Testing backup power supply systems is often discussed for generator tests. Testing them involves more than generator tests. According to National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) code 110, at least five elements in backup generator systems must be tested, inspected, and/or exercised at varying intervals: emergency power supply system (EPSS) components, lead-acid batteries, automatic transfer switches, generator fuel, and breakers.
EPSS Components
EPSS components should be inspected weekly and tested under available load monthly (NFPA 110 Sec. 8.4.1) and tri-annually (NFPA 8.4.9). Weekly inspections address loose connections, corroded parts, dirt accumulation, and other problems that develop over time. Monthly backup power testing ensures a generator operates at a minimum of thirty percent of its nameplate kilowatt rating for thirty minutes. Tri-annual testing - the length of which is determined by a generator's class - has the same test condition.
Lead-acid Batteries
Lead-acid batteries should be inspected on a monthly basis (NFPA 110 Sec. 8.4.1). Battery failure is a common cause of generator failure, and loose connections or sulfate buildup on battery plates is often the culprit.
Automatic Transfer Switches
An automatic transfer switch should be operated monthly, which can be done during monthly generator testing. The automatic transfer switch is the most critical EPSS component; if it malfunctions, a building cannot connect to the generator power supply. Fixing a transfer switch during a power outage could prove difficult.
Generator Fuel
The quality of a generator's fuel should be tested annually (NFPA Sec. 8.3.8). Over time, diesel fuel becomes contaminated and degraded, and can clog the fuel filter. The fuel filter should be changed semiannually when oil changes are performed.
Breakers
Breakers for Level 1 generators should be exercised semiannually (NFPA Sec 8.4.7), and medium voltage circuit breakers should be exercised and tested semiannually and biannually, respectively (NFPA Sec. 8.4.7.1). A Level 1 generator could cause loss of life or a serious injury if it failed.
Conclusion
Ensuring that an EPSS is continuously ready for a power outage is not a small task. It requires tests, inspections, and periods of exercise on a weekly, monthly, annual, semiannual, biannual, and tri-annual basis. Consequently, many facilities outsource EPSS needs to an emergency power solutions provider that specializes in backup power testing and maintenance. At Prime Power, we specialize in these disciplines, and more.
For over twenty-five years, Prime Power has offered emergency power testing to Carolina and Georgia facilities that have commercial or industrial power systems. We also offer scheduled maintenance, modernization and retrofits, healthcare utility management, infrared scanning, arc flash analysis and training, and generator rentals. Letting us handle your EPSS needs is far cheaper than buying your own testing and scanning equipment, and hiring technicians to operate it.
At some facilities, EPSS testing and maintenance is approached casually, until a generator failure causes major problems. Whether you operate a retail business, an industrial facility, an office building, or a hospital, if your EPSS needs maintenance, testing, or other measures, call Prime Power today. Otherwise, the next power outage could find you unprepared.
