what suitcase generator?

[Robs74]

I spend quite a few weekends in fields with no ehu and as such I use a generator at the moment I have a bigish frame type but I'm thinking about changing to a smaller suitcase type(lighter,quieter cheaper to run)
I have changed all my lights to LED and I even have a 12v tv but we still need the generator as we all have smart phones etc. I have decided that I only need a 1KVA as its mainly for topping up the battery and charging phones etc
My question is does anybody else use one and if so what brand?

I know Honda are the best but I'm not paying that much so have got it down to two,
first http://www.generators-direct.co.uk/c...rter-generator

second http://www.generators-direct.co.uk/c...ital-generator

Any advice would be great

Rob

[Marmitespreader]

Hi Rob
I have a small Kipor which I've had for many years, never let me down.
Quiet and is of the inverter type, so pure sine wave, which I recommend the way to go, avoids all nasty spikes and will run everything you plug in your house (upto generator capacity).
I did read on a forum a while back that a Japanese worker said the kipor engines where coming out of the Honda factory. It was the inverter technology Honda were all up in arms about.

[GJB]

Have used a 1Kva Honda for all essentials but have now changed to 80 watt solar panel and find this more than enough to run 12v tv and all other fittings but only thing not able to do is find a way of fitting a hair dryer for my wife , does not bother me being in the shortage of hair brigade.Main thing is the battery is always well charged even when weather is a bit overcast and even in October and free to run once purchased.

[mr magoo]

Hi, i use off ehu too, and im quite a heavy 12v user, i found rather than the genny / solar routes i find it easier and cheaper to take a couple of spare batteries, cheap and easy, when 1 is flat 2 mins to change it over, solar panels are great for the summertime but pretty poor through the dull winter months, it works for me

[Westyman]

I didn't want to pay Honda price either and spent a while searching for a lightly used one on eBay that wasn't too far to collect. This was to be the third genny after buying and selling two cheaper ones.
If I am off EHU with the caravan I use a 40w solar panel but run the genny to charge mains devices. I am glad I got the Honda eventually.

[dr90]

I've had my Honda for 30 years ! still starts first time.

If you don't fancy the cost new try second-hand

[Robs74]

Originally Posted by dr90

I've had my Honda for 30 years ! still starts first time.

If you don't fancy the cost new try second-hand

I keep looking at second hand but they have been selling for more than the others are new lol

[xc70jason]

Hi,the same Clarke genny as you've got in your link but a little cheaper.

I've heard that they are as good as the Honda.

http://www.machinemart.co.uk/shop/pr...nerator-ig1000

Jason

[rnlisg]

i have had my kipoor 9001 sinemaster for aroung 5 years now,it was less than half the price of the honda,i have had no problems with it at all,i change the oil after 30 hours use as a matter of course,and wash out the airfilter with petrol as well,the only thing i have changed is the spark plug,it was a copy of the honda,especially the sinewave bit,they then made red ones!!which really gave them the honda look.i have used it during a power cut and ran the tv plus some lights and borrowed the low wattage kettle from the van for hot water.the clarke also looks a good buy,also red!!!and well priced,they all weigh about the same and the d/b output is virtually identical.i reckon either will serve you well.
let us know what you get.
cheers
sandy

[Robs74]

Been doing a bit more reading and some people say the Clark isn't true sinewave, not sure how true that is but I'm leaning more towards the kipoor as its yellow and everybody has red lol