Category: Kohler Power
Date: July 7th, 2023

Powering The Future With HVO Energy

In the dynamic world of power generation, where innovation and sustainability go hand in hand, there’s a promising technology that promises to transform the industry, and propel us towards a greener future. HVO (Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil), is a revolutionary solution that has captured the attention of power industry leaders worldwide.

At Power Systems West, we consistently provide reliable backup power solutions and our partnership with KOHLER further demonstrates our commitment to excellence. Together with KOHLER, we are proud to be part of a movement that seeks to combine established technologies with cutting-edge advancements for a sustainable and reliable power generation ecosystem.

The recent release of KOHLER’s whitepaper on HVO has brought excitement and anticipation to the industry. KOHLER’s entire lineup of mission-critical diesel generators has already obtained approval for HVO utilization. This means that the diesel engines we have trusted for over a century to support critical power applications will remain not only relevant, but also environmentally responsible. With the integration of HVO, these engines have the power to cut down carbon emissions by 90%. This breakthrough represents a shift in the power generation landscape,
highlighting the importance of leveraging both proven solutions and innovative technologies to address the pressing challenges of environmental sustainability. By endorsing HVO, KOHLER demonstrates a firm commitment to sustainability and a vision for a future where carbon emissions are reduced.

Join the conversation and stay updated on our blog and LinkedIn page as we delve deeper into KOHLER’s HVO breakthrough. Explore the whitepaper, which serves as a valuable resource for understanding the potential of this revolutionizing technology. Through our collaborative efforts, we can cultivate an environment where established technologies and innovations work together, creating a powerful synergy that drives progress and propels us towards a cleaner, more sustainable future.

In an interview with Diesel Progress Charles Hunsucker, President of Kohler Power Systems, further emphasizes the potential of HVO by stating: “That’s where power density – and moving from fossil fuels to renewable fuels like hydrotreated vegetable oil – is going to continue to be a strong push for us. When you think about HVO and you think about clean fuel, Europe is light years ahead of where we are in the U.S. Just recently, Amazon Web Services in Europe, just switched an entire data center from fossil fuels over to HVO and our Kohler facility in Brest, France, just did the same thing. We have a very large facility and we switched our fuel usage in that facility to HVO. We’re evaluating it and we’ll gladly do the same thing at all of our other facilities around the world once the HVO supply chain strengthens and it becomes readily available.

We see that as an opportunity to continue to evaluate all of these other resources. I believe there’s going to be a way to keep internal combustion engines, diesel and gas gen-sets, in that infrastructure. We just have to find a way to make them cleaner and more sustainable.”

At Power Systems West, we are excited about the possibilities HVO presents. With the support of our partners at KOHLER, we are confident that together, we can usher in an era of transformative change, where sustainable power generation becomes the cornerstone of our energy landscape.

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Regular Maintenance Checks

Regular maintenance checks are an important part of keeping diesel generators in peak operating condition. Performing regular inspections and tune-ups, replacing filters, and monitoring vital systems such as cooling and electrical can help prevent unexpected downtime due to issues with the generator itself or related components. Regular inspection should be done every 6 months, with more detailed checks being completed yearly, along with oil changes according to manufacturer instructions to ensure optimal operation over time.

Scheduled care also helps increase efficiency by allowing adjustments to be made during service so that parts last longer, fuel usage is reduced, and output remains consistent over time. Use professional certified technicians to inspect your generators for potential safety hazards before performing maintenance tasks.

Filter Replacement Considerations

Replacing fuel filters on a regular basis plays an integral role in preserving the lifespan and performance capabilities of your diesel generator set-up. While every situation is different based on many external variables like environmental conditions and usage frequency, it’s always best practice to consult user manuals or qualified professionals when considering replacements.

Consideration should also be placed on safety procedures depending upon weather conditions at the time of servicing. Relevant PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) should be worn by personnel carrying out maintenance tasks along with familiarizing themselves beforehand with disposal instructions to prevent contamination during changes taking place.

