Watts and watt-hours answer different questions
Inverter watts decide whether equipment can run and start. Watt-hours estimate how long a battery can supply it. A large energy figure does not fix an undersized inverter, and a large generator peak does not guarantee enough continuous output.
- Add only loads that run simultaneously
- Identify the largest motor start-up requirement
- For batteries, model usable energy and recharge between jobs
Safety is part of the specification
Fuel-powered equipment must not operate in a closed vehicle or unsafe location. Electrical protection, earthing arrangements, weather exposure and extension leads require manufacturer guidance and may require a qualified electrician.
- Plan exhaust direction and ventilation
- Keep fuel away from heat and ignition sources
- Use cables and protection intended for the load and environment
Compare the whole-day operating cost
Purchase price alone misses fuel, battery degradation, servicing, downtime and the time spent charging or refuelling. A hybrid operating plan can be better than oversizing one source.
- Model the busiest realistic day
- Price maintenance and replacement over time
- Keep a documented fallback when the primary supply fails
Compare the workable approaches
| Approach | Best for | Check before buying | Main trade-off |
|---|---|---|---|
| Customer mains | Lean starts and predictable sites | Permission, circuit suitability and cable safety | Dependent on each location |
| Battery power station | Quiet, intermittent electrical loads | Continuous output, surge and usable Wh | Finite runtime and recharge time |
| Generator | Longer independent high-load work | Continuous/peak rating, fuel and safe operation | Noise, exhaust and servicing |
Retailer shortlist
Compare products against the specification.
These broad Amazon UK searches are a starting point, not a claim that every result is compatible. Open the data sheet and confirm the listed checks before buying.
Portable power stations
Useful for quieter loads only when continuous output, surge and usable energy all work.
Check: Continuous inverter watts, surge, usable Wh, recharge time and warrantyCompare Portable power stations on Amazon UKInverter generators
Compare independent power options after planning ventilation, transport and acceptable noise.
Check: Continuous output, motor surge, runtime, sound level and service supportCompare Inverter generators on Amazon UK