Types of Generators and Which One Do You Need?

Securing a consistent power supply for your home or business is non-negotiable, a generator can ensure that you’re never left without power. However, do you know which type of generator is best suited for your household or business needs? Whether you’re after a quick and efficient power source or need something reliable for remote operations, you need a generator that performs – and fits into your lifestyle.

From our petrol generators to inverter models, here’s what you can expect from the different product types:

  1. PETROL GENERATORS

Petrol generators are fuel-powered engines that generate electricity by burning fuel, usually petrol in this case. It converts the mechanical energy of the fuel into electrical energy that causes the crankshaft to rotate and power the alternator. This is how you get the power you need. 

These models can be noisy, more than the inverter type of generators. They are better suited for larger-scale power needs, your business, and situations where a continuous power supply is required or during outages in your area.  

When it comes to portability, this varies based on the model of petrol generator you have.  Some models are portable while others need to remain stationary based on their size. 

  1. INVERTER GENERATORS

An inverter generator is a portable power solution that produces AC power via the alternator, converts it into DC, and then back into clean, stable AC. This results in a consistent and reliable power output, making it ideal for sensitive electronics and appliances. Let’s see how a few different models compare:

  1. INVERTER CLOSED FRAME GENERATORS

The inverter closed frame generator has a protective layer which consists of a metal frame, a metal grille and a waterproof casing. This helps the generator keep away dust, debris, water, and accidental contact. 

They are compact, fuel-efficient, and perfect for noise-sensitive environments or powering delicate electronics in your household or business. If you’re looking for a great option to take along for camping, tailgating, or for powering equipment at home like computers, TVs, and fridges – this is your go-to choice. 

  1. INVERTER OPEN FRAME GENERATORS

The inverter open frame generators usually have an open component design where the fuselage and mechanism are exposed. The open design allows for greater airflow that helps it keep low temperatures, however leaves it exposed to the elements and damage. 

It is suitable for applications that require easy maintenance, access to areas like construction sites, portable appliances and equipment. It is ideal to use in areas where noise is not a major concern.

  1. INVERTER DUAL FUEL GENERATORS

An inverter dual-fuel generator is a portable power source that can run on two different fuel types; petrol and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG).

A dual-fuel generator provides you with flexibility in the two types of fuels used. You can now seamlessly switch between fuels based on availability, cost, or preference. In the ever-changing landscape that is fuel pricing, this gives you the edge to pick and choose based on various factors. 

Our STECO® range uses a 4-stroke air-cooled engine where air circulation cools the engine instead of a liquid coolant. This engine type is commonly found in portable generators which allows for a balanced power output, fuel efficiency, and easy maintenance. 

Here’s a snapshot of all STECO® generators currently available via our online store:

STECO® Generator Comparison Table
ModelRated Power (W)Surge Power (W)Fuel TypeStart TypeTank Size (L)Run Time (hrs)Net Weight (kg)Ideal AppliancesLink To Product
STECO® 2-Stroke Manual Start 950W750950PetrolRecoil-Pull Start3.6516.3TV, Wi-Fi router, phone chargerhttps://shop.steco.co/product/steco-750-watt-generator/
STECO® Inverter Generator 2000W18002000PetrolRecoil-Pull Start3.6420.5Lights, TV, Wi-Fi router, phone chargerhttps://shop.steco.co/product/steco-2000watt-silent-inverter-generator/
STECO® Silent Inverter Generator 2000W18002000PetrolRecoil-Pull Start4618Lights, TV, Wi-Fi router, phone chargerhttps://shop.steco.co/product/steco-silent-inverter-generator-2000w/
STECO® 4-Stroke Generator 2800W26002800PetrolManual/Push Start13.5838.7TV, Wi-Fi router, phone charger, Fridge, small microwave,https://shop.steco.co/product/steco-2800watt-generator/
STECO® Open Frame Inverter Generator 3200W30003200PetrolManual / Push-Button85.5–7.524.9TV, Wi-Fi router, phone charger, Fridge, microwave,https://shop.steco.co/product/steco-inverter-generator-3200w/
STECO® Silent Inverter Generator 3300W30003300PetrolRecoil-Pull Start5.7628.5TV, Wi-Fi router, phone charger, Fridge, microwavehttps://shop.steco.co/product/steco-inverter-generator-3300w/
STECO® Silent Inverter Generator 3300W30003300PetrolRecoil-Pull Start12829TV, Wi-Fi router, phone charger, Fridge, microwavehttps://shop.steco.co/product/steco-3300-inverter-generator/
STECO® Inverter Generator 4000W32003500PetrolRecoil-Pull StartTBCTBC23.4Fridge, microwave, kettle, lights, router, TV, Wi-Fi router, phone chargerhttps://shop.steco.co/product/steco-3500watt-silent-inverter-generator/
STECO® Dual-Fuel Silent Inverter Generator 5500W5000 (Petrol) / 4500 (LPG)5500 (Petrol) / 5000 (LPG)Petrol / LPGRecoil / Push Button11540Fridge, freezer, washing machine, lights, TV, microwave, kettle, router, Wi-Fi router, phone chargerhttps://shop.steco.co/product/steco-dual-fuel-silent-inverter-generator-5500w/
STECO® Silent Inverter Generator 5500W50005500PetrolManual / Remote11539.5Fridge, freezer, washing machine, lights, TV, microwave, kettle, router, Wi-Fi router, phone chargerhttps://shop.steco.co/product/steco-silent-inverter-generator-5500w/
STECO® 4-Stroke Generator 5500W50005500PetrolManual Start / Push Start25887Fridge, freezer, washing machine, lights, TV, microwave, kettle, router, Wi-Fi router, phone chargerhttps://shop.steco.co/product/steco-generator-5500w-4-stroke-key-start/
STECO® Open Frame Inverter Generator 6500W60006500PetrolRemote Control186.550Fridge, freezer, washing machine, lights, TV, microwave, kettle, router, Wi-Fi router, phone chargerhttps://shop.steco.co/product/steco-open-frame-inverter-generator-6500w/
STECO® Generator 7500W 4-Stroke Auto-Start68007500PetrolManual / Push-Button25784Whole house (excluding central AC), multiple applianceshttps://shop.steco.co/product/steco-generator-7500w-4-stroke-auto-start/
STECO® Generator 7500W 4-Stroke Key-Start68007500PetrolManual / Push Button25788Whole house (excluding central AC), multiple applianceshttps://shop.steco.co/product/steco-generator-7500w-4-stroke-key-start/
STECO® Silent Inverter Generator 7.5Kva68007500PetrolRemote Control25692Whole house (excluding central AC), multiple applianceshttps://shop.steco.co/product/steco-silent-inverter-generator-7500w/
STECO® Generator 8500W 4-Stroke Auto-Start80008500PetrolRecoil / ElectricNot specified890.9Whole house (excluding central AC), multiple applianceshttps://shop.steco.co/product/steco-ats-ready-8500watt-generator/

Still Not Sure? Try Our Product Suggestor

Not sure which generator to choose? We’ve made the selection process easier with our online product suggestor tool. Click the image below to discover the ideal power solution for your home or business.

Need More Power or Better Efficiency?

We’re here to help you find a power solution that suits your needs. Contact our STECO® team for any assistance: https://steco.co/#ContactUs.