Coolant Level and Composition

Coolant is a combination of water and anti-freeze used to maintain the optimal temperature in diesel generators. It is important to keep an eye on both the coolant level and its composition, as they work together in order to prevent overheating during operation effectively.

Maintaining the correct volume levels ensures that all components are sufficiently cooled while also avoiding costly breakdowns associated with insufficient coolant supply. The type of coolant used depends upon your specific generator’s engine design requirements but generally consists of either ethylene or propylene glycol mixed with distilled water.

In addition to routinely checking for proper fluid levels, it’s recommended you periodically test your diesel generator’s cooling system for balance and pH stability. This helps preserve longevity by preventing corrosion from occurring within internal parts due to imbalanced or highly acidic fluids circulation throughout them over time.

Starting Batteries Checks

Ensuring the proper functionality of your diesel generators’ starting batteries is key when conducting regular maintenance tasks. Inspect both cables and terminals connected directly to identify any signs of damage, such as visible rusting or loose fixtures, that could lead to larger issues down the road if left untreated. Solutions may vary depending on what kind of physical harm has been identified, but repairs or replacements must be made to avoid unexpected breakdowns.

Consult with an experienced technician to determine that battery acid levels are adequate, and replace batteries if needed. This is important to ensure the engine always starts up without fail.

Load Bank Testing

In addition to regular inspections and preventative maintenance, load bank testing is also recommended to ensure your generator is ready for any eventuality. This type of testing requires the use of an artificial load. It is designed to test how your generator performs when running at full operating temperature for an extended period of time. Power Systems West has a variety of load bank equipment available to best suit your needs.

Additives for Optimum Performance

Additives in diesel generators are essential components to keep them running at peak performance and extend their lifespan. A variety of additives can be used depending on the type of generator and its particular needs, ranging from lubricants that reduce friction, fuel treatments that help clean injectors, coolant enhancers that improve corrosion protection as well as combustion efficiency improvers.

All these products protect against wear and tear while reducing emissions, improving engine power output, and maintaining maximum load capacity by ensuring thermal stability during operation with no adverse effects on hardware life expectancy or component warranties.

Use Professional Diesel Generator Service

Regular servicing of your diesel generator is an essential part of maintaining it for the long term. Most manufacturers recommend that you get this service done at least once every year, as that will ensure quality performance from your system over its lifetime.

It also helps reduce wear and tear, which can result in costly repairs or replacements down the line. Even with regular service appointments, however, many people choose to outsource certain maintenance tasks. Professional services firms like Power Systems West provide specialized solutions such as filter replacement considerations, coolant level and composition checks, and fuel additive treatments for optimum performance during extended use cases. All are designed to help keep your generator running efficiently while protecting against any potential malfunctions or component failures due to a lack of basic maintenance.

By utilizing a professional diesel generator service and following maintenance guidelines, you can ensure that your system runs optimally while avoiding excessive costs related to breakdowns or repairs. With certified technicians and years of experience working directly with these machines, you can rest assured knowing that your generator is in good hands. This will result in greater savings by reducing downtime periods associated with these activity cycles.

By following the best practices and proper maintenance guidelines, you can ensure that your diesel generator is running optimally and cost-effectively.

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Total Wattage Required

Knowing how generators work is vital to use wattage requirements as your basic guide when purchasing a generator. For example, a generator engine is directly proportional to its maximum power output. And while generators can be powered by gas or diesel, small engines run on gasoline, while large one operate on diesel.

It is, therefore, crucial to determine the kilowatts or megawatts required to run your business. It will help you choose the right generator size or determine how much load should be distributed among generators if you run multiple generators.

Fuel

Typically, industrial generators run on gasoline or diesel. However, it is prudent to decide what fuel you would like your industrial generator to run on, given that each has its pros and downsides.

For example, diesel generators are more powerful and reliable than gas-powered generators. In addition, diesel generators have low maintenance requirements and can power large industrial establishments. But they are the most expensive.

On the other hand, gas generators are affordable and cleaner in terms of emissions. However, they require frequent maintenance, which might increase your operation costs. It is also prudent to consider the fuel system when selecting an appropriate generator. An average industrial generator fuel tank can run for eight hours. You may require an external fuel tank when running a large generator unit.

