Australia’s construction sector is the backbone of many of the thriving economies across the nation. Because construction sites have such complicated power requirements, it may not be the easiest thing just to pick a generator and start using it immediately. It’s important to do some research towards figuring out what size you will need because doing so can save you from a lot of unnecessary problems. Choosing the right size, and keeping up with proper maintenance, can make sure it lasts longer and runs more smoothly. Doing so protects you from having to spend money on generator repairs in Brisbane. There are several different sizes, brands, and types of generators. Finding the right size can be tricky but we’ve put together a few tips to help you along the way.

Why do construction sites need generators?

Before we get into the sizing, it’s important to understand why generators are so important for construction sites. Many construction sites across Australia are based in remote areas that are very far from national power grid lines. They still need high volumes of power because they use very large and cumbersome equipment and machinery. Even construction sites that do have access to national power grid lines, cannot rely on it to always supply the required power continuously. These are only some reasons why your construction site needs a generator. Providing units and generator servicing in Brisbane and Queensland are very common because there is a huge need for sites to generate the much-needed electricity supply.

What size generator is needed for construction sites?

The first thing you need to worry about when it comes to finding the right size generator is to figure out how much wattage you’ll need. Large generators can provide power of up to 9,000 watts but even larger generators, typically used on industrial properties, may need extra-large generators that have a capacity of well over 10,000 watts. You will need to add up the total wattage required on your property and that includes every piece of equipment that will be plugged into a generator. Try by checking the wattage required to run the tools on the site. You should also check how many watts are needed to start the tool and tally it up. Do this for all the equipment on-site and you’ll have a better idea.

We always suggest using a generator that has a higher wattage capacity, so consider adding 10 or 20 percent to the final total just to make sure that you know you have enough power in your generator. Tools that require a huge amount of power, or those expected to run 24/7, may require the expertise of an expert to find the right industrial-sized generator. The more power you need, the larger the generator and the more expensive it is. You also need to consider the local environmental concerns. Australia’s energy.gov.au portal has information about the local health and amenity impacts when using a generator on your construction site. There are other factors to take into account and they can also help you determine the proper size and output capacity required:

• The size of your site 

The larger the size of your construction site will be directly proportional to how large your generator will have to be. In some instances, very big construction sites may need more power than one generator can produce. We can discuss your options for installing several generators to meet the power requirements.

• Equipment types 

Construction projects are known to use huge machinery and high-powered electrical equipment and tools. For sites with very complex systems and high-tech machines, you’ll need a generator with more wattage than when using smaller products that consume less electricity.

• Prime vs standby power

Prime power for industrial projects that are in remote environments is a whole different ball game and requires professional expertise. Prime power solutions are best for cases in Queensland where there isn’t immediate access to main power. This can be the case more often with remote mining sites. Standby power however refers to the supply of emergency power for a limited period, such as during outages or electrical faults in your existing power system.

• Fuel types

Generators can operate on different types of fuel and they each come with their pros and cons. We’ve compared two popular fuel types, namely petrol vs diesel generators, and you’ll see that they offer different benefits. Gasoline-powered industrial generators are gaining popularity but they’re not the best option for every environment. You also need to choose a generator fuel option that has an excess supply in your area. Choose the one that has multiple refill spots near your industrial operation. Considering these possibilities will help you choose the best fuel option because it’ll be up to you to keep supplying it.

• Voltage capacity

We recommend calculating wattage to help figure out the right size of generator for a construction site. But it is also important to consider the voltage it can provide. The higher the voltage capacity the stronger the electrical current will be.

• Phase

Construction sites with more complex power needs may need to consider three-phase options instead of typical single-phase generator sets. Most construction projects need three-phase units because they can deliver a more stable and reliable power supply.

• Construction site generator installation

Construction site generators aren’t cheap, so try to avoid wasting all that money by buying an ill-suited generator that will fail to meet your needs. Consult a properly licensed and qualified expert and they’ll offer much more comprehensive advice than the advice mentioned above.

Call us on (07) 3710 8212, and we’ll not only install your generator but we’ll also set a servicing schedule to keep it running smoothly. Reactive Generators also has the experience to help select the best job site generator. You’ll get the right-sized equipment and receive guidance on how to configure it at your construction site. Our team is available to customers in Brisbane, the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, and Ipswich.