Contact us  for the latest range of Professional  Portable Generators or drop into our showroom at 500 Boundary Street Toowoomba


At Toowoomba Welding Supplies we keep a range of Engine Driven Welders and Generators in stock, ready to go. However generally we like to order custom built machines so that the Engine-Driven Welder or Generator you buy will suit your specific application and situation. 


Things I should know before buying a generator?

  • What is the generators wattage capacity and will it support your needs?
  • Does the generator have enough outlets to plug in all of the items i want to power?
  • How noisy is the generator?
  • Do you prefer a recoil or an electric start generator?
  • Do you prefer a diesel or a petrol powered generator?
  • How large is the fuel tank and how many hours of operation will it provide?
  • Can the generator be easily transported?
  • What accessories will you need to run the generator?

What size generator do I need?


It is very important to choose the right sized generator for your needs. If you choose a generator that is too small, you will not be able to run your essential appliances during a power outage. Further, overloading the generator may lead to its breakdown as well as damage to all appliances that are using its power. 

On the other hand, if you choose a generator that is too big, you will be spending more on its purchase, installation, fuel, maintenance and repairs than required. Choosing a generator that is too big may lead to a huge and unnecessary initial cost.

The size of your generator depends on the number and type of electrical appliances that you plan to run. Heating and cooling appliances like air conditioners and refrigerators consume a lot of power. You will need a bigger generator to power such appliances. On the other hand, if you want your house to power lights, you can opt for a smaller generator.

Furthermore, appliances that have moving parts like fans and pumps consume a lot of electricity at start-up but do not require a lot of power to continue functioning. When electric motors form part of your appliances, you will need to multiply three times the motor horsepower (hp) to your required steady state load.

The first thing you need to do is work out your Total Electrical Load, using the power chart below. Then, you will need to establish your steady state load, such as lights and appliances, which you expect to operate at any one time.
 

APPLIANCEWATTS
Clothes Dryer2400
Hot Water Service2500 – 3000
Iron900 – 1200
Kettle / Jug800 – 1500
Lights25 – 200
Radio60
Radiator1000 – 2500
Refrigerator100 – 800
APPLIANCEWATTS
Television Set75 – 200
Toaster250 – 1250
Washing Machine500 – 3000
Air Conditioner (Non-inverter)1000 – 2500
Electric Motor
0.25 hp*
0.5 hp*
1 hp*
2 hp*
 1873757501500
Welder, 140 Amp(Non-inverter)5000
9″Angle Grinder2300

Above chart is a guide only and some appliances will vary their watts depending on brand.

QUICK CONVERSIONS

To convert Watts to kVA @ 0.8pf, divide Watts by 0.8.

Example: 

2000 Watts = 2.5 kVA

4800 Watts = 6 kVA

To convert kVA to kW @ 0.8 pf, multiply kVA x 0.8

CHOOSING A GENERATOR

1800 WATTS

Power tools rated up to 1000 watts. Portable Drill, Jigsaw, Toaster, Frypan, Lighting, Heating, TV, Small Fridge, ¼  to ½ hp Motor (depending on type). Ideal for the “Home Handyman”. Light in weight to power small appliances and for home use. Choose 2.4 kVA.

3500 WATTS

Power tools rated up to 2200 watts. Small Air Conditioner or Radial Saw, Lighting, Heating, TV, Microwave, Oven or Hotplate, Small Submersible Pump, ¾ hp Motor (depending on type). Choose 4.4 kVA.

6000 WATTS

Power tools rated up to 3400 watts. Small Air Conditioner, Radial Saw, Lighting, Heating, TV, Microwave, Oven or Hotplate, Submersible Pump, ¾ to 1 hp motor (depending on type). Choose 7 kVA. 

All information above is an approximation only.

If you are unsure about any of the above, simply give us call and we will gladly assist you!

Buy your welding machines from Toowoomba Welding Supplies and you can rest easy knowing that we sell quality, and we service what we sell.

For a Total Tools package, contact us on 07 46590044.