A 10 kVA generator delivers approximately 8 kW of usable power — enough to run a large home or farmhouse with borehole pump, geyser and essential circuits. At 75% load it consumes roughly 2.1 litres of diesel per hour. In South Africa a 10 kVA silent diesel generator typically costs between R45 000 and R65 000 excluding VAT and installation.
Pricing verified August 2026
Compare full specifications for matching models in the catalogue: 10 kVA Single Phase Silent Diesel Generator, 9 kVA Single Phase Portable Petrol Generator, 12 kVA Single Phase Silent Diesel Generator, 8 kVA Single Phase Silent Diesel Generator, 7 kVA Single Phase Portable Petrol Generator, 14 kVA Single Phase Silent Diesel Generator, 5.5 kVA Single Phase Portable Petrol Generator and 16 kVA Single Phase Silent Diesel Generator.
Not sure this is the right size? Try our generator sizing calculator, residential estates power solutions and hospitality and lodges power solutions.
A 10 kVA set most often falls into these ranges: diesel generators, single phase generators and silent diesel generators.
Guides that reference 10 kVA sizing: Diesel vs Petrol Generators: Which to Buy in South Africa and How to Connect a Generator to Your House Safely.
What a 10 kVA generator will run
Running cost at 10 kVA
Available 10 kVA generators
Every 10 kVA unit currently in the range, compared side by side.
| Model | Engine | Prime | Standby | Phase | Fuel @75% | Noise | Weight | Price excl. VAT |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AGP 10 Hyundai Silent | Hyundai DHY10KSE | 10 kVA | 11 kVA | Single | 2.1 l/h | 68 dB | 165 kg | R48 500 |
| AGP 10 Perkins Silent | Perkins 403D-11G | 10 kVA | 11 kVA | Single | 2 l/h | 67 dB | 190 kg | R58 900 |
| AGP 10 FAW Open | FAW DEUTZ 10 | 10 kVA | 11 kVA | Three | 2.2 l/h | 78 dB | 210 kg | R46 800 |
| AGP 10 SDEC Silent | SDEC 4R10 | 10 kVA | 11 kVA | Single | 2.15 l/h | 69 dB | 175 kg | R51 200 |
Is 10 kVA the right size?
Size for about 25% above your calculated peak. A 10 kVA set suits continuous household essentials; if you run a large borehole starter or three-phase plant, step up to 15 or 20 kVA.
10 kVA generator FAQs
A 10 kVA silent diesel generator typically costs between R45,000 and R65,000 excluding VAT, delivery and installation. Single-phase canopied sets sit at the lower end; Perkins-badged or three-phase builds cost more.
At 75% load a 10 kVA diesel set uses roughly 2.0–2.2 litres per hour. At R23.50/L that is about R47–R52 per hour of running time.
About 8 kW of usable power — enough for a large home or farmhouse covering lights, fridge, geyser elements on diversity, TV/IT and a modest borehole when staged correctly.
Most residential 10 kVA units are single-phase 230 V. Three-phase 10 kVA sets exist for small workshops but are less common for home backup.
A level plinth or pad, correct earthing, exhaust clear of openings, fuel storage and a changeover switch or ATS. Installation must comply with SANS 10142-1 with a CoC on handover.
For many large homes yes, if non-essentials (underfloor, pool heat pumps, multiple geysers) stay off. Measure peak demand or send a load list before you buy.