Generators

Portable

Portable generators may be wired into a subpanel by an electrician or simply plugged into appliances using extension cords. They power only chosen essentials such as lights, refrigerators and some computers. They are a simple and inexpensive backup power option, but must be started and maintained. They offer a limited supply of electricity, providing enough power for two to four outlets or a few specific circuits when wired in. These generators must be located at least 10 feet away from your business, away from doors and windows, and in a completely open area (not even carports or awnings are safe) to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.

Standby

Standby generators start automatically during power outages, preventing interruptions in electrical service. They are powered by natural gas or propane, are quieter than portable models, and have the ability to power everything in your business. They come at a higher price and also require the professional installation of a transfer switch, a subpanel, and the power generator itself.

Potential Problems

• Battery failure: This is the single most common cause for power generator service. Battery failure may be the result of sulfate buildup on terminals, shorts, open cells, a tripped charger breaker, charger failure, or simply due to loose or dirty connections.
• Low coolant: External and internal leaks, clogged radiators, and more can cause a power generator to run hot and shutdown.
• Faulty block heater: Because they run so frequently, block heaters often become faulty resulting in a low coolant temp alarm.
• Wet stacking: Excessive no-load run time can result in an over-fueled engine that becomes damaged due to the accumulation of carbon particles, unburned fuel, oil, condensed water, and acids in the exhaust.
• Controls not in “auto”: This simply means the power generator was not shut off and may not be the main control switch. This can be due to human error, open breakers, alarms or switchgear not properly reset, emergency shutdown, and more.
• Air in the fuel system: This can prevent injectors from firing and is typically due to generators that are not run on a regular basis. It can be prevented with weekly inspections.
• Out of fuel: Generators will automatically shut down when fuel depletion is imminent to prevent the fuel system from drawing in air.
• Breaker trip: If no one has accidentally pushed the emergency shut off, check the status of the automatic transfer switch (ATS). Never try to manually operate this switch if you do not know how to do so, as it could result in severe injury or death.

Warning! Never plug your generator into a wall outlet. This is also known as backfeeding. If you do this without throwing the main breaker to isolate your business from the grid, you could send power back on into the grid, potentially injuring or killing utility repairmen.