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Used generator for sale: sizing, testing and pricing guide

Used generator for sale: sizing, testing and pricing guide

Used Generator for Sale: Certified Second-Hand Diesel & Electric Units In Stock

Shop our used generator for sale range today. Every unit is technician-checked, load-tested, and comes with a written warranty. We stock a wide mix of second hand generators for sale, including used diesel generators for sale and used electric generators for sale. Stock changes daily, and all listings include hours and test results.

We keep things simple and safe for Australian homes, farms, and small businesses. All testing follows ISO 8528 rating concepts. For installation and changeover, we follow AS/NZS 3010 guidance. Our goal is reliable power when you need it most, from cyclone season in QLD to bushfire backup in VIC.

Above-the-fold overview – second hand generator sales

Our certified stock is intake-inspected, serviced, and load-tested at 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100% steps. You get the test report, photos, and a 6–12 month warranty. This keeps second hand generator sales clear and honest.

Load-Tested: 25/50/75/100% with temperature and voltage checks

Warranty: 6–12 months standard (extendable)

Technician-Certified: Electrical and mechanical checks, ISO 8528-aligned ratings

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Featured Inventory – second hand generators for sale

Below are sample units to show the kind of certified stock we carry. Ask for current availability, hours, and load test data. Australian supply is dynamic, so exact models may differ week to week.

20 kVA Diesel Standby – used diesel generators for sale

Price: $4,500

Hours: 1,200 hrs

Enclosure: Sound-attenuated, weather-protected

Phase: Three-phase (400 V, 50 Hz)

Status: Available now

Great for farm sheds, small workshops, and SME backup. This diesel generator for sale second hand is service-ready with an ATS terminal block and clear single-line diagram. Load test log supplied.

5 kW Portable Electric-Start – used electric generators for sale

Price: $1,200

Hours: 800 hrs

Engine: Honda-powered inverter

Phase: Single-phase (230 V, 50 Hz)

Status: In stock

Handy for mobile trades, events, and home essentials. Clean output for tools and electronics when built with inverter tech. Light, quiet, and easy to store.

50 kW Diesel Prime Power – used diesel generators sale

Price: $12,000

Hours: 2,500 hrs

Mount: Trailer-mounted with brakes

Extras: ATS included, battery charger, block heater

Pickup: Local depot collection

Ideal for construction, remote sites, and larger farm loads. This second hand generators for sale example shows typical features: sound-reduced canopy, robust alternator, and documented service history.

Filter inventory – used generator for sale

Use the filters to find a good match for your site, shed, or home. You can filter by:

• kW/kVA and duty rating (standby vs prime)

• Fuel type: Diesel or petrol/propane

• Brand (incl. Honda), hours, price

• Phase (single-phase 230 V or three-phase 400 V), voltage, frequency (50 Hz)

• Portable vs standby, sound-attenuated canopy, ATS included, trailer

For a quick start, use our Generator Sizing Guide to estimate running and surge loads. Then refine your second hand generators for sale results with the filters above.

Second Hand Generators for Sale – what “certified” means

“Second-hand” or “used” means a pre-owned unit that passes our intake checks, is refurbished as needed, and is load-tested across 25/50/75/100% steps. You get a written warranty plus a test report. This protects you if the generator is for backup (standby) or for daily work (prime power).

We use ISO 8528 rating language and OEM guidance to set clear expectations:

Standby (LTP): For emergency outages only, not run continuously

Prime (PRP): For continuous or variable loads, with scheduled rest and maintenance

We run ongoing second hand generator sales with limited-time deals and finance options for ABN holders. Ask about current specials on standby sets before storm season.

Sources: (source) (source)

Used Diesel Generators for Sale – heavy-duty focus

Diesel gensets are built for hard work. They deliver high torque at low RPM, better specific fuel use than many petrol sets, and very long service life with proper care. Well-maintained industrial diesels can run tens of thousands of hours before a major overhaul, depending on duty cycle and service history.

Longevity: 20,000+ hours is achievable in many commercial units

Ratings: Prime for continuous/variable loads; standby for emergency-only

Use cases: Construction sites, farms, SMEs, facility standby

Enclosures: Sound-attenuated and weatherproof for harsh Aussie conditions

ATS-ready: Most standby sets include terminals for Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS)

An ATS senses the outage and switches your load safely. In Australia, changeover gear and connection work should follow AS/NZS 3010 and be done by a licensed electrician. Always check local emissions rules for stationary engines and any council noise limits.

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Used Electric Generators for Sale – portable and light-commercial

This group covers petrol or propane units with electric start. These are alternator-based generators (some with inverters) and are not battery power stations.

Ease of use: Push-button electric start is simpler than pull-start

Power quality: AVR or inverter for steady voltage and low THD

Portable: Good for mobile trades, events, or small POS backup

Use them outdoors only. Carbon monoxide (CO) is deadly. Never run a generator inside a home, garage, shed, or near doors and windows. Fit CO alarms and follow local safety rules.

