Generators

Generators, generators, gener8tors,the world has gone mad!!! So out we go to purchase a generator but we have so little knowledge and the chaps who can import are importing anything that can make a noise. So what questions should be asked
1. Size the set according to laod it is required to pull and add 10% at least if you are in jhb as all generators are specified at sea level. So if your main breaker is a 60a unit and you are going to connect your entire electrical installation then in JHB you would upgrade from a 40kva unit to a 50 or 62kva unit.
2. Do you require sound and rodent proofing yes you do if the generator is in a built up area, the sound proof canopies also secure the unit so the batteries and copper cables and connectors cannot be stolen
3. Do you go petrol or diesel, petrol for an emergency unit required to run for an hour or two is fine, Diesel is designed to work under load for longer periods and has more torque maintaining revs resulting in a constant voltage output.
4 Do I need AVR automatic voltage regulation, for anything other than industrial power tools YES go for avr it will save you plenty in preventing damage to appliances