Best Generators for Power Cuts in the UK: Keep the Lights On When You Need Them

Power cuts can be a major inconvenience in the UK, especially during the winter months when daylight hours are limited. Whether caused by severe weather, maintenance work or other factors, a sudden loss of power can disrupt daily life and leave households feeling vulnerable. However, investing in a backup generator can help alleviate some of these concerns by ensuring that essential appliances and lights stay on during an outage.

In this blog post, we’ll discuss the best generators for power cuts in the UK, taking into account different types of generators, important factors to consider, and top models available on the market. By the end of this post, you’ll have a better understanding of what generator might be right for your home and how to choose the best one to meet your needs.

Types of Generators

When it comes to choosing a generator for power cuts, there are two main types to consider: portable generators and standby generators.

Portable Generators

Portable generators are typically smaller, more affordable, and easier to move around than standby generators. They’re designed to be used on a temporary basis, and can be great for powering essential appliances and lights during a power cut. Portable generators are usually powered by petrol or diesel, and they come in a range of sizes and power outputs.

One of the biggest advantages of portable generators is their flexibility. They can be used anywhere, as long as there’s an appropriate power source, and they can be transported to different locations as needed. This makes them ideal for camping trips, outdoor events, and other situations where power may not be readily available.

However, there are also some downsides to consider. Portable generators can be noisy and produce emissions, which can be a problem if you’re using them in a residential area. They also require manual setup and operation, which may not be ideal for everyone.

Standby Generators

Standby generators, on the other hand, are larger and more expensive than portable generators, but they offer a number of advantages in terms of convenience and reliability. Standby generators are designed to be permanently installed outside of your home, and they’re connected to your home’s electrical system. They’re usually powered by natural gas or propane, and they automatically switch on when they detect a power outage.

One of the biggest advantages of standby generators is that they require no manual setup or operation. They’re always on standby and ready to go, which means you don’t have to worry about running outside in the middle of a storm to start up a generator. Standby generators are also typically quieter and more efficient than portable generators, which can be important if you live in a residential area.

However, there are some downsides to consider as well. Standby generators are more expensive than portable generators, and they require professional installation. They’re also less flexible, since they’re permanently installed in one location. Finally, standby generators require regular maintenance to keep them in good working order, which can add to their overall cost.

Factors to Consider

When choosing a generator, there are several important factors to consider. These include the generator’s power output, fuel type, noise level, and cost. By carefully considering these factors, you can ensure that you choose a generator that meets your specific needs and provides reliable power during an outage.

Power Output:

The power output of a generator is measured in watts and determines how much electricity the generator can produce. Consider what appliances and electronics you want to power during a power cut, and make sure the generator you choose can handle the total wattage of those items.

Fuel Type:

Generators can run on a variety of fuels, including gasoline, propane, natural gas, and diesel. Each fuel type has its own advantages and disadvantages. Gasoline and propane are more commonly used in portable generators, while natural gas and diesel are often used in standby generators. Consider factors such as fuel availability, cost, and safety when choosing a fuel type.

Noise Level:

Generators can be quite loud, especially portable generators. If noise is a concern for you, look for a generator with a lower decibel rating. Some portable generators are designed to be quieter than others, and standby generators are generally quieter than their portable counterparts.

Cost:

Generators can vary widely in price, depending on the type, power output, and other factors. Portable generators are generally less expensive than standby generators, but they also have lower power output. Consider your budget when choosing a generator, but remember that investing in a high-quality generator can provide long-term benefits and save you money in the long run.

By carefully considering these factors, you can choose a generator that meets your specific needs and provides reliable power during a power cut. Don’t forget to also consider safety features, such as automatic shut-off and overload protection, when choosing a generator.

Top Generators for Power Cuts in the UK

Now that you know the different types of generators and factors to consider, let’s take a look at some of the top generators for power cuts in the UK. These generators have been chosen based on their reliability, performance, and overall value for money.

