As a professional working in construction, events, or emergency services, you may find yourself in need of a mobile generator to provide reliable power for your project. Business owners and facility managers may also require a temporary generator during times of severe weather or electrical maintenance planning. When your situation requires temporary power, how do you determine what to rent?
Choosing the fuel type of the generator is typically an easy selection for any power need larger than 10 kilowatts; diesel generators are the most popular choice due to their durability, efficiency, and general availability. With this in mind, here are 6 tips to help you rent the right mobile diesel generator for your needs.
- Determine your power needs: The first step in selecting the right generator is to determine the amount of power you need to run your equipment, tools, lights, and any other electrical loads. Make a list of all the electrical items you need to power and their corresponding power ratings. This information will help you determine the size and capacity of the generator you need.
- Rent from a reputable provider: Look for a rental company that has a good reputation in the industry and offers quality equipment and reliable service. Make sure you choose a provider who has a knowledgeable staff that can help you select the right generator for your needs and provide technical support if necessary. Also, confirm if the rental company is available 24/7 in case support is required after regular business hours.
- Consider fuel consumption and fuel availability: It’s important to consider the operating cost of the diesel generator you plan to rent, as well as the expected run-time of the fuel tank. Ask your generator rental company about fuel consumption rates and fuel capacity, and make sure to budget for the cost of fuel when making your rental decision. If you require temporary power for a duration longer than the run time of the fuel tank, coordinate with a fuel provider to deliver diesel fuel when needed. Your rental company may be able to provide recommendations for a fuel provider in your area.
- Consider the equipment transportation: Mobile diesel generators are typically trailer mounted. When you rent a generator, you may have the option to tow the equipment yourself or use a transportation service to deliver the generator to you. If you decide to tow the generator yourself, consider the towing weight of the equipment and ensure you have the proper towing capacity and hitch to safely transport the generator. If the generator will be delivered to you, be sure to budget the cost of transportation to and from your project location.
- Consider the electrical connections: In many cases, you will need an electrician to connect the rental generator to your building, electrical panel, or the connection point in your power distribution setup. If an electrician is required, your generator rental company may be able to recommend an electrical contractor who is experienced with connecting temporary generators. Again, be sure to budget for this connection cost.
- Rent with maintenance in mind: A well-maintained generator will provide reliable power when you need it. Look for a rental company that offers maintenance services, and consider a rental agreement that includes regular maintenance to keep the generator operating properly during your rental.
With a little planning, you can ensure you are choosing the right generator for your needs and avoiding any unexpected costs or downtime.
For more information about preparing for a generator rental, see Understanding Power Distribution for Rental Generators
Clifford Power Systems, Inc. provides dependable generator equipment, service, and rental. We are solely focused on power generation and offer professional consultation to meet all your project needs. Contact us at any of our locations in Oklahoma, Texas, Missouri, Kansas, or Arkansas.
Clifford Power is an authorized Generac® Industrial Energy dealer.