How to select the wrong kind of generator?

So here’s a list of how not to select your generator. The title is fancy, but the article is reasonable. Here goes,

Mistake #1 - Buy the lowest quality generator

Generators provide power when you usual line doesn’t. The reason why it’s important is because work comes to standstill when we don’t have consistent power supply. Low cost generators usually are also low quality generators. Don’t fall in the price trap, its light on the pocket when you buy it. But from a long term perspective, these cheap generators will give you a big hit in the long term.

Mistake #2 - Operate your generator in an enclosed area

Never operate a generator inside your home, basement, garage or any other enclosed area. Since combustion engines create carbon monoxide that can be lethal, good ventilation is critical. Generators need a minimum of 3 to 4 feet of spacing on all sides (including the top). Generators also need an unlimited supply of fresh air for proper cooling during and after operation. Therefore, place your generator outdoors, away from doors and windows.

Mistake #3 - Plug your portable generator directly into the wall outlet

NEVER feed power from your portable generator into a wall outlet. This is called "back feeding" and can cause a very dangerous situation as power back feeds into the main electricity lines and can cause accidents. Also, when power is restored, it can feed directly into your generator, causing severe damage to your portable generator. A manual "transfer switch" is the key to safe operation of your portable generator for standby power.

Mistake #4 - Don't do your research: Buy any generator for any appliance

When buying a generator, you need to consider how you plan to use it. Generators are used to perform a wide variety of tasks, thus there are many models to choose from to suit these needs.

Mistake #5 - Ignore power requirements

"How much power do you need?" is the first question you need to determine in order to select the right generator and transfer switch. For example, a 3000 watt generator can provide adequate power for appliances such as microwave ovens, toaster ovens, lights, refrigerators, freezers, and TVs (as long as they are operated intermittently). Thus, to determine which generator to select, first determine which appliances need to be powered simultaneously and what the starting requirement of each appliance is.

So avoid these common mistakes and ensure that your generators run well. Check out our line of generators onwww.mahindraemall.com

Why Generators Fail to Start

Reliance on an unlimited supply of electric power helps organisations and societies to function smoothly.The availability of this continuous power allows businesses to sustain operations without hiccups. To safeguard facilities from the disastrous consequences of power disruption, many companies are choosing to invest in standby power systems.

It is imperative to for companies to understand how to operate and maintain their power equipment, as a lack of generator maintenance or operation knowledge will undoubtedly result in generator failure at a time when they need it most.

Let's take a look at nine most common reasons generators fail to start, and what you can do to try and prevent these from occurring.

1.   Battery failure

The single most frequent reason for generator issues is related to battery failure. Most battery failure is related to sulphatebuild-up — the accumulation of lead sulphates on the plates of lead-acid batteries. You can avoid this if you replace the batteries regularly. Some experts recommend replacing them every three years. Also, many battery problems are caused by dirty and loose connections.Hence maintenance is critical. Cable connections need to be regularly cleaned and tightened.

2.   Low coolant levels

The most obvious cause for a low coolant level is either an external or internal leak. One must pay close attention to any visible puddles of coolant around the generator. While many generators are equipped with low coolant level alarms, few have a dedicated alarm indicator for low coolant. Commonly, this alarm will be tied in to a high coolant temp shutdown circuit.

3.   Low coolant temp alarms

Low coolant temp alarms are mainly the result of faulty block heaters. Unfortunately block heaters fail periodically. Normal walk-through inspections should include checking the cylinder head (or engine thermostat housing) for temperature and verifying that the engine or block heater hoses are warm.

4.   Oil, fuel, or coolant leaks

Most often, oil leaks are not in fact leaks but the result of “wet stacking” caused by excessive no-load run time. When generators operate considerably below the rated output level, the engine can start to over-fuel or “wet stack” and damage the engine.Cooling system maintenance will help prevent leaks. Replacement of hoses and coolant every three years is recommended.

5.   Controls not in auto

“Not in auto” messages are the direct result of human error. The obvious reason for “not in auto” situations are because the main control switch was left in the off/reset position. This usually occurs after testing or servicing of a generator.

6.   Air in the fuel system

This is a common problem with newer generators that are not run on a regular basis. Closer tolerances within the fuel systems make it more susceptible to air affecting start up.

7.   Ran out of fuel

Mechanical fuel level gauges may not always be accurate. Unlike a vehicle that is moving and using a higher percentage of its tank's capacity, a generator tank has no movement, causing the fuel to become stagnant. Mechanical gauges may also stick in a position until vibrations break them free.

8.   High fuel level alarm

High fuel level alarms are required to prevent the overfilling of a fuel tank. The alarm should activate when the fuel tank reaches between 90% and 95% capacity. This lets the person fuelling the tank know when he or she should stop filling.

9.   Breaker trip

Verify that nobody has accidentally pushed a remote emergency power off switch.

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Choosing the right partner (Generator)

Power cuts are not something you can avoid. You counter it by picking and installing a generator that meets your need. However buying the right generator can be a daunting process. Most technical buys are dependent on the influencer, in most cases that being the seller. A wrong buy would not only would lead you to losing money, but getting stuck with a product that makes you spend more in repair and adjustments. So we thought, this blog should be about a checklist, which you could use to choose the correct generator.

1.     Determine wattage needs

Determine how much power you need for the items you care about. Get a professional, trained electrician to help you arrive at this figure.

2.     Choose the right location

Locate your existing electrical service panel and gas line to target any potential problems before buying a generator. The wiring and the placement should be done keeping in mind the above mentioned elements.

3.     Perform product comparisons

         Compare power outputs, run times, and prices, along with what’s included in                 those prices, such as accessories, warranties, support and installation.

4.     Determine financing options

        Some retail stores/websites offer financing options for generator purchases. Check          www.mahindraemall.com for financing options.

5.     Consider included items

        Check whether the generator comes with warranty or maintenance package.                   Check for ancillaries and accessories like a power cord, oil and wheels.

6.     Consider additional costs

        Check the cost of installation by a qualified professional

7.     Establish your budget

       Generator prices fall across a wide range, so determining how much you’d like to           spend is important.

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Generator Safety Checklist

Electric generators are convenient devices that provide electricity when the power is down due to service maintenance or inclement weather. However, because generators work with electricity, like any electrical appliance, one should use them with caution and take safety precautions to prevent personal injury.

Here’s presenting a generator safety checklist, which will help you minimize your physical risks when operating a generator.

Check Moisture Exposure

Water is a good conductor of electricity. Ensure that the generator is installed & kept in a dry location, preferably supported above ground level or in an area from which water will drain. Place the generator under a canopy or a shed to keep precipitation off the device.

Check for Obstruction

You don’t want to stumble around devices which work as power-houses. Ensure that the path is clear around the generator and that wires are not lying around.

Check Ventilation

Generators consume fuel and hence emit smoke. Generators produce more carbon monoxide than car engines. Carbon monoxide starves the body of oxygen causing nausea and headaches. Place the generator at least 20 feet from the house and never operate a generator indoors.

Electrical Connections

Check that the cords and wires on the generator are not exposed. Use only grounded, three-prong electrical plugs and avoid extension cords. Do not plug a portable generator into a wall socket to try to power your home. This can cause electrical damage. Always hire a licensed electrician to connect a permanent standby generator to your electrical system.

Fuel

Check that the generator is off and cool before attempting to fuel it. Label the generator fuel clearly, and store it in a cool location away from other combustible materials.

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