Heavy industrial equi
pment can last a long time, but it will eventually reach the end of its service life. If your facility has a used industrial generator, you may be wondering what to do with it. While your generator may no longer meet production needs because it’s old or damaged, you may be surprised to learn that it can bring your business some value, depending on what you decide to do with it.
There are some companies and individuals who will buy your used generator for various reasons. Since used generators sell for a fraction of their original price, individuals and businesses may opt to buy them used and restore them instead of getting a new, more expensive unit. Businesses dealing in scrap metal or used equipment parts will also be willing to buy from you.
Whether you’ll be able to successfully sell your used generator — and at what price — depends on a few factors. Here are a few characteristics that determine the value of a used generator:
Like any other used equipment, the condition of your outdated generator will impact its resale price. If you sell to a secondhand user, they’ll want a machine that’s in relatively good condition, even if it doesn’t perform well.
Buyers will typically handle repairs if they cost less than the price of a new unit and if those repairs can guarantee functionality. If the generator requires extensive repairs, it may not be a reasonable investment for a buyer. However, it can still be sold to scrap yards and used parts dealers if it’s in an unusable condition.
Similar to your generator’s condition, age also determines its worth. Age refers to the year of the generator model’s manufacture — and since the value of machinery depreciates with time, you’ll likely have to settle for less than you purchased the generator for, even if the generator is still operational.
As outdated equipment, your generator may lack certain features present in newer models, making it less desirable. Still, remember that unlike smaller machinery, used commercial generators are high-end, heavy-duty machines with many diverse benefits that make them a sound investment. As a result, even older generators may generate a valuable return.
Sometimes, older technologies are associated with durability, which improves their market value. Factors like the generator’s make and model may influence its demand if it has earned a reputation over the years for certain capabilities.
Aside from selling your industrial generator as-is, you could take it apart and sell the parts separately. You can sell the parts to individuals and businesses looking to replace their faulty generator components with affordable aftermarket options. Used parts dealers are a good place to start because many offer top dollar for high-quality parts.
If you’re unsure whether you can sell your used generator as a complete unit, selling it in separate parts could be a smart decision, as you may be more likely to find buyers. It can be easier to strip the machine and sell the individual parts because many buyers only require parts, not the entire generator.
The challenge that comes with selling a used industrial generator, either as a whole or in parts, is safely decommissioning it. Heavy-duty commercial generators are bulky, with intricate parts and connections that make removing them from their location tedious and hazardous. If you want to take the generator apart, the level of work needed to avoid damaging the parts you wish to sell increases with the lack of expertise.
Before stripping your generator for parts, use Thompson Power Systems’ guide for safe decommissioning. Alternatively, you could hire a professional to decommission the generator and advise on effective dismantling.
Any facility, construction site or outdoor venue using a commercial generator understands the investment that goes into such equipment. If your machine is outdated, it doesn’t necessarily mean it can’t return to normal functioning. You could restore the generator by repairing and replacing faulty parts.
Restoring an outdated generator makes sense when the replacement cost is higher than that of a restoration. If restoration aligns with your business needs and budget, you have two options for approaching repairs — you could hire experts or carry out the repair work yourself.
It’s best to let a professional handle the extensive repairs needed to restore an industrial generator. Restoring a generator yourself comes with many considerations, including:
There are several ways to extend the life of industrial generators. However, when all options fail, it may be time to scrap the machine and recoup what you can of your investment. Reach out to local scrap yards and see if they buy used generators. Usually, scrap yards pay based on the scrap material’s weight.
You can also recycle a used generator. Look for recycling centers near you and ask for more information about their services, such as whether they compensate for scrap material and at what rate. Even if you can’t receive a return for your used generator, you can recycle the materials to dispose of it properly.
Whether you want to sell or restore your outdated generator, you may need assistance with professional removal or quality replacement parts to keep your machine running for longer.
Thompson Power Systems is a reliable industrial equipment dealer providing emergency power systems in Alabama and Northwest Florida. In addition to quality Cat® parts, we sell different types of industrial generators from reputable brands. Whether you require comprehensive product support or want to invest in a new generator, our team is here to help you make the best decision for your operation.
Browse our new electric or diesel generators or used power systems to replace your old unit, and find a location near you today.