Installation Space

An industrial generator isn’t a small piece of equipment. It is heavyweight and needs a larger installation space. They are, therefore, best installed outside your business or company building for safety purposes.

Therefore, creating enough space for easy refueling and servicing is vital. Most businesses with limited space opt to install the generators on the rooftop, which is an excellent alternative. However, you should ensure your building is firm enough to support the weight of your generator.

Location

Normally, industrial generators are noisy, which can pose a challenge, especially when your business is in a noisy restricted area. In this case, you might need to enclose it to lower the noise reaching your neighborhood.

However, you will need to hire professional generator installers to help you enclose your generator. Experts use quality soundproof equipment to enclose and keep the generators protected, thus increasing their lifespan. But if your company’s location is in an industrial area where noise isn’t a concern, you can consider an open industrial generator.

Cost

There is much to look into regarding the cost of an industrial generator. First is the initial purchase price; then the maintenance and fuel cost. While diesel generators are typically expensive, their maintenance requirements are low. On the other hand, gas-powered generators are relatively affordable but require frequent checks, increasing the operation cost.

Some buyers opt for used generators since they are cheaper. But while this might be an affordable alternative, they lack the warranties that come with brand-new gadgets. Therefore, be mindful of the non-negotiable elements to get the most out of your investment. In this case, purchasing a brand-new generator is worth considering regardless of the upfront cost.

Alternators

Most people only know that alternators and generators generate electricity but don’t know how they differ. However, it is vital to understand how each works to choose the most appropriate generator based on your intended application.

While both can convert mechanical energy into electrical energy, alternators can only produce AC when generators generate AC and DC. But while DC is best for charging storage batteries, AC is ideal for long-distance power transmission and applications with high power requirements. For this reason, industrial generators are equipped with alternators for better performance and efficiency.

Automatic Voltage Regulator

One of the characteristics of an efficient generator is to keep the voltage stable. This is because a fluctuating voltage can cause damage to your appliances, hence the need for an automatic voltage regulator.

The voltage regulators adjust the fluctuating voltage to a steady/constant voltage. As a result, the receiving devices do not sense power variations. To make the generators more efficient regarding voltage, manufacturers provide automatic voltage regulators at various points to control the voltage variation at each end. However, the AVR differs from manufacturers and generator models.

Exhaust System

All generators have exhaust systems to aid in evacuating toxic gasses, sound attenuation, and engine performance. Therefore, an exhaust system designer must consider the environmental and engine performance when sizing and positioning the generator exhaust system. The correct exhaust system installation is also ideal for the engine’s full performance.

Therefore, an exhaust outlet should be positioned upward to prevent the re-circulation of the toxic gasses in the business premises. Also, use fireproof materials when the exhaust pipe passes through building materials. However, it is prudent to consult the local code for sound attenuation to install the correct silencer depending on your location’s sound restrictions.

Lubrication System

While all machinery requires lubrication to perform efficiently, their lubricant requirements differ depending on size and applications. There are two types of lubricating systems: single-line and dual-line. Single line lubricating system is low pressure and ideal for light to medium machines.

On the other hand, a dual-line lubricating system is found in all industrial machinery requiring continuous lubrication due to their heavy load. Unlike a single-line lubricating system, a dual line is cost-effective and helps a machine operate efficiently even in harsh environments.

Once you know what to look for in an industrial generator, it is also best to consider a reputable brand such as Kohler. They are affordable, reliable, and offer three to ten years of warranty.

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Date: February 2nd, 2023

Determine Your Building Square Footage

Measuring your building’s square footage is the simplest way to determine the most appropriate generator size. Usually, a generator purposed to power a retail building should supply 50kW and an additional 10W per square foot. However, commercial building power requirements differ depending on the number and types of electronic devices inside. As a result, other factors must be considered besides the building’s square footage when choosing a generator size.

