1. What’s the difference between a battery power station and a generator?
A battery power station stores energy in rechargeable lithium batteries. It runs silently, produces no exhaust fumes, and is ideal for indoor or low-noise environments.
A generator creates electricity by burning fuel (usually unleaded petrol), so it can keep running as long as it’s refuelled. Generators are best for outdoor or long-duration setups where more power is needed.
2. Which option is better for my event?
Use a battery when you want quick, silent power indoors, perfect for weddings, markets, or photo shoots.
Use a generator when you need higher or longer-lasting power outdoors, like festivals or food stalls.
In short: batteries are plug-and-play and quiet; generators are more powerful and flexible.
3. Are they safe to use indoors?
Battery power stations are completely safe indoors because they produce no fumes or heat.
Generators must only be used outdoors in open, well-ventilated spaces. They emit carbon monoxide and should never be used inside a venue, tent, or vehicle.
4. How long will they run for?
Battery power depends on what you plug in, typically 2 to 8 hours per charge. Smaller items like laptops or lighting will last longer; higher-draw gear like speakers or projectors will reduce runtime.
Generators can run continuously as long as you keep them fuelled, with most models lasting 5 to 8 hours per tank.
5. What can they power?
Both options can run common event gear such as speakers, mixers, lighting, laptops, and small appliances.
Always check your equipment’s wattage and choose a unit rated above your total combined load for safe and stable power.
6. How do I know what size I need?
Add up the wattage of all the devices you’ll use at once.
Choose a unit that provides at least 20–30 percent more output than that total. For example, if your total draw is 800W, choose a model rated at 1,000W or higher.
7. Can I plug in multiple devices?
Yes. Both batteries and generators include multiple 240V outlets.
You can connect several devices, but make sure their combined wattage stays within the unit’s rated output.
8. Can I run DJ or PA equipment from them?
Yes. Both supply clean, stable 240V power that’s safe for mixers, amplifiers, and speakers.
Battery units suit short sets or ceremonies; generators are ideal for longer or high-powered events.
9. Can I power lights and sound from the same unit?
Yes, if your total draw is under the unit’s rated limit.
For larger setups (for example, a full PA system plus lighting), it’s best to split the load between two units to reduce strain and avoid tripping.
10. What happens if I overload it?
Both types include built-in overload protection.
If you connect too much gear, the power will cut out automatically. Simply unplug a few items, reset the power, and restart.
11. Do I need any special cables?
No. Every hire unit comes ready to use with standard 240V outlets.
For longer distances, use a heavy-duty outdoor-rated extension lead to reduce voltage drop and improve safety.
12. How loud are the generators?
Our generators operate around 58dB(A) measured a few metres away, similar to normal conversation or background music.
They’re quiet for their size, but not silent. For sound-sensitive spaces, consider using a battery instead.
13. What does “58 dB(A)” mean?
Decibels measure sound levels, and the “A” weighting reflects how the human ear perceives noise.
58dB(A) is roughly as loud as two people talking at a short distance, making it suitable for outdoor functions without disrupting the atmosphere.
Emma P.
