of a naturally flat area on your property, constructing a reinforced concrete pad provides a viable solution for mounting your standby or home generator securely, ensuring it meets installation requirements and safety standards for optimal operation during power outages.
Keep your generator dry.
Generators and water don’t mix. Exposure to any form of moisture, such as fog, can harm your generator, leading to possible injuries or expensive repairs. Protect your Generac home standby generator in damp environments by placing it on a consistently dry surface. Utilizing a weather cover or steel enclosure can safeguard your generator, provided it’s situated beneath a structure that allows for ample ventilation. Consulting with a professional electrician is advisable to determine the optimal venting solution tailored to your generator’s requirements.
LET THE SPECIALISTS AT S&A GENERATORS FIND THE RIGHT SPOT FOR YOUR GENERATOR
It’s one thing to invest in a generator. Having it correctly and safely connected to your building’s electrical circuit is something entirely different. As registered electricians, S&A Generators is licensed to source and fully install new and used generators in KwaZulu-Natal. We’re capable of relocating and installing some of the biggest generators around, and we’ll even advise you on the best generator covering for your specific generator. Contact us today for generator placement tips and more.
You’ve bought a new generator – what now?
The Dangers Of Using A Generator Indoors
F&Q Common Generator-Related Questions Answered
S&A Generator Projects: Behind the Scenes
- Cost of raw materials used in its manufacture
- Operating costs of the manufacturer
- Fluctuating expenses along the supply chain
- Total power output of the generator
- Fuel being used to power the generator
- Additional soundproofing requirements
- Cost of installing the new generator
Buying a backup generator means taking control of your energy needs. It’s about not being beholden to Eskom, or impacted negatively by their electricity generation capabilities. Generators come in varying sizes, depending on a building’s energy requirements. Power output, among other things, impacts how much you pay for your new generator. Let’s take a look at all seven factors that impact a generator’s price:
- Cost of raw materials
Every generator comprises smaller components, which are made up of smaller parts themselves, which are made from raw materials likely mined from the earth. The costs of these raw materials, parts, and components all impact how much you end up paying for your generator.
- Manufacturer energy costs
Rapid fluctuations in oil and gas prices globally are impacting energy costs of manufacturers. Unfortunately, generator manufacturers have no choice but to pass this cost down the supply chain, which starts a chain reaction and eventually leads to a higher retail price tag.
- Supply chain expenses
Extra costs in the logistics required to get new generators to South Africa will ultimately impact a generator’s price. Ships, trucks, and last-leg delivery vans all run on diesel or petrol, the rising prices of which can and will impact the price of a new generator on the shelf.
- Generator power output
As we mentioned, the power output of your new generator will affect its price. This will depend entirely on how much work it’ll do while powering your building. Smaller spaces with fewer lights and almost no appliances could get away with a small portable generator. Larger spaces, like malls, will require larger, permanent generators.
- Type of fuel being used
The mechanics of the backup power generator you choose will also determine the price bracket you’re looking at. Diesel generators are much more sought-after and affordable than, say, gas generators. More niche, modern designs are inevitably going to require more of an investment.
- Soundproofing requirements
How much sound-proofing will your new generator require? If you live in a residential suburb or estate, you might need to take steps to dampen the sound when using the generator. You’ll have to factor these sound-proofing measures in when working out the true cost of your generator.
- Installation costs
Another thing to consider when deciding to buy a new generator is what it’s going to cost to have it installed. They don’t just plug in and you’re good to go. You’ll need assistance from generator professionals who can issue a certificate of compliance, after rigging your generator to the building’s electrical infrastructure.
Experienced generator installations in KZN
Get your new backup generator installed by the preferred generator specialists in KwaZulu-Natal. We issue certificates of compliance (COC) on all new generator installations. Contact S&A Generators to discuss sourcing your new generator and having it installed by the best!
Keep reading:
Will load shedding still be an issue through 2022?
You’ve bought a new generator – now what?
What affects a backup generator’s fuel consumption?
Get to know S&A Generators:
https://sagen.co.za/company/
See our latest projects:
https://sagen.co.za/projects/
Generators come in many shapes and sizes, with varying power generation systems. Up until recently, diesel generators have been the go-to backup generator solutions for countless South Africans.
However, technology has advanced to the point where you now have options – with a popular modern choice being gas generators. One thing many of our customers ask us is if there are differences between backup generators and emergency generators.