Assess Your Power Usage

This approach requires you to determine your monthly or annual power usage. Go through your previous electricity bills to determine your peak usage. Once you have assessed your building’s power usage, you can use that information to select an appropriate generator size. You might want to add at least 25% of the total power usage when selecting a generator to give room for additional devices.

Consider Full-Load Current Measurements

Using full-load current during peak usage, you can estimate the right generator size for your commercial building. To get a correct estimation of a generator size, take the total amps used and divide it by three for a three-phased current and by two for single phased current. Multiply the resulting number by your building’s supply voltage, then again by 1000 to convert it into Kilowatts.

In simpler terms, Full load = Total amps x Supply voltage x 1000.

However, adding at least 25% reserve kilowatts is prudent when deciding on the right generator size. It prevents the chances of inadequate power supply and provides room for additional electrical devices in the building.

Consider the Intended Application

The generator's intended application is among the vital things to consider when choosing a generator. Are you installing a backup or a prime generator? If you purchase a backup generator, you can consider your wattage requirement. In the case of a primary generator, however, you might want to add a safety margin of about 20% to 30%. This is because; a generator shouldn't be operated at its maximum capacity for a period exceeding 30 minutes. Also, considering a safety margin improves the safety of the generator and appliances in the case of additional power needs in the future.

Ambient

Another critical factor to consider when deciding on the most suitable generator size is environmental factors. Usually, non-standard weather conditions can alter a generator’s power output. But how does one determine how a generator will be affected by various weather conditions?

The most appropriate technique to determine how a generator is affected by ambient conditions is derating. According to Wikipedia, derating is a technique used to determine how electrical devices operate under non-standard conditions.

While derating is significantly dependent on the generator manufacturer, a standard derating formula states that a gasoline, liquid propane, or diesel generator should be derated by 2% to 3% of the expected power output for every 1000 ft. above sea level. For this reason, you might consider a significant wattage reserve when purchasing a generator for the cold region.

Why Does Your Commercial Building Need A Generator?

Usually, the need for backup generators in a commercial building depends highly on the type of business in operation. However, installing a generator in your commercial building is essential for the following reasons.

Prevents loss

Loss is a broad term when it comes to commercial establishments. For example, restaurants suffer loss from spoiled food and beverage during a power outage. Hospital risk losing lives if refrigerators and life-supporting machines are not powered. On the other hand, companies risk losing data when the power supply is interrupted.

Installing a backup generator in your commercial building is critical for running operations. An outage can cause an unimaginable loss regardless of how long it lasts.

Cost saving

In addition to causing various losses, a power outage can cause severe damage to electronics and electric appliances. Remember, a commercial building comprises numerous electricity-powered devices such as AC, computers, refrigerators, cell phones, etc. If not protected from power failures, a sudden power outage can result in malfunctioning or unrepairable damage to sensitive devices.

While most people opt for batteries for backup, installing a generator in a commercial building can prevent the need for device repairs or replacement resulting from power failures.

Ensures consistency in production

Every commercial establishment strives to achieve maximum productivity to increase its revenue. Most of them have hired a costly labor force to attain a certain level of productivity. A power outage can put all business operations to stand still in the current age where everything is digitalized.

In this case, a backup generator is the only option for preventing operational downtimes. Instead of having workers and machines idle due to emergency power outages, having an alternative power source is an excellent idea for maintaining a consistent workflow. An automated backup generator ensures that primary operations do not sense a power outage, let alone go to a standstill.

Conclusion

While the decision to install a backup generator in your commercial building might be costly, its rewards are worth every cent you spend. However, it would be best to consult a professional specialist if you find selecting the right generator size challenging. It helps prevent costly mistakes related to installing the wrong generator size.

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Date: January 3rd, 2023

Diesel Generators

Diesel generators have since been the most reliable in various industries and applications due to their ability to withstand multiple tasks and demands. They are also highly versatile, durable, and efficient, with minimal maintenance requirements. In addition to being durable, diesel generators have engines designed to perform best under heavy loads. This feature makes them the most suitable for industrial and commercial applications.

