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Archive for the ‘Generators’ Category
At this point you know that you need to service your generator. There are plenty of options out there for service providers, so who do you go with? We have some suggestions that will help you make your generator service provider decision. Making sure that you choose a capable service provider is important; after all if your generator doesn’t work when you need it, you might as well not have it.
Do they know what they are doing?
Granted the technician who shows up likely knows more than you about generators, but how knowledgeable is he, really? Generator knowledge comes from two basic areas: certification and experience. At ACF Standby Systems, all of our technicians are certified to repair and maintain generators. They have undergone training to prepare them to work in the field. As far as experience is concerned, we have been in the generator business for over twenty years. We have worked on multiple types of generators and formed relationships with many happy customers.
Will they be there when I need them?
Some companies look to be extremely “organized.” They are so “organized” that they will only come out according to your service plan. The fact is, power outages do not follow a schedule. You need a service provider who is willing to fix your generator at any time. At ACF Standby Systems, we can send a trained technician twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week. We can get computer servers back up and operating or make sure that the perishable inventory in your walk-in freezer does not thaw out, even if it’s two o’clock in the morning. Our customers who sign service agreements with us are our top priority when an emergency situation arises. We get them back up and running first.
Are they willing to work with you?
All service agreements will involve you entering into a contract. Make sure that the contract you sign is the one you need. We offer a variety of terms, and so should any service provider you hire. If you want a basic service plan then that is what you should get. You should not be forced into a plan that involves more than you want. Don’t get us wrong, we will tell you that you need an annual load bank test to make sure that your equipment can handle a full electrical workload, but we won’t be pushy when it comes to finer points. If you don’t want a full service contract that is fine– we will taper a contract to meet your basic service needs and then add in the other services that you want. We believe in working with our customers and we recommend that whoever you choose for service does as well.
At ACF Standby Systems, we believe in quality workmanship and respecting the customer. We carry these principles in everything that we do including generator servicing. We would love for you to consider us if you are currently looking for a service provider for your generator. Visit us online or call us if you have any questions that we can answer.
Pretty much everything that you own will need some kind of periodic maintenance. This is especially true for tools that have engines. Engines have moving parts and operate using fuel and multiple types of lubricants and filters. These factors combine to make great tools, but without maintenance, these moving parts can deteriorate and cause the engine to work more slowly.
In a state like Florida, where we experience heavy rain and wind on a regular basis, power can go out at any time. Maintenance is the best way to make sure that your generator is ready to handle your facility’s voltage requirements. Some experts even provide service plans that dictate what needs to be done service-wise, based upon how many hours your generator has run. We recommend that you plan on having a comprehensive service plan that is administered by professionals. Yes, it costs a little extra, but realistically it is part of the peace of mind that having a standby system provides.
At ACF Standby Systems, we offer comprehensive service plans to make sure that your generator is in proper working order when your business needs it. We strive to work with our customers’ needs and budgets. We have some recommended service plans but would be happy to put together a service plan that meets both your budget and the requirements of your specific equipment.
Some of the services we provide include:
- Visually and manually inspecting your generator to ensure that there are no leaks, cracks or shortages of fuel or lubricants.
- Testing important portions of the generator such as the cooling system, block heater, turbo charger and other areas, to ensure that they are in proper working order.
- Verifying that functional parts like belts, hoses and spark plugs are intact and ready to perform.
- Communicating with your staff to make sure that they know what to look for and how to handle basic maintenance issues, so that your generator can stay in working order. We also provide a full report of our inspection, what we did and any recommendations we have for your system every time we come out.
- If you opt for a major inspection, we clean and replace functional parts (spark plugs, oil filters, etc.). We can also take fuel and oil samples to be tested to ensure your system is ready to operate.
A service call is a way to ensure that your generator is ready to back up your business. Our service plans include more than we talked about here, but we just wanted to give you an idea of what we can do for you. Our plans can be tapered to your needs and we will work with you to put together a plan that gives you what your generator needs. Our technicians are certified and experienced, so having us service your equipment means that it will always work.
Your backup generator is a lifeline for your business. It will allow you to keep operating even when weather conditions or mechanical failures threaten to stop you. While a lot of the maintenance should be left to the professionals, there are some things that any facility manger should be aware of. Knowing a little bit about basic generator issues and the testing options that are available will pay off when you need your backup power system to work for you.
Transfer Switch Testing
The transfer switch is the equipment that turns your generator on. Most transfer switches are designed to monitor the traditional power supply (normally your local power utility). When your traditional power supply goes out or drops off significantly, your transfer switch will pass power providing responsibility to your generator. If this switch is not working, you will lose power even with a working generator. This can be a problem because you may not have staff members on hand who know how to manually transfer responsibility over to your generator. Each generator is a little different so make sure that your maintenance provider teaches someone on site how to perform the test. In essence you will be electronically switching power from your utility to your generator. This confirms that your transfer switch is working. This test should be performed monthly. If you have heard that performing this test monthly will put unnecessary strain on your system, do not believe it. Your system is designed for this and it’s better to be safe than sorry.
