Buying a Generator in France

Need backup power in France? Here’s a no-fuss guide to voltages, top brands, and where to buy—plus smart add-ons like an inverter generator or a safe transfer switch kit.

Single-Phase Voltage: 230 V / Three-Phase Voltage: 400 V / Frequency (Hertz): 50 Hz / # of Wires: 3 (single) / 4 (three-phase) / Plug Type(s): Type E

What are you looking for?

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

Generator Brands for Sale in France

France has access to both European and international generator brands—whether you’re after portable petrol units, quiet inverters, or larger diesel gensets.

• Honda: Popular for reliable portable and inverter units, clean power for electronics. Typical pricing ~€1,000–€3,000+. Browse Honda inverter options.
• Yamaha: Known for very quiet inverters for home backup and caravans. Price ~€900–€2,800. See Yamaha EF series.
• Kubota: Compact low-RPM diesel sets for longer runtimes, common in rural areas. Pricing by quote (6–20 kVA).
• Pramac: Italian brand with a wide range of portable and industrial gensets, often used in Europe. Price varies ~€500–€15,000+ depending on capacity.
• Cummins: Heavy-duty standby/prime diesel sets for commercial use, quote-based (20–100+ kVA).
• Kohler: Premium standby systems with automatic transfer switch integration. Quote-based.
• SDMO (KOHLER-SDMO): A French brand, very popular locally for both portable and industrial gensets.

Best Generator Models in France

“Best” depends on what you’re powering. Pair any model with protection gear—like a surge protector and a heavy-duty cord.

• Honda EU22i / EU30is: Ultra-quiet inverter series, 1.8–2.8 kW. Great for households and camping. ~€1,100–€3,000.
• Yamaha EF2200iS / EF3000iSE: Portable inverters, quiet with long runtimes. ~€1,000–€2,500.
• Pramac PX8000: Petrol generator for small business/home backup; ~7.2 kW. Price ~€1,000–€1,500.
• SDMO Perform 3000: Local French option, reliable and serviceable; ~3 kVA. Around €800–€1,200.
• Kubota GL6000: Compact diesel genset, ~6 kVA. Ideal for extended outages. Quote-based.
• Cummins C30–C60: Robust diesel standby for homes/businesses, 30–60 kVA. Quote-based.

Where to Buy Generators in France

Choose authorised suppliers for commissioning, warranty, and spare parts. Always call ahead for stock availability and delivery options. Accessories like covers, wheel kits, and CO detectors are easy online buys.

Manutan France

• 17 rue du Parc de la Choisille, 37390 Notre-Dame-d’Oé, France
• Contact: +33 2 47 88 24 24
• Hours: Mon–Fri 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Leroy Merlin

• Multiple locations across France (Paris, Lyon, Marseille)
• Contact: via website customer service
• Hours: Typical retail hours, 7 days a week

Castorama

• National chain with many outlets in France
• Contact: customer service via castorama.fr
• Hours: Mon–Sat 9:00 AM – 7:30 PM, Sun limited hours

SDMO (Kohler-SDMO Dealer Network)

• Rue de la Villeneuve, 29280 Plouzané, France
• Contact: +33 2 98 41 41 41
• Hours: Mon–Fri 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM

Brico Dépôt

• Nationwide chain in France
• Contact: through local store
• Hours: Mon–Sat 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM

FNAC (Online Sales)

• Available via fnac.com
• Contact: customer service portal
• Hours: 24/7 online ordering

Amazon.fr

• Online delivery to all regions in France
• Contact: via amazon.fr
• Hours: 24/7 online

Conrad France

• 2 rue de la Boucherie, 57200 Sarreguemines, France
• Contact: +33 3 87 95 31 31
• Hours: Mon–Fri 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

France Generator Buying Guide and Tips

• Right size, right load: Calculate essential loads (fridge, heating pump, lights, router). Small homes often manage with 2–3 kW inverters; larger homes/worksites may need 5–15+ kVA diesel.
• Noise matters: Inverter generators are ~50–60 dB @ 7 m; open-frame petrol can exceed 70–85 dB. Check local council noise rules.
• Fuel choice: Petrol inverters are portable and great for short outages. Diesel is more efficient for long runtimes and rural properties. LPG/dual-fuel can help with storage flexibility.
• Safety in France: Use a certified électricien to install transfer switches or ATS systems. Never backfeed into the grid.
• Power quality: Protect electronics—use pure sine wave inverters or AVR-equipped sets with surge protection.
• Cords & outlets: Use Type E, 230 V-rated cords. Keep them short, dry, and protected.
• Maintenance: First oil change at early hours, then per manual. Stock filters, plugs, and spare oil. Run monthly under load.
• Storage: Store in dry, ventilated areas. Covers help protect from dust and moisture—consider a running cover.

Buying Generator in France FAQs

How much does generator installation usually cost in France?
For a portable unit with manual switch, budget ~€300–€1,200 for certified electrician labour and parts. Standby diesel/petrol with ATS, cabling, and base can run €3,000–€8,000+, excluding the generator.

How noisy can a generator be in France?
Modern inverters: ~50–60 dB @ 7 m. Open-frame petrol units: ~70–85 dB. Enclosed diesel sets: ~65–75 dB. Municipalities may enforce local limits, especially in urban areas.

Which generator type and fuel are best for France’s climate?
For occasional outages: petrol inverter generators (portable/quiet). For rural or frequent outages: diesel gensets with ATS—better fuel efficiency and long runtimes in France’s varied climate.

What are the typical warranties for generators in France?
Portable petrol units: 1–3 years limited consumer warranty. Diesel standby/prime sets: commonly 12–24 months or hour-based coverage when installed by authorised dealers. Always confirm exact terms in writing.