Generator Performance: New vs Used

When it comes to purchasing a backup generator for your business, facility, or project site, there are a multiple main considerations to consider, such as brand, model, size, power needs and requirements, but there is one prevailing factor that is usually taken into consideration and that is should you buy a new generator or a used generator? While we have covered many inherent benefits to buying a new or used generator, there is one question that we are frequently asked and that is how used generators perform when compared to new generators.

New vs Used Generator Performance

Customers often ask us about the performance of a used generator vs a new generator, regardless of whether the unit is a diesel generator or a natural gas generator and this is a bit of a loaded question. In reality, backup generators should function similarly, if not the same at it’s very core and that is to provide backup power in the event of power outages and their role is to ensure that key systems and equipment can continue running. A backup generator should be properly serviced and maintained regularly to ensure that it is ready to reliably deliver power when needed. If a generator is properly maintained and barring any manufacturing defects, defective parts, damage done to the unit, a generator – regardless of new or old should continue to run well for many years and thus satisfies the performance requirement of a generator.

If we take it to another level regarding performance, this is where we can split hairs and assess on a more micro level in regard to performance of new generators vs used generators. An indisputable fact is that brand new generators will always have the latest and greatest technology within it’s components and overall build package. This means latest controllers, more efficient engines, and many other components that will give new generators an edge over their used counterparts. These advancements in technology can help reduce operating costs of a unit, provide better load management, and reduce fuel consumption rates by 10 to 15 percent, which would result in an overall higher efficiency rating.

This can be a stark contrast to older generators, which may experience engine wear over time, which could result in higher fuel consumption over time due to overall degradation of the engine. Many older generator units may also have basic controllers that mainly control the basic functions of operating the generator and displaying key information such as voltage and RPMs, but often lack load management capabilities and other settings. While upgrades may be available for older generators, there are potentially limitations that could be faced whether due to technology or hardware.

One item to keep in mind is that when it comes to new or newer generators, there may be minimal difference between 2 models a year or two (or even three) apart. It’s important to compare, assess, and evaluate the differences between the two, if any. There may be subtle changes or differences that may not impact your operation at all and would fit the bill for your backup power needs.

When considering these items, you may be asking – are brand new generators always the way to go? The answer is no. While new generators may be good for new construction projects and for many applications that must constantly meet more stringent requirements, a used generator may also be a sound solution depending on the needs and application. If cost is ultimately your driving factor and your project does not need to meet as heavily regulated requirements or you’re simply looking for a generator that can provide backup power during power outages, a used generator could be a robust solution for your application. Often, when people hear the word “used”, they may think of a worn down, antiquated piece of equipment. While this can be true in some instances, there are many used generators that may only be a few years old and in pristine condition and still perform extremely well, but may have simply been removed due to upgrades, investment recovery processes, or the business needed to meet stricter requirements, so it’s important to not immediately write off a used generator solely off the term used to describe it.

While we briefly covered this before, there is another option between brand new and used generators, which is surplus. These generators are new or near new units that often come from overstocked inventory or may be the result of a cancelled project. Surplus generators usually have little to no hours and they are sold above the price of used, but below the cost of brand new generators. Depending, they may also come with manufacturer warranties still available.

While there are many considerations to be made when shopping for a backup generator for your business, application, or project, be sure to evaluate the benefits of new vs used generators and determine whether general performance or overall performance may affect your purchasing decision. If you have any questions, are looking for a commercial generator for your data center, please reach out to us at Woodstock Power Company!

Give us a call or send us an email: 610-658-3242 or sales@woodstockpower.com

Additionally, you can fill out our Contact Form with any questions or inquiries and our representatives will get right back to you.

THE WOODSTOCK POWER COMPANY EXPERIENCE

We have industry experts that focus on commercial generator sets, with in-depth industry knowledge to help you choose the right generator that fits your needs. We are experts in providing generators for data center backup power needs, as well as data center decommissioning services.

We are industry leaders in buying and selling used generators to fit the needs of many businesses, including commercial, industrial, medical, agricultural, and university. This includes facilities like hospitals, better living centers, nursing homes, airports, hotels, resorts, restaurants, retail centers, manufacturing, production, and more.

Our experts are ready to assist you in answering any questions you may have about power generator sets to help you find the best selection in our inventory based on:

Peak & Average Power Requirements
Fuel Preference (Natural Gas or Diesel)
Portability & Stationary Power
Prime & Standby Generator Requirements
Available Space & Exhaust Restrictions

We carry only the most top-rated new, used, and surplus power generator sets for sale, providing you with a great value generator that will fit your budget.

Our generators have been thoroughly inspected, serviced, and verified, which ensures that you will be buying a quality generator that you can depend on. If a generator is not up to par with industry standards, we make all necessary repairs or modifications and fully test every generator before we sell. This ensures a full turnkey generator that’s ready to fire up and go!

Due to our wide selection of generator sets, we’re confident that we can find the model that best suits your operational needs and budget.

We also buy used generators in good quality, if you have already upgraded and you’re looking to sell your older model.

Feel free to contact us with any questions, concerns, or inquiries to learn more about the Woodstock Power Company experience and the quality level of products & services we provide.

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