Once you have determined the type and size of generator you need, the next big question is usually whether you should get a generator rental or purchase a generator outright. Several factors determine which route is best for you.
Advantages of Renting
The primary benefit of renting a generator instead of buying one is that the upfront costs are lower. The purchase price of a large industrial generator can be twenty to well over one hundred and fifty thousand dollars. If cash flow is a concern, renting may be a more attractive option, and the lower cost isn’t the only benefit.
Quick Acquisition
If you have an emergency and need a generator fast, a generator rental will usually take less time than a purchase. Red-D-Arc carries a full line of engine-driven generators, many of which are available for rental on short notice.
Size Flexibility
If you need a standby generator to run your entire operation, the size generator you need will probably stay the same for long periods. However, suppose you need a generator for a specific project. In that case, a rental provides you with the flexibility to choose the size generator you need for each project instead of trying to purchase a one-size-fits-all solution or buying multiple generators.
No Installation Costs
Permanent generator installations come with high costs for installation. They also usually require time-consuming site prep. Most rental units are portable units designed to be easily and quickly installed.
More Configuration Options
Rental generators usually have multiple configuration options, such as different connection options, voltage selector switches, and advanced control panels. Rental units are also generally easier to modify than other generators.
Good for Short-Term Projects
If you need a generator for a construction project or special event, it may make more sense to rent a generator than to buy one that may sit around unused once the project is over. You can always rent another generator if you end up needing one down the road.
Deciding Whether To Rent or Buy
A good place to start is calculating the total amount of time you expect to need the generator and multiply that by the monthly cost to rent the generator. Once you have your total rental cost, compare that to the total cost of purchasing a generator, including installation and site-prep. If the rental cost is close to the price of a purchase, you may want to buy instead, but you should still consider the other factors before deciding.
Choosing a Vendor
Once you have decided whether you want to rent or buy, you need to choose a reliable vendor. There are various factors to consider when selecting a rental partner.
Time in Business
If your generator goes down, you need to be able to count on your vendor to get your equipment up and running as fast as possible. A company with a long track record of good service is usually a safer bet.
Turnaround Time
You should make sure the vendor you work with has enough of the units you need in stock to get you what you need in the amount of time you need it. Make sure you ask what the average waiting time on rental equipment is.
Service
Choose a partner that offers the maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair services you need.
Eliminate Downtime
If you purchase a generator and it breaks down, the problem is all yours and repairs may take a considerable amount of time. If a rental machine breaks down, it can quickly be replaced, so you’ll be up and running in as short a time as possible.
Get the Power You Need, When You Need It
Red-D-Arc is ready to provide you with the right generator rental for your project. To get started, give us a call at 1-866-733-3272 or contact us online.
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