For many businesses, a generator isn’t just a piece of equipment — it’s the heartbeat of operations during outages or emergencies. But with supply chain delays and high upfront costs, buying new isn’t always the best option.
That’s why more contractors, facility managers, and data centers are choosing to buy used generators. The savings can be significant (up to 50% compared to new), and when sourced from the right partner, reliability is never compromised.
Still, buying used requires due diligence. Here are the five essential questions to ask before purchasing a used generator for sale.
1. What’s the Runtime Hours?
Just like mileage on a car, runtime hours are the first clue to a generator’s condition.
- Low Hours = Longer Life: Generators from data centers often have surprisingly low usage, since they only run during tests or outages.
- High Hours = Watch Closely: Units with thousands of hours may still work well, but they’ll need a stronger maintenance track record.
👉 Ask for the meter reading and documentation. Anything under 5,000 hours for an industrial generator is generally considered low.
2. Has the Generator Been Load Bank Tested?
A load bank test simulates real-world conditions by running the generator at full capacity. It reveals how the system performs under stress and ensures critical components (engine, alternator, cooling) function properly.
- Without testing, you risk buying a generator that works at idle but fails under load.
- A reputable supplier should provide a load bank test report with the sale.
👉 If a seller can’t verify this, consider it a red flag.
3. What’s the Maintenance History?
Maintenance records are the medical history of a generator.
- Well-Maintained = Peace of Mind: Units serviced regularly (oil changes, coolant checks, filter replacements) are more reliable.
- Neglected = Hidden Costs: Skipping preventative maintenance often leads to expensive failures later.
👉 Ask for logs or service reports. If none are available, factor in the cost of a full service inspection before purchase.
4. Is It Configured for Your Voltage and Phase Needs?
One of the biggest mistakes buyers make is purchasing a unit that doesn’t match their electrical requirements.
- Voltage: Generators can be set for 120/240V, 277/480V, or other configurations.
- Phase: Industrial applications usually require 3-phase; smaller operations may only need single-phase.
👉 Confirm compatibility before purchase. Reconfiguring after the fact can add cost and delay.
5. Who Handles Logistics and Installation?
Buying a generator is one thing. Getting it delivered, unloaded, and installed is another.
- Logistics: These are heavy, oversized units. A partner with nationwide equipment removal and shipping capabilities ensures smooth delivery.
- Installation Support: Contractors may require coordination on-site, especially for larger projects.
👉 Ask if the supplier offers turnkey services — removal, shipping, rigging, and installation support. That’s the difference between a smooth handoff and a logistical nightmare.
Bonus Question: What’s the Warranty or Guarantee?
Not all suppliers offer this, but some provide short-term warranties or performance guarantees. This adds another layer of trust when buying used.
Real-World Example: Smart Buying Pays Off
A contractor in Texas recently needed a 500 kW standby generator for a food processing facility. A new unit would have taken 18 weeks to arrive. Instead, they sourced a low-hour used generator, complete with a load bank test and service history.
- Lead Time Reduced: Delivered in 2 weeks.
- Savings: Nearly 40% compared to new.
- Outcome: Facility had reliable standby power before hurricane season hit.
Buying Used is Smart — If You Ask the Right Questions
Buying a used generator can be one of the smartest business decisions you make — but only if you do your homework. Asking the right questions ensures you get a reliable unit that meets your specs, fits your budget, and arrives when you need it.
At Powerhouse Systems, every unit we sell is:
- Load bank tested
- Backed by service records (where available)
- Nationwide ready-to-ship
👉 Should I buy a used generator? Contact us today to explore our current inventory and cut your project lead times in half.
