Top Considerations for Your Commercial Generator Replacement

Constructed with durable parts and components, generators are designed to hold up against much wear and tear in a variety of commercial and industrial settings. However, like any piece of electronic equipment, your power system will eventually need to be replaced. A brand-new generator can offer you many benefits, such as newer technology, greater efficiency, and improved reliability and overall performance. To reap these benefits, you’ll need to take several factors into consideration for your generator replacement. Let’s explore these below.

Generator Installation

Your generator is a significant investment in your company, so you want to ensure that the installation is done right the first time. At Valley Power Systems, we recommend working with a professional generator technician for your installation project. A certified technician will be trained in how to properly install the system, and they will have knowledge of the critical electrical systems and safety hazards to avoid. For example, the generator should be placed at least 20 feet from any open doors, windows, or vents to prevent contaminating indoor air. It will also need to be installed on a raised concrete pad to avoid water exposure. Your technician will have knowledge of all of the important considerations that should be made during the generator installation process. You can count on our experienced team at Valley Power Systems to handle your installation with care and precision.

Generator Size

Commercial generator systems come in a wide range of sizes and power capacities. Typically, larger generators will be able to manage a greater power load than smaller models. For commercial business owners, you will want to opt for a genset that will be able to handle your most critical power requirements to keep your company running. If you go with a generator that’s too small and you consistently exceed its capacity, the unit will quickly wear out. You will find yourself needing a new generator much sooner than expected.

However, if you purchase a system that’s too large, your generator will eventually experience what is known as “wet stacking,” which occurs when too much carbon, unburned fuel, moisture, and other particles build up in the exhaust system. If left unaddressed, wet stacking can lead to generator failure and a reduced lifespan for your system.

Carbon Monoxide Alarms

Generator power systems emit a dangerous gas called carbon monoxide (CO), which can be deadly in copious amounts. This gas is impossible to detect on your own because it is odorless, colorless, and tasteless. While many generators today come with a carbon monoxide detector, it is important to have a backup detector installed directly in your facility just in case the generator’s integrated detector happens to fail. Your carbon monoxide alarm will go off whenever it senses unusual levels of carbon monoxide in the air, allowing you plenty of time to get yourself and employees out of the building to safety.

Enhanced Weather Protection

You will also want to protect your new generator with a weatherproof canopy or other enclosure. Excess moisture can lead to generator parts becoming rusted or corroded. Depending on the extent of the damage, you may be looking at needing to replace the generator much sooner than expected. A waterproof enclosure will safeguard your system against the elements, improving generator reliability. There are many kinds of enclosures available for generator systems, and our team at Valley Power Systems can help you choose the right one for your new unit.

Fuel Source

The type of fuel that you will be using with your generator is a top consideration when purchasing a new power system. Most commercial and industrial businesses use diesel and natural gas generators because they can meet large-scale power needs. If you already have a natural gas line in place, it may make the most sense to select this type of generator. You might also appreciate the environmental benefits offered by natural gas, the cleanest burning fossil fuel.As fuel costs increase across the nation, company leaders are also discovering the benefits of hybrid power.

Natural Gas

If you already have a natural gas generator, it might make sense to purchase another one of these systems when you need a replacement. You already have a natural gas line to supply your fuel. You won’t have to worry about running out in the middle of an emergency blackout to gather fuel, which can provide you with great peace of mind in a stressful time. Natural gas also offers other benefits. It is the cleanest burning fossil fuel, making it an environmentally friendly option over diesel. It is also cost-effective and more efficient to use than other kinds of generators, which will help offset the initial higher cost of this type of power system.

Diesel

However, you may be considering purchasing a diesel generator for your business. These are more budget friendly than their gas counterparts, and the systems are extremely durable. You can expect them to hold up against much wear and tear over the years. Diesel engines are also considerably lower maintenance because they have fewer parts than gas engines. This also means you’ll have fewer parts that need repair, saving you money. Diesel generators are also capable of handling very large power loads, making them perfect for the industrial sector. You’ll also have more flexibility in generator placement since you won’t be tied to a specific fuel line.

