It's the step up when a small inverter is leaving you with one thing on at a time. It is not a house backup, and it is not a welder supply.
How Much Power Does a 4kVA Generator Give You?
4kVA generators put out around 3.2kW of continuous power (4000VA at a 0.8 power factor). That is enough to run the camp properly, and to add a couple of tools, without the engine labouring on the basics.
Here's the kind of load a 4kVA camping generator takes:
- A fridge, plus lights and charging
- A small freezer or a camp kitchen appliance, not all at full noise together
- A couple of power tools, one at a time
- A light site job, a pump or some work lights
If a 2kVA generator has you switching the fridge off to boil the kettle, a 4kVA sorts the camp load. For air conditioning and a loaded van, look at 6kVA generators or 7kVA generators.
Who Needs a 4kVA Camping Generator?
4kVA camping generators suit anyone who has outgrown the smallest sets. You'll get the most out of one if you're:
- In a van or canopy: Fridge, lights and charging, with a bit left over.
- On a light worksite: Tools and lights for a day, then pack it on the ute.
- Camping near the tent: There is a quiet Hyundai inverter in this range for that job.
- On a site that asks for mine spec: The diesel sets include a mine-spec Yanmar, with the site kit rather than a quieter engine.
What to Check Before Buying a 4kVA Generator Online
Not every genny in this bracket is built the same. Before you buy a 4kVA generator online, sort these out:
- Inverter, petrol or diesel: The inverter is the light, quiet camp set, about 23kg. The petrol open-frames are simpler and louder. The diesels are the tougher machines, about 75kg, for a site or a long day on the tools.
- Fuel type: Petrol is easy to source. Diesel suits longer runs and rougher work.
- Noise: About 60 dB at 7 metres on the inverter. The open-frame petrol sets sit higher, and the diesels are about 80 dB at 7 metres. Sleep nearby, take the inverter.
- Three phase: One Yanmar diesel in this range has a 415V outlet as well as 240V sockets. Buy it only if your gear is already three phase.
More of the quiet sets are in portable inverter generators, and the wider diesel range is in diesel generators.
Is a 4kVA the Right Size for You?
4kVA camping generators land in the middle. A simple fridge-and-lights camp can stay on a 2kVA generator and save the weight. If you want air conditioning, a welder, or several motors starting together, step up to 6kVA generators, 7kVA generators or 8kVA generators.
Buy 4kVA Generators Online Hassle-Free
Ready to cover the van or the small site? Browse our 4kVA generators and match fuel and noise to where it will run. Brands here include Hyundai, Honda, Yanmar and Pramac.
Not sure whether you want the quiet inverter or a diesel? Get in touch on 1300 902 361 and we'll help you pick.
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