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Generator Terms and Facts

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Here are a few words and phrases with definitions that relate specifically to generators and back-up power. This list is, by no means, all-inclusive. If you have any questions or would like some information on anything relating to a generator issue, please send us a message.

There are three classes of generator systems:


Emergency Generator Systems: Although we all feel it is an emergency when we lose power, "Emergency Standby Generator" is actually a technical classification which most homes and businesses do not fall under. Technically, an "emergency" generator is one that is essential for the safety of human life and is classified as an emergency generator system by the local government agency that has jurisdiction. A few examples would be hospitals, sports arenas, and public safety communication systems.


Legally Required Standby Generator Systems: Once again, the local governmental authority would classify this system. Typically these systems power ventilation and smoke removal systems, sewage disposal, and industrial processes that, when normal electrical supply is interrupted, could hamper rescue or firefighting operations.


A standby generator will ensure that a structure's heat remains operational even if no one is present, preventing freezing pipes and other disasters. Optional Standby Generator Systems: By default all others fall into this category. These are typically installed to provide power where life safety does not depend on the performance of the system. Do not think that this minimizes their importance. Optional Systems are installed to provide power for industrial and commercial buildings, residences, data processing and communications systems, and where an interruption could be serious to a manufacturing process. For example a business interruption could include freezer or refrigeration equipment, Damage to a home can be extreme when pipes freeze due to loss of heat in the winter while no one is present. customer safety and security issues, and loss of sales, to name a few. Residential interruptions of a well, septic pump / lift pump, sump pump, freezers and heat (possibly resulting in freezing pipes) are more than just inconveniences. As the photo to the right attests, homeowners have returned to find severe damage to their homes when heat failed during an absence.



The Nexus LTS Load Shed Transfer Switch

Transfer Switch: A transfer switch will not allow utility power to contact generator power: properly installed, it is designed so as to be physically impossible. When the transition is made from one source of power to another, by design, the equipment will only allow electricity to pass to the structure from one source ( the generator power ) or the other source ( utility power ), not both simultaneously. Therefore the home or business will be powered by the generator or the power company, but not both at the same time.


Transfer switches can be manual or automatic.


Automatic Transfer Switch: ( see transfer switch first ) This is the beauty of an automatic standby system. The transfer of power from one source to another is accomplished automatically, even when unattended.


Utility workers repairing damaged lines could be injured by backfeed from an improperly installed generator Back Feed: In the world of backup power, this is a serious error. An individual has connected the power of a generator either temporarily or permanently to their electrical system in such a manner that electricity is able to travel back through the utility lines, in essence energizing them. Unknown to a utility worker, the lines are now energized. Electric shock is possible. If utility power is restored while the generator is still connected, irreparable damage will occur to the generator.


Gentran: This is only one brand name for a particular type of transfer switch currently sold at various places, including the big box stores, which is usually installed at a residence. It allows a portable generator to be connected to a number of specific circuits in a home.


Power Quality: Your home or business may contain sensitive electronics or microchip based appliances, including variable speed HVAC equipment, variable speed well pump & controls, or Home Automation and lighting controls. Included in this classification are UPS (uninterruptable power supply) systems. These types of apparatus require a clean power source. Simply put, the output of power from a standby generator needs to come as close as possible to the normal incoming utility power. With a quality generator, frequency ( Hz ), voltage, and total harmonic distortion will be well within limits of safe operation. Watch the above video for more information.


Load Management/Load Shedding Load shedding is the capability of the transfer switch to control large loads separately. The transfer switch is able to connect and disconnect loads from the generator as needed. This is called load management. If the generator approaches overload condition, the load management system disconnects a large load; for example, an air conditioner. When the demand for power on the generator diminishes, the load that was disconnected is added back to the generator, automatically.


Food spoilage and unavailability are not an issue with a standby generator

One of the reasons to use load management is that it gives you the ability to install a smaller generator, saving you money, yet offering you the ability to power up the electrical items you desire.


Be Safe!


The Citywide staff

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