Despite its infrequent use, a backup generator (a.k.a. genset) requires regular servicing. Consisting of testing and maintenance, this servicing prepares it to supply power during a power outage. In the Georgia area, Prime Power is the leading generator services provider for commercial and industrial power users. If your facility's genset has been tested infrequently, now is the time to find out if it is ready for a power outage by letting us test it according to National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) guidelines. Below are the NFPA 110 requirements for level 1 and level 2 generator testing:
Monthly Testing (NFPA 110 8.4.2)
A generator must undergo a thirty-minute test each month. To pass the test, the generator must meet one of the following conditions:
• Achieve the minimum exhaust gas temperature according to the manufacturer's recommendations
• Operate at a minimum of thirty percent of the nameplate kilowatt rating for the duration of the test
If the generator cannot operate at a minimum of thirty minutes, the test can be stopped once the water temperature and oil pressure stabilize.
If the genset fails to pass the monthly test, it must be tested annually using a loadbank. Prime Power can transport a loadbank to your facility to perform annual testing.
Annual Testing (NFPA 110 8.4.3)
A genset that fails the monthly test must be operated for two continuous hours using a load bank. The two-hour test should be conducted as follows:
• 30 minutes at 25 percent of the nameplate kilowatt rating
• 30 minutes at 50 percent of the nameplate kilowatt rating
• 60 minutes at 75 percent of the nameplate kilowatt rating
Also known as a "load run," this test can improve the generator's efficiency and eliminate wet stacking"”a condition where unburned fuel enters a generator's exhaust side, decreasing its efficiency and causing parts to wear prematurely.
Triennial Testing (JCHO EC.7.40)
Healthcare organizations that are accredited by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO) must submit their generators to a triennial, four-hour test. Throughout the test, the genset must operate at a minimum of thirty percent of its kilowatt nameplate rating. An annual generator test can be combined with a triennial test.
Call Prime Power for Generator Testing
Prime Power has over twenty-five years of experience testing level 1 and level 2 generators in a variety of facilities, including hospitals. We also provide a consummate line of emergency power supply system (EPSS) services for commercial and industrial power users, including:
• Infrared scanning
• Scheduled maintenance
• Modernization and retrofits
• Breaker testing
• Automatic transfer switch installation and maintenance
• Healthcare utility management
• Arc flash analysis and training
• Generator rentals
Generator testing is an important aspect of maintaining an EPSS, one that can determine whether the EPSS succeeds or fails when it is needed most. If you need generator testing in Georgia, do not wait for a generator failure to catch you off guard. Call Prime Power today for a free consultation on generator testing.
