Anyone know about generators?

[paolo]

Does anyone know anything about generators?

The reason I ask is I don't have a garage attached to my house, so I'm looking to rent one. The problem is I can only find "lock-up" types with no power, so I'm looking at the possibility of buying a small generator.

Really I only want to run 1 (or maybe 2) strip lights and some small power tools like an electric drill (500W?) and angle grinder (800W).

Has anyone else bought a generator for similar requirements or know how to work out what size I need?

[SimonP]

Depends where your garage is situated really.

If it's away from houses, I'd go for something like the "standard industrial" type frame generator, eg Honda EC2200. Simple and reliable, but noisy.
That has a 2.0kW rated (2.2kW Max) output and will be ample. About £300.

You can get smaller "standard industrial" generators, but you'd find that the lights would go dim or off as you switched on your angle grinder, then come on again as it spun up to speed.
While the angle grinder runs at 800W, it takes a lot more to spin it up.

There are also "Leisure" generators, which have an inverter driven output.
They're quieter because the engine does not have to run at 3000rpm all the time - it only runs as fast as needed to make up the required output.
They work like a car alternator, output is DC, then they electronically create the AC output.
They're smaller and lighter too, though MUCH more expensive. Over £800!

BUT - I wouldn't recommend using one for big power tools - the load surges can cause the inverter to fail. I suppose modern ones are better, but I killed a 1kW model about 10 years ago with a Bosch 650W drill.

Go efficient on your lighting - I'd get more than 1 or 2 strip lights.
For the amount of light per watt of electricity they are well worth it.
Remember more light makes the job easier and safer, less chance of error.

Have a look at 38W 2D portable worklights too, for when you're working lower down on the car.

Simon.