Load Bank Testing
Load bank testing is an actual test that you will need to have done. Basically, this test requires your generator to start up and perform at full capacity. Most often your generator will not use its entire capacity. A load bank test uses outside equipment that simulates what would happen if your generator had to crank up and perform at its highest level. The test will verify that your generator can operate for a specific amount of time and that it will be able to turn off and on while handling a full load. If your generator is not able to perform to its design standards, you will need to have a professional look at your system. Whether or not your system needs to operate at its highest level is insignificant. If your system is unable this is a sign of trouble.
Unloaded Testing
Unloaded testing means that you test to make sure your generator can work at levels lower than its fullest capacity. This test is performed more often because it requires less equipment. It also does not ensure that your generator can handle full capacity. One other issue is that if your generator runs off of diesel, sometimes unspent fuel will end up in the exhaust of the generator. Your generator’s engine cannot work effectively without exhaust (think about the old banana in the tail pipe joke for car). This is called wet stacking and can hurt your equipment. Consequently, a load bank test generally works your generator hard enough to remove any unspent fuel left from unloaded testing. While this form of test will give you piece of mind that your generator can crank up, we do not recommend that yu make it the only means of testing your equipment.
Testing your backup power system is only one part of generator maintenance. It is an important part because it allows you to identify problems while you still have time to fix them.
If you are interested in learning more about generator maintenance, or need maintenance performed, we can help.
We all know that having a generator can be invaluable when you need it. Power outages can stop the course of your business and even cost you money. The problem for many people seems not to be deciding to get a generator, but rather deciding which one to purchase. It is easy to get bogged down by ratings and load specifications. Unless you are an electrician or in the generator business, it isn’t likely that you know what your specific needs are. These tips will clear up some of your questions.
Which type of generator do I buy?
The first decision requires evaluating your electrical needs and deciding on an overall type of generator.
- Portable- Portable generators fulfill a more temporary need. They are looked at this way because they are not hard wired into a buildings power supply. They are good because you can move them around from location to location providing you with flexibility. You can purchase units with a variety of capacities and fuel supplies. Generally they are smaller capacity and will not be able to say, power an entire office building. They will however be capable of maintaining vital auxiliary systems such as computer servers. They are also useful because they can be moved from location to location, serving you at multiple places of business.
- Standby- Standby generators are usually larger than portable ones in capacity and size. They are wired directly into the electrical mainframe of buildings. In the event that the usual utility provider cannot supply electricity, a standby generator will be able to keep the building going. (assuming a generator with enough capacity has been purchased) Standby generators can even be programmed so that they turn on when they sense that your utility provider is down. This seemles transition can be vital during a power outage.
How much generator do I need?
Next you must determine how much power you will need your generator to supply. A generator expert is a good resource here. A trained generator expert will be able to estimate the capacity needs for the building that you want to power. (We would be glad to help) Powering an entire building will require a larger capacity than powering certain equipment, such as your main computer server and lights for example. Tell your expert what your needs are and he can tell you how much capacity your generator should have. The generator expert will evaluate the equipment that you want powered, measure the wattage requirements to both start and run the equipment, and finally give you a figure. This figure dictates the minimum wattage requirements that your generator will need to have.
What fuel type should I choose?
Many fuel sources are available and you can choose a generator that runs off of the one that suits your needs best. If your building is already equipped with natural gas lines, then purchasing a standby generator that operates off of natural gas will be the “natural” choice. If you do business in a variety of locations, you may prefer a portable generator that runs off of gasoline as you should be able to acquire fuel wherever your business takes you.
Common generator fuel sources
· Gasoline
· Diesel
· Natural Gas
· Wind turbine
· Propane
Purchasing a generator should be a calculated decision. You need a generator that has the capacity to serve you along with the physical capability and resource fitting fuel supply. The advice of an expert can be crucial to ensuring that you spend your money wisely.
Having a generator on hand gives you piece of mind. Whether the generator is there to power your home or business in the event of an emergency, it is always a good idea to ensure that your equipment will be ready in the event that you need it. Generators most often come into play at crucial times when power is needed but not available from your traditional utility provider. Eventually, like all equipment, generators will need to be replaced. Repair and maintenance can only go so far and at some point it will be necessary to acquire a new generator. Here are some factors to consider about your current generator to help decide whether you should be in the market for repair or a new generator all together.