Additionally, diesel is readily available and easily portable. It is also one of the cleanest burning fuels if the engine is appropriately set. Unlike gasoline, diesel is less flammable, making it the safest in terms of storage and transportation.

However, diesel generators are relatively expensive compared to gasoline and propane generators. A diesel engine also produces a lot of noise, making them unideal for residential areas. Although new diesel generators do not emit excessive smoke, an old one can produce heavy toxic smoke if poorly maintained.

Another drawback of diesel is its supply and cost. Although diesel is readily available, you must establish a reliable supplier, especially when dealing with industrial generators. This means an emergency affecting the supply chain can badly hit your operation. Regarding cost, it is vital to remember that diesel costs keep fluctuating, making it hard to budget an exact operation cost.

Gasoline Generators

Gasoline generators are the most common among homeowners thanks to the availability of petrol. Unlike diesel, gasoline engines require fewer manufacturing materials, making them lighter with a low-temperature starting performance. The low-manufacturing cost of gasoline engines makes gasoline generators the most affordable, hence the reason for their popularity.

Additionally, gasoline generators are relatively compact and easy to transport, making them ideal for homes and small businesses looking for reliable backup power sources. Besides, petrol is readily available with its prices constantly on the lower end, meaning it has a guaranteed lower operating cost.

Gasoline generators also produce less noise compared to their diesel counterparts. These features make them the most suitable for homes and areas with noise restrictions. Their lightweight feature also makes them highly portable, allowing users to transport them easily.

One major drawback of gasoline generators is low thermal efficiency and high fuel consumption. As a result, users require a large stock of gasoline on their premises, posing safety risks such as fires. Additionally, gasoline burns with high intensity, producing significantly higher amounts of heat. The intense heat produced strains on the generator’s internal components, hence calling for frequent maintenance.

Gasoline generators also produce more hazardous emissions than other generator types. As a result, users must stay vigilant in observing generator safety measures to prevent health risks related to generator emissions.

Propane Generators

Propane, also called liquid petroleum gas generators, are unique generators that require separate fuel tanks to run. Due to their complexity and installation cost, they are the most uncommon among industrial and home users. However, propane generators have their share of advantages. Unlike other types of generators with limited tanks, propane users decide on the tank size they install.

Additionally, propane is stable without stabilizers and enjoys a long shelf life. Also, propane produces fewer pollutants than gasoline and diesel, thus being considered the most environmentally friendly fuel. Besides, propane can run under various weather conditions, unlike diesel and petrol, which develop wet stacking problems in cold temperatures.

Another benefit of propane generators is efficiency, especially when compared to natural gas. Although they are as flammable as gasoline, they pose fewer safety risks since they do not experience cracked pipes or spillage.

That said, propane has its share of cons. For example, propane burns faster, producing a lower energy density. Its engine lifespan is also shorter compared to gasoline and diesel engines. You may also need to travel miles looking for propane if the suppliers do not offer delivery services.

Hybrid-Fuel Generators

Another emerging trend in the market is the increasing preference for hybrid-fuel generators. These are types of generators that operate on more than one type of fuel. They can be powered by gasoline, diesel, propane, or natural gas. This versatility enables users to navigate fuel crises or shortages. Here are the types of hybrid-fuel generators you can consider when shopping for a home or commercial generator.

Bi-Fuel Generators

A bi-fuel generator runs on two types of fuel, for example, propane and gasoline or diesel and propane. However, the fuels are not mixed but used separately, meaning the generator engine can switch from one fuel to another. Some engines have automated fuel switches, allowing the generator to switch to the most efficient fuel considering the task.

On the other hand, some generators require the operator to switch fuel at will when they run out of one fuel or need a more efficient one. It is vital to note that, as the fuels are different, the generator will have varied efficiencies depending on the fuel used.

Dual-Fuel Generators

Dual-fuel generators are often confused with bi-fuel generators since they both use two types of fuels. However, unlike bi-fuel generators, dual-fuel generators can use two types of fuels as a mixture. In the absence of one type of fuel, the generator engine can still run efficiently with one type of fuel. Some dual generators, however, will require one particular fuel to start before you can gradually add the second type of fuel.

