First time buyer’s guide

Identify the tools and appliances you intend to operate with your generator.

Determine the power requirement for each product.

We do recommend that you should check your own individual appliances power requirement. Every appliance should have a data plate that shows its actual specifications, including the power it will use when running, measured in Watts. Make a note of the power requirement for each product you intend to use.

Types Of Load

Electrical appliances have different power requirements - some products such as refrigerators, typically require two to three times their normal running power to start, and a circular saw requires more power when the blade is cutting ? this power required in known as the loaded requirement.

Appliances with a 'resistive load' have a constant starting and running current (TV's, cookers, hi-fi's, kettles and light bulbs fall into this category).

Items such as saws and drills have a 'reactive load' and while the running the load may be small, but the starting load ? the amount of power needed to start the engine ? should generally be calculated at running watts x 3. After the initial start, less power is required for actual operation.

Motor starting load guide

Motor starting is an important consideration when buying a generator. Keep in mind that induction-type motors, like those that run sump pumps, refrigerators and compressors, typically require 2-3 times their listed running watts to start. Click here to see some examples of starting loads.

Power Management

Simple power management will allow a smaller generator to do a big job. Very seldom are all tools or appliances operating simultaneously.

When calculating power requirements, consider the starting requirements are only for the initial start and then additional tools may be operated.

Most electrical appliances have their power specifications on the data plate. This information is also usually found in the appliance's owners manual.

Total up the wattage for the products which may be operated simultaneously

Choose a generator with a rated output of at least your total, plus around 10% contingency

Power stability

Inverter

For the purest power output, look for Honda's unique Inverter technology.

Generated power is passed through a microprocessor that converts power to DC, then back to AC for stable current with a pure sine wave, free of surges or 'spikes'. Inverter technology ensures safe operation of the latest electronic equipment from computers to the most sophisticated technical equipment.

AVR

Our larger generators are fitted with Automatic Voltage Regulator (AVR) technology to maintain a constant output voltage, regardless of changes in the equipment load. AVR provides power that is also cleaner than the mains and a must for powering sensitive electronics and computer equipment.

Size & portability

While all Honda Generators are portable by definition, our handy EU range is particularly light and compact, even suitable for carrying around. Many of our larger models include optional or standard wheel kits and a lifting hook for easy movement of the generator from storage to the work site. Consider the options when selecting the right model for your application.

Starting options

Honda engines are renowned for their ease of starting, even when only equipped with a manual recoil starter. Honda also offer many models with the convenience of electric start and remote control for applications such as back-up power or where the generator needs to be sited away from the operator.

Noise levels

Honda generators are renowned for quiet operation. Within the range there are exceptionally quiet portable and fully-enclosed models utilising advanced noise reduction systems, as well as more economical models if noise levels are less of an issue, for example on a construction site.