8 Reasons to Buy a Backup Generator

Are you considering a backup generator for your business? Many companies across California rely on Valley Power Systems for their power needs. We partner with top industry manufacturers like Atlas Copco and Blue Star Power Systems to bring our customers reliable generators from brands they trust.

Here are the top reasons to purchase a backup generator system:

Uninterrupted Power

Even if the power is out for just an hour or two, it costs your business in productivity. When outages extend into several hours or even days, the hit to your bottom line becomes much more serious. A standby generator can ensure you have the continuous power you need for:

• Computers, phones, and network systems
• Interior and exterior lighting
• Essential tools and equipment
• Security systems

Commercial generators are available in a wide range of sizes and options, so it’s important to understand all of your power requirements should the unexpected happen. If you’re unsure, the experienced staff from Valley Power Systems can help you select the right one for your business.

Remote Monitoring

Many modern gensets allow for remote monitoring. This means that you’ll be able to access your generator from anywhere using just a smartphone, tablet, laptop, or personal computer. Remote monitoring enables you to check the status of your generator and set exercise periods to ensure proper function. You’ll also be alerted to potential issues with the unit before they progress into major problems that result in expensive repairs or generator failure.

Operates in Any Weather Condition

Rainstorms, hail, snow, and other severe weather events can shut down the main power grid, often without much (if any) warning. When the power fails, your backup generator will start and run regardless of the weather. You can continue business operations and keep employees comfortable indoors while you wait for the power to be restored.

A Backup Generator Provides Automatic 24/7 Power

A backup generator will be able to detect a loss of electricity and fire up on its own to deliver power to your critical business systems within seconds. When the main power returns, it will even shut itself down. This all happens automatically whether or not you’re in the building, so you won’t have to worry about losing precious production time.

Long-Running Time

Standby generators have powerful engines that typically run off diesel or natural gas. Barring any disruption in the fuel supply, a high-capacity commercial generator can provide the continuous power you need to run your business for days should it become necessary. Natural gas will come directly from the pipeline, so no refueling is required. If you have a diesel-powered generator, it’s a good idea to keep a stock of it on-hand in the case of an emergency. Be sure to store it in an approved container in a clean, cool, and dry place that’s easily accessible. Diesel can be stored for up to 6 to 12 months without any substantial deterioration in fuel quality.

Offers Power Surge Protection

A power surge is most often caused by a loss of electricity. When the power returns, the surge can severely damage important electrical components and even cause an electrical fire. If you have an automatic backup generator, however, it can prevent these hazardous power surges from destroying your equipment, tools, computers, and other electrical devices inside your building. Since the generator can automatically sense when the power fails, it will instantly reroute power to the generator, meaning there won’t be any dangerous spikes in electricity due to the outage.

Peace of Mind

One of the greatest benefits of a standby generator is the peace of mind it will bring you. The generator will be wired into your electrical system so it can provide instant power. You can feel confident that you’ll have the power you need when you need it most, minimizing business downtime and potential financial losses.

Easy Maintenance

Today’s generators are much more reliable than older models. They are equipped with high-powered engines and innovative technology that make them as efficient as possible. Maintaining the generator is relatively easy, especially if you stick to the manufacturer’s recommended schedule. Doing so allows you to detect small issues before they cause extreme damage to the unit. A qualified generator professional can visit on a regular schedule to handle the maintenance tasks while you focus on your business. Specific generator maintenance services might include:

Oil and Filter Change

Oil begins to degrade the moment you pour it into the generator. The longer the same oil sits, the less effective it will be at lubricating the various parts of the engine. This can lead to excess wear, eventually reducing the expected lifespan of your generator. Follow the manufacturer’s guideline for how often you should change your backup generator’s oil. Generally, you should change the oil in your backup generator after a few consecutive uses.

Filters can quickly become clogged with dirt and debris that can damage its engine. We recommend that you check filters at least once a week to determine if they need cleaning. If the filters still appear dirty after cleaning, then it’s best to change them out with fresh filters for the maximum benefit.

 

Coolant and Fuel Check

Your maintenance technician will check the generator’s coolant level as well as the fuel level if it’s a diesel unit. Adequate coolant is essential to keeping your engine’s temperature under control, so it should never fall below the recommended level. By fueling your generator continuously, you ensure that it will power on and run on demand.

 

Belts and Leaks Inspection

Worn belts and leaky hoses can wreak havoc on your generator by decreasing its efficiency increasing wear and tear, which could eventually cause a system failure. Replace any loose, overly worn, or punctured belts or hoses immediately.

Explore Your Generator Options

A commercial-grade standby generator can be a great investment in your business. At Valley Power Systems, we have a knowledgeable staff standing by ready to answer your questions about our power systems. Contact us today or follow us on Facebook and Linkedin for additional updates.