When buying a standby generator, you have to consider some important factors as a new in the field of electrical equipment. What questions or factors should you consider? See the following answers.
1. What kind of fuel will your standby generator use?
Whole house generators can run on natural gas, propane or
diesel. While natural gas is one of the best fuel sources, you should
not discount a propane or diesel-powered generator. It all depends on your
needs and whether natural gas is supplied to your home. If natural gas is
present, confirm the pressure is compatible with the generator
requirements. Some standby generators require more pressure and this means your
utility company installing a larger gas meter for your home.
Alternatively, you can choose liquid propane gas as the
generator fuel source. You can store the fuel in a large tank and use
it when needed, with no worries of liquid propane gas spoiling. The tank
does not have to disrupt the curb appeal of your home, as you can place it
underground to keep it out of sight.
Lastly, there are diesel generators, which are quite
durable. Most diesel generators have an internal fuel tank, or an
option to purchase a sub-base fuel tank (a tank that sits under the
diesel generator). Diesel fuel can spoil, so some extra maintenance is
required by adding a fuel treatment to diesel at least once each year.
2. What size generator is the best for your needs? The size of a whole house generator is dependent
on the number of electrical appliances you want to power and the size of your
home. It is best to get a professional to advise you on the size. If you buy
one that is too small, you will not be able to run your HVAC and all appliances
and gadgets.
3. Where will the generator be located? The generator set should be located where
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. If outdoors, which enclosure type? A follow-up question: Is there a local noise ordinance? Some areas
require the sound level of the standby system to be within a specific decibel
rating at the nearest property line. If a specific sound requirement exists,
the target sound level will determine the type of generator enclosure. Many
residential or light commercial generators come standard with a sound
attenuated enclosure while industrial grade generators may offer several
enclosure types ranging from a standard weather enclosure to a custom package
to meet strict requirements.
5. 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
electrician can provide this information.
6. Which type of transfer switch? Transfer switches for emergency standby
systems are usually the automatically controlled type. Manual transfer switches
can be supplied for certain systems if preferred, although this lack of
automation usually doesn’t come with much of a cost savings. The size of the
transfer switch (amperage rating) and installation location should be
determined by your electrician and may depend on the earlier question of
“entire building or just emergency loads?” If the system is sized to carry the
whole building, the transfer switch may need to be service entrance rated which
incorporates a utility disconnect within the transfer switch cabinet. For
commercial/industrial applications, several other transfer switch features are
available such as bypass isolation, closed transition, and programmed
transition.
7. Any specific accessory requirements? Accessory options
will vary depending on the generator type. Residential or light commercial
systems typically offer an optional remote annunciator panel which provides
generator status and can be located in a preferred area indoors. Cold weather
kits and remote monitoring are also available for many residential/commercial
systems. For industrial systems, the number of available options is much
greater, including an expanded list of communication options, enclosure
lighting, alternator strip heaters, load centers, etc.
Comments
Post a Comment