Generator is a machine that converts mechanical energy into electricity. It is available in most Nigerian homes, and they differ in sizes, capacities, mechanism, brands, etc and these will all determine their different prices. But one thing is not to be forgotten, and that is that they all provide electricity in their best possible way. So, we will learn about the different types of and some of them are soundproof generators and their prices, so you can get anyone within your budget.
Types of generators
1. Standby/whole house generator
This type of generator has very high electrical capacity and thus powers those appliances that need high current to run, like the refrigerators, air conditioners. It is fully connected to the building’s electrical system and so does not need external cords. Its coolest pro is that it automatically turns on immediately when the commercial electricity goes off, and that some of them are soundproof. Standby generators run on fuels like gasoline, diesel, propane, etc. Aside from being used in some homes, it is the best option for industries. With all these advantages, it is no surprise that standby generators are quite expensive, they can be purchased between the prices of N5,000,000 to N99,000,000.
2. Portable generator
Portable generator is smaller in size than the standby generators. It is most suitable for homes since its electrical capacity is not so high, some of them power large appliances depending on the generator’s watt, the higher, the better. Unlike the standby generators, it needs manual powering when the commercial power goes off. They are also powered by gasoline, diesel, etc. Portable Generators vary in prices depending on their capacity, so it is important to check the electrical requirements of your home and appliances before purchasing one. The prices are estimated between N50,000 to N2,000,000.
3. Diesel generator
Diesel generator is a portable generator, but it is fuelled specifically with diesel. It is the most common type of generator used in Nigerian homes. This generator runs on low temperature and thus prolongs the engine’s lifespan. It needs manual powering which can even be done remotely and has varying electrical capacities. It is important to note that diesel generators emit harmful substances and thus should be placed some distances away from the main building. The estimated prices are between N50,000 to N1,500,000.
4. Inverter generator
This is another type of portable generator but needs stored energy to run. It has different sources through which it can store its power from, it could be from the public electricity. This is only suitable in areas where the public power only goes out for a short while because inverter generators have a limited running time. It saves its power by adjusting the electrical output to meet the electrical needs of the household appliances, for instance, more power will be consumed when the television is running than when it is not. So, maximizing its running time is all up to you. The appliances it can power depends on the watt requirement of that appliance. It is between the prices of N150,000 and N1,000,000.
5. Gasoline generator
This is a portable generator but solely requires gasoline to run. It has lower electrical capacities than most generators and thus is best when the electrical requirement for your household is not much. Although gasoline generators are cost effective, fuelling them is not. The price of gasoline tends to skyrocket from time to time in Nigeria. Gasoline generators can be purchased between the prices of N60,000 to N500,000.
6. Solar generator
This is a portable generator that draws its power from the sun. It has low electrical capacity and depends on solar energy to run, and thus makes it less reliable than the other generators, you can imagine a rainy day. All the cons aside, it has an upper hand for its free fuelling, nobody has ever purchased the sun. So, if your electrical requirement is not much, then purchasing a solar generator won’t be a bad idea. It is between the prices of N150,000 to N500,000.
Bottom line
Choosing the right generator to meet the electrical requirements for your building can be overwhelming. The same goes for connecting and setting the generator up, and as well for maintenance and repair. These activities require the services of professional electricians, and here at Daibau, we provide you with versed electricians to suit the needs of your generators.