Hybrids

Additionally, many businesses are seeking out hybrid power solutions to combat high fuel costs. These are used in conjunction with the main generator with a battery that is powered by renewable resources such as solar or wind. Along with the significant fuel savings that you will experience when investing in this type of generator, you can improve your carbon footprint by reducing your reliance on fossil fuel. To learn more about hybrid gensets for your business, check out our blog here.

Which generator is best for your needs? There is no right or wrong answer—the right choice will depend on your individual preferences and budget. At Valley Power Systems, we can show you a variety of options and help guide you to a unit that will offer the features you want at a price point that works for your business.

Noise Protection

Generators are naturally noisy machines. Diesel generators are generally the loudest, producing around 100 decibels (dB) of noise. Repeated exposure to this high level of noise can lead to hearing loss. You can reduce noise pollution by installing a sound-attenuated enclosure. You should also ensure that any employees working around the generator have hearing protection devices.

Generator Maintenance

To keep your new generator system in prime condition, it’s also a good idea to invest in a maintenance plan right away. Valley Power Systems is proud to offer customized maintenance contracts to fit your needs.

As part of routine maintenance, our technicians provide:

Oil changes: Oil changes are crucial to extending the lifespan of your generator engine. Fresh oil will keep the various moving parts of your system nicely lubricated, reducing overall wear and tear.
Filter cleaning/changes: Filters will need to be cleaned or changed frequently. They can quickly accumulate dirt and debris that can cause damage to your power system. Our technicians will check your filters, remove any clogs, and change them as necessary.
Coolant checks: Coolant is responsible for regulating the temperature of the generator engine. We will ensure your coolant is within the recommended level to prevent your system from overheating.
Leak checks: Leaks can make your system inefficient and increase wear and tear. Our technicians will look for signs of leaks and provide you with prompt repairs as needed.
Engine exercises: Running your system at every maintenance visit helps us look for battery issues and other performance problems. If we notice anything amiss with your system, we will uncover the root cause and provide you with cost-effective repair options.
And more!

During maintenance, we also look for hidden problems that you might miss on your own. Our goal is to address minor issues before they can progress into larger, more expensive problems for you. Keeping up with generator repairs is one of the best ways to extend the lifespan of your new commercial power system.

Generator Cost

A new commercial generator is a substantial investment in the future of your company. You can expect a large-capacity unit to run tens of thousands of dollars. That’s why it is essential to select a properly sized system and to keep it professionally maintained over the years. This will maximize your investment and ensure reliable power for your business.

A lot of different factors can go into the cost of a generator, including size, fuel type, manufacturer, and advanced features. You want to make sure that you select the best one for your business. Valley Power Systems is a proud distributor of a wide range of top generator makes and models. We can help you select a system that fits your budget and power requirements.

Generator Technology

Generator technology has come a long way in recent years. Modern systems are designed to be more efficient and more durable than older models while providing even better performance. They come with advanced features such as carbon monoxide detectors, automatic transfer switches, and remote monitoring.

With remote monitoring, you can access your power system from anywhere to adjust settings, exercise the system, and monitor generator status. This is especially important during an emergency when you can’t always be on-site. Your remote monitoring system can also alert you to maintenance needs so that you can address them sooner rather than later. This can make a huge difference in generator reliability.

To make sure your generator has the technology you want, speak with a professional from Valley Power Systems.

Explore Your Power Options Today with Valley Power Systems

Are you in the market for a new commercial generator? Valley Power Systems has a broad selection for you to choose from. We offer all of the top brands with state-of-the-art features and technology. From generator rentals to portables to standby systems, we have a power solution that will fit your particular needs and budget requirements. Our knowledgeable team can help you pick a system that you can rely on to keep your business up and running.

Valley Power Systems is your top source for generator sales, installation, repair, and maintenance in California. Our family-owned and operated company has been partnering with businesses all over the state since 1949, and we look forward to serving your power needs for years to come. Contact us today to learn more about our power products and generator services.