Clarke IG1000 1kW Inverter Generator

Review: The Clarke IG1000 in action - is it for you?

The Clarke IG1000 is ideal for providing a ready source of electrical power when, for example, out camping, caravanning, or enjoying a boat trip. We tested it whilst away in the campervan for the weekend in a friend's field, and it proved invaluable, keeping the leisure battery charged and in tiptop condition. It was also perfect for running a mains hairdryer for a vain teenager (don't ask!). It could also be used for a microwave, tv etc.

Our first impressions were very good. It's a very compact, stylish looking machine, and is surprisingly light, easily shifted from garage to car to ground with no effort whatsoever. Obviously we all read the manual whenever we get a new toy, and in this instance it's a must before using it. Having said that it's very simple to use, just check there is sufficient oil and petrol in the unit (there's a dipstick to make this easy), open the air vent and petrol valves, and off you go. It started easily with a smooth pull starting mechanism. There is a choke for when it's cold.



It ran smoothly and quietly (it has a noise level of 64db at 7 metres) and has a clever economy control switch. With this turned on the engine speed varies according to the load connected. This results in decreased fuel consumption and less noise. We found by placing it behind the campervan it was only really background noise whilst we were sitting outside our tent a few metres away, and indeed after a short while had screened it out, and did not really notice it. It was certainly easily livable for the few hours it was required (obviously you wouldn't want to run any generator at night on a campsite, always respect your neighbours!)

The generator can provide both 12v DC and 240v AC, meaning it can be used to charge your battery, and run mains equipment up to 1kw. Because it uses 'Pure Sine Wave Technology' it gives a controlled electrical output ensuring the delivery of stable power with no surging - vital when running sensitive electrical and electronic equipment - computers and laptops, for example. For battery charging a lead is supplied with standard crocodile clips, and this will boost your battery with a 5 amp output. Depending on the load you put on it, the generator will run for up to 8 hours on a single 2.7 litre tank.

Overall we are very impressed with this generator. At the price of £286.80 inc VAT (prices correct at time of publication and are subject to change without notice), we feel it's a perfect compromise between very cheap but very noisy machines, and hugely expensive topend models. If you're considering a generator for your trips away, then we don't think you'd be disappointed with the Clarke IG1000!