Best Inverter Generators for Catering Vans and Food Trucks

Catering vans and food trucks have unique power needs: they must run ovens, fryers, refrigerators, lights and cash registers, often all at once. According to industry guidelines, a typical food truck may need anywhere from 7,000 to 25,000 watts of generator power depending on its appliances. Most vendors prefer inverter generators because they deliver clean, stable electricity for sensitive equipment (like POS systems) and operate more quietly – a big plus when customers are right next to the unit.

• Assess Your Load: List all appliances (coffee machine, grill, fridge, blender, etc.) and note their wattages. Smaller trucks (coffee or snack carts) might only need 4–6 kW total, while full kitchens (pizza ovens, fryers) can require 8–10 kW or more. Planning for peak demand is crucial – think about the lunch rush when many appliances fire up together.

• Why Inverter Generators: Inverters adjust engine speed to match demand, which means quieter operation (important in a service setting) and better fuel efficiency. More importantly, the pure sine-wave power is safe for electronic controls, lights, and communication devices. Conventional generators can produce voltage spikes harmful to electronics, whereas inverters maintain a steady output.

• Noise and Convenience: Since food trucks often park in residential areas or busy streets, keeping generator noise down improves the customer experience. Inverter generators typically operate below 60 dB at moderate loads. Many Gorilla Power models also offer electric (and even remote) start, so you can quietly turn the unit on/off as needed without manual cranking.

• Recommended Gorilla Power Models: Matching generator size to your truck’s needs is key. Here are some top picks:

  • Gorilla Power 5500W Dual-Fuel Generator (GP5500DF) – 5.5 kW peak (5.0 kW running) with petrol/LPG fuel flexibility. This “reliable & fuel efficient” unit can run multiple medium-power appliances at once. Its large 25 L tank and ability to switch fuels means long runtimes during busy service hours. The true sine-wave output protects electronics in the van.

  • Gorilla Power 6500W Dual-Fuel Generator (GP6500DF) – 6.5 kW peak (6.0 kW running) dual-fuel generator. This higher-capacity model handles heavy loads (large grills, multiple refrigerators) with ease. The dual-fuel feature provides backup options, and at 93 kg it remains towable for a truck. Its robust output and 25 L tank are well-suited for full-service food trucks.

  • Gorilla Power 8000W Petrol Inverter Generator (GP8000iE) – 8 kW peak (7.5 kW running) petrol inverter. Perfect for large vans with high-power ovens or multiple appliances running simultaneously. It delivers clean power for sensitive electronics and has an Economy Mode to save fuel (and noise) during lighter periods.

• Fuel Considerations: If space permits, dual-fuel models (GP5500DF/GP6500DF) are great for catering: propane (LPG) is easy to store and runs cleanly (important for health regulations), while petrol is useful for quick refills. Ensure proper ventilation and follow safety rules when using propane.

In summary, for a catering van you’ll want an inverter generator that provides enough watts for your busiest menu items while running quietly and reliably. The Gorilla Power models above combine high output with inverter technology, giving your mobile kitchen the clean, stable power it needs without excessive noise. By choosing the right inverter generator, you can focus on serving delicious food – not wrestling with power issues – and keep your customers happy and well-fed.