Power your business with the right commercial electric generators from HD Supply. We carry a variety of portable and standby generators built for use by businesses like yours. We also make choosing the best generator for your job easy with our commercial generator buying guide, helpful selection tips and always-available industry experts.
Types of Generators
Portable vs. Standby Generators
The best generators for business come in two main options: portable or standby. Portable generators provide convenient power when and where you need it. They are easy to transport between jobsites, supply a continuous amount of power and come in a range of modest to moderate wattage options. Standby generators typically offer more power, ranging from moderate to substantial wattage options, but are not easily transported. They also come with various efficiency features, making standby generators ideal sources of reliable backup power for businesses.
Inverter Generators
Inverter generators are the latest advancement in fuel-efficient, portable generators. They come in a variety of wattage options with most in the middle ranges. That makes inverter generators an efficient option for convenient, on-the-job power.
Calculating Power Requirements*
Choose the best commercial generator for your business needs by calculating your power requirements. To do this, first add the total running wattage of the equipment you need to operate. Then, add that total with your equipment's single-highest starting wattage. If you do not know the wattages, calculate it by multiplying volts and amps.
Starting Wattage & Surge
Starting wattage is the extra amount of power your equipment needs to start. Surge wattage represents the maximum amount of wattage your generator can produce. Because tools with motors or compressors, such as pressure washers and air compressors, require significant starting power, starting and surge wattage must be considered when choosing your generator. Overloading can damage your equipment and the generator. If you do not know the starting wattage of your equipment, you can safely estimate it at 3 times the running wattage.
Think Economically
Generator prices increase exponentially with size. You may be able to save more money by purchasing multiple, smaller generators instead of a single, large generator. Large generators are great options when your job demands a lot of wattage or a constant rate of flow in one location. If your job calls for the same total wattage spread across multiple locations, however, you may be able to get more out of your investment with two or more smaller generators. Having multiple generators can also reduce cordage requirements, limit amperage loss and help equipment last longer.
*Note: All power requirements on the included table are general examples and should not be used to calculate specific requirements. Always refer to your manufacturer-provided power requirements, which are often found in the accompanied user manuals. Also, please note generators should not be used at their maximum capacity for long periods of time. Maintaining a usage of no more than 90% capacity is recommended. Always locate generators within a well-ventilated area.
| Equipment | Running Wattage | Starting Wattage |
|---|---|---|
| 60-Watt Light Bulbs | 60W | - |
| Floodlights | 500W | - |
| Quartz Halogen Work Lights | 1,000W | - |
| Wireless Power Tool Battery Chargers | 330W | |
| 1/3 hp Sump Pumps | 800W | 1300W |
| Reciprocating Saws | 960W | - |
| 5.4 Amp Electric Drills | 600W | 900W |
| Circular Saws | 1,400W | 2,300W |
| Belt Sanders | 1,400W | 2,400W |
| Angle Grinders | 1,800W | 4,000W |
| 1 hp Air Compressors | 1,600W | 4,500W |
| Band Saws | 1,200W | 2,400W |
| Miter Saws | 1,800W | 3,400W |
| Table Saws | 1,800W | 3,400W |
| 5 hp Wet & Dry Vacuums | 1,000W | - |
| 1.25 hp Blower Fans | 950W | - |
| Pressure Washers | 1,200W | 3,600W |
| Cell Phone Chargers | 10W | - |
| Personal Computers | 800W | - |
| Printers | 900W | - |
| 20-Inch Box Fans | 200W | - |
| Radio or CD Players | 100W | - |
Selecting Features
Not all generators are created equal. Get the most out of your investments by making sure your generators have the features your job demands.
Multiple Outlets
Most generators come with a few outlets, but your job may demand more. Be selective. Splitters can help increase the number of standard outlets, but those must be used appropriately.
Alternative Fuels
Generators typically run on gasoline, propane, natural gas or diesel, but units that accept multiple fuel types are available. Select the most convenient and cost-effective option for your use.
Auto-Idle Controls
Auto-idle controls increase efficiency by regulating generator engines when they are not in use. This extends run times when jobs require readily available, but not constant, electricity.
Low Oil Shutdowns
Available on most generators and nearly standard on all standby generators, low oil shutdowns turn engines off automatically when their oil drops below minimum required levels.
Outlet Configurations
Outlet configurations vary between generators and can include types like AC, DC and twist locks. Match the NEMA labels on your equipment with the generators' labels to ensure compatibility.
Electric Starts
Electric starts help turn generators on easily. These features depend on a battery, so check the requirements. Batteries may not be included. You may also want an optional pull-start.
Fuel Gauges
Some generators have fuel gauges while others do not. These are not typically necessary for jobs, but they are great features if your staff can benefit from checking fuel levels visually.
Hour Meters
Hour meters track and record a generator's total running time. Knowing exactly how long a generator has run can help you efficiently manage its maintenance and improve its longevity.
