Standby Generators

Standby generator buying guide

Sizes of standby generators

Standby generators are designed to deliver reliable power the moment the mains supply drops. Trade Tested's Hyundai diesel standby generators cover 22kVA through to 110kVA.

22kVA-28kVA: Suits smaller businesses, workshops, larger rural homes, and operations that need backup for essential circuits and critical equipment. The Hyundai 22kVA delivers 18,000W peak power with a 77.5L fuel tank, while the 28kVA steps up to 22,000W peak with a 100L tank for longer runtime.

45kVA-65kVA: Covers larger operations, farms with significant equipment loads, and commercial construction sites. The 45kVA provides 33,000W peak power, and the 65kVA jumps to 55,000W with a generous 180L fuel tank for extended operation.

85kVA-110kVA: Built for factories, industrial operations, major commercial sites, and large event power. The 85kVA delivers 66,000W peak, and the flagship 110kVA unit provides 88,000W peak with 245L of fuel storage.

Key specifications & features

Power Output	Runtime at 100% load	Weight
22kVA / 18kW	13.6 hours	786kg
28kVA / 22kW	14.6 hours	970kg
45kVA / 33kW	10.4 hours	1045kg
65kVA / 55kW	12.6 hours	1160kg
85kVA / 66kW	10.1 hours	1560kg
110kVA / 88kW	10.2 hours	1560kg

Key features to compare in standby generators

Runtime: Trade Tested’s Hyundai backup generators run from 10.1 hours (85kVA) to 14.6 hours (28kVA) at 100% load, with most units pushing 20–27 hours at 50% load.

Fuel tank capacity: This scales from 77.5L (22kVA) to 245L (110kVA), which directly drives runtime.

Noise levels: Hyuandai’s generators sit between 65dB (22kVA) and 72dB (85kVA) at 7 metres, thanks to the enclosed bodywork and industrial exhaust silencer. Quiet enough for commercial yards, worksites, and most rural settings.

Every Hyundai standby generator also includes:

• Brushless AVR alternator
• Electric start with a 12V battery
• DSE6110 or DSE6120 control panel with LED display
• ATS (Automatic Transfer Switch) compatibility
• Four-pole circuit breaker and overload protection
• Emergency stop
• Forklift slots for relocation
• IP23 waterproof enclosure with anti-corrosion paint
• Battery isolator
• 2 Year Hyundai Warranty

Paired with an ATS, a Hyundai standby generator detects a power outage, starts within seconds, takes the load, and automatically shuts down once mains power returns.

Standby generator installation & safety tips

Our Hyundai backup generators are designed for fixed, professional installation. Given the weight (786kg to 1560kg) and electrical complexity, the installation is a job for a licensed electrician. Professional generator installers will handle the connection to your building's electrical system, the ATS, earthing, circuit protection, and commissioning, all compliant with NZ electrical standards (AS/NZS 3000).

Before installation, the site needs a level concrete pad rated for the weight, with clear airflow for cooling and exhaust and enough space around the unit for servicing access. The backup generator must sit outdoors only, well clear of windows, doors, and air intakes.

Once installed, regular maintenance keeps it ready to fire up when you need it. Check the oil regularly and change it per the manufacturer's schedule, keep the air filter clean, and check coolant levels. Make sure you store the diesel in a clean, sealed tank with a fuel stabiliser if the generator sits unused for long periods.

Run it under load for 30 minutes each month to keep things lubricated and the battery charged. Book an annual service with a qualified diesel mechanic to ensure you’ve got a reliable power source when you need it.

Why choose a standby generator for your operation

A backup generator keeps your operation running in the event of a power cut. For businesses, that means protecting refrigerated stock, keeping production lines moving, and avoiding the revenue losses that come with downtime.

For farms, milking sheds, irrigation pumps, and animal welfare systems stay functional during storms. For construction and event sites, it's the difference between meeting deadlines and explaining delays.

Rural and off-grid properties benefit most, since mains restoration in remote areas can stretch to days rather than hours. Reliable backup power means you're not waiting on line crews who prioritise urban areas first.

What our customers say

Hyundai Diesel Standby Generator 110kVA

“Delivered in August on time and just in time for the big Canterbury winds. Did 150 hrs while we had no mains power. Ran the 36 aside milking shed and all the refrigeration/effluent as normal. The fuel tank lasts about 36hr so filling once a day makes it easy. Value for money and recommend.”

Frequently asked questions

What size standby generator do I need for my business?

List every piece of equipment you need to run at the same time, add up the running wattage, and allow 2-3 times the surge capacity for motors and compressors.

Smaller commercial premises usually need 22kVA–28kVA, medium businesses and farms typically need 45kVA-65kVA, while factories and major commercial sites need 85kVA-110kVA. Size up rather than down as backup generators run best at 50–80% of rated load.

Are standby generators automatic or manual?

The Hyundai standby range is ATS-compatible, so paired with a separately installed automatic transfer switch, they start, switch over, and shut down automatically during an outage. Without an ATS, the operation is manual.

How long can a standby generator run continuously?

At 100% load, runtime ranges from 10.1 hours (85kVA) to 14.6 hours (28kVA). At 50% load, expect 20-27 hours per tank. Backup generators can be refuelled while running, so there's no practical limit on continuous operation.

Can I run a standby generator indoors or in a garage?

No. Backup generators must be installed outdoors, clear of windows, doors, and air intakes. Diesel exhaust contains carbon monoxide, which is unsafe in enclosed spaces. Our Hyundai models have a weatherproof (IP23) enclosure designed for outdoor installation in any NZ weather.

What fuel is best for standby generators?

All our Hyundai backup power generators run on diesel. This offers better fuel efficiency under sustained load, longer storage life than petrol, and safer storage in larger volumes.

Do standby generators need professional installation?

Yes. Installation must be done by a licensed electrician and comply with NZ electrical standards (AS/NZS 3000). This covers the electrical connection, ATS, earthing, and circuit protection, which is essential for safety, insurance, and warranty.

Why buy generators from Trade Tested

Shop Trade Tested's Hyundai backup generators online or in-store to ensure your site has a reliable power source for the next power outage. Every unit includes a 2 Year Hyundai Warranty backed by a nationwide service network, with fast delivery from our NZ warehouse. Need advice? Speak with our friendly team for expert assistance. Get the most out of your backup generator and shop our ATS units, engine oil, and service packs.