Are these names used interchangeably for the exact same thing, or is there an important difference between the two?
ARTICLE: Diesel Generators vs. Gas Generators
What is a backup generator?
Backup generators, or standby power generators, are commonly used by private homes and in other residential settings. These are in place solely to provide backup power to places where people live so that they can cook dinner, watch TV, and keep the lights on when the power cuts out.
In other words, a backup generator is in place to provide electricity in a non-critical capacity, where people’s lives don’t depend on an uninterrupted supply of power to the building.
What is an emergency generator?
In contrast to backup generators, emergency generators are absolutely vital to the people who rely on its standby power generating capacity. One common setting where you will find emergency generators is at a hospital, where ventilators, incubators and other critical pieces of electronics must remain powered as a literal matter of life and death.
Other places where you might find emergency generators are in buildings where there are greater fire risks, like factories and warehouses, so that emergency fire alarms and sprinkler systems remain active at all times.
ARTICLE: Choosing the right generator for your building
Expert backup generator and emergency generator specialists
Not sure which type of generator is going to be best for your building? It is recommended that anyone looking to connect a generator to their home or business first make contact with generator installation experts.
S&A Generators is experienced and skilled enough to consult on anything relating to generators – from small home generators to massive generators that provide emergency power to hospitals and backup power to shopping malls. Contact S&A Generators today to discuss how we can professionally solve your generator-related challenges.
Eskom just announced that South Africa is moving into yet another period of load shedding, and you’re about to have a nervous breakdown. You decide that enough is enough now – it’s time to invest in a backup power solution that you can use to keep the lights and plugs working when the power goes out. Google helps you find generator specialists in KZN that point you in the direction of a generator perfectly in your affordability range. So, you’ve bought a new generator – now what?
ARTICLE: Will using a generator damage my electrical equipment?
Did you pick the right generator?
“Generators used in a residential building are very different to those used in commercial buildings.”
Any generator specialist advising you on the best generator for your home or business will tell you that no two generator installations are the same. Factors to consider include how many rooms your home has, how many electrical appliances there are, how much space there is for the generator to reside, and where your distribution board is located. Residential generators typically come in three sizes – small generators (2kW to 7kW), medium generators (8kW to 20kW), and large generators (20kW to 40kW).
ARTICLE: How to choose the best generator for your building
Steps in the generator installation process
“Just plug it in and you’re good to go, right? Not quite.”
Once you have the right generator, and there’s no doubt it has the capacity to power your building sufficiently when the lights go out, you’re only a few steps away from having a reliable, effective backup electricity source.
Pick a suitable location
Choosing where to install your new generator involves more than just picking where it won’t be an eye sore. Your new generator will have to reside relatively close to your home’s electrical distribution (DB) board. It’ll also need to go where the exhaust fumes are able to dissipate well away from any open windows or air-conditioning inlets.
Unpack your genset
If you chose not to approach generator specialists, and bought your generator online instead, this step is very important. You’ll want to unpack your generator to make sure that all the necessary components are present and in good condition. Who knows what happens to your packages when they are shipped from abroad, so be sure to inspect your unit for any missing parts or obvious signs of damage.
Call a generator installer
This is where the do-it-yourself homeowners separate from the ‘leave it to the professionals’ types. Before trying to DIY your new generator installation, read our article below on why you shouldn’t do that. Not only because there’s a risk of electrocution, but how are you going to get the install certified by the municipality?
ARTICLE: Should you try connecting a generator to a DB board yourself?
Get the installation certified
New generator installers like S&A Generators are often also able to issue COC certificates. These certificates of compliance ensure that your new generator has been installed professionally, safely, and in line with best practices. Considering that no new generator can operate legally without a COC, it makes sense to let the generator installer issue a compliance certificate there and then.
Test the generator at full load
This is also something the generator installer should do before signing off on the job. You want to make sure that your generator isn’t experiencing issues that could leave it unable to provide for your home’s electrical needs. Generators work best at full load, so this test will also determine whether the generator might actually be too powerful for your building.
Get your new generator installed by the experts
Take the guesswork out of your new generator installations completely. Speak to us about your plans to procure and install a new generator in your home or business. We’ve ordered, transported, installed, repaired, and maintained generators of all sizes – across South Africa – for over 50 years. We can also issue COC certificates, which means we can handle your backup power needs from end to end. Please get in touch with the S&A Generators team to make an enquiry.
