Benefits of New and Used Generators

HIPOWER Diesel Generator

When shopping for a generator, it is important to keep in mind the many different options that are available. Knowledge of the wide array of products on the market can be invaluable to you, the buyer, ensuring that the generator you decide to purchase will fulfill your needs and fit your budget. One decision that should not be overlooked is the choice between a new generator and a used generator.

Buyers should be aware of the cost-efficient products available for sale. Used diesel generators, rebuilt diesel generators, used diesel engines, used natural gas generators and used natural gas engines are regularly sold by reputable dealers. These products are likely to satisfy your energy needs reliably for a substantially lower price than you would pay for a brand new generator or engine. Machinery bearing the most trusted brand names (Caterpillar, Cummins, Detroit, Generac, Kohler, Onan) can be purchased for as little as 50% of their original retail price.

So, a buyer may be asking, what are the benefits of purchasing a new diesel generator or a new natural gas generator? And are there risks in buying a used generator?

The primary benefit of purchasing a new generator is that it will be covered by a manufacturer’s warranty. Such warranties usually last one or two years and ensure that the owner will not be financially responsible for any unforeseen mechanical problems; the extent of a warranty’s coverage varies between manufacturers and often hinges upon the intended use of the generator. As with any expensive purchase, this kind of insurance policy can provide great comfort to the buyer. However, it is possible to find used generators for sale that are still covered by the original manufacturer’s warranty and, furthermore, many companies that deal in used generators will provide guarantees on their own refurbished products. If you are considering purchasing a used generator, be sure to ask the seller if any sort of warranty or guarantee is included. If it is included, this should increase you buying confidence significantly.

Most used generators, though, will not be insured to the extent that new one would be. Therefore, it is imperative that the buyer learns the usage history of any generator he is considering buying. The fewer hours on the engine, the less likely you will be to have problems with your purchase. Inquire about the generator’s previous employment—if it was used primarily for standby power or only as an emergency backup, it probably has far less wear and tear than if it was continuously powering heavy machinery or a vast electrical system.

This is an area in which shopping for used generators can become worrisome. As with any used product, the buyer must rely on the seller’s word and a dishonorable seller could bend the truth about the history and condition of his goods. Avoiding such potential deceit is another reason why one might feel more comfortable buying a new generator. However, people shopping for used products can be fairly confident that they will not be swindled as long as they deal with reputable companies. Veer away from individual sellers and makeshift stockyards. Look for an established, professional dealer with a good sales history—you can assume that customers are satisfied with their products if the company is succeeding.

It is all the more important to buy from a reputable company, because many used generators and diesel engines need to be repaired or completely rebuilt before they are sold—this is a complex process that requires the technical expertise of professionals. Also, regardless of the need for repair, professional sellers put all of their used generators through a rigorous testing process. These tests are critical; they allow the buyer to know the condition and functioning level of every part of the product he intends to buy. Often, machines come with a verification certificate, detailing all of the test results—this can be an invaluable tool for deciding whether or not to make a purchase.

One final, and perhaps crucial, benefit of buying a used generator is that, in all likelihood, you will receive your purchase immediately. The availability of brand new generators is often limited and manufacturing distributors have long waiting periods as well. Companies that sell used generators usually have them ready for immediate (and often free) shipping. So if you need to make a timely purchase, a used machine is definitely the best option.

New generators are certainly attractive due to the confidence the buyer is given by inviolate machinery and protective warranties. They might be ideal purchases for larger companies that value security, can abide a lengthy wait and, most importantly, have a generous amount of money to spend. However, for many buyers concerned with cost-efficiency, used generators might be the better option. If you take the time to learn about the company you are dealing with and the condition of the generator you are buying, you are likely to be very satisfied with the value you receive. Also, if you still have reservations about buying a used product, remember that generators are built to be reliable over the course of time; although it is advisable to learn about the particular generator you intend to buy, the chance that any one of them will break down remains slim.

If you are looking for quality used generators in Houston or if you would like any additional information on this topic, please call us at 713-434-2300 or e-mail us at sales@wpowerproducts.com.