Key Takeaways
- South Africa’s varied power needs demand different types of generators for hire.
- Generator types vary by fuel type, application, noise level, and mobility.
- Assos Power provides tailored rental solutions, from small portable units to large-scale industrial models.
- Choosing the right generator type depends on load size, location, and usage duration.
- Each generator category offers unique benefits in terms of cost, performance, and logistics.
Understanding Generator Rentals in South Africa
Power outages, load shedding, and off-grid operations make generator hire a necessity for many South African businesses and households. The generator you hire must match the power output, site conditions, and intended use — otherwise, you risk overspending or under-powering your setup.
That’s why Assos Power offers a broad range of generator types for hire, built for everything from weddings and corporate events to industrial sites and emergency services.
1. Diesel Generators
Reliable and Fuel-Efficient for Long-Term Use
Diesel generators are the most common type used across South Africa due to their durability and fuel efficiency.
Key features:
- Suitable for heavy loads
- Operates efficiently for longer hours
- Offers lower fuel cost per kWh
- Available in sizes from 20kVA to 1000kVA+
Assos Power specializes in diesel generator rentals that cater to construction sites, mines, and factories that demand continuous and stable output.
2. Petrol Generators
Ideal for Small, Short-Term Applications
Petrol generators are lightweight, compact, and perfect for light-duty or domestic use.
Best suited for:
- Short events
- Backup for small appliances
- Outdoor markets or mobile vendors
While not as fuel-efficient as diesel, petrol generators are often more affordable to hire for temporary setups. Assos Power offers multiple units under 10kVA to keep your small setups powered without hassle.
3. Silent Generators
Low-Noise Operation for Sensitive Environments
Silent or soundproof generators are fitted with acoustic enclosures to reduce operational noise.
Ideal for:
- Residential areas
- Film productions
- Hospitals and clinics
- Outdoor events and conferences
Assos Power offers silent generator hire from 20kVA up to 500kVA, helping clients meet both performance needs and noise regulations.
4. Trailer-Mounted Generators
Mobile Solutions for Power on the Move
Trailer-mounted generators are built for mobility and quick deployment. These are self-contained units mounted on a towable trailer.
Best use cases:
- Temporary roadworks
- Mobile clinics or kitchens
- Remote agricultural tasks
- Emergency response
Assos Power supplies these portable units for clients who need flexibility across multiple locations or require rapid deployment without permanent installation.
5. Standby Generators
Backup Power When the Grid Fails
Standby generators are designed to automatically kick in during power outages. While they aren’t used continuously, they provide high reliability during downtime.
Perfect for:
- Office buildings
- Retail stores
- Apartment complexes
- Educational institutions
Assos Power installs and rents standby units with auto transfer switch (ATS) capability, so you never have to worry about switching over manually when the lights go out.
6. Prime Power Generators
Used as the Main Power Source
When you need a generator to run for multiple hours a day — but not necessarily 24/7 — prime power generators are the best fit.
Great for:
- Remote work camps
- Large-scale construction
- Sites with unstable grid access
Assos Power offers prime-rated units with robust fuel systems and advanced controllers for stable, variable load performance over long durations.
7. Continuous Power Generators
Built for 24/7 Operation
These are heavy-duty systems designed for uninterrupted, continuous output — no start/stop cycles, just full performance around the clock.
Common in:
- Data centres
- Mining operations
- Off-grid industrial plants
Assos Power supplies high-capacity generators that can handle continuous loads with high-efficiency engines and cooling systems.
8. Inverter Generators
Clean, Stable Power for Sensitive Electronics
Inverter generators provide pure sine wave output, making them ideal for sensitive devices and small-scale tech setups.
Popular for:
- Mobile event vendors
- IT equipment backup
- Camping or caravan power
- Audio/visual gear
Assos Power includes compact inverter generator options in its rental inventory for small business owners and AV professionals needing stable voltage output with minimal fluctuation.
9. Industrial Generators
Heavy-Duty Power for Complex Operations
Industrial generators provide high power output and are often custom-integrated with other site systems like transformers and distribution boards.
Best suited for:
- Large manufacturing plants
- Multi-floor office buildings
- Mining infrastructure
- Water treatment facilities
Assos Power provides custom-sized, high-load industrial generator systems with full distribution, cabling, and load balancing as part of the rental agreement.
10. Solar-Assisted Hybrid Generators
Eco-Friendly and Fuel-Saving Alternatives
These are hybrid systems combining generator power with solar battery storage, allowing reduced fuel usage while keeping uptime high.
Useful for:
- Eco-conscious builds
- Load-shedding inverters with backup
- Long-term projects seeking fuel efficiency
Assos Power offers hybrid configurations that support partial solar input, ideal for businesses looking to lower their carbon footprint while maintaining reliability.
11. Generators with Auto Start/Stop Features
Smart Control and Reduced Manual Workload
These systems feature automatic load sensing and response, activating only when needed.
Perfect for:
- Warehouses
- Mixed-use buildings
- Temporary storage or data sites
Assos Power includes auto start/stop technology in many of its generator hire packages, allowing on-demand efficiency without constant human input.
Assos Power’s Full-Service Generator Hire Advantage
When renting from Assos Power, you’re not just getting a machine — you’re getting expertise, maintenance, and on-call support.
Their rental packages include:
- Full load assessments
- On-site delivery and installation
- Emergency support and fuel top-ups
- Maintenance and service management
- Short and long-term contracts
With a wide selection of generator types and sizes, Assos Power ensures each client gets the exact solution for their operational or emergency needs — no more, no less.