A generator of the size 20kVA is commonly used for small businesses, construction companies, and for farm use and backup power for domestic homes. It has the right power rating for running essential equipment without being too large and expensive to operate. Among the top questions that come up in the minds of potential customers before hiring a generator is the following: How long will the generator last?
The answer to this depends on two major things: how long it can run on a tank full of fuel, and how many years it lasts before being replaced.
Runtime Per Tank of Fuel
The running time of a 20 kVA generator on a full tank will depend on the type of fuel, size of tank, and the amount of power being drawn from the generator.
Here’s what affects runtime:
Load: The more load on a generator, the more fuel it consumes. A generator working at a higher capacity consumes more fuel than a generator working at a lower capacity. A generator working at a capacity of 20kVA working at a load of 100% consumes more fuel than the same generator working at
Fuel Type: Most 20kVA generators run on diesel. Diesel generators are more efficient than petrol generators, with longer runtime.
Tank Size: Not all 20kVA generators are equipped with the same size of fuel tanks. Some are equipped with in-built tanks, some are equipped with external tanks.
For a rough guide:
- At 75% of its rating, a diesel generator of 20 kVA rating will consume 4–5 litres of fuel every hour.
- With a 50 litre tank, you would get around 10-12 hours running.
- With a larger 100-litre tank or external source, it has the capability to run for 24 hours or more.
These are general figures, so it’s always best to refer to the spec sheet for specific details.
Lifespan of a 20kVA Generator
However, the lifespan of a 20kVA generator will vary depending on how often it’s maintained, used, and if it’s being overworked.
- A well-maintained diesel generator can operate for between 10,000 and 30,000 hours.
- For backup usage (a few hours a week), that is equivalent to perhaps 15-20 years of service.
- If the use would be regular on a day-to-day basis (e.g., on a website), the life span could be shorter, possibly 5 to 10 years.
However, to obtain the best lifespan out of your generator, you will have to
- Adhere to routine servicing, such as oil change, filter change, and inspections.
- Do not overload it, as running it at full power will cause it to wear out quicker.
- Keep it clean and dry. Dust and moisture will harm it if they get in.
Run it under load now and then – standby generators also need running occasionally to keep them in good working order.
A 20KVA generator is a reasonable choice for medium loads. It will last anywhere from 10 to 24 hours on a tank of fuel, depending on how it is being used. With adequate servicing, it will last many years. It is available as a diesel. Should you be unsure about which type of generator to buy or how much fuel it consumes, as well as its overall costs, feel free to get in touch with Bellwood Rewinds, as we can assist you with your purchasing or hiring requirements, as well as getting maximum benefits out of your generator.
