Considerations When Buying a Power Generator

When a power outage happens, it leaves your business vulnerable. You rely on a consistent flow of power to keep your company running each and every day. When that power source is disrupted, your lighting and security systems will shut down, putting your facility at great risk. You’ll also lose valuable production time until the power is restored, which can take hours or, in some cases, days. 

Why Have a Backup Power Generator?

Severe weather conditions, car accidents, and utility equipment failure can cause a blackout at any time without warning. One of the best things that you can do to protect your business is to invest in a generator power system.

If this is the first time that you have considered a generator, you’ll notice that there are many makes and models available on generators for power outages - closed store sign in window - california the market today. At Valley Power Systems, we are proud to offer a wide array of state-of-the-art power systems from trusted manufacturers such as Atlas Copco, Blue Star, and Waukesha. 

Types of Generators Available

When buying a new generator to avoid power outages, you first need to decide what type of fuel you want your power system to use. Many business owners select diesel or natural gas generators because they hold up well to industrial use. 

Diesel Generators: The Benefits

  • Low Maintenance – These engines don’t have as many components to care for, so you’re repairing or replacing fewer parts over time. 
  • Fuel Economy – Diesel delivers more usable energy per gallon than similar gasoline engines, making it more efficient to operate.
  • Extreme Durability – Diesel generators are built tough to withstand a variety of environmental conditions, so you’ll have less wear and tear on the system. 

Natural Gas Generators: The Benefits

  • Steady Fuel Supply – Natural gas is delivered via your existing pipeline, meaning you’ll have a readily available supply of fuel when you need it most.
  • Environmentally friendly – Natural gas is a cleaner form of energy than other fossil fuels. It produces less pollution, so you’ll leave behind a smaller carbon footprint.
  • Cost Effective – While pricing varies with the market, the cost of natural gas is generally less expensive than other types of fuels, which will save you money in the long run.

Do you need help choosing the right fuel source? The knowledgeable team from Valley Power Systems can help you explore the different options that we have available for diesel and natural gas power systems. 

Price and Size Considerations

Larger Generator: Larger Expense

The cost of a new industrial generator varies widely, ranging from a few thousand to tens of thousands of dollars. Typically, a larger generator will come with a higher price tag than a smaller unit. This might lead you to buy a smaller model at first, but you should be careful.

Get a Generator that can keep with your Power Requirements

Your new generator should be able to keep up with your power requirements in the event of a power outage. If your requirements exceed the generator’s capacity, it will quickly wear down. It could even overheat and potentially result in irreparable damage to the power system, and you’ll find yourself needing to purchase another genset.

At Valley Power Systems, we are experts in sizing generators for industrial and commercial facilities in California. Let one of our friendly technicians guide you to a power system that will pay off with years of reliable service. 

Maintaining Your Generator Reduces Long-term Cost

With every new generator, you need to consider preventative maintenance if you want to maximize your investment. After all, a generator that doesn’t receive regular service will break down much faster than one that has been well-maintained over the years.

Our team specializes in generator maintenance and repair. We know where to look to find hidden problems, so you can have them addressed before they have the opportunity to progress. This can save you thousands of dollars in repair costs down the line. From oil and filter changes to complete engine overhauls, you can rely on our factory-trained technicians to handle all of your generator repair needs in a prompt and professional manner. 

Safety Considerations

With backup generators, you need to maintain safety at all times. Keep these following tips in mind before operating your power system.

Install carbon monoxide (CO) detectors

Generators emit carbon dioxide, which is a colorless, odorless– and deadly–gas that can be difficult to notice on your own. If your system leaks carbon monoxide, the detectors will automatically sense when there’s a dangerous level of CO in the air so that you can take quick action. 

Avoid moisture exposure

Excess moisture can damage the electrical components of your power system. Installing a generator canopy can ensure that it’s protected against rain and other poor weather conditions. When wiping down the exterior, you should also avoid spraying water directly on the unit. 

Refuel safely

If using diesel fuel, you will want to make sure that the unit is completely cooled down before refilling the tank. If the fuel were to spill on a hot engine, it could ignite and result in harmful burns. Also, remember not to overfill as fuel will expand as the engine heats up. Stay within the recommended levels. 

Utilize hearing protection

Generators are naturally loud in their operation. Anyone working nearby should be wearing hearing protection equipment. You may also consider installing a sound-reducing enclosure around the unit for maximum protection. 

Read the instruction manual

The manufacturer will also have safety instructions that are specific to your generator’s make and model. Be sure to review them before utilizing the power system at your facility. 

Contact Valley Power Systems: a Generator Distributor & Technician Service

At Valley Power Systems, our goal is to match you with a power system that you can depend on for many years to come. Whether you have just established your business or you just need a generator upgrade, our knowledgeable staff is here to help each step of the way.

Serving all of California, we provide generator sales, installation, repair, and maintenance services you can count on.  Contact us today to discuss your generator needs with our team. 


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