Get FinancingWhat To Look For In A Towable Generator
Towable generators, often referred to as “mobile generators,” are trailer-mounted units that weigh anywhere from 1,500 to 70,000 pounds (680 to 31,750 kilograms). Some models are easily towable with a pickup truck but others may require a heavy-duty semi-truck to get the job done. Prices vary as well, with used, lower-capacity models costing as little as $1,000 and new, high-capacity units costing as much as $850,000 or more. When shopping for power equipment, it’s important to not only compare cost, but also power ratings, fuel tank capacities and runtimes, and more. The following tips will help you find the right new or used towable generator for your operational needs.
Power Ratings & Outlets
Towable generators can provide anywhere between eight and 2,000 kilowatts of power; the rating you’ll need will depend upon on whether you intend to use it for standby, continuous, or peak load applications. These generators often have 120- and 240-volt outlets, but some larger models may have 480-volt outlets, as well, for powering larger appliances, tools, and other equipment. Despite the wide range, many of the most popular towable generators on PowerSystemsToday.com produce between 20 and 50 kilowatts. This includes the 20.4-kilowatt Wacker Neuson G25, 36-kilowatt Generac Mobile (formerly Magnum) MMG35, and the 48-kilowatt Caterpillar XQ60.
Fuel Capacity & Runtime
Fuel tank capacities for towable generators can range anywhere from 20 to 1,000 gallons (76 to 3,785 liters), and while most of them run on diesel, there are also gasoline-, natural gas-, and propane-powered models. It’s important to remember that there is not necessarily a direct correlation between fuel capacity and runtime, because output also plays a major factor. For example, the 8.1-kilowatt Generac Mobile MLG8K generator has a 56-gallon (212-liter) tank and runs at peak load for up to 80 hours, whereas the 550-kilowatt Wacker Neuson G625 has a 237.8-gallon (900-liter) tank and can run at peak load for just under seven hours. If you can estimate the peak load of your application, then you look for a generator that can produce the right output for the desired amount of time.
Common Applications & EPA Tiers
Towable generators are sometimes confused with portable generators, which do have wheels, but are typically small enough to carry or pull manually. But whereas portable units are used to provide power in backyards, campsites, and recreational areas or to back up homes for a limited time, you’ll often find towable generators on construction sites powering lights and tools or used as standby electricity during power outages.
When matching a generator to an application, it’s important to also consider United States Environmental Protection Agency regulations and tiers. The current high standard is Tier 4, which means that a diesel generator needs to reduce emissions by more than 95% when compared to nonregulated units. EPA tiers can be tricky because they often vary from state to state, with some allowing Tier 3 or even Tier 2 generators for certain applications, and others only allowing Tier 4-certified models, so it helps to know local regulations to ensure you’re always in compliance.
Used Towable Generator Considerations
The benefits of buying new power equipment is that you are the first person to use it and it will typically come with a manufacturer’s warranty, but you’ll have to pay a higher price up front. Buying used can lead to considerable cost savings, but there are several considerations to keep in mind before agreeing to a purchase. Start by requesting information about the generator’s history, including age, operating hours, and whether it was used primarily for standby or continuous power. Inspect the generator for damage, rust, leaks, and other issues, and then ask to run a load test to ensure everything is in proper working order. Working with a reputable dealer will also ensure you get the towable generator you want at a fair price.
Find A Towable Generator Today
There are hundreds of new and used towable generators for sale at PowerSystemsToday.com, including units from popular brands such as Atlas Copco, Caterpillar, Doosan, Magnum (now Generac Mobile), Miller, Multiquip, and Wacker Neuson.