Frequently Asked Questions About Purchasing Your Generator

Imperial Diesel Generators will meet any power need; but they are designed to meet the strenuous demands of continuous use by farms and industry when sufficient power is difficult to acquire. Click HERE to see our generators with their working clothes on.

Diesel generators are better than gas generators because of the way diesel engines are built. They last many times longer than a gasoline powered engine. Diesels are far more efficient and less costly to run and maintain.

Propane or gasoline generators need overhauling in as little as 1,000 hours (if they can be overhauled). The Imperial Diesel generator requires little maintenance and easily runs for 10,000 to 15,000 hours before the first recommended overhaul.

Diesel fuel is better than gas for many reasons. It is less explosive and can be stored for longer periods of time. Diesel has become a much cleaner fuel in recent years, and it is up to twice as efficient as gasoline; so it's a better choice for the environment. In fact, many European countries offer tax incentives for drivers to switch to diesel cars.

Diesel fuel can generally be stored for about 12 months. However, there are additives, such as PRI, that can stabilize diesel fuel for years longer. Visit the PRI website. Amsoil and Schaeffer also make excellent products.

The size of your fuel storage depends on how you plan to use your generator, the estimate of availability of diesel fuel in your area, and how often you want to fill the tank. The most common storage tanks are 300- to 500-gallons. Fifty-gallon cube tanks are available affordably from Tractor Supply Company. HERE is a photo of that TSC fuel tank and another of one of our custom belly-mounted tanks.

To find a good stand alone tank locally, look in the Yellow Pages or use an online search engine for Oil Companies, Petroleum Products Suppliers, or a similar heading. These companies usually know where to buy tanks and they can supply your diesel fuel as well. Be sure to ask about "untaxed" #2 diesel fuel. Imperial can also build your generator with one of our rear-mounted or belly-mounted tanks.

Setting your generator up unprotected is not recommended. It's best to house the unit in an existing outbuilding or a small shed. If that isn't possible, Imperial can build your generator with a strong, lockable steel or aluminum enclosure. View some of ours HERE.

Yes, it can. A licensed electrician will know how to safely do this. Our customer service representative, Dan, can help you and explain the process. Contact him at dan@imperialdiesel.com or 615-943-6852.

You will need an inverter (we recommend Outback or Xantrex), storage batteries, and a good local electrician. Other accessories such as our Smart Start can be added to customize your system. HERE are photos of a complete Power King generator and Xantrex power storage system installed in a converted horse trailer. Dan can walk you through all the details of this, as well. Contact him at dan@imperialdiesel.com or 615-943-6852.

An inverter/charger is an electronic device that changes DC power (your batteries) to AC power (your house). Your generator should be sized to power your peak loads as well as charge your battery bank.

We can assist you in determining which inverter will best meet your needs. We will also assist with your installation planning and walk you through the process.

Yes, you can get both 220v and 110v. Unless some other voltage is requested, Imperial Diesel generators come standard in single phase (120/240 volt). Three-phase is also available for very little difference in cost. Many Power Kings are ordered "reconnectable" so either single- or three-phase is possible.

Click HERE to find out how to determine your power needs.