A generator is a completed machine, designed to generate AC electricity. Generators are often used by companies for getting power to job sites where power may not be available and for homeowners to provide backup electricity in case of an extended power outage. Generators come in a variety of different designs & sizes. Picking the right one is an important step towards ensuring that your electrical needs are met if the power goes out.
Step 1 — Know what’s the power you need
Generators are usually chosen based on their maximum and rated power. One must calculate what the total load will be in order to effectively choose the proper generator. Some appliances and equipments require a higher starting wattage and then it tapers. Rule of thumb is to take the running wattage and multiply by 3 unless the appliance or equipment is under a constant load such as light bulbs.
Step 2 — Determine the right model for you
a). If you are a homeowner, typically standby generators produce wattages starting from 7,000 watts, usually referred to as 7 kilowatts or 7kW. Although sufficient power capacity varies, most middle class homes will need at least 7kW. This would allow you to power a few lights and small appliances. If you want to include large appliances such as dryers, washers and air conditioners, then 15kW would be more appropriate. For power capacities in this range, any of the generator brands above offer excellent-quality choices. Using search strings like “standby generators”, “Home standby generators”, “portable generator” and “backup generators” will produce a large number of vendors. Also, you can send your inquiry to [email protected]. Please note – an used generator generally DOES NOT come with a warranty. It is usually worth buying a new generator with a full warranty.
b). If you are a company owner, you will usually buy 20kw-2000kw diesel generator set or gas driven generator set. Well-established brands include Cummins, Perkins, Deutz, Volvo, MTU & Daewoo etc. The most popular diesel generator sets imported from China is Cummins series coupled with original Stamford alternator. Another configuration is that Perkins diesel engine plus Stamford, Marathon, Leroy Somer famous brand alternator. Of course, if your budget is not enough, there are still Many Chinese brands diesel generator sets available for your choice. Chinese brands mainly include Shangchai, Weichai, Quanchai, Changchai, Yuchai, Jichai, Yangdong and Changqing etc.
Step 3 –Install your generator.
Installing a generator set requires specialized knowledge of plumbing and wiring. Contact a qualified professional such as your local dealer, electrician or plumber for assistance with installation. Make sure that a certified, insured installer installs your generator – an incorrect installation voids most generator warranties.
Step 4 –Maintain your generator.
After you spend a few thousand dollars on the generator you’ll want to take whatever reasonable steps you need to in order to ensure it runs properly. If you don’t, it can cause thousands of dollars in damage to your appliances. If the power goes out and your improperly maintained standby generator activates, it may not be able to provide the electricity needed to power your appliances. This in turn will cause the appliance to draw more power to make up for the shortfall. In response to this, the generator will work harder in an attempt to increase power capacity. The increased work load will place additional stress on the generator unit and cause it to burn out, potentially damaging any appliance it is connected to. The second problem that arises from improper maintenance is that of warranty coverage. Manufacturers of generator sets will not honor the warranty on a unit that has not been properly maintained. In light of these two facts, it just makes sense to keep your generator properly maintained. These contracts generally cost some money annually, and many installers offer service agreements as well.