There are many reasons that you might be thinking of getting a generator. Perhaps you’re looking for a back-up electricity supply for your small business, or you’d like a stand-by power source at home in the event of an emergency.

However, before making a purchase, it’s important to consider the relative benefits of hiring a generator over buying one outright. Not sure which option is right for you? Read on to find out whether renting a generator or buying will suit you best.

Benefits of buying a generator

Generators can be expensive, but there are a lot of good reasons to buy a generator rather than hire one. For instance, if you live in an area where power cuts happen frequently or in a location that’s susceptible to earthquakes and flooding, owning a generator can be a lifeline. It means that you can still power basic home appliances like lighting, heating or air-conditioning until your mains power source is restored. It also means you’ll be able to provide community support after a natural disaster, especially if your neighbours don’t have a back-up power supply.

If you work at home, buying a generator means that you won’t suffer through periods of downtime when your mains electricity supply fails you. Moreover, if you need a power source for outdoor or garage tools, a generator could be an ideal outdoor option. And if you love to holiday in the great outdoors, buying a portable generator will ensure that you have a power source for a caravan or campsite whenever you need it.

Why hiring a generator may suit you

Owning a generator might be useful, but the truth is that you’re unlikely to need a generator for most of year if you live somewhere with a reliable electricity supply. Instead, hiring a generator may be a more affordable and convenient option. Renting a generator means that you only pay for it when you need it, which could save you a significant sum. Additionally, if you hire a generator, you won’t have to deal with maintenance yourself if things go wrong as your rental company will take care of any faults.

Generator hire also offers you greater flexibility over purchasing one outright. For instance, if you hire a generator and then find you need one with a greater capacity to meet all your household needs, you simply need to call the hire company and ask them to replace it with a bigger model. Rental companies will also usually deliver your generator directly to your door, so you don’t have the inconvenience of having to transport this usually heavy equipment yourself.