Standby Generators 101

Generator Systems Overview

Many customers are interested in a simple explanation of how a standby generator would function when installed at their home or business. The following is a brief description of that operation. I also encourage you to visit our video page for a clear demonstration.

When an Automatic Standby System is installed, the internal circuitry continuously monitors the utility company’s incoming voltage. If this voltage is interrupted or reduced to a level which would be harmful to a home or business’s electrical loads, a transfer sequence is initiated. The details of that transfer sequence is as follows:

• Power from the utility company is interrupted
• System-monitoring circuitry starts the generator
• A fully automatic Transfer Switch safely transfers power from the utility company connection to generator power
• At this point the home or business is now completely powered by the standby generator
• System circuitry continues to monitor the utility company voltage conditions
• When voltage returns to normal, the transfer sequence is reversed, and the home or business is reconnected to the utility source and disconnected from the generator power
• The generator will run approximately one minute in a cool-down phase and then shut itself down
• The automatic standby system continues to monitor utility conditions ready to provide power upon the next outage

The transfer of power and return to standby mode is completely automated, requiring no action from the home or business owner. The generator starts, transfers power, transfers back again, cools down, and then stops automatically. This eliminates the need to manually start a portable generator, plug in extension cords, and deal with gasoline storage and refueling.

Fuels: Natural Gas, Propane, Diesel or Gasoline

What is the best choice for optional standby power systems?

Natural gas and propane ( LP ) have been utilized as fuel sources for backup power in residential applications for years. The advantages of these fuels are now being utilized in the commercial market as well.

Both are clean burning - easily meeting EPA clean air standards.

Both are released as gas; they don't spill, pool, or leave a residue.

• Natural gas is a continuous, highly reliable fuel supply. Today's gas distribution systems can be counted on to supply natural gas in the most common emergency situations.
• Propane can be safely stored for years with no apparent decrease in quality. It is commonly stored in 500 gal tanks or larger and readily available for quick delivery from many suppliers.
• When using diesel fuel you are limited by the size of storage tank, which could prove to be problematic during an extended outage. Another problem is the degradation of the fuel over time. And meeting the new EPA standards is one reason diesel generators are much more expensive than propane or natural gas units.
• Gasoline is usually restricted to portable units and RV generators, and is not very practical for home or business automatic standby generators.

Service and Maintenance of Generator Systems

Continuing to another frequently asked question: Does a generator require any maintenance? As with any mechanical equipment, periodic maintenance is necessary. To achieve optimum reliability from any automatic standby generator, a maintenance program should be followed. That way you will be assured that when a power outage occurs, your generator will start up and transfer power reliably. A back up generator will provide many years of reliable service if properly cared for.

CITYWIDE ELECTRIC offers routine maintenance programs that identify small problems before they become major repair costs.

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