Standby Power Systems: Fundamentals of Professional Servicing

Standby power allows your building to receive necessary electrical current during an outage. Backup generator systems may be needed to keep lights, computers, or large equipment running when a short term failure occurs. Standby power systems are detailed machines that require necessary maintenance to work as designed. Generators are designed to provide a specific load when the main power source is not available. The size of your generator and fuel type determine the amount of electricity supplied.

Outages can greatly hinder business processes if a sufficient backup process is not in place. Installation should be in a location where weather factors have a minimal impact on the equipment. You must also have a fuel supply available if refueling must occur while in operation. Hurricanes, earthquakes, regional blackouts, and mechanical complications can all affect your main power supply. These outages may only last seconds or could be present for hours. By keeping your system well maintained, you are better prepared for unexpected outages.

Breaker Testing: Why is This Maintenance Necessary?

You cannot predict each outage or plan for an infrastructure collapse typically seen during major catastrophes caused by large weather events, such as a hurricane. Maintenance allows you to be as prepared as possible for these situations. Recommended care reduces the risk of system failure and keeps the backup source running efficiently. Location installment is one factor to evaluate prior to setup. When these systems can be placed on a platform or on rooftops, they are more likely to be efficient in areas prone to flooding. Professional generator services can make recommendations based on your area and needs.

An analysis of all major components should be performed each month. Failure of the automatic transfer switch, carbon buildup, and circuit problems are common reasons for malfunction. High voltage breakers hold far more current than ones you might find in the home, making breaker testing of these more challenging. Breakers interrupt the supplied current before it can harm the electrical system. They may be in one centralized location or spread out through the transmission scheme of the power supply system. Problems typically arise from operating mechanism or component failures. Breaker testing and maintenance ensures these necessary components will operate at the time of need.

Non-invasive testing is the most desirable way to examine components. Equipment is used to measure the current values; then compare those values to the manufacture specifications. Multiple tests may be run to perform a factory comparison. These results can be evaluated against previous testing values. Monthly servicing provides a record for experts to review as a service for your standby power systems.

Corrective, preventative, and periodic maintenance are all common implementations. A technician performs corrective maintenance when something destructive occurs. Preventative processes may be performed in conjunction with usage. Monthly testing is considered to be periodic maintenance. Prime Power technicians can help determine the type and frequency of servicing needed for reliability. We are glad to assist in creating a sound maintenance schedule for your system. Visit us online to learn more about the many generator services we can supply.