Inverter Generators

Portable inverter generator buying guide

Types of inverter generators

The right inverter generator depends on what you're powering and where you're using it. Common sizes include:

Handheld inverter generators (1kW-2kW): Suits camping, caravans, boats, and weekends off-grid. 1100W inverter generators are light enough to carry one-handed and small enough to tuck into the boot. They'll easily power sensitive electronics like laptops and TVs, as well as lights, chargers, and small appliances.

Mid-range inverter generators (2kW-4kW): Covers most DIY, tradie, and outdoor use. The Newman 2300W and 4200W models can handle power tools, fridges, and multiple appliances simultaneously. They strike a good balance between output and portability.

High-output inverter generators (4kW+): Your go-to for home backup power or running bigger worksite gear. The ultra-efficient Newman 5500W and 8000W electric start inverter generators deliver enough power to keep essentials like fridges, freezers, lights, and tools running during an outage.

Parallel connection kits let you combine the output of two smaller inverter generators without additional tools. The Newman 30A kit pairs 1100W and 2300W models, while the 50A kit handles all units with an output up to 4200W. They’re a flexible option for power needs that grow over time.

Compare inverter generator power output, runtime, and noise levels

Metric	What to Look For	Why It Matters
Power Output (W)	1100W-8000W	Matches your appliance/tool needs
Runtime	4-12 hours per tank	Longer use without refuelling
Noise Level (dB)	59-71 dB at 7m	Quieter for camping & residential use
Weight	14.7kg-81kg	Affects portability and storage
Fuel Type	Petrol	Widely available, easy to top up

Design portability and build quality

Most electric start inverter generators feature a fully enclosed casing that cuts down noise and keeps dirt, dust, and moisture out of the engine. As such, inverters tend to run quieter than conventional generators of the same output. The same enclosed design means that smaller models are light enough for one-person lifting with the integrated carry handles.

As output increases, so does size. Mid-range inverter generators stay compact enough to move about while adding more grunt. Larger inverter generators include wheels and handles to make transport around the site or yard easy as. Larger units feature a semi-enclosed steel frame that provides a tougher shell for rough worksite conditions while maintaining reasonable noise levels.

Whichever size you pick, the core safety features stay consistent. Overload protection, low oil cut-out, and pure sine wave output are standard across the Newman inverter range, keeping your gear safe and the generator running reliably.

Generator safety setup and maintenance

Inverter generators are built for outdoor use only. Always run them in a well-ventilated outdoor area, far away from doors, windows, tents, and sleeping areas. Never operate an inverter generator inside a garage, shed, caravan, or enclosed space.

Once you've found the right spot, set the generator up on a level surface before starting. This helps the engine lubricate properly and keeps fuel flowing as it should.

Before firing up your inverter generator, check the oil level. Low oil is one of the most common causes of engine damage (though most Newman inverters include a low oil cut-out as a safeguard). Always use fresh petrol. If you don’t plan to use the generator for a few weeks or more, drain the tank or add a fuel stabiliser to stop the carburettor gumming up.

Store the unit somewhere dry, covered, and out of direct sunlight. Regularly check the air filter and spark plug for any issues. The fully enclosed design on most models helps keep the internals clean between servicing.

What our customers say

Newman Inverter Generator 5500W Electric Start

“Ordered this inverter generator to replace a smaller one I used during the recent storm. Very impressed with the service from Trade Tested. The generator was well packaged and after a simple assembly of wheels and handle added some oil and petrol, and it started immediately. Very impressive. I would definitely recommend both Trade Tested and the Newman generator. Very happy with both.”

Newman Inverter Generator 8000W Remote Electric Start

“Excellent generator. Easy to assemble. Add engine oil, connect the battery, put gas in the tank and away she went. Perfect! I like the remote start.”

Newman Digital Inverter Generator 4200W Remote Start

“Connected the generator to our house to test and run in. Ran for 3 hours with no issues, starts straight up every time. Remote is awesome, had the generator at the very back of our section and could start/stop from the front of our house 30m away. Pretty quiet, gets bassy when some load comes on, but that’s to be expected.”

Frequently asked questions

What is an inverter generator?

An inverter generator uses digital electronics to convert AC power to DC, then back to clean AC. This produces a pure sine wave current, which is safe for powering sensitive electronics like laptops, TVs, phones, and modern appliances. They're quieter, lighter, and more fuel-efficient than conventional generators of the same output.

What size inverter generator do I need?

It comes down to what you want to run:

• For camping, caravans, and small appliances, 1000W–2000W is usually plenty.
• For DIY, power tools, and running a few appliances at once, you’ll want more grunt, so look at 2000W-4000W inverter generators.
• For home backup during an outage to keep powering your fridges, lights, a microwave, and chargers, etc., you'll want at least 4000W.

Are inverter generators quieter than conventional generators?

Yes. The fully enclosed casing and smart throttle technology, which adjusts engine speed based on load, mean inverter generators run noticeably quieter.

Can an inverter generator run household appliances?

Yes, provided you match the generator's output to what you want to run. The pure sine wave output means your appliances receive clean, stable power, which is the same quality you'd get from the mains.

A mid-range unit like the Newman 4200W can handle fridges, lights, microwaves, and power tools, as well as power-sensitive electronics like laptops and TVs. Larger units like the 5500W or 8000W are the units that will keep your more power-hungry essentials running during an outage.

How long can an inverter generator run?

Runtime depends on the size of the fuel tank and the load. At 75% load, the Newman 1100W runs for 4 hours, the 2300W for 7.5 hours, and the 4200W for 8 hours. The larger 8000W unit runs up to 12 hours at rated load. Smart throttle technology helps extend runtime at lower loads by reducing engine speed when full power isn't needed.

Are power inverter generators fuel efficient?

Yes, more so than conventional generators. Smart throttle technology adjusts engine speed based on demand rather than running flat-out the whole time. Newman inverter generators use up to 40% less fuel than conventional generators of similar output, which saves money and reduces emissions.

Why choose Trade Tested for inverter generators

Shop Trade Tested's range of remote or electric start inverter generators for sale online or in-store today. All Newman inverter generators come with a 2 Year Warranty backed by a nationwide service network, so you're covered wherever you are in the country.

With expert support, fast delivery, and stock held in our NZ warehouse, you'll get the power you need without the wait. Get the most out of your inverter generator and shop power leads, compatible motor oil & gas, and power tools.