Is It Time to Upgrade Your Generator?
Is It Time to Upgrade Your Generator?
An industrial generator is a great investment in your business, but even the best models won’t last forever. However, with proper maintenance and prompt repair work, your generator can provide many years of service before you will need to upgrade your generator.
If you are weighing repairs over a generator replacement, look at these five signs that indicate you should upgrade to a new and improved power system.
1. Repairs Are Becoming More Expensive
As your generator ages and requires more repairs, these costs can really begin to add up. Some repairs, like replacing a hose or fitting, are relatively inexpensive. However, other issues, like cracked heads, broken pistons, or engine failure, can be costly to repair. Additionally, it may be harder—and more expensive—to locate outdated generator parts. You might find it more beneficial to replace the system altogether than frequently repairing an older generator.
2. The Unit Isn’t Big Enough
When you first purchased your generator, perhaps you didn’t consider how much power you would need later down the line. Many people buy a small generator and later find that it doesn’t have a large enough capacity to handle their entire power load requirements. At Valley Power Systems, we understand that purchasing a new, bigger generator is an investment in the future of your company. With this in mind, we will help you select a unit that provides the power you need now with room to grow your business.
3. It’s Using More Fuel
Like any mechanical equipment, generators tend to lose some of their efficiency over time. This can result in higher fuel costs as the system begins to wear down. A deteriorating generator won’t perform as effectively, causing it to become less efficient and use more fuel to operate. If you have maintained your generator well but still find yourself refilling the generator’s fuel tank more often than usual, it is probably time to look into an upgrade.
4. The Generator Performs Inconsistently
During an outage, it’s essential to have a power system that you can depend on. Even a couple of hours in lost production can cost your business a lot of money. Imagine if you were without power for days, even weeks! You need a generator that you can trust to operate consistently. The generator should provide smooth, steady power to your electrical systems. If you notice irregularities in its performance, such as slow startup or power cutting in and out, these could indicate that the genset is beginning to wear out, and you should have it looked at by a professional technician.
5. The Generator Is Over 10 Years Old
While many systems are designed to last longer than a decade, you might notice some signs of wear and tear at this point. The older the generator is, the more likely it will need repairs to maintain its normal operation. If your generator has reached the end of its expected lifespan, consider a replacement to ensure you have the reliable power source that you need in an emergency situation. Modern generators will also have newer technology that provides increased efficiency and better overall performance.
Factors to Consider in a New Generator Purchase
If you have decided to look into your generator options, the good news is that there’s a wide variety of brands, models, and sizes available on the market today. Selecting the right one will depend on your power requirements, individual preferences, and budget. Here are some factors to keep in mind for your generator purchase:
Size
Most business owners will need a high-capacity, industrial-grade genset. These allow for more power capacity than you would experience with a home generator.
Placement
When selecting your generator, consider where you will be installing it. Generator exhaust can be extremely dangerous, so outdoors is typically recommended for placement. This will allow for plenty of space for the unit to vent. You should make sure the area you select is large enough for the generator you have chosen, and it should be a good distance from any windows, doors, or exterior vents.
Fuel Type
Diesel and natural gas are the most common fuel types for commercial generators. Both fuels offer distinct benefits.
DIESEL
- Long lasting: Diesel generators are known for their durability. With regular maintenance, you can expect a diesel unit to provide many years of service.
- Low maintenance: Diesel engines are typically easier to maintain than gas units. They have a simpler design with fewer moving parts, which equates to fewer repairs over time.
- Safe: Diesel fuel is relatively safe to store since it isn’t nearly as flammable as gas. You should put it in a cool, dry place that’s easily accessible during a power outage.
- Cost-efficient: Diesel generators often cost less than their natural gas counterparts.
NATURAL GAS
- Eco-friendly: Natural gas is a clean fossil fuel, which could be an important consideration if you’re concerned about your carbon footprint.
- Consistent fuel supply: Natural gas is available via the pipeline system already in place, so you won’t have to worry about storing any on-site. Additionally, natural gas fuel prices are usually lower than diesel.
- Quieter operation: These units generally produce less noise than diesel gensets, especially if you install a sound-attenuated enclosure around the generator.
- Odorless: Natural gas doesn’t have the strong smell that diesel fuel generates.
Installation
Installing a generator by yourself can be extremely dangerous, especially if you don’t have the appropriate technical knowledge. At Valley Power Systems, our technicians are highly trained in all aspects of generator installation and service. We will make sure your unit is set up correctly, taking special care to avoid hazards in the workplace.
Contact Valley Power Systems
When it comes time to upgrade your generator, Valley Power Systems has you covered with a wide range of quality products. We partner with the top manufacturers in the industry to offer our clients reliable power solutions. Contact our office today to discuss your equipment needs with our knowledgeable staff!
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