Choosing a backup power generator is not an easy task as you need to consider several factors. One determinant that you can start with is the different generators’ ratings. These ratings in the first place are designed to offer insight to the customers about the power generating capability of backup power generator. Plus, they also help to understand which generator is suitable for what type of applications. This information is certainly important as it will help you to zero in on the right generator that will not only fit your requirements but also, be available within your budget.
Different types of power generators are- prime, standby and continuous. So, in order to help you seek the right generator, let’s take a closer look and know more details about them.
Top Three Types of Backup Power Generator Ratings
Find the one that will suit your purpose and serve your requirements appropriately.
Prime Generators
Prime generators are the type of generator that functions as the primary source of power. This type of generator is created to work for a prolonged period of time and can even offer variable levels of power supply as and when required.
Mostly this type of generator is used to have power support in areas that are far away from the main power sources. This includes remote areas, buildings, and mostly inaccessible towers. One of the reasons why prime generators are increasingly gaining a tremendous amount of popularity is because it works efficiently without any access to power lines. Additionally, it can also, work in a portable form and offers the best mobile solution. Areas, where prime generators can be the best choice, are oil operations, rock demolishing plants, gas operation units, remote constructions areas, mines and more. In short, as a prime generator’s capacity is equitable to that of any primary electricity source, it can be used in many areas, however, know that it is an expensive generator.
Standby Generators
Among different types of generators, backup generators are the ones that are solely used for emergency purposes.
Standby generators are not designed to run for a prolonged period of time, they can only run for a short duration as the main power backup. Mainly the purpose of this type of generator is to run for a time period that is required to bring back the prime power online. Standby generators can be the best choice for areas where power loss is an everyday problem, however, nevertheless, power loss can happen everywhere and at any point in time.
This type of generator can be used in many areas including residential, industrial and commercial.
The duration that standby generators run may vary significantly. One who buys such type of generator must note that operating it longer than what is suggested may lead to the breakdown of the generators. It can also, start malfunctioning if proper directions while operating the generator are not followed. Thus, this type is the best choice when one needs power backup for a shorter duration. Hence, during critical situations when one has no access to electricity as a storm has passed the area and damaged the power sources, standby generators can be used to power necessary devices for a short while.
For their requirements in important areas such as health care and data centers, these generators are designed to maintain the highest standards so that they can cater well to these areas.
Continuous Generators
Continuous generators are similar to primary power sources. This type of generator is engineered to function continuously and offer an uninterrupted power supply. Generally, the difference between a prime generator and a continuous generator is that the latter does not offer the option of different levels of power supply. Ideally, this generator is designed to offer a steady flow of power for a continuous period of time.
There are various situations when a continuous generator can be an ideal choice. This is because this generator works fine when other power sources are not accessible. Plus, it is a cost-effective option, if the need arises to install power in a particularly remote area continuous generators can be installed. Furthermore, this type of backup power generator also can be the best choice in the areas that face heavy power cuts and supply interruptions.
Thus, considered one of the most ideal choices among generators, continuous generators have no doubt become the top-most choice when it comes to remote power supply needs. This is because the equipment is capable to offer power at 100 per cent capacity that too continuously. Although they cannot offer a variable amount of electricity, they are used in military, mining and agricultural areas besides, being used for other applications.
Other Factors that You Must Consider
To help you to purchase the best generator here are some other factors that you can consider;
- Safety features
Since generators are for harnessing a considerable level of electricity. It is important to ensure that the generator you are purchasing has all the protection features, such as short circuits, over-current, overload protection, and over-temperature protection. Plus, it is also, important to point out that installation is where safety begins, so consider factors such as earthing ventilation and concrete foundation while installing your generators.
- Operating method
If the operating system is complex and the generator is not capable of providing immediate power backup then it will add to the inconvenience. So, make sure to buy a good quality generator that has an advanced automatic mechanism and offers immediate power backup.
- Your requirements
Firstly understand your requirements and then, determine considering different features of the generator whether it will fulfil your requirements and choose the appropriate one.
Gaining proper insight into details and considering crucial factors such as your budget, needs, and capacity of the generator are essential steps before you zero in on the power backup device. So, now that you are aware of the different ratings of the backup power generators, it is likely that you can make the right decision.
