What to Know About Purchasing a Used Generator
Purchasing a used generator can be a wise use of resources. Many pre-owned generators have low use-hours and significant operational life left in them. Knowing what to look for, and what questions to ask, can save you money and secure sufficient power for your operations.
Inspecting the Condition of the Generator
When inspecting a generator, you should pay close attention to visible signs of wear and tear. Even the sturdiest and best maintained generators are susceptible to damage. Whenever possible, you will want to determine how and where the generator was used as this can point to potential damage and problems to look for.
It is also important to review the maintenance log and determine whether the previous owner took care of issues promptly or allowed them to fester. For instance, failure to replace bearings, bushings, bolts, and other components can negatively impact the long-term stability and operational safety of the generator. If the previous owner failed to keep thorough logs, or neglected seemingly minor maintenance, the unit may have hidden issues you will have to repair down the road.
We also recommend careful consideration of the generator’s age and the number of hours on the unit. An older unit with fewer hours may be a better option than a newer unit with a history of heavier usage.
Reviewing the Load Test
Every pre-owned generator should have an up-to-date load test. You should never purchase a generator without thoroughly reviewing this information. You will want to review the data from multiple tests because this will give you a better picture of what you can expect regarding power output and the generator’s efficiency under the types of loads you expect to place upon it.
Considering the Manufacturer & Model
Some manufacturers are simply better than others. Their reputation is earned because they place a high value on the use of quality components and adhere to rigid construction standards in the generators they design. However, some units may have design flaws that manifest in real-world conditions. Thus, while it is important to select a unit from a manufacturer with a solid reputation, it is equally as important to research the specific model.
Discussing Repairs and Service
It is always best to purchase a pre-owned generator that has been thoroughly inspected, repaired, and reconditioned by certified generator technicians. At Gen-Tech, we thoroughly inspect and repair the generators we offer to our clients before we put them up for sale. We also offer customizable service options and provide 24/7 emergency assistance so that you don’t have to worry about losing power when you need to get the job done.
The generator technicians at Gen-Tech can answer your questions about purchasing a used generator. We invite you to contact us at (800) 625-8324 to learn about the generators we have available and the steps we take to ensure their reliable operation.