Generator Advice

RCPainting

Think I am going to need a generator for an upcoming job. Been putting off buying for too long. Mostly just to run a sander and other small tools, maybe a 440i spray rig (I have gas sprayrigs I could use). It would not get a lot of use otherwise.
What size/model anyone recommend? Is 2,000 watt enough?
Thanks

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CrpntrFrk

I have a 6500 for sale on the contractor swap. Might be a bit too much power for you (too much for me thats why I am selling it) but I only want $1500 for it.

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orson

I run a 3500 for myself. It is just enough to run peripherals and 1 large tool at a time...i.e. circular saw or table saw etc....runs a small compressor but will bog down if compressor and a saw are running for example.

Although I rarely ever advocate cheap tools I have been amazed by this cheapo WenPro generator I bought at Pep Boys. It is quiet and has been running strong for 3 years, even when I go months w/o starting it and the gas is old it fires up on the first or second pull.

If I had the dollars I'd buy a superquitet Honda genny.

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1mancrew

You never know when you will need a little more power. I was building a deck for a mobile home (hate working on mobile homes by the way). They didn't have a strong enough circuit to run my compressor so I went to HD since it was the closest. They were carrying a new line of generators...don't remember the name but it was a 3000 watt that was yellow. It was a $300 but a piece of junk. It wouldn't even run the compressor unless I let the pressure run way down. I took it back and purchased a 5000 (6250 peak). It will run my compressor and miter saw with no problems. I think it was $600 there abouts. I would definately recomend to go at least that size even if you don't see a need in the near future. Shame to purchase a smaller one and have to replace it a couple of months later. Good Luck.

mdshunk

For what you describe, a 2000 watt will be enough. I would also recommend a Honda, due to the fact that they are very quiet in this size, and really reliable. A bit costly in this size of generator, but well worth it, in my opinion. Get the Honda EU2000i generator. For one thing, it's very very popular, so parts and service will be super easy if you ever need something done to it. For another thing, if you need more power, you can buy a second EU2000i generator and get a paralleling cord to make them act as one big 4000 watt generator.

WarriorWithWood

I'll second that.

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silvertree

I bought the Honda eu 2000 a couple of weeks ago.
Northern tool for $999. Powers the lights, laptop and a Miele expresso machine in my truck display.

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Blackhammer

I spent the money at lowes and bought a 8000w run /13500w starting generator. I have had it for about 2 years and it works great. I run everything from charging batteries to a 250 millermatic welder.

woodchuck2

I bought a Honda 2000si from my old boss, he had to buy like 50 of them to become a Honda dealer. I got it for $857 out the door. It is a gas sipper and you wont find one any quieter. Another nice feature is the weight, you can reach over the side of the truck into the bed and pick it right up without killing yourself.

RCPainting

Thanks for the input, I borrowed small genny and got the job done with gas rig. I am keeping my eye out for a deal on a Honda.
Thanks

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olyteddy

1800 Watts is equal to a single 15 Amp circuit, 2400 Watts a 20 Amp. You judge, is that enough for your needs?

tgeb

I found a generator at a store called "Big Lots".

It is cheap, 2,000 watts for I think around 200-250 bucks. The engine has the low oil shut down, but is not a Honda. Runs well, it will power my electric jackhammer, saws, or hammer drill. If some hood rat steals it.....I will just buy another.

The Honda's are nice but I have already lost one generator (8,500 watt) to thieves.

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