Buying a Generator in Costa Rica

Need reliable backup power in Costa Rica? Here’s a laid-back guide to local voltages, the best brands, and where to buy. We’ll also share tips and must-knows—plus add-ons like a handy inverter generator and a safe transfer switch kit.

Single-Phase Voltage: 120/240 V / Three-Phase Voltage: 240/480 V / Frequency (Hertz): 60 Hz / # of Wires: 3 or 4 / Plug Type(s): Type A, B

What are you looking for?

• Generator Brands/Models in Costa Rica
• Where to Buy Generators in Costa Rica
• Costa Rica Generator Guide & FAQs

Generator Brands for Sale in Costa Rica

Costa Rica has access to both global and regional generator brands—ranging from compact inverter units for homes to heavy-duty diesel for businesses.

• Honda: Popular for portable and inverter units; known for clean, quiet power. Typical pricing: USD $1,000–$3,000. Browse Honda inverter options.
• Yamaha: Quiet inverters ideal for home or camping use; ~USD $1,000–$2,800. See Yamaha EF series.
• Kubota: Compact diesel gensets (GL series); reliable for extended runtimes. Pricing varies by dealer (5–20 kVA common).
• Cummins: Strong support for standby and commercial diesel units; often chosen for businesses and larger homes.
• Kohler: Premium standby solutions with advanced ATS controls; price by project quote.
• Pramac: Broad range of diesel gensets; good for SMEs and industrial setups.
• Denyo: Durable, worksite-ready diesel sets with low noise enclosures; usually priced by kVA capacity.

Best Generator Models in Costa Rica

The “best” depends on your needs—whether it’s quiet home backup, off-grid cabin use, or heavy commercial loads. Always pair your generator with protection like a surge protector and a heavy-duty extension cord.

• Honda EU22i / EU30is (inverter): Compact, quiet, clean power for electronics and fridges. Price: ~USD $1,200–$3,000.
• Yamaha EF2200iS / EF3000iSE: Quiet inverter units, great runtime. ~USD $1,100–$2,800.
• Kubota GL6000 / GL7000: Diesel gensets with extended runtimes; ~6–7 kVA. Quote-based pricing.
• Cummins RS20A / C30–C60: Robust standby sets with ATS support; 20–60 kVA. Quote-based.
• Kohler 20–45 kVA standby: Premium quiet enclosures and remote monitoring. Quote-based.

Where to Buy Generators in Costa Rica

Choose authorized distributors for warranty, installation, and parts support. Always call ahead to confirm stock and ask about delivery/installation options. Accessories like ATS kits, waterproof covers, and CO alarms are smart online buys.

Grupo Q Costa Rica

• La Uruca, San José, Costa Rica
• Contact: +506 2290-9000
• Hours: Mon–Fri 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Genergy Costa Rica

• San Sebastián, San José, Costa Rica
• Contact: ventas@genergycr.com · +506 2225-4333
• Hours: Mon–Fri 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM

Distribuidora Lumen

• Av. 10, Calle 23, San José, Costa Rica
• Contact: info@lumen.co.cr · +506 2256-4747
• Hours: Mon–Sat 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Corporación CEFA

• Heredia, Costa Rica
• Contact: +506 2237-5555
• Hours: Mon–Fri 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Power Depot CR

• Escazú, San José, Costa Rica
• Contact: soporte@powerdepotcr.com
• Hours: Mon–Fri 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Casa del Electricista

• Av. Central, Alajuela, Costa Rica
• Contact: +506 2431-2070
• Hours: Mon–Sat 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Ferretería EPA

• Curridabat, San José, Costa Rica
• Contact: +506 2280-0101
• Hours: Mon–Sun 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM

Importadora Monge

• Av. 2, San José, Costa Rica
• Contact: +506 2222-1111
• Hours: Mon–Sat 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Costa Rica Generator Buying Guide and Tips

• Right size: Add up essential loads (fridge, router, lights, small AC/pump). Homes often need 2–5 kW portables; businesses may need 10–30 kVA diesel.
• Noise matters: Inverters are ~50–60 dB; open-frame petrol >70–85 dB. Consider neighbors and condo rules.
• Fuel choice: Petrol inverters for portability; diesel for efficiency in longer outages. LPG/dual-fuel units offer flexibility in fuel storage.
• Installation: Always use a certified electrician. Install ATS or a safe changeover switch—never backfeed the grid.
• Power quality: Protect electronics with pure-sine inverters or AVR-equipped sets plus surge protectors.
• Cords & outlets: Use grounded, 120/240 V-rated cords (10–12 AWG equiv.). Keep runs short and safe from rain.
• Maintenance: Do first oil change early, then follow intervals. Stock spare oil, filters, and spark plugs. Test-run monthly.
• Weather & storage: Humidity requires covered, ventilated placement. Consider running covers and anti-corrosion care.

Buying Generator in Costa Rica FAQs

How much does generator installation usually cost in Costa Rica?
Basic portable unit setup with manual transfer may run USD $400–$1,200. Full standby system installations with ATS and cabling often cost USD $2,500–$7,000+, excluding the generator itself.

How noisy can a generator be in Costa Rica?
Modern inverter units are 50–60 dB at 7m (like conversation level). Open-frame petrol units are 70–85 dB, while enclosed diesel standby systems average 65–75 dB.

Which generator type and fuel are best for Costa Rica’s climate?
Petrol inverters are perfect for short, occasional outages. Diesel units are better for frequent or long outages, offering durability and lower running costs in the tropical climate.

What are the typical warranties for generators in Costa Rica?
Portable petrol generators usually come with 1–3 years limited warranty. Diesel standby sets often have 1–2 years (or hour-based) coverage when installed by an authorized dealer—always confirm terms in writing.