· Age and Usage- Every generator is different in output capacity, fuel requirements and life span; however there are some rules of thumb. Diesel powered generators tend to have the longest life span. It is estimated that a diesel powered generator can operate between 12,000 and 30,000 hours before any initial maintenance needs to be performed. In comparison most gasoline powered versions will need first maintenance after 6,000 to10,000 hours of use. This alone tells us that a gasoline powered unit will need to be replaced sooner than a diesel unit. While some large industrial unites can last for decades, the smaller household units will not. This is an important factor to consider when purchasing a generator. Generally speaking, the older your generator and the more it is used, the sooner you should be looking for a new one.
· Maintenance- Like all equipment, generators will need maintenance to continue working properly. One of the biggest signs that it is time to find a new generator is increased maintenance. If you find yourself having to fix, or have someone else fix, your generator more and more often, it is probably time to consider a new unit. The costs associated with regular repairs and the risk of not having a working unit when you need it will ultimately outweigh the price of new equipment. Older units that require a lot of maintenance are often less efficient and cannot provide the same amount of power as they once could.
· Increased Capacity Needs- Maybe you recently moved your business to a larger facility with higher kilowatt needs. Perhaps your business just put in a new computer network that requires more juice to run correctly. As time passes and we acquire new electrically powered equipment, our kilowatt needs may increase. If you do not acquire a new generator that is capable of powering your new equipment, you will be at a loss when the power goes out. Remember a generator is a necessary piece of equipment, just like the other new purchases you might have made. Make sure that your generator is capable of doing its job when you need it.
· Budget- Like many pieces of equipment, generators can require that you commit a significant amount of money when purchasing. If you are seeing signs that you will need a new generator in the future, and have the money in your budget now, it may be a good time to make the investment. Better now when the money is there than later when money is tight but you need a new unit.
Generators are tools that we often need in desperate times. Storms or power outages will happen and you will need power regardless of their presence. While we are happy to provide full maintenance packages to keep your equipment in working order, sometimes you will need a new generator. It is a decision that requires planning but one we recommend you make when needed.
We are a currently two months into the official hurricane season. From the beginning of June to the end of November, it is not only advisable but necessary to be ready for a hurricane. During and especially after a storm has passed over, there is a good chance that you and your business may be left without electricity.
A lack of electricity can cause multiple problems. Consider these potential benefits that you can experience in the event that you are left without power after a storm if you are prepared.
· Increased Revenue- If you provide products or services that people will need after a storm, it will be increasingly difficult to operate without power. Obviously, if you cannot do business you will lose revenues. A working generator can provide you an influx of cash to pay for your own post storm repairs.
· Social Responsibility- Your customers depend on you in good times and bad. If you are able to do business during a blackout or after a storm you will there for your customers and they will remember that. This will help down the road as it has the ability to create positive sentiment.
· Decreased Damage to Your Facility- Without power you will be less able to address damage inside your actual facility. This can lead to structural damage and loss of equipment and files. With a working generator you can carry on operations as soon as possible.
In order to avoid these and other issues you should take some time to prepare your generator. If you have not done it yet, take the time to follow these tips to stave off unnecessary hurricane damage
· Make sure that your generator is a deliberate part of your emergency plan. Does it have the capacity to meet your needs. Perhaps you bought the generator several years ago and have purchased more or larger equipment since. Ensure that your generator has the wattage capacity needed to operate your equipment/facility. Be sure to clear your equipment with your local electricity supplier to ensure you meet code. For a new or additional generator we suggest you consider one of these.
· Properly store your generator. Is a mounted generator in a location that is above potential flood levels or your portable generator stored in area that will not be underwater? If not, relocate it immediately. Also, be sure that your generator is in a location that can accommodate the potential exhaust. This will keep your air breathable while you work after a storm.
· Check to make sure your generator works. Start the generator to make sure that it will be ready when you need it.
· Have the generator inspected by a professional. Even if you generator starts you may want to consider service. Carburetor and other common problems can be avoided with timely checkups by certified service technicians.
· Be fuel ready. Regardless of which type of fuel powers your generator in times of need, have extra on hand. Being prepared will pay dividends when the lights go out. Also, you may need to remove old fuel that has been stagnant in the tank of your generator. Certain types of fuel need to be replaced if left in the generator for an extended period of time.
Your generator may be just one part of your hurricane preparation, but remember how important electricity will be after a storm. Electricity will power televisions and radios that will deliver news, refrigerators that will store food and even air conditioning which may be one of the few creature comforts available directly after a storm. More importantly, it will be impossible to get computer servers and alarm systems back online or to get employees back into a functioning office without electricity.
