Home Backup & Standby Generators

When the power goes out, a home backup generator keeps the fridge, the lights and the essentials running. Macfarlane Generators has been getting Australian homes through blackouts since 1949, with portable and standby generators in petrol, diesel, gas and inverter, and installation available. Use the Power Calculator or call 1300 622 436 to work out the right size.

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Portable or standby generator

A portable generator is wheeled out, started and connected when you need it. There's no installation, the upfront cost is lower, and you do a bit more when the power drops. A standby generator is permanently installed with an automatic transfer switch and starts itself as soon as the power goes. Connecting a portable unit to your switchboard needs a licensed electrician, and a standby unit always does.

Petrol, diesel, gas or inverter

Petrol generators are widely available and simple to run, but need refuelling more often. Diesel units run longer on a tank and suit extended outages. Gas standby generators, like our Generac range, run on LP or natural gas, so a mains gas connection means no refuelling at all. Inverter generators produce cleaner power for sensitive electronics.

What size generator for a house

A fridge, a few lights and a modem is a very different load to a whole house with air conditioning. Most home and off-grid backup systems we supply fall between 5kVA and 20kVA, sized to the household's load. Add up what you want to keep running during a blackout and check it with the Power Calculator. You can also browse by size:

Installation and automatic transfer switches

A standby system connects through an automatic transfer switch, which starts the generator when the power fails and switches back when it returns. We can supply and install the generator and transfer switch as one job, including commissioning and testing. For portable units, a licensed electrician fits an inlet and changeover switch so you can connect safely. Book an installation or service.

The brands we recommend for home backup

Maxwatt and Pramac cover most households, from a simple portable unit to a full standby setup. Work out the size first, then talk to us about the brand that suits how you'll use it.

Why choose Macfarlane Generators

We've traded since 1949, with branches in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and Perth. Units bought off our shop floor are tested before they leave us. Buying online, add pre-delivery setup for $150 and we'll add oil and fuel, start it and test it before it ships. After the sale, the person who answers the phone knows generators.

Home Backup & Standby Generators FAQ

Frequently asked questions about Home Backup & Standby Generators

It depends on the generator's size and your home's total load. Larger standby units can cover a full house; smaller portable units are usually sized for essentials only. Use our Power Calculator to check what's realistic for your home.

Diesel suits long run times, heavy or continuous loads and business backup. It uses less fuel for the same output and lasts longer between services. Petrol costs less upfront and suits light, occasional use.

Portable units generally don't for standalone use, but connecting to your switchboard requires a licensed electrician. Talk to us if you're planning this.

It detects a power outage and switches your site to standby power automatically, without anyone needing to act manually.

Yes. We offer full installation, including the automatic transfer switch, coordinated with a licensed electrician.

New equipment carries the manufacturer's warranty, and we support it. Macfarlane's own products, services and workmanship are covered for 12 months or 2,000 hours, whichever comes first. The warranty for each product is listed in its specifications. Your rights under Australian Consumer Law also apply.

Australia’s trusted generator supplier

75+ Years Experience

Australia's longest-running generator specialists. We've powered businesses and homes since 1949.

Australian Owned

100% Australian owned and operated. Your purchase supports local workers and the national economy.

Ready-to-Use Delivery

Every generator is pre-tested and set up so you can start using it the moment it arrives.

Trusted by Thousands

Join thousands of satisfied customers across Australia who rely on our generators daily.

How to find what power generator you need

The Macfarlane Generators Power Calculator helps you estimate the generator size required for your application by calculating power demand, motor starting loads, and electrical conversions such as kVA, kW, amps, and horsepower. Designed for homeowners, tradies, and industrial operators, it provides practical tools and power consumption guides to help you select the right generator with confidence. Whether you're planning backup power, construction site equipment, or large-scale operations, the calculator simplifies generator sizing and power planning.

Power Calculator Questions? Call us on 1300 622 436