When to Buy a Generator vs. Rent a Generator Guide

Industrial Generator Transformer You may be asking youself, “Should I buy a generator?” Well, there are a number of things that need to be taken into consideration when contemplating whether to go forward with a generator rental or purchasing one outright.  The number one question we get “is how much would it cost to buy vs. rent a generator”. The answer to this question is not as straightforward as you might think. Because of the initial startup costs of commercial generators, it might not be the ideal decision. But, if you’ll be requiring it for an extended period of time, then it just might be worth it to buy.

Pros of Purchasing a Generator

When purchasing a commercial generator, most will typically be looking into the long-term use they will get out of it. There are several advantages to purchasing a generator:
  • It will always be there at your fingertips if something happens to the power. There won’t be any loss of business, because you won’t have to waste time going out and renting one.
  • You don’t have to worry about the rental contract and ongoing payments. Renting a generator for months on end will result in a hefty bill. If the generator is required for a set number of months, and the cost to purchase it, is less than what the rental payments will be for that set number of months, then it will be cheaper to purchase.
  • Rental generators typically don’t permit the same level of customization that might be required for a specific configuration. An example of this is if an industrial facility requires a generator with certain add-ons, then the industrial generator rental usually won’t permit that.

Cons of Purchasing a Generator

A few reasons you may decide against purchasing a generator include:
  • The initial cost can be quite high.
  • You’ll be responsible for all of the long-term maintenance.
  • Damage might occur through use.

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Pros of Renting a Generator

Renting a generator can have benefits as well. If you require a construction generator rental only for a short-term project, then it makes sense to go that route.
  • There are no up-front costs involved.
  • You might be able to get a deal on the rental if you bargain hunt.
  • Maintenance costs are slim to none.

Cons of Renting a Generator

  • The generator isn’t yours, and that results in the flexibility in what you can do with it being decreased. If you need to customize it based on your facility, then that might not be an option with a rental.
  • Special equipment and labour might be required to get it installed, such as hiring an electrician.
  • If the power goes out, there will be downtime involved due to searching for a generator.
If you’re looking around for where to buy a generator and find out how much it costs to buy one, or want to rent one, then contact the experts at VCM Solutions today. Our helpful staff will guide you in the right direction. VCM Solutions is proud to be Canada’s leading transformer rental company.

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