When contemplating whether to rent or buy a commercial generator, there are many factors to consider to make the right decision for your operation. That’s why we’ve broken down the pros and cons of both options to make it easier for your business. Explore everything you need to know before you buy or rent a generator.
Cost Comparison of Renting vs. Buying
Cost is an important element to consider when choosing between renting and buying equipment.
- How much does it cost to rent a generator? Commercial generator rental prices are typically a fraction of the cost of what’d it be to buy the equipment. If your business needs a generator for an upcoming project, renting can be less expensive. The specific expenses will depend on a few factors, such as the brand, age, hours of use and technology.
- What is the cost of a commercial generator? The expense will depend on the specific type of generator and its size, though most will cost at least a few thousand dollars. However, this investment can pay for itself if you plan to use the generator regularly. If you anticipate needing the generator for a series of jobs in the future, buying may be the right financial choice for your organization.
Overall, it’s best to analyze your budget and needs so that you can select the option that makes the most financial sense for your organization.
Considering Your Long-Term vs. Short-Term Needs
Should you buy or rent a commercial generator? The answer will depend on whether you need the equipment for the long term or the short term.
Analyze your operation’s specific needs. If you find your business requires generator power for the foreseeable future, it’s beneficial to invest in your own generator. Businesses that purchase a commercial generator and use it on a regular basis can actually save money when compared to renting long-term.
However, those who don’t utilize this equipment for most of their projects will likely find renting more advantageous. When your organization needs specific pieces of machinery for a short-term project, like cleaning up after a disaster, it can forgo the upfront investment associated with buying and save some capital.
Advantages of Renting a Commercial Generator
Renting a commercial generator can have many advantages for businesses:
- Cost-effective for short-term needs: Instead of investing in a generator your operation needs for only a few weeks, you can save money by turning to a rental to finish the job.
- Portable: Most commercial generator rentals are portable and convenient for getting electricity when and where you need it. Portability is especially important for projects in remote or challenging locations.
- Ability to forego the initial investment: By choosing to rent, your business can forgo the initial investment associated with purchasing equipment that could tie up important capital and limit projects you could take on in the meantime.
- No need to pay for maintenance and repairs: One of the greatest benefits of renting a commercial generator is you aren’t responsible for equipment maintenance and repairs. Instead, the company you rent the equipment from will cover those costs.
Disadvantages of Renting a Commercial Generator
Along with the many advantages, there are a few cons to renting equipment that businesses should be aware of, such as:
- No immediate access: When you don’t own your commercial generator, you run the risk of downtime if your job site experiences a power outage unexpectedly. Your business will have to wait for machine availability and delivery when you rent.
- Usage limits: Some rental agreements limit your usage of a commercial generator. If you need your rental around the clock, your organization will typically face higher costs.
Turn to Mustang Cat® for Your Generator Needs
Whether you decide that renting or owning is best for your business, Mustang Cat® is your one-stop shop for power equipment in southeast Texas.
We have a huge variety of job-specific machines from trusted brands. Our equipment is well-maintained and available around the clock, and you can enjoy the latest technology with the benefit of hometown service. With locations all over Houston and the surrounding area, we’re always close by to help you with your heavy machinery needs.
If you need to rent or buy a commercial generator, look no further. Find a location near you or contact us to learn more today!