Tri-Fuel Generators

These hybrid-fuel generators use multiple fuels to run. This feature allows users to stay in operation in a fuel crisis affecting a particular fuel type. The engines can switch from one fuel to another as the operator wishes or depending on the task. Most tri-fuel generators can switch from natural gas, propane, and gasoline. This adaptability allows users to fuel the most efficiently depending on the job.

Conclusion

Having read and understood the pros and cons of various generator fuels, you can easily choose the most appropriate, considering your power requirements. The emergence of hybrid-fuel generators guarantees an even better experience.

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Date: January 2nd, 2023

Not maintaining your generator will result in damage and complications that negatively impact its ability to perform properly. Regular maintenance keeps an industrial generator operating efficiently while preventing complications or damage to its system.

Preventive maintenance should be done at least once a year, depending on its use and environment.

Issues Risked Without Generator Maintenance

1. Dangerous Conditions

Without maintenance, a generator poses safety risks, like carbon monoxide leaks. Carbon monoxide is a colorless and odorless gas that poses serious safety risks. You should check carbon monoxide detectors are working properly.

A poorly maintained generator also increases the risk of shock or electrocution accidents, especially if the environment is wet or surrounded by excess moisture. You should avoid direct contact with moisture to minimize risks.

Improper storage of fuel and gasoline is another hazard since it might spill onto engine parts. This can increase the risk of fires.

2. Expensive Repairs

Delaying regular maintenance can lead to expensive repairs and costly complications. Skipping routine maintenance leads to costly repairs that could have been prevented. This is needed in detecting minor issues in the early stages, preventing them from worsening as time goes by. This also prevents serious and permanent damage to the generator.

3. Lack of Power

One of the complications of an industrial generator is its ability to supply power effectively. If it is unattended for a long period of time, it may lose its efficiency and overall energy capacity. Routine maintenance is needed for a generator to remain functional. Forgetting about servicing your system can cause serious issues with its ability to function when it’s time to use it.

Importance of Generator Service and Maintenance

1. Maintain Power During Outages

Maintenance helps keep a generator ready during a power failure. Expert technicians have a generator maintenance checklist that they look at, including the following:

1. The engine speed.
2. The fluid and oil levels.
3. Oil filters and air filters.
4. The belts, hoses, lines, connectors, and any other accessories.
5. The control panel, as well as the engine.
6. The cooling system.
7. Generator supply connections.
8. Battery cables and battery terminals.
9. The exhaust system.

2. Ensure vital systems remain online

A generator provides a reliable backup power source for critical equipment that needs to be running at all times.

3. Increase Generator Life Span

Routine maintenance helps ensure the generator’s longevity. Diesel generators need to have their diesel fuel tank emptied and refilled at least twice a year. Fuel deteriorates over time, especially when the generator goes for long periods without use.

4. Optimize Efficiency

A well-maintained generator will run more smoothly and experience fewer complications and unforeseen issues. Wasps, birds, rats, and snakes can infest your generator’s housing. They are notorious for setting up nests and chewing through your generator’s wiring. During maintenance, all parts are checked and cleaned from damaging dirt and debris. Generator batteries are disconnected and then reconnected to ensure that there are no issues.

5. Identify Issues at an Early Stage

Preventive maintenance can help minimize the risk of issues developing. It can also identify a problem at an early stage, allowing for a preventive tune-up and avoiding costly repairs in the future. A lot of generators will not manifest symptoms of failure until they are unable to run during an outage.

6. Manage Costs

Routine inspections are a cost-effective strategy to help save money over time. The longer you go without routine maintenance, the more expensive repairs will get.

7. Lower Accident Risk

Regular maintenance reduces the risk of accidents and injuries like fires, carbon monoxide leaks, etc. Carbon monoxide is fatal when inhaled. Proper ventilation and a properly functioning generator will lower the risks of accidents. The technician will ensure that the generator is positioned in a way that fumes are released outdoors rather than indoors.

