BUYING AN ELECTRIC GENERATOR: THINGS TO CONSIDER

The increasing rate of electric powered devices, machineries and equipment has proportionally increased the demand for electricity. However, the instability in electric power supply by power holding companies in the country has left many with no choice but to seek alternative source of generating electric power.

It is important to note, that there are various means of generating electricity such means as Solar power( involves Harnessing the Sun’s energy), wind power ( harnessing the energy of the wind through wind vanes),  steam power, nuclear power etc.

For the purpose of this blog, my write-up will be based on petroleum extract ( petrol and diesel) powered generators.

The following are necessary considerations when planning to purchase a generator;                            

               1.          What are your power requirements?  Your power needs can certainly tie back to your available budget.  However, the primary determining factor for generator sizing can be answered with the following question:  In the event of a power outage, should the generator run the entire building or just emergency loads?  When sizing a generator for an entire building, factors like peak demands during summer months and the amperage of your electrical service are relevant details.  When sizing for emergency loads only, the emergency circuits need to be determined.  For an existing structure, this may require the electrician to split the emergency circuits from your main electrical panel into a separate emergency panel.  For a home standby system, this decision is typically homeowner preference.  For a critical application such as a healthcare facility, certain loads may be required to have emergency back-up in order to meet code compliance.   

            2.       Which fuel type?  The most common fuel types for emergency standby systems are diesel, natural gas, and propane.  While gasoline may seem convenient, it’s typically viewed as a poor fuel choice for standby systems due to its relatively short life of stability.  The Cost can be a factor when choosing between a diesel or natural gas generator (or propane) since the cost difference can vary depending on the size of the generator.  The availability of the fuel source is another important factor.  Diesel and propane provide an ‘on-site’ fuel source but may require a re-fill during an extended power outage, where natural gas is pulled from the local utility.  Local code requirements may dictate which fuel types are available to your area; for example propane may not be an option within city limits in some regions.  In addition, the type of facility can sometimes dictate if an on-site fuel source is required.         

              ·     Fuel tank capacity and litres per hour of usage… You want a generator that is fuel efficient, but also one that holds a decent amount of fuel. Some generators adjust their engine speed (RPM) based on the load demand for greater fuel efficiency. Both fuel efficiency and fuel tank size will affect the run time. You can find the generator run time under the spec details for each unit.

            3.      Where will the generator be located?  The generator set should be located so that it’s readily accessible for maintenance and repair, and high enough to keep rising water from reaching the generator.  For outdoor and rooftop installations, comply with code requirements for minimum distance from combustible walls and building openings.  For indoor installations, adhere to requirements for fuel supply, ventilation, exhaust ducting, and proximity to combustible materials.  Typically the generator should be located as close as possible to the transfer switch and fuel supply. 

          4.      What is the voltage requirement?   Common low voltages for the U.S. are:  120/240 volts single phase, 120/208 volts three phase, 120/240 volts three phase, and 277/480 volts three phase.  If you are unsure, your licensed electrician can provide this information.

          5.      Warranty duration?  The standard warranty for generator systems typically ranges from one year to five years depending on the generator type.  Where a residential generator may come standard with a warranty ranging from two to five years, an industrial generator may come standard with a one or two year warranty and offer optional upgrades.  It’s a good idea to understand the warranty duration and coverage of your standby system, and ask for upgrade costs if you prefer an increased coverage.

…..TO BE CONTINUED