We count on generators to provide reliable power when and where we need it – and with an electric start generator, you’ll get exactly that. Every time.

Here’s our quick guide to 4 of the best electric start generators on the market.

The 4 Best Electric Start Generators

1. Best For Recreation - Honda EU30is

With Honda’s GX200 engine and 3,000 watts of maximum power, the Honda EU30is is a suitable power source for caravanning and camping trips. It features a microcomputer-controlled sinewave inverter, so it will safely power frequency sensitive devices like laptops, toasters and mobile phones.

Weighing 59kg, the Honda EU30is is one of the lightest generators in its power class. Its 13L fuel tank also provides 20 hours of continuous operation at ¼ load. The EU30is’ built in Eco Throttle functionality adjusts engine speed to meet demand, increasing fuel economy while reducing noise to a campground-friendly 52 dBA.

Key features of the Honda EU30is include:

• Max output: 3,000 watts
• Rated output: 2,800 watts
• Rated voltage: 240V
• Noise level: 52 dBA
• Fuel tank: 13L
• Weight: 59kg
• Engine: GX200 engine, 4 stroke single cylinder

Best For Construction

2. Genesys GEN11000R

Producing 9,375 watts of maximum power, the Genesys GEN11000R will comfortably run most of your trade site power tools, as well as radios, fans or phones. Its 30L fuel tank is also one of the largest on the market for a generator its size, allowing up to 13 hours of operation at 75% load.

The GEN11000R’s roll cage frame design, cast iron sleeved engine, low oil shutdown and custom designed outlet covers ensure maximum durability on demanding trade sites. Its oversize, flat-free wheels and single folding handle grip allow for easy manoeuvrability around the site wherever you need power.

Key features of the Genesys GEN11000R include:

• Max output: 9,375 watts
• Rated output: 7,500 watts
• Rated voltage: 240V
• Noise level: 75 dBA at 7M
• Fuel tank: 30L
• Weight: 105kg
• Run time: 13 hours at 75% load

3. Genesys GEN7S

The Genesys GEN7S has a 4-stroke air-cooled diesel engine and 6,500 watt maximum power output, making it a suitable power source for residential trade sites. There’s also the option to attach an automatic transfer switch (ATS) to the generator, so it can turn on automatically in a power outage.

The GEN7S’s weatherproof, silenced canopy brings its noise output down to 70 dBA, so it’s compliant with most trade site noise restrictions. Its 15L fuel tank allows for a run time between 10-12 hours at 75% load.

Key features of the Genesys GEN7S include:

• Prime power: 6kVA
• Standby power: 6.5kVA
• Rated voltage: 240V
• Noise level: 70 dBA @ 7m
• Fuel tank: 15L
• Weight: 158kg
• Engine: 12HP Air Cooled
• Run time: 10-12 hours at 75% load

4. Best For Home Backup - Honda EU70is

Fitted with an electric push button start and backup recoil start, the Honda EU70is guarantees simple, reliable operation. Its four-stroke GX390 engine delivers a maximum output of 7,000 watts, so it’ll keep most essential items running in a blackout or electrical emergency.

The EU70is’ electronic fuel injection system enables greater fuel efficiency, offering up to 18 hours of continuous operation. It also includes Honda’s sine wave inverter technology, so it’ll safely power frequency sensitive equipment like laptops, computers, phones and smart fridges.

The EU70is’ innovative triple chamber construction makes it one of the quietest generators in its class, operating at 52-58 dBA. At 118kg, the EU70is is still easily manoeuvrable thanks to its attached all-terrain wheels and fold-down handles.

Key features of the Honda EU70is include:

• Max output: 7,000 watts
• Rated output: 5,500 watts
• Rated voltage: 240V
• Noise level: 52-58 dBA
• Fuel tank: 19.2 litres
• Weight: 118kg
• Engine: GX390 Engine, single cylinder, 4 stroke
• Run time: 18 hours with Eco Throttle mode

3 Considerations For Buying An Electric Start Generator

1. Your Power Output

To correctly size a generator, you need to create a list of all the appliances you want the generator to power and tally up their total starting and running watts.

Starting watts is the extra boost of power your appliances draw when turning on. Running watts is the continuous power your appliances draw during use. Bear in mind, for appliances like fridges, AC units and certain power tools, starting watts can be 3-4x higher than the running watts.

2. Noise

Minimal noise output is crucial if you plan to use your generator in residential or recreational areas. Generators should not exceed 65 dBA in camping grounds and 75 dBA in residential areas.

To find out more about the quietest generators on the market, see our helpful article here.

3. Run Time

Generator run time will vary depending on the model’s fuel tank size, fuel efficiency and load capacity.

In general, you’ll want to look for a generator with a run time above 7 hours to prevent refuelling slowing you down throughout the day. The Honda EU30is, for example, will run for up to 20 hours at ¼ load.

Get the Right Advice. Contact Us Today

With years of experience, you can rely on Blue Diamond Machinery to provide the right advice and a portable generator to meet your unique requirements.

For more information on the best model to suit your power requirements, contact us today or speak to one of our expert team on 1300 998 647.