Thinking of Renting a Generator for Ongoing Use? Read This First!

If you’re thinking about renting a generator for regular or long-term use, it’s important to go beyond just picking the first one that fits your budget. Ongoing generator use means more planning, more responsibility — and if done right, more reliability and less stress.

Here’s what you need to know before you rent a generator for continuous use:

1. Understand the Amount of Power Needed

The first and most important step. Create a list of everything you will be powering — tools, lights, appliances, or equipment — and calculate the total wattage. Don't estimate! Undersizing a generator leads to overloads, shutdowns, or anything worse.

After figuring out your total power demand, choose a generator that offers at least 20% more than your highest load. The additional headroom allows everything to run better and protects your equipment from power dips.

2. Learn About Fuel Requirements

The vast majority of rental generators, especially larger generators (100 kW and up), are diesel powered. Others may use natural gas or propane, depending on what is available to you.

If your generator will be running 24 hours day  - or even weeks - you will want to get a plan for fuel delivery and monitoring. Many rental companies offer fuel management services, and this is the best way to eliminate guessing or worrying while keeping your generator operational.

3. Pay Attention to Noise Levels

Generators can be loud, especially older or industrial models. While that might be fine for remote job sites, it’s a real issue in residential areas, events, or city work zones.

Ask for a low-noise or “silent” generator if noise is a concern. Look for models that are rated under 65 decibels at 7 meters — about the same as a normal conversation.

4. Confirm Emission Compliance

Depending on your location, you might have a generator that needs to be compliant with either Tier 4 Final (U.S.) or Stage V (EU) emissions compliance. These usually will utilize AdBlue (diesel exhaust fluid) to reduce harmful emissions.

If you're in a city center, or close to homes and offices, you are not just recommended to use a clean-emission generator here, it is mandated.

5. Inquire About Maintenance

As you will be utilizing the generator long term, it is important to consider maintenance. Ask your rental company, who will be responsible for oil changes, fuel filter changes, and to complete regular inspections.

Some rental companies will perform maintenance as part of their rental, while others will place the responsibility on you. Regardless, ensure this is documented before signing anything.

6. Don’t Overlook the Extras

Verify the rental comes with everything required: cables, distribution boxes, extension leads, optional remote monitoring equipment to monitor fuel levels and performance.

Ensure to confirm delivery, set up and pick up services and see if there is 24/7 assistance if something were to go wrong.

Renting a generator for ongoing use can be a great option — but only if you have the right unit, you've planned ahead, and you're working with a provider that you are satisfied with.

 

Ask questions. Read the fine print. And always look beyond the price tag. A reliable generator keeps your power steady — and your stress low.  Gen Rentals stands out as a leader in generator rent in Hyderabad, providing expert solutions that cater to both short-term and long-term rental requirements. Still unsure? Let Gen Rentals guide you to the perfect solution for your needs. Contact us today!