Generators

Here at BCF we stock a range of inverter generators to fit the needs of any power-hungry adventurer. The petite Companion 1000W inverter generator is a great pick for those looking for a compact unit to keep on hand in case of an emergency. It will run several of your smaller appliances and will handle a camp fridge and some lights no dramas. If you're looking for something a little bigger, both XTM 4x4 and Engel have you covered with sizes ranging from 2000-2500. These models can power all your home essentials and are ideally suited for the camping enthusiast who likes a few luxuries while away from home; TVs, computers, stereos, and freezers are all a piece of cake for these beauties. Last but not least the 3500-watt pure sine wave inverter generator from Engel, a caravanners best friend that can handle everything from your air conditioning unit, microwave and electric stove.

Note: It's important to calculate the draw of all your appliances so you pick the correct generator for your individual needs, and you don't get left high and dry.

Like their traditional generator counterparts, inverter generators are great for the same applications during any outdoor adventures from camping and fishing trips through to running the air conditioning in your caravan. The only difference is the complex technology that inverter generators feature as an upgrade to traditional generators. At BCF, our inverter generators produce electricity in pure sine wave format, meaning continuous smooth waves. An inverter generator automatically adjusts its engine speed to the electrical load rather than a constant speed no matter the load size. This provides a range of benefits including less distortion due to cleaner voltage, greater fuel efficiency due to lower fuel requirements, lower carbon emissions making them more eco-friendly and a quieter operation.

When purchasing a generator, it's important that you first determine the amount of power required to not only run the appliance you wish to use, but the power required to start them. Some appliances require a starting power that can be up to five times the running power (e.g., a drill that operates on 600W may need 900W starting power). When you've added up the starting power of all the appliances you intend to run off the generator at any one time, this number will indicate the power required of your new generator. As a general rule of thumb, however, we recommend selecting an inverter generator that has a capacity for 20% more power than your required total.

There are a few things you must consider when on the hunt for a camping generator. Although some generators may dramatically vary in price, your back pocket should be a minor thought compared to these factors. As mentioned above, the size and overall power output should be at the top of your list, because the last thing you want is to run out of juice.

Portability – Many portable generators can weigh in excess 50kg making them a solid piece of equipment to move around. By paying close attention to whether they have folding wheels or handles getting them to and from will be much easier.

Run time – The run-time is something you should think long and hard about as generators with a longer run time will need to be refuelled less frequently. If you choose a generator that will last at least 8 hours at half-load you can give yourself a full night's shut-eye without the need to top it up.

Outlets – What you plan on running with your generator is the key! no matter what generator you choose it's important to check that it has enough outlets and even more importantly the right outlets.