Buying used generator equipment - is it worth it?

If you are buying anything which has previously been used there is always an element of uncertainty as to it’s reliability, as you are unsure how the previous owner took care of the equipment and also how often was it used. There are many used generators for sale, from used diesel generators through to buying an electric generator. Whatever type of generator you need, the most important thing is to do your research. The points below briefly outline some of the most important factors to consider when buying a used generator.  

The Supplier 

Perhaps one of the most important decisions to consider is the reliability of the supplier. It’s best to choose a supplier who is already established within the market place and has a good track record. A trusted supplier will also understand the workings of each piece of equipment, so whether you’re buying used diesel generators or an electric generator you can be assured a reputable supplier will understand the workings of the equipment and tested it thoroughly before selling it on. 

The Manufacturer 

The phrase ‘it’s all in the name’ often rings true when it comes to the world of used generators for sale. With a good manufacturer such as CAT or Caterpillar you know they are a trustworthy company. You are investing both time and money when you purchase a generator, so you want it to be long lasting and fuel efficient and a reputable supplier will be able to provide you with expert advice. Regardless of the type of generator you are buying, if you purchasing equipment from an established manufacturer, with history and recognition within the industry, then you are on the right track.  

Previous Usage 

When buying used generators for sale there are some key questions you need to ask in relation to it’s previous usage. These questions include: How old is the equipment? Why is it being sold? How often was it used? If the supplier is happy and open with their answers to these types of questions, you will gain a good understanding as to the amount of life left in the generator and whether it’s been looked after or not. It’s important when buying a generator, whether this be an electric generator or used diesel generators that you understand it was taken care of because if generators are poorly looked after they can be dangerous. 

Load Test 

This is an important test to undertake before committing to purchasing any generator. The load test will, most likely, have been performed by the supplier but we also recommended that you carry out the test yourself. This ensures the accuracy of the results and be you can be reassured about the performance and the generators overall efficiency in power generation.