Emergency Electrical Power: Is Your System Ready for Operation?

Emergency generators serve as a lifeline for essential backup systems and processes within a building. They are designed to act as a secondary electrical source to alarm systems, lighting, computer systems, and specific factory equipment. Power is essential for your building to continue operating under the most extreme circumstances. Emergency electrical power is required legally for commercial buildings as a safety precaution. Local jurisdictions determine whether or not these items are required and you may choose to gain this additional protection even if it is not a necessity. Requirements are also based upon how these systems will be used within your facility.

Emergency systems have a specific setup involving various electrical components. The main utility supply will feed into your building through a service disconnect designed to direct current to an installed distribution panel. Normal loads are dispersed to all necessary devices throughout your building. When service is disconnected, power automatically switches to the generator by means of a transfer switch. This switch triggers a battery to start the generator, allowing electricity to be directed through an emergency panel and connected circuits. The overall design of your electrical supply will vary based upon the setup of your facility, generator characteristics, and a multitude of additional installation aspects.

Emergency Power Equipment Testing Prevents Dangerous Malfunctions

Backup units power exit lighting, alarms, fire detection items, elevators, communication systems, and certain industrial processes. They are not meant to maintain all normal facility operations but instead only the essentials needed when human lives are at stake. Industrial operations may not be regarded as one of these items, but they sometimes pose additional risks when current is interrupted. Emergency power equipment testing is used by professional servicing companies to detect malfunctions throughout a secondary electrical setup. The components used to accomplish backup power may malfunction at the worst time. A malfunction is unacceptable when you are trying to make certain essential systems are available for the safety of individuals. Routine maintenance, testing, and general servicing can greatly reduce the risk of failure when your building's backup source really counts.

Emergency power equipment testing can verify that your system is capable of handling the necessary load, will function appropriately, and prevents any complications caused by idle usage. Irregular usage prevents many parts from getting the movement needed to remain in good working order. Operation with an undersized load causes carbon buildup in diesel fueled generators. This dangerous buildup may be alleviated through regular load bank testing. Breakers must be dependable so current may be interrupted if a problem arises. Battery cells need to be charged in order for the system to start appropriately. A defective transfer switch will fail to detect loss of power meaning the battery will never be triggered to begin electrical generation. All components work together closely to make your secondary unit a dependable source during emergencies. Prime Power is a leading generator services provider dedicated to thorough maintenance and testing of emergency electrical power sources. Our technicians have vast experience with varying sizes and types of generators. Call us today to learn how we can improve the reliability of your system through routine checks.