Petrol or diesel generator?
Both keep your light on. The right choice depends on how big a gen you need and how many hours a day it runs.
Petrol generators
- Cheaper to buy — the most common choice for homes and small shops.
- Available from about 1 kVA to about 10 kVA.
- Petrol (PMS) is easy to find; spare parts and mechanics are everywhere.
- Use more fuel per hour than diesel at the same load, and are usually built for shorter daily running.
Diesel generators
- Use less fuel per hour under load and are built for long daily running.
- Engines usually last longer between major repairs when serviced well.
- Cost more to buy; most sets from about 10 kVA upwards are diesel.
- Often come in a soundproof canopy — quieter for estates and offices.
Which one for you?
| Your situation | Usually the better choice |
|---|---|
| Flat or small house, a few hours a day | Petrol, 1–5 kVA |
| Whole house with ACs, evenings and weekends | Petrol 6–10 kVA or a small diesel |
| Shop, salon or office open all day | Diesel if the gen runs many hours daily |
| Office, clinic, estate, factory (10 kVA+) | Diesel, often soundproof, with an ATS |
What about gas?
Dual-fuel generators run on petrol or LPG (cooking gas). Gas is often cheaper per hour and cleaner for the engine. Connect the cylinder only with the right regulator and hose, outdoors.
Petrol generators · Diesel generators · Gas & dual fuel