Commercial Generator: Choosing the Best One for Your Business

Need help selecting the best generator? Contact us today for expert recommendations and a free quote!

Commercial Generator

Power outages can bring business to a standstill, and for many industries—like hospitals, data centers, factories, or retail stores—that’s simply not an option. A commercial generator is the backbone of business continuity, ensuring operations keep running even when the grid goes down. But with so many generators on the market ,and with so many options available, how do you choose the best commercial generator for your needs?

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about commercial generators, from sizing calculations to picking the best model for your business.

What Is a Commercial Generator?

A commercial generator is a heavy-duty backup power source designed to supply electricity to businesses, industrial facilities and large properties. These generators come in various types, including diesel, gas and hybrid models.

Common Uses of Commercial Generators:

- Hospitals & Healthcare – Ensures life-saving equipment stays operational.
- Data Centers – Prevents data loss during outages.
- Factories & Warehouses – Maintains production lines and inventory control.
- Retail & Restaurants – Keeps POS systems and refrigeration running.
- Educational – Keeps lighting, security systems, and digital learning tools operational.
- Construction Companies – Powers heavy machinery and temporary job site offices.
- Military & Defence – Ensures operational readiness in remote or critical areas.
- Telecommunication – Prevents network outages and keeps communication lines running.
- Events – Provides reliable power for concerts, festivals, and corporate functions.

How to Choose the Best Commercial Generator

Picking the right generator depends on factors like power capacity, fuel type and runtime requirements.

Key Considerations:

Power Output (kW/kVA): Determine how much power your business needs.
Fuel Type: Diesel vs. gas generators – pros and cons.
Size & Space: Indoor vs. outdoor installation options.
Noise Level: Important for businesses in urban settings.
Automatic Start: Ensures immediate backup power activation.

Best Commercial Generators for Different Businesses

Commercial Generator Sizing

One of the biggest mistakes businesses make is under-sizing or over-sizing their generator.

How to Calculate Generator Size:

List all critical electrical loads.
Determine total wattage.
Convert to kilowatts (divide by 1,000).
Factor in startup surges (typically 1.25x running power).
Choose a generator with at least 20% buffer capacity.

Example Sizing Calculation:

Lighting: 5 kW
Refrigeration: 10 kW
HVAC: 20 kW
Office Equipment: 5 kW
Total Load: 40 kW
Recommended Generator Size: 50 kW (with buffer)

Tip: Use a commercial generator sizing calculator to simplify the process.

Diesel vs. Gas Commercial Generators

Which one should you choose?

Best for Large Businesses: Diesel Generators
Best for Budget-Friendly Solutions: Gas Generators

Choosing the Right Generator for Your Business

Investing in the correct commercial generator ensures your business remains operational during power outages. Whether you need a diesel or gas generator, large or small, understanding your power requirements is crucial.

Need help selecting the best generator? Contact us today for expert recommendations and a free quote!