Buying a used generator is not the seemingly lower-class gesture it used to be. Brand-new generators are great but may break the bank, especially if you have extensive power-supply needs. Now, everyone wants a new generator because you’re sure of being the first user. The same doesn’t apply to a used generator; someone has been there before you.
Many second-hand ones run well and are reliable but you still have to check a few things to ensure they are viable. This article explains whether or not you should invest in second hand generators or pick new ones. We’ll discuss what to look for in a quality one and the benefits of choosing a used option rather than a brand-new generator.
What to Check before Buying a Used Generator
Depending on your requirements, there are a number of things to check in a second-hand generator before committing to buying one. We’ve picked a few of them to help you get started.
1. Manufacturer
One of the first things to check is the manufacturer. Some brands have better second-hand value than others and knowing this can guide your selection process. Several brands top the list in this industry and when used well by the previous owner, you can rest assured that you’re getting a good deal.
So research and find the best brands and learn all you can about the number of years such a generator can last and what to expect after a certain period. This should inform you of key questions to ask when meeting with the vendor.
Another thing to check in this regard is the seller. Many marketplaces have regular sellers, some acting as middlemen. Check reviews from previous buyers and how they rate the vendors. Do they communicate well? How quickly do they respond? And what’s the success rate of their transactions in terms of customer satisfaction?
2. Usage
Another key factor is the usage. Now, getting the history of a used generator is usually not as easy as it sounds because the truth is many vendors get these items through auctions or quick sales and not directly from the owner.
However, like a car, a generator has an odometer that shows you how much time or hours it has left. Careful research will show you what a new one of the same brand and model should have on its odometer before usage. That way, you can determine whether it’s a good deal to buy a used one or make up the money and purchase a brand-new generator.
If you have the luck of buying directly from the previous owner, it saves you a lot of stress in finding out the usage history. They can tell you what it was used for, helping you determine what you can use it for. Generators that are used as a primary source of power are typically less viable for second-hand use than those used as a backup or standby source of power.
Check out this resource: https://www.spoonerplus.com/ for a proper understanding of the importance of regular equipment or machine maintenance.
3. Age
Next, consider the age. The age can be translated into hours, which you can check on its odometer. The older a generator is, the less time it can serve you, no matter how good it looks. You might not have the eye or expertise to tell the age or even check the odometer but a trained technician can.
Therefore hire someone with the training and experience to correctly evaluate the item to help you determine if it’s a good buy. They can do a load test to verify the generator’s operational power since used ones can lose some of the power capacities over time.
This is a good place to point out that poor maintenance can make a relatively new generator appear old and good maintenance can make a relatively old one appear newer than it actually is. In other words, getting a generator that’s used for only a few months or years is good but proper maintenance is more important.
4. Price
You must also think about buying a generator that fits well into your budget. To be sure you get a good deal, decide what you plan to use it for and how often to use it. Next, research the kilo-volt-ampere that would be required and the most suitable generator for it. That should inform your choice.
When you have successfully determined the type and size of a generator you need, compare the price of top-rated used ones to that of brand-new ones in the same category. Remember to add the potential repairs on the used one before usage as that is part of the cost.
If the price difference isn’t much, consider choosing a brand-new one. However, go with a second-hand generator if there’s a significant price difference between the two options in favor of the used one.
Benefits of Used Generators
The following are a few benefits of choosing a second-hand generator:
1. Affordable
The primary reason anyone goes for a second-hand generator is the cost-effectiveness. They don’t burn a hole in your pocket while remaining useful. You may even get a good deal if you find someone willing to sell a pretty new set at an unbelievably low price.
2. Available
You don’t have to look far to find a good set for sale in this category. In fact, availability is hardly ever an issue because individuals and companies are always selling generators for various reasons. You’ll even find businesses specializing in selling used generators and you’re sure to get a good deal because all items are checked and verified.
3. More Varieties
There are more varieties of brands to select from with beneficial additions and upgrades. While the market for brand-new generators also has many options, the after-market upgrades and additions are generally unavailable unless specifically requested, which cost more money.
But you get them free of charge with second-hand options. Here is why product varieties are important in a business and to consumers.
Conclusion
The market for second-hand generators is booming and will remain relevant because of demand. But before buying one, do some research to determine its physical condition, usage, age, and the reputation of the manufacturer/vendor. Also, ensure the price is worth the buy compared to a new one after considering the various repairs and maintenance costs. In addition, think about how you plan to use the generator to decide if a new one serves you better.
