How to Choose the Right Generator for Your Home or Business in Kenya
With Kenya’s ongoing power fluctuations and frequent outages, having a reliable generator has become less of a luxury and more of a necessity—whether for your home, workshop, or business

With Kenya’s ongoing power fluctuations and frequent outages, having a reliable generator has become less of a luxury and more of a necessity—whether for your home, workshop, or business. But with the wide range of generators available in the market, how do you pick the right one? At Tool Mania, we break it down for you.

1. Determine Your Power Needs

Start by listing all the essential appliances and equipment you intend to power during an outage. This could include:

  • Lights

  • Refrigerator or freezer

  • TV or computer

  • Water pump

  • Welding machine (for businesses)

  • POS systems or security cameras (for shops)

Each of these has a wattage rating. Add up the starting wattage and running wattage of all devices to get your total power requirement. As a general guide:

  • Small Homes: 1,000W to 3,000W

  • Medium Homes/Offices: 3,000W to 5,500W

  • Shops & SMEs: 6,000W to 10,000W

  • Industrial Use: 10,000W+

At Tool Mania, we stock INGCO generators in various capacities to meet every need—from light-duty use to high-demand commercial operations.

2. Consider Fuel Type and Consumption

Generators typically run on petrol or diesel. Here’s a quick comparison:

  • Petrol Generators: Quieter and more affordable, ideal for homes or light use.

  • Diesel Generators: More fuel-efficient and durable, best for businesses with longer runtimes.

Also, consider the fuel tank capacity. A larger tank means longer operation without refueling, especially important in areas with extended blackouts.

3. Portability and Size

Need a backup for home use? A compact and portable generator is ideal. For a business with fixed premises, a larger, stationary generator might be more suitable. Look for models with wheels and handles for easier mobility—especially if you move between sites.

4. Start Type and Ease of Use

There are two main types of starting mechanisms:

  • Recoil Start (pull cord)

  • Electric Start (key or button)

Electric start models are easier to use and save time during emergencies. INGCO offers both options, giving you flexibility and convenience.

5. Noise Levels

If your generator is going to run in a residential area or near a shop, consider the decibel rating. Quieter generators are especially important in urban settings to avoid noise complaints or disturbing your family/customers.

6. Trusted Brands Matter

At Tool Mania, we are proud to be the official distributors of INGCO tools in Kenya. INGCO generators are well-known for their durability, affordability, and high performance—backed by a trusted brand and genuine warranty.

Final Word

Choosing the right generator isn’t just about wattage. It’s about matching your needs with the right features, fuel efficiency, and reliability. Whether you're lighting your home or powering a workshop, Tool Mania has the perfect generator for you.

Visit Toolmania.ke or stop by our shop to speak with a specialist and explore our range of INGCO generators today.

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