FAQs When Buying a New Generator

You’ve relied on your commercial backup generator for many years, but maybe you’ve recently noticed that it’s just not performing as well as it used to. A poorly functioning generator will be unpredictable in an emergency, and its reduced efficiency can waste a ton of money in energy costs. Below we’ve addressed some of the FAQs when buying a new generator.

Signs that you might need a new industrial generator include:

Frequent breakdowns
Inconsistent power
Unexplained higher energy bills
Overheating
Age (more than 10 years old)

While generators will undoubtedly need more repairs over time, if you find that your system is wearing down fast after years of dependable service, it may pay off for you to look into your replacement options. Repairs can really begin to add up, especially if you are having to pay for one quite frequently. A new power system will provide increased efficiency, a reliable source of power, as well as improved technology.

When the time has come for you to purchase a new generator for your business, there are several factors that you should consider. At Valley Power Systems, we want to make sure that our California customers have the information they need to make their purchase decision easier. Here are some important questions to ask yourself before your purchase.

What Fuel Source Will You Use?

The type of fuel you’ll use is a key consideration when choosing a new power system. Most businesses rely on diesel or natural gas to power their generators. Diesel power systems are very durable and long-lasting with lower maintenance requirements. They also tend to cost less than their natural gas counterparts. However, natural gas offers its own advantages, such as a readily available source of fuel in the pipeline, so you’ll never have to worry about running out of fuel during a power outage. Some business owners also appreciate that natural gas is a clean-burning fuel, so it decreases your overall carbon footprint.

Both types of fuel clearly offer their own benefits. If you’re on the fence, our team can help you explore your options.

Where Will You Place the Unit?

You will need to decide where the unit will be installed, especially if you’ll be getting a larger model that won’t work for your current configuration. Generator power systems are usually installed outdoors because they emit dangerous chemicals, like carbon monoxide. There should also be plenty of clearance (at least 15 to 20 feet) between the generator and any windows, doors, or vents. Lastly, generators should be placed on a raised concrete pad to prevent any moisture from entering the electrical system when it rains.

What Size Do You Need?

Choosing the right generator size is essential to maximize your investment. After all, if you purchase a small-capacity generator, it likely won’t be able to keep up with your power needs for very long. And an overworked generator will wear down fast, meaning you’ll be looking for a replacement sooner rather than later.

As your business grows, you want a generator that will grow with it. A larger generator will be able to manage increased power loads more easily, so you can operate your business without disruption during an outage. Just remember to run it regularly at least at three-quarter’s capacity to avoid efficiency problems in the future.

Have You Selected Preventative Maintenance?

It’s never too early to consider preventative maintenance for your generator. This periodic maintenance is imperative to keep your power system in prime running condition. Valley Power Systems offer maintenance plans that are designed to extend the lifespan of your industrial generator. Our technicians are factory-trained and certified to work on today’s complex power systems.

Our comprehensive maintenance includes:

Changing oil and filters

Fresh oil and filters will reduce friction, improve airflow, and boost overall efficiency. Our goal is to prolong engine life by keeping contaminated oil and clogged filters at bay.

Refilling coolant as needed

Coolant circulates throughout the engine to control its temperature. Overheating can cause a host of issues, even engine failure, so we do our best to make sure you never have to deal with them by keeping the level of coolant consistent with manufacturer recommendations.

Testing the battery

A malfunctioning battery is a top cause of power issues. Your system may be difficult to start up, or it may not run at all. We will assess the battery and connections and then complete any repairs necessary to reduce the risk of power failure.

Checking for leaks

Leaks result in wasted energy, which can cost your business a lot of money over time. Our technicians know how to identify hidden leaks and get them repaired before they have a chance to get worse. If you begin to notice a stark increase in your energy bills, don’t hesitate to give us a call right away.

Testing the engine

The engine has various moving parts that must work together well to achieve maximum performance. We’ll check each and every component and look for any signs of wear and tear. If we do notice any issues, our team will provide you with a cost-effective recommendation. Addressing these now will go a long way toward reducing your repair costs in the future.

Trust Valley Power Solutions for Your Power Needs

If the time has come for you to purchase a new generator for your business, you’ll find many makes and models available on the market. This can be overwhelming to the average business owner. Valley Power Solutions has you covered with knowledgeable advice and a wide array of quality power systems to choose from.

Our team is highly experienced in the industry, and we’re happy to answer your questions about any of our brands. We’ll help you select a commercial generator that you can rely on for years to come. Our company also offers convenient installation, maintenance, and repair services, so you can get everything you need for your generator in one place. Contact us today to learn more about our state-of-the-art power systems.

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