Hiring a generator: demand, operation and costs
A generator can supply equipment when mains power is unavailable, insufficient or temporarily interrupted. Suitable hire depends on actual loads and operating conditions. An available connection or high maximum rating alone does not establish suitable supply.
Consider equipment and use together
Machinery, refrigeration, lighting and event equipment load a generator differently. State simultaneously used devices and known ratings. Motors may need more power at start-up. Selection should not depend only on a sum or a blanket reserve.
Distinguish kW, kVA and continuous output
kW expresses active power; kVA expresses apparent power. They cannot be treated as equivalent without appropriate conditions. A short-term peak is not continuously available output. Provide known values with their units; the specialist determines sizing.
| Detail | Meaning for the request |
|---|---|
| Loads | Devices, quantities and simultaneous use. |
| Output | Known value with kW or kVA; no forced calculation. |
| Connection | Required voltage and suitable distribution. |
Distinguish distribution from building connection
Plan cables, distribution boards and accessories alongside supply. Direct device supply and supplying a building through a prepared connection are different tasks. Building connections require an appropriately authorised electrical contractor. Do not improvise a connection to household wiring.
Account for positioning, exhaust and noise
Combustion generators produce hazardous exhaust and must not run in enclosed spaces. Positioning must also keep exhaust from entering rooms. Agree safe setup and instruction. Compare noise figures with measurement distance and operating conditions; quiet is not a universal suitability assessment.
Clarify hire days and running hours separately
A unit may remain on site for seven days yet run only briefly. Depending on the model, charging may use daily hire, included hours or a base charge plus running time. State expected duration and use. Backup supply may also require standby arrangements, starting conditions and interruption planning.
Compare complete costs and service scope
One narrow published example is a generator in the 80-kVA equipment group from CHF 119 per day including VAT, excluding insurance and consumables. This single indicative rate is neither a Swiss average nor a complete quote for your power needs. Confirm equipment, duration and extras.
| Item | Include in the comparison |
|---|---|
| Hire | Base charge, days, included and extra hours. |
| Supply | Fuel, refilling and suitable accessories. |
| Service | Transport, connection, support and return. |
| Contract | Insurance, cleaning, deposit, VAT and exclusions. |
Known requirements are enough to start
Describe the use and devices together. Known output and voltage help without requiring your own calculations. Duration, approximate daily operation, services and site provide a basis. Fuel choice, connection planning and safe commissioning can then be clarified.
Frequently asked questions
Must I calculate generator size?
No. Devices and known details help the specialist determine sizing.
Are kW and kVA the same?
No. Provide values with units; the specialist considers actual loads.
Can a combustion generator run indoors?
No, not in enclosed spaces. Hazardous exhaust must be kept out of rooms.
Can it supply a building?
The system and connection need suitable planning. Use an authorised electrical contractor; do not improvise a connection.
Is fuel always included?
No. Fuel, usage charging and refilling must be identified in the quote.
What should be agreed for critical equipment if a fault occurs?
Describe the equipment and required operating times. Clarify support, a reachable contact and any separately arranged backup. A hired generator does not guarantee uninterrupted power, immediate repair or switching.
