What would happen to your business in the event of a power outage? Would it remain productive, or would business grind to a halt? Adding a power generator to your commercial location can keep you in business in the event of short- or long-term power losses due to weather, accidents, and more, helping you keep customers and preventing gaps in productivity.
A power generator provides a backup source of electricity in the event of a power outage. It does this by converting supply fuel (gasoline, diesel, or natural gas) to mechanical energy and converting that into electrical power. Having a standby generator will ensure that your business or organization never has to experience downtime due to a power outage.
If your area’s electrical supply fails, the generator will provide a seamless transition to backup power. The transition is often so smooth, you might not even notice that your power service is out.
Power generators are useful to businesses in many ways:
There are two types of generators that can help your business get through a power loss: portable and standby generators.
Portable commercial generators may be wired into a subpanel by an electrician or simply connected to appliances using extension cords. Portable generators only power the essentials such as lights, refrigerators, and some computers. They are a simple and inexpensive backup power option but must be started manually. They offer a limited supply of electricity, providing enough power for two to four outlets, or a few specific circuits when wired into an electrical panel.
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 generators are permanently installed outside the building and start automatically during power outages, preventing interruptions in electrical service. They are powered by natural gas or propane, are quieter than portable models, and can run everything in your business location. They come at a higher price than portable power generators and require a transfer switch, subpanel, and hardwiring, which must be installed by a qualified electrician.
Just like any other engine, generators require periodic service and maintenance. Below are the most common reasons you may need to call an electrician to service your commercial generator:
Warning! Never plug your generator into a wall outlet. This is known as backfeeding. If you do this without turning off 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.
Grizzly Electric can inspect your existing commercial generator. A thorough, professional inspection keeps you safe and ensures all local codes and regulations are met. Contact your Electric to schedule a service appointment for your commercial generator.
Do you know how to properly calculate wattage so that your system isn’t overloaded at startup? This varies depending on the equipment you need to power and the manufacturer of your generator. Our professionals have the skills necessary to calculate power needs for a smooth operation.
A professional electrician can safely set up wiring, plugging your generator into the transfer switch and wiring it directly to your business’s service panel. This disconnects you properly from the grid and ensures the safe delivery of power only to designated circuits, preventing the overloading of your generator, backfeeding, fire, and other safety issues. Proper positioning and installation of your portable generator are also essential in preventing carbon monoxide poisoning.
