Frequently asked questions
What types of portable generators and power solutions does EGM Portable Power offer?
We supply a wide selection of generators to suit different needs. These include compact inverter models ideal for camping and electronics, petrol- and LPG-powered units for home backup, and heavy-duty portable power systems for construction and farming. We also supply industrial generators such as the popular P Series for substantially more power
How do I determine the right generator size for my needs?
Start by calculating the wattage of all the appliances you want to run at the same time. Remember that many items, such as fridges or pumps, require higher starting wattages. As a rule of thumb, select a generator with at least 20% more power than your total load to ensure safe, reliable performance allowing for surge power and fluctuations. Please see our Generator Size Calculator here.
Can I use sensitive electronics like laptops or phones with your generators?
Yes. Inverter generators are designed to produce a smooth, stable sine-wave output, making them safe for electronics like laptops, televisions, and mobile phones. If you plan to use your generator mainly for electronics, we recommend choosing an inverter model such as one from the P Series inverters or the PMi Series.
What safety precautions should I take when using a generator?
Always operate generators outside and away from doors or windows. Never use them indoors, even in garages or sheds, as this poses a carbon monoxide risk. Keep the generator dry and ensure you have working carbon monoxide alarms installed at home.
Do all generators come with standard UK socket types?
Not all models come with 3-pin UK domestic sockets. Some use industrial IEC or Schuko connectors. Adaptors and extension leads are widely available to ensure your generator is compatible with your appliances.
How often should I perform maintenance on my generator?
Routine maintenance is key to extending the life of your generator. Oil should typically be changed every 50–200 hours, and filters inspected or replaced as needed. Even if unused, run your generator periodically to keep components lubricated and batteries charged.
Is it safe to run a generator in different weather conditions?
While many generators are durable, they should never be exposed to rain or standing water. Always operate your generator under cover and in a dry, well-ventilated space outdoors. This protects both the generator and your safety.
What warranty and support do you provide?
All generators here at EGM | Portable Power are backed by manufacturer warranties covering parts and labour. All portable products have a 12 month warranty as standard. If you encounter any issues, our support team is on hand to provide troubleshooting advice, repairs, or replacement guidance.
What is your returns policy?
If your item is in new condition, in original unopened packaging and you have simply changed your mind before using it, you may return the item within 14 days for a refund. There will be a service charge of 20% to contribute towards handling and restocking and the customer will also have to bear the cost of the return carriage. For more information and details, please visit our dedicated page by clicking here
Generator Size Calculator
What size generator do I need for my house in the UK?
The size of generator you need depends on the total wattage of the appliances you want to power. Use our free Generator Size Calculator above to add appliances such as fridges, lights, heating, and computers. The calculator will show you the total load in kVA and recommend the most suitable PRAMAC generator model.
How do I calculate generator load for appliances?
Each appliance has a running wattage and sometimes a higher starting (surge) wattage. Add up the running watts of all appliances you want to power, and include a 20–25% buffer for surge loads. Our calculator does this automatically to save you time.
What is the difference between kVA and kW for generators?
kW (kilowatts) is the actual power used by your appliances, while kVA (kilovolt-amperes) is the apparent power rating of the generator. In most UK homes a power factor of 0.8 is used, meaning a 10 kVA generator provides around 8 kW of usable power.
What size generator is best for backup power?
For essential home backup (fridge, lights, boiler, internet, small appliances), a 3–5 kVA generator is often sufficient. For whole-house backup including heating, air conditioning or electric ovens, you may need a 7–10 kVA generator or more. Always size slightly above your maximum requirement for reliability.
Can I use a portable generator for home backup?
Yes, many UK homeowners use portable generators for backup power. Models like the PRAMAC ES4000 or PMi2000 provide reliable portable solutions. For seamless automatic switching, a standby generator with transfer switch is recommended.
Industrial Generators
What differentiates the GBW Series from other PRAMAC industrial generators?
The GBW Series offers mid-range performance (typically 7–50 kVA), with compact and transportable designs, suitable for construction, agriculture, and small industrial applications. Available in both open and soundproof versions.
Why choose the GPW Series for mobile applications?
GPW units are tailored for mobile use, with easy handling, fast setup, and maintenance. Optional silent and extra-silent models, modular fuel tanks, and advanced control panels make them highly adaptable to various site requirements.
What makes the P Series ideal for industrial applications?
The P Series includes both air-cooled and water-cooled generators in diesel and petrol variants, delivering high performance with low noise—perfect for industrial environments.
Which industries benefit most from PRAMAC industrial generators?
These generators support sectors like construction, agriculture, manufacturing, logistics, data centres, healthcare, and event management—anywhere reliability and uptime are critical.
Can Pramac generators handle continuous or emergency power demands?
Yes—ranges like GBW and GPW are available in configurations for emergency standby, prime power, or continuous load, with options for custom enclosures, control panels, and parallel setups.
What control features do these generators offer?
PRAMAC industrial models often feature advanced control systems like Power Zone Pro, intuitive touchscreens, remote connectivity, and multilingual interfaces for monitoring and automation.
Which PRAMAC industrial generator series are Stage V emission compliant?
GPW Series and GRW Series include models that meet Stage V emissions standards.
The P Series also contains Stage V-compliant models—for example, the P4000 and P6000 diesel variants.
What does “Stage V compliant” mean?
Stage V refers to the latest EU standard (EU Regulation 2016/1628) targeting reductions in particulate matter (PM) and NOx emissions from non-road mobile machinery like generators.
PRAMAC Stage V generator sets, such as in the GPW and GRW series, often include advanced exhaust after-treatment systems (e.g., DPFs, DOC, SCR plus DEF tanks), ensuring they meet stringent environmental requirements
How can I be sure a specific model is Stage V compliant?
Look for Stage V badge on the generator—this is visible on GPW, GRW, and some P models
Alternatively, check product spec sheets or engine details—for instance, the GRW100I/FS5 lists an FPT engine with “Exhaust Emission Level: Stage V”
Why choose a Stage V compliant generator?
Better for the environment: Meet stricter emission limits—ideal for use in low-emission zones, urban or rental applications.
Compliance: Satisfies EU regulations for mobile power units, avoiding fines or restricted use.
Operational efficiency: Often paired with advanced control and exhaust systems for optimum performance and cleaner operation.