Hyundai diesel generator powering a UK home during a winter power cut

Generators for sale across the UK

UK generators, sized to what you actually need to run.

Most generators are sold on their peak number. We size on continuous power and motor start-up, so the one you buy still copes when everything is switched on.

What do you need power for?

Ask us instead

Prefer to talk it through? Call 01744 520110 or WhatsApp us.

  • Free deliveryMainland UK
  • Prices include VATNo hidden fees
  • Usually 2 to 5 working daysTracked to your door
  • 14-day returnsSee our returns policy

Power Finder

Work out your size in under a minute.

Add what has to keep running. We calculate the running load and the start-up surge, then match it against the continuous rating of every generator we sell.

Browse all generators

Already know what you want?

Go straight to it.

Our picks

The right machine for the job.

Chosen for what each one is genuinely good at, with the continuous rating up front.

Choosing a fuel

Petrol, diesel, inverter or dual fuel?

Petrol

Best for
Site work, occasional backup and the lowest cost per kW.
Watch out for
More noise, and stored petrol goes stale, so use stabiliser.
From
£799.98
See petrol generators

Diesel

Best for
Long runtimes, regular standby use and automatic backup.
Watch out for
Higher purchase price and more weight, so plan where it will live.
From
£2,449.98
See diesel generators

Inverter

Best for
Laptops, TVs and caravans, where clean power and low noise matter.
Watch out for
A higher price per kW than an open-frame petrol set.
From
£1,839.98
See inverter generators

Dual fuel

Best for
Running on petrol or LPG, with LPG that stores well for emergencies.
Watch out for
Output is lower on LPG, so size on the fuel you will really use.
From
£1,590.00
See dual fuel generators

Before you buy

Six things that decide whether a generator works for you.

  1. 01

    Buy on continuous power

    The headline number is usually peak output, available only briefly. Continuous power is what it can hold all day.

  2. 02

    Allow for motor start-up

    Fridges, pumps and compressors can draw two to three times their running power for a moment as they start.

  3. 03

    Know kW from kVA

    kVA is not usable power. At a 0.8 power factor, 10kVA gives you 8kW, so compare like with like.

  4. 04

    Check the 110V output

    Dual-voltage sets typically give only about half their rating on the 110V sockets. Size site tools accordingly.

  5. 05

    Never backfeed a house socket

    It can energise the street supply and kill someone working on the line. Whole-house connection needs a changeover switch fitted by a qualified electrician.

  6. 06

    Outdoors only, always

    Generator exhaust contains carbon monoxide, which you cannot see or smell. Never run one in a garage, shed, porch or under a canopy against the house.

Questions

Straight answers.

What size generator do I need for a house?

Essentials such as a fridge freezer, gas boiler, lights and broadband usually fit within 2 to 3kW continuous. Add an electric oven, kettle or washing machine and you are typically looking at 5kW or more. Use the Power Finder for your own list.

Can I connect a generator to my house wiring?

Yes, but only through a changeover switch installed by a qualified electrician. Several of our diesel generators are ATS compatible, so they can start automatically when the mains fails.

Should I choose petrol or diesel?

Petrol suits occasional use and costs less to buy. Diesel suits long runtimes and regular standby use, and diesel sets usually have larger tanks.

Which generator is best for a caravan or sensitive electronics?

An inverter generator. It produces clean power for laptops and TVs and is usually the quietest option on a campsite.

How much is delivery and how long does it take?

Delivery is free to mainland UK addresses. Orders are usually handled within 1 working day and take 2 to 4 working days in transit. Built-to-order machines take longer, so ask us for a date.

Can I return a generator?

Tell us in writing within 14 days of delivery. Goods must be unopened and in resaleable condition, and the customer pays return carriage on a change of mind. Faulty or damaged goods should be reported within 24 hours of receipt.

Talk to us

Not sure? Send us the job and we will size it.

Tell us what you are powering and where. We will come back with a recommendation and a delivered price.

Call 01744 520110sales@generator-uk.co.uk

Generators UK is run by Express Matting Services Ltd, Company No. 07000887, Burnley, Lancashire.