Sources: (source) (source)

For a deeper look at Honda’s portable category, see our guide on used electric generators for sale options and how to compare models for jobsites and home backup.

Used Generators for Sale Honda – brand spotlight

Honda generators are known for strong reliability, quiet running, and clean inverter power that protects sensitive electronics. Many Honda inverter sets operate under 60 dB(A) at partial loads, which suits campsites, caravans, and residential streets.

Low noise: Often under 60 dB(A) for EU-series inverters

Clean power: Inverter output with low THD for laptops and tools

Compact: Easy to carry, simple to store in a ute canopy

Common uses include RVs/overlanding, home essentials backup, remote work, and film/event production in sound-sensitive areas. Browse the brand page for more options and specs.

Sources: (source) (source)

Looking for availability? Check our current stock of used generators for sale honda insights for what to expect in noise, runtime, and output.

Diesel Generator for Sale Second Hand – mid-to-large standby focus

Mid-to-large sets (20–200+ kW) often come with weather and sound enclosures, base fuel tanks, block heaters for cold starts, battery chargers, and ATS-ready terminals. In Australia, you will mostly see single-phase 230 V and three-phase 400 V, 50 Hz sets. Many industrial alternators are re-connectable (often 12-lead) to support common distribution voltages in the 400/230 V range.

1 vs 3 phase: Homes and small shops are usually single-phase; larger motors and machinery need three-phase

Robust runtime: Lower fuel use per kWh than comparable petrol units

Farm/SME fit: Pumps, cool rooms, welders, and core plant loads

Match the rating to your use—standby for outage-only, prime for daily use. For grid connections, ensure gear selection and interlocks align with AS/NZS 3010 and local network rules. Always use a licensed electrician.

2nd Hand Generator for Sale – Weekly Specials

We rotate specials across portables and standby diesel sets. Business customers can ask about finance options (subject to approval). Stock sells fast before storm and heatwave seasons, so timing matters in QLD, NSW, and WA.

• Discounted diesel sets with enclosures and ATS bundles

• Portable inverters with low hours and service history

• Trailer packages for remote and mining support work

Finance notes: standard terms require ABN, photo ID, and recent financials. Talk with your advisor to understand total cost of ownership and cash flow.

Why Buy Used vs New – value case

Buying used can save 30–60% versus new for similar features. Used stock is on the floor now, so you avoid factory lead times. If you only run a generator for outages or short site windows, depreciation is lighter and value holds better.

Cost: Lower capital outlay for the same kW/kVA

Delivery: In-stock units ship sooner

Value: Slower depreciation with intermittent use

TCO: Factor fuel, service parts, and maintenance intervals

This is why many buyers shortlist a used generator for sale first, and keep an eye on second hand generator sales for the right fit.

How to Choose the Right Second-Hand Generator – step-by-step guide

Step 1 — Sizing (kW/kVA, surge, headroom)

List your loads. Separate running watts from surge (start) watts. Many commercial sets use power factor (pf) around 0.8. kW ÷ pf ≈ kVA. Add 20% headroom for motor starting.

• Example (farm shed): 5 hp pump (~3.7 kW running), large fridge (~0.6 kW), lights and small tools (~1 kW). Allow 3× surge on the pump at start. Size the set so voltage stays stable under start surge.

Use our Generator Sizing Guide to do a quick estimate before you shortlist second hand generators for sale.

Step 2 — Phase and voltage

Single-phase 230 V for homes and many small shops. Three-phase 400 V for larger motors and plant. Check nameplates, and confirm if the alternator is re-connectable. Australia is 50 Hz, so ensure rating and RPM match that frequency.

Step 3 — Use case and duty

Home backup: Essentials like lights, fridge, pump, internet

Jobsites: Welders, saws, compressors

Farms: Pumps, cool rooms, feed systems

Retail/POS: EFTPOS, lights, IT

Step 4 — Fuel choice

Diesel: Best for long runtime, efficiency, durability

Petrol/propane: Lighter, simpler, more portable

Step 5 — Power quality and features

Power quality: AVR vs inverter (low THD for electronics)

Noise: Sound-attenuated canopies help with council limits

Enclosure: Weatherproofing for coastal or dusty regions

ATS/trailer: Safer changeover and easier deployment

Monitoring: Remote alarms and run logs

Environmental factors matter. High heat and altitude reduce output. Plan ventilation, clearances, and fuel storage properly to AS/NZS 3010.

For Honda-focused research on inverter portables, our page on used generators for sale honda shows what to look for in noise, runtime, and THD.

