Investing in a commercial generator for your business, whether for primary or backup power, is essential for smooth operations. Deciding where and how to install your industrial generator is just as important for its reliability and longevity. To get the most from your investment, give proper consideration to the installation and placement of your new generator.
Depco Power Systems is experienced in helping you select the right generator for your business. As experts in commercial generators, they can guide you through the proper commercial generator installation process, ensuring efficient, long-lasting performance from their generators and generator sets.
Generator Selection and Maintenance
Any business considering a new generator must first assess its power needs. Every business has different power requirements, and some need to power an entire operation, while others only need to keep critical operations running. Choosing between diesel or natural gas and finding the proper location for your commercial generators require much thought.
Selecting a reliable supplier, like Depco Power Systems, will alleviate some confusion about all the decisions you need to make. Depco provides greater knowledge in choosing the right generator for your needs and budget and can help you select an appropriate installation site, understand local regulations, and acquire permit requirements needed for your commercial generator installation.
Pre-Installation Considerations and Generator Safety
A successful generator installation is the result of detailed preplanning. Acquiring permits required by your local municipality and preparing the location site for installation is crucial. Where you place your generator depends on several factors. Industrial generators are very large, so the location must provide adequate space for the unit and allow access for maintenance, refueling, and fuel storage.
Generator safety and security are also necessary considerations when selecting a location. To secure an outdoor generator, consider adding cameras, lighting, and fencing, to keep out vandals, wildlife, and debris that can cause unnecessary problems. Indoor generators require systems for ventilation, exhaust, and sound attenuation.
Most regulatory guidelines require concrete pads under permanent indoor and outdoor industrial generators. The thickness of the concrete pad is determined by local regulations, the generator’s weight and the composition of the soil underneath it. The pad must also be sized according to the manufacturer’s guidelines, with extra space around the unit for generator maintenance.
Commercial Generator Installation Procedures and Safety Measures
Once site preparation is complete, it is time to install the commercial generator. Here is an overview of the installation process and safety measures:
- Offloading and placement: Use of a crane may be necessary to offload the new generator and place it in its prepared location, as commercial generators and generator sets are very large.
- Connecting fuel lines and electrical components: Trained personnel, such as experienced electrical engineers, should perform this work, especially for complete facility backup power.
- Coordination: Engaging a skilled professional is vital for managing generator installation intricacies within occupied facilities. This expert will collaborate with building safety systems and adhere to local regulations concerning noise, generator safety, and fire prevention.
- Testing: Perform the initial startup to confirm the technicians set up the generator correctly. Commission the generator into service by load testing the generator, following load testing procedures, and ensuring the fuel, starting, airflow, and electrical systems run smoothly.
By using these installation procedures and safety measures as a guide, you can ensure a smooth and successful commercial generator installation, providing your business with a reliable power solution tailored to its needs.
Operation, Generator Maintenance, and Troubleshooting
Once your commercial generator installation is complete, it’s essential to maintain the generator properly. Here are some key aspects of operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting:
- Staff training: Ensure all staff are trained on operating and generator safety procedures. If the generator is for backup purposes, staff must know their role during a power disruption.
- Point person: Assign a point person who staff should alert when any questions or problems arise with the generator.
- Regular maintenance schedule: Establish and strictly follow a generator maintenance schedule to ensure maximum efficiency, reliability, and generator safety. Some tasks include:
- Frequent oil and filter changes
- Draining and refilling of fuel
- Fuel storage inspection and refilling
- Inspection for loose connections, leaks, and corrosion
- Routine start-up to test performance
- Maintenance log: Keep a detailed maintenance log for warranty, insurance, and resale purposes.
- Troubleshooting: Address common generator issues, such as start-up issues, stalling, leaks, block heater failure, low coolant, clogged lines, and dead batteries, with regular inspection and maintenance. If these efforts do not resolve the issues, contact an expert like the professionals at Depco Power Systems to assess your generator’s needs.
By following these guidelines on operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting, you can ensure your commercial generator remains reliable and efficient, providing your business with a dependable power source for years to come.
Depco carries generators from well-known and trusted brands, including Caterpillar and Cummins.
