Why Do I Need a Portable Generator?

Why Do I Need a Portable Generator?

 

As a business owner, you might find yourself in need of a portable generator. Even standby generators aren’t 100% reliable, so it’s a good idea to have an alternative power system atlas copco portable generators by valley power systemsready to go. More compact than traditionally installed generators, these mobile units can help you prepare for the unexpected no matter where you might be working. Here are some reasons you should invest in a portable generator:

1. Keep Important Power Systems On

During a power outage, you may not want to use your main generator, especially if it occurs during off-production days or hours. However, you will still need power for your critical business systems, like perimeter lighting, computers, and security cameras.  A portable generator can keep these electrical systems running when your power requirements are much lower. You will also be able to put less stress on the main unit, which will help maximize its expected lifespan.

2. Have Power Access at Remote Sites

When you are working off-site, you may find yourself in need of power in a location that is off the main power grid. A portable, battery-powered system can give you the temporary power that you need to operate your equipment and tools remotely. Portable generators are ideal for use at construction sites, farms, ranches, and other locations where power might be limited.

 3. Gain Peace of Mind

Having a portable generator can give you peace of mind during an emergency situation. If your main generator goes down, you will know that you have another power solution should an outage occur. You won’t have to wait on the electrical company to restore power to your facility, which can take hours, even days, depending on the situation. The portable system will be capable of keeping things running until your electricity returns.

4. Keep Food Fresh

A portable generator can help you keep refrigerators and freezers on to prevent food spoilage. Whether you work in the food and beverage industry or you just have a fridge in the breakroom, you can use a portable generator to provide the power that you need to keep all the food fresh. This is important to ensuring that you and your employees have access to good food should you need to remain at your facility for a prolonged period of time, such as during a severe storm.

5. Protect Your Bottom Line

A power failure often results in lost production hours, which can be costly for your business. Investing in a portable generator can help you minimize any downtime during the outage. When the power goes out, the unit can help you keep operations running smoothly, ultimately protecting your bottom line.

Benefits of Portable Generators

 

If you’re considering purchasing a portable generator, you’ll appreciate the wide range of benefits offered by these kinds of systems. Some of these include:

  • Affordability: A portable unit will be less expensive than buying another full-size model for your facility.
  • Mobile: These compact systems are easy to move around from place to place whenever you need a dependable power source off-grid.
  • Reduce wear: By using the portable generator for your low-power needs, you can reduce wear and tear on your more expensive traditional system.
  • Easy maintenance: You’ll find that portable units are very easy to maintain. Like conventional generators, they also require regular oil and filter changes to ensure optimal performance.
  • Long lifespan: A portable generator can last you for many years if you keep it well-maintained. If you are not familiar with generator maintenance, it’s best to hire a professional to check on the generator regularly.

Portable Generator Safety Tips

At Valley Power Systems, we want to ensure that all of our clients have the information that they need to use their unit safely. Just like with a normal generator, there are certain actions that you will need to take to maintain the safety of anyone who is working around the portable generator.

  • Position Generator Outdoors

Portable generators release carbon monoxide, an odorless, colorless gas that is deadly when consumed in high levels. Therefore, generators should always be placed outside as far away from any doors, windows, or vents as possible. You should also install a carbon monoxide detector that will be able to sense when dangerous levels are present.

  • Avoid Overloading

Your generator will have a specific power capacity that it’s rated for. Exceeding this number can present a number of problems for your unit. It can make the system less efficient, so it will wear down faster. It may also cause power issues for the generator and anything it might be running.

  • Keep It Dry

The generator should be used on a dry surface under a canopy-like structure to prevent exposure to rain. Excess moisture can corrode the generator’s parts and damage the electrical system. You should also never touch the generator with wet hands.

  • Turn Off Before Refueling

A hot generator is extremely dangerous. When it comes time to refill the fuel tank, you should shut the unit off and wait for it to cool completely.

  • Don’t Plug Into a Wall Outlet

Your generator should be connected to the main electrical panel by a qualified electrician or generator specialist. You should never hook it up directly to a wall outlet.

  • Keep It Maintained

Maintaining your generator well will pay off in numerous ways. Not only will it last longer, but it can help you avoid many generator hazards. Your maintenance technician will look for leaks, corroded parts, electrical damage, and other things that can cause generator failure.

Call Valley Power Systems for Your Generator Needs

Regardless of your application need, a portable generator can keep you up and running when the main power grid fails. Valley Power Systems offers a wide range of portable power systems as well as full-size standby generators from the industry’s most trusted manufacturers. Our knowledgeable staff is ready to review your options. Contact us today to learn more!

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