Our Certification & Testing Process – second hand generator sales

Intake: Verify serials, hours, service records; inspect frame, enclosure, wiring

Mechanical: Compression checks; fuel system (filters/injectors); cooling pressure test; belts/hoses; leak scan

Electrical: Alternator insulation tests; AVR function; regulation at load; breaker and metering checks

Load bank: 25/50/75/100% for 30–60 min per step; record temps, pressures; check vibration and noise

Service: Oil, filters, fuel-water separators, coolant; battery testing; genuine or OEM-quality parts

Compliance: Grounding/earthing provisions, sound levels, emissions labels; AS/NZS 3010 connection guidance

Documentation: Test report, photos, maintenance logs, warranty certificate

Warranty: 6–12 months standard; extended options available

Sources: (source) (source) (source) (source)

Price Guide – used generator for sale ranges

Portables (5–10 kW): $1,000–$5,000 depending on hours, brand (Honda commands a premium), inverter vs AVR, and condition

Standby (20–100 kW): $5,000–$25,000; enclosures, ATS bundles, and trailer packages add value

Total cost of ownership matters. Diesel usually has lower fuel cost per kWh. Check preventive maintenance intervals and parts access. This helps compare second hand generators for sale across brands and models.

Logistics & Professional Support – second hand generators for sale

Finance/leasing: Options for businesses (subject to approval)

Shipping: Nationwide freight with liftgate where needed; depot pickup available; crating and freight class noted in quotes

Installation: Use a licensed electrician; plan interconnection, ATS, permits, and inspections to AS/NZS 3010 and local DNSP rules

After-sales: Parts sourcing, maintenance plans, remote support, on-site service in many regions

Learn more: Transfer Switch Explainer and Maintenance Guide. For standards, see Australia’s official resources here: (source)

Safety Essentials – used electric generators for sale

Transfer safety: Use a transfer switch or an approved interlock. Never backfeed with unsafe cords. Follow AS/NZS 3010 and your electrician’s advice.

CO hazard: Run outdoors, far from openings. Fit CO alarms. Learn the symptoms of CO poisoning.

Earthing and bonding: Follow the manufacturer’s neutral-bonding setup and local rules. Ensure correct MEN arrangement at the switchboard under local codes.

Noise/emissions: Check council noise limits and emissions rules for stationary diesel engines.

Sources: (source) (source) (source) (source)

Testimonials & Credentials – second hand generators for sale

• “Quiet, reliable backup for my overlanding rig.” – 4x4 owner

• “Kept our jobsite online during an outage.” – General contractor

• “Seamless standby for our farm operations.” – SME owner

Our technicians have 20+ years in power systems. We test to recognised frameworks (ISO 8528, NFPA 110) and understand safe interconnection principles (NFPA 70/AS/NZS 3010). This experience supports each used generator for sale you see on our site.

Standards references: (source) (source)

Closing

Choosing a generator is a safety-critical decision. Define your loads, pick the right duty rating, and align voltage and phase to your site. Whether you need a quiet inverter for weekend trips, or a three-phase diesel for farm and workshop backup, certified second-hand stock offers strong value and fast delivery. Review the test report, confirm compliance with AS/NZS 3010, and work with a licensed electrician for installation. With the right match, your generator will be ready when the power is not.

FAQs

What’s the difference between a 2nd hand generator for sale and “used”?

The terms are the same. Our units are certified, refurbished as needed, and load-tested with a written report and warranty.

How many hours are acceptable on used diesel generators for sale?

Under about 5,000 hours is common for premium standby stock, but we load-test every unit. Many industrial diesels can run tens of thousands of hours with proper maintenance. Reference: (source)

Are used electric generators for sale quieter than diesel?

Inverter portables (e.g., Honda EU series) can be under 60 dB(A) at partial loads, while many diesel sets are 70+ dB(A). Reference: (source)

Do second hand generator sales include a warranty and load test?

Yes. Every unit includes a multi-step load test and a written 6–12 month warranty.

Can I trade in my old unit toward a diesel generator for sale second hand?

Yes. Send photos, hours, and any service records for a trade-in assessment.

Do you stock used generators for sale Honda with inverter tech?

Yes. We often stock Honda inverter models with clean power for sensitive electronics. Reference: (source)

Compliance and legal notes

Professional installation is required. Permits and inspections depend on your local Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ). Emissions compliance varies by state and local rules; please verify for stationary engines. Reference: (source)

Helpful internal resources

Generator Sizing Guide

Transfer Switch Explainer

Maintenance Guide

Honda Page

Download Checklist

Standards and safety references

• Australian standards overview: (source)

• NFPA 70 (wiring and interconnection principles): (source)

• NFPA 110 (emergency power testing framework): (source)

• OSHA portable generator safety: (source)

• CDC CO safety guide: (source)

• EPA stationary engine rules: (source)

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general guidance only and does not constitute professional advice. Generator sizing, installation, and electrical connections should always be assessed by a qualified professional. We strongly recommend consulting a licensed electrician or electrical contractor to ensure all systems are compliant with Australian Standards and suitable for your specific use case. Mick’s Gone Bush accepts no liability for any decisions made based on the information provided.

About the Author

Mick’s Gone Bush is an independent Australian generator distributor with over 25 years of industry experience in diesel generators, inverter power systems, and backup power solutions. We support customers across Queensland (QLD), New South Wales (NSW), Victoria (VIC), South Australia (SA), Western Australia (WA), Tasmania (TAS), Northern Territory (NT), and the Australian Capital Territory (ACT).

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