In today’s quick-paced business environment where business is conducted 24/7 online and on electric devices and smartphones, being offline even for a short time simple isn’t an option. And that includes keeping the doors open at your business brick-and-mortar location during regular business hours –even when the power goes out.
The weather, however, can wreak havoc on this business schedule through the high winds and heavy snows of winter storms as well as electrical storms and flooding. Power outages caused by these storms can not only keep your office or business location from opening, they can knock out your computer network and servers as well.
That’s why having Eric Krise Electrical Contractors install a stand-by generator at your business is more important than ever. Businesses can’t afford to be at the mercy of power outages any longer. A generator quickly restores power to your business whenever the main power goes down.
Before choosing a generator from our wide selection, however, there are some things every business owner should know before selecting the right unit for their business.
Here’s a look at some things to consider when choosing a generator from TriplePundit.com:
Know the different types of generators
There are two basic varieties of generators – installed back-up generator and portable generators.
Automatic, or standby, generators are permanently connected to a building’s electrical system. If the power goes down, they automatically detect the problem and restore power to the building.
Portable generators run on gasoline or diesel and have to be manually installed once a power outage occurs. Portable generators are generally less expensive, but are not in place to automatically restore power to your business. That can be an important consideration for keeping your computer network operating or other important systems such as refrigeration of perishable products (such as at a restaurant).
Think safety
Portable generators can emit potentially harmful levels of carbon monoxide and should never be run indoors. Most manufacturers and industry experts recommend placing standby generators outside at least ten feet from the building it is servicing. This reduces the possibility that harmful emissions will enter the building through windows, doors, or other openings. Business owners should also install operational carbon monoxide and smoke detectors. In addition, use heavy-duty, grounded extension cords that are designed for outdoor use.
More permanent standby generators should be installed by licensed professionals outside of buildings with proper venting and regular maintenance.
What capacity do you need?
Before making a purchase, discuss your energy needs with one of our knowledgeable representatives. At Eric Krise Electrical Contractors, we can help you decide how much energy capacity you’ll need in the event of a power outage. For example, you may only need to concentrate on keeping critical systems powered in the event of an outage, rather than powering the whole business. But, if you wish to have your shop remain open during the outage, you may need a larger capacity unit.
Properly operating a generator
You should always operate a generator according to the manufacturer’s instructions and perform regular maintenance. Also, before installation businesses should consulting local building codes.
We can help you with regularly scheduled maintenance of the generator and periodic safety inspections and testing to ensure the generator will kick on when you really need it to.
Noise
Noise is a normal byproduct of generator use. Operate the generator only when necessary to avoid disturbing neighbors. Automatic standby generators are generally quieter than portable models.
Want to know more? Contact us online or visit our generator FAQ, where you’ll learn more about Kohler generators.