So you’ve stocked up on canned goods, dug out the flashlights, and stockpiled bottled water in the garage. Yes, hurricane season is here, and you’ve prepared your home for storms. But most of us overlook our health in our hurricane preparations. In a few simple steps, it’s easy to protect the health of your family during a hurricane.
Stock the Pantry Right
Many prepackaged foods are high in fat or sodium, and it can be tempting to pick up items like cookies and chips for the hurricane food supply. But these foods have little nutritional value and can leave you feeling tired—and don’t help your body get the vitamins and nutrients it needs. Instead, use the following tips to make your hurricane-friendly grocery list:
- Look for items that contain protein, such as canned chicken or tuna. Beans are also a great source of protein. Go for the “lower sodium” options whenever possible.
- Try to go for foods that your family already eats, rather than buying whatever canned goods happen to be on sale.
- Whenever possible, opt for whole wheat items. Bread can make an easy snack, and wheat bread has much more nutritional value.
- Canned fruit in light syrup is a great option for satisfying a sweet tooth.
Get Medical Supplies Ready
Even people in perfect health should think about potential medical needs during severe weather. Most stores won’t be open for buying last-minute supplies, and hospitals are set up to handle patients who have the most serious medical needs during a storm.
- Check your first aid kit, and put together an extra for the car. Be sure that it has plenty of bandages, antiseptic wipes, over-the-counter pain medication, and other basics.
- If you’re diabetic, stock up on all the supplies you’ll need. Note that insulin doesn’t have to stay refrigerated, but it’s important to check for clumps and keep it from getting too hot. Talk to your doctor about the best way to prepare for a hurricane.
- Get an extra supply of any prescription medications, along with a copy of the prescription.
- If you have special medical needs and may need to evacuate your home during a storm, make shelter arrangements early. Residents of Pasco County can find evacuation and shelter information here. Hernando County residents can find information here.
- Obtain an ICE card for each member of the family. These cards assist medical personnel in making the best decisions about medical care—and can help in notifying family members of a medical emergency.
- Designate an out-of-state family member as a contact person. That way if family members are separated, there is still a common point of contact who will be unaffected by the storm.
For more information about protecting your health during a hurricane, please contact us at Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point. Call Consult-a-Nurse® at 727-869-5498 for answers to your questions or information on getting your free ICE card.
Companies rely on their generators for consistent and reliable performance during emergencies. Yet improper maintenance, operation, and even storage can impact a generator’s performance. Learning how to identify potential generator problems extends the life of your generator and ensures that it will operate optimally. These seven problems frequently cause generator maintenance challenges:
- Water damage: Although one might assume that this problem strikes only generators stored outside, it can affect those stored indoors as well. Water on the outside of the generator can cause rust to form, corroding wires and impeding electrical connections. Meanwhile if water gets on the inside of the generator engine, it can corrode parts and provide breeding grounds for bacteria, which can clog filters. Prevent water damage by using the generator in a dry place free of condensation and other moisture sources.
- Poor fuel quality: Generators that run on gasoline or diesel may begin to run rough or produce extra smoke due to poor fuel quality. Water in the fuel can cause the damage described above, while sediment in the fuel can wear down parts prematurely and cause clogs in the fuel filter and fuel injection system. Be sure to always use the manufacturer specified fuel quality, and buy fuel from a reliable source.
- Corroded connections: The wires and battery nodes can get corroded over time, causing a weak connection between the battery and generator engine. That breakdown can lead to difficulty starting the generator. Inspect wires and battery before each use. Look for rust, hardened casing, or any other substance that could hinder an electrical connection. Clean the battery nodes if necessary, and replace any faulty or damaged wires.
- Overheating: Generators are not designed to run at full capacity all the time. Generally they should run at 60 to 75% of their capacity. Brief dips below are okay, so long as the generator then runs at full capacity for a short time afterward. However, operating the generator at its maximum volume can cause it to overheat and shut down, similar to what happens when a car engine overheats. Check with a generator expert about the electrical load on your generator, to make sure it falls within the manufacturer’s specifications.
- Failure to start: When a generator won’t start, it’s usually because of a clog in the system or low fuel levels. Check both the oil and fuel before starting the generator, and carefully follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule to prevent clogs and damage. If a generator won’t start after a few tries, and there’s plenty of oil and fuel, it’s time to call a qualified generator service provider.
- Excessive smoke: Multiples problems can cause smoke, from dirty fuel injectors to water in the system. Usually this symptom goes along with a rough engine running. Sometimes using better fuel can solve the problem, but if it persists, consult a technician for repair.
- Inconsistent electrical supply: If the generator cuts on and off, or fails to provide a steady output, check the electrical connections first. If these are all operational, the problem could be that the engine is misfiring or has insufficient pressure for combustion. Call a generator repair technician as soon as possible.