Navigating the challenges of unpredictable power supplies can be tough for South African businesses. A reliable generator is not a luxury but more of a lifeline, especially when power outages can hit at any time.
Whether you’re running a logistics warehouse, a hotel, or a healthcare facility, ensuring your generator runs smoothly is crucial to keeping operations on track. But how much does it actually cost to service a commercial generator?
In this blog, we break down the costs, including what’s usually covered in a standard service, and what factors can affect your overall maintenance bill, so you can budget smarter and avoid costly surprises.
Understanding Generator Servicing Costs
Generator servicing costs can vary significantly depending on the size, type, and condition of the unit. For commercial generators, prices typically range from R2,000 to R20,000 per service, and sometimes more for larger or more complex systems.
For small to medium generators, typically ranging between 20kVA and 100kVA, you can expect to pay around R2,000 to R8,000 for a standard service. In contrast, large generators in the 100kVA to 500kVA range and beyond generally require more labour and spare parts, with service costs falling between R8,000 and R18,000 or more.
Use Inpower’s convenient Generator Service and Repair Calculator on our website to help you tailor pricing based on your specific generator model and size.
What’s Included in a Standard Generator Service?
A standard generator service goes far beyond just topping up oil. At Inpower, each service is designed to keep your generator in optimal running condition and prevent costly breakdowns. Here’s what’s typically included:
- Regular oil and filter changes to ensure that the engine runs smoothly and efficiently, especially in diesel generators.
- Fuel system check: This includes inspecting the fuel lines, replacing fuel filters, and draining water separators (especially important in diesel units prone to fuel contamination).
- Coolant level inspection and top-up to help prevent overheating, which is a leading cause of generator failure.
- Battery and charging system test: A generator is only as good as its ability to start when needed. Batteries are tested, cleaned, and replaced.
- Inspection of belts, hoses, and wiring: Any signs of wear, corrosion or fraying are flagged and replaced to avoid breakdowns down the line.
- Load bank testing which simulates real-world usage, ensuring the generator can handle its intended power load without issue.
At the end of each service, you will receive a general inspection and performance report detailing the generator’s health and any recommended next steps.
What Can Affect the Cost of Servicing?
Several factors can affect the price of servicing a generator. These include;
- Generator Size and Output: Larger generators naturally require more consumables like oil, coolant, and filters, and sometimes more than one technician on site. This makes them more expensive to service.
- Frequency of Servicing: Generators that run often (especially in industries that can’t afford downtime) may need servicing every 250 hours of use or every few months. More frequent services may qualify you for bulk or package rates, but it’s still an important cost to factor in.
- Brand and Parts Availability: Not all generator brands are created equal. Some high-end models have expensive original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts, while others may have long lead times on spares. Inpower services a wide range of trusted brands and can often advise on compatible parts that meet performance standards without breaking the bank.
- Location and Accessibility: Generators housed on rooftops, in remote areas, or tightly-packed engine rooms may require more time and specialist tools to service, which can push up labour costs.
- Condition and Age: Older generators may have more wear and tear, and sourcing spares can be trickier, leading to more frequent or expensive maintenance visits. In contrast, well-maintained newer generators typically cost less to service and are easier to diagnose.
Why Regular Generator Maintenance Matters
Think of generator servicing like going to the dentist. Skipping it might save money in the short term but long-term neglect can result in catastrophic (and expensive) failures. With regular servicing, you can extend the lifespan of your generator and avoid unexpected breakdowns during peak usage.
A generator service will help ensure a units fuel efficiency and optimal performance and make sure that you stay compliant with safety and insurance regulations
At Inpower, we specialise in comprehensive commercial generator maintenance and repair solutions across South Africa. Whether you operate one generator or manage a fleet, our experienced technicians and tailored service plans keep your power secure, and your downtime minimal.
Not sure what it will cost for your specific setup? Use our free online calculator to get a quick estimate in minutes: Check your service cost now
Need help or ready to book a service? Contact the team today for a free consultation or to schedule a site assessment.