Honda EU22i Portable Inverter Generator: The Honda EU22i is a highly reliable and efficient portable generator that can produce up to 2200 watts of power. It’s also one of the quietest generators on the market, making it ideal for use in residential areas. The EU22i is powered by gasoline and features an eco-throttle system that adjusts the engine speed based on the load, providing fuel efficiency and longer run times.
Briggs & Stratton 20kW Standby Generator: The Briggs & Stratton 20kW standby generator is a powerful and reliable option for homeowners who want a backup power solution for their entire home. It’s powered by natural gas or propane and can produce up to 20,000 watts of power. The generator features an automatic transfer switch that ensures seamless power transfer during a power cut.
DuroMax XP12000EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator: The DuroMax XP12000EH is a versatile portable generator that can run on both gasoline and propane. It’s capable of producing up to 12,000 watts of power and features a low oil shut-off sensor that protects the engine from damage. The generator also has several safety features, including a circuit breaker and automatic voltage regulator.
Champion 3100-Watt RV Ready Portable Inverter Generator: The Champion 3100-Watt generator is a reliable and efficient option for powering essential appliances during a power cut. It can produce up to 3100 watts of power and is equipped with an RV outlet, making it ideal for camping and other outdoor activities. The generator also features a low oil shut-off sensor and quiet operation.
Westinghouse WGen7500 Portable Generator: The Westinghouse WGen7500 is a powerful and reliable portable generator that can produce up to 7500 watts of power. It’s powered by gasoline and features an electric start for easy operation. The generator also has several safety features, including automatic low oil shutdown and overload protection.

These are just a few of the top generators for power cuts in the UK. When choosing a generator, remember to carefully consider your specific needs and budget, as well as important factors such as power output, fuel type, noise level, and safety features.

Conclusion

Power cuts can happen at any time, and having a reliable generator can make all the difference in keeping your home or business running smoothly. When choosing a generator, it’s important to consider factors such as power output, fuel type, noise level, and cost to ensure that you choose a generator that meets your specific needs.

There are many different types of generators available, from portable options for powering essential appliances to standby generators that can power an entire home or business. The generators mentioned in this article are just a few of the top options available on the market, but there are many other high-quality generators to choose from.

No matter which generator you choose, it’s important to follow all safety guidelines and instructions to ensure safe and effective operation. Regular maintenance and inspections can also help prolong the life of your generator and ensure that it’s ready to go when you need it.

In summary, a generator can provide peace of mind and reliable power during a power cut. By carefully considering your needs and the factors outlined in this article, you can choose the best generator for your specific situation and be prepared for any unexpected power outages.

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FAQs

What size generator do I need for my home during a power cut? The size of generator you need for your home during a power cut depends on several factors, including the number of appliances and devices you need to power, their wattage requirements, and the type of fuel you prefer to use. As a general rule, a 5,000-7,500 watt generator should be sufficient for most homes during a power cut.
What is the best type of fuel to use for a generator? The best type of fuel to use for a generator depends on your specific needs and preferences. Gasoline is the most common fuel for portable generators, while natural gas or propane is typically used for standby generators. Dual-fuel generators that can run on both gasoline and propane are also available and offer more flexibility.
Can I use a generator indoors? No, it is not safe to use a generator indoors as it produces carbon monoxide, a deadly gas that can build up quickly and cause harm or even death. Generators should always be used outdoors and placed in a well-ventilated area.
How often do I need to maintain my generator? Regular maintenance is important to keep your generator in good working condition. It is recommended to perform maintenance checks every 50-100 hours of use, including checking oil levels, inspecting the air filter, and cleaning the spark plugs. It’s also important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for maintenance and to store the generator properly when not in use.
How do I connect a portable generator to my home during a power cut? Connecting a portable generator to your home during a power cut requires a transfer switch, which allows you to safely and easily connect the generator to your home’s electrical system. It’s important to have a licensed electrician install the transfer switch to ensure proper installation and safety.