8. How to Determine the Right Generator Maintenance Plan?

Choosing the correct generator maintenance service plan that fits your needs helps optimize your generator. Your service plan should offer an effective approach to ensure your equipment is safe and performing correctly and efficiently. The plan should also proactively detect issues and optimize performance and safety.

At Power Systems West, routine generator plans are available on a monthly or quarterly basis, depending on your needs. We provide a generator system functional test and inspection of the automatic transfer switch, as well as:

• Air intake and exhaust system.
• Controls and annunciation.
• Cooling system.
• Gas or diesel fuel systems.
• Generator assembly.
• Lube oil system.
• Start battery, charging, and system.
• Generator enclosure, base, and room.
• Annual lube oil and filter service, in which the engine lube oil and the primary and bypass filters are changed.
• Annual fuel system service with fuel filters changed.

Power Systems West services and repairs all makes of generators, transfer switches, and switchgear. We have nearly 40 service technicians across the western states and are the authorized KOHLER Power Systems distributor across seven states. Take advantage of our service agreements to increase the reliability of your critical systems, extend the life of your equipment, and improve your energy performance. Get a quote here.

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Date: December 19th, 2022

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Date: December 6th, 2022

Prepare in Advance

You want to ensure that your home has the bare necessities covered. To be on the safe side, make a physical list of the items and appliances you want to be powered on in case of a power outage. You also want to ensure that your generator can power all of them. If you stay with others in your home, show them how to operate the generator safely if they are able. Ensure they can physically get to the generator with ease. Have a professional electrician install a transfer switch. This will make switching from utility power to a generator quick. Staying prepared will assure you that you can sustain your home in case of a power outage. It’s also good to stay ready because who knows when.

Catch Up On Maintenance

Have you been neglecting your generator for a while? Now is the best time to turn it on and take a test to ensure that everything is working properly. Perform maintenance as described in the owner’s manual or the generator manufacturer. If you stick to the schedule, chances are that you will be fine in the future. If your generator doesn’t even start, check here for a list of common reasons it may be having problems. If you need to order spare parts, tune up your generator, or get any repairs done, now is the best time to do that, not when the power is out. You’re sweating buckets and getting feasted on by mosquitoes. Great generator brands like Kohler have clear maintenance instructions, so if you follow through well, this should not be troublesome.

Stock Up On Fuel

If your generator runs on propane or natural gas, you won’t have to worry about your fuel supply going bad. But make sure you have enough fuel on hand to power your chosen appliances for a few days. If your generator runs on gasoline, ensure you have enough on hand and it is fresh – within 30 days of purchase. Old stale gasoline may not do well in your generator. It can lead to problems down the road, like gummed-up carburetors. Make fuel stabilizer your friend. It helps keep your gasoline fresher for longer. It is always a good idea to keep some extra oil on hand.

Have a Place for Your Generator

While your generator might not require you to get out the decorative pillows, it’s always a good idea to ensure it has a designated area to run in case of a power outage. Ensure this area is easily accessible, clear of foliage or other obstacles, and that the generator is not exposed to rain. Well, as we know, water and electricity don’t get along well. Ensure the exhaust pipe cannot get blocked to avoid any inconveniences. Housing your generator will make sure it serves you well when the need arises.

Regularly Test and Maintain Your Generator

Run your generator at least once a month to ensure everything runs smoothly. Plug in a couple of loads and run your generator for at least 15 – 20 minutes. This keeps your generator in its best shape and will help you familiarize yourself with your generator. This means you will be confident and ready to handle the worst storm season can throw at you. It also ensures you are not caught off-guard when a power outage occurs. If you get yourself a Kohler generator, this will be an easy task for you because its instruction manual has clear instructions on how to maintain it.

Generator Safety Tips

Use the following tips to ensure you are safe when using a generator during a hurricane.

• NEVER run your generator indoors or within 20 feet of doors or windows. Generator exhaust contains carbon monoxide, a poisonous, colorless, odorless, tasteless gas.
• ALWAYS make sure the generator is dry. This is because operating in the rain or standing water can cause electrocution. Thus, the need to have a place for your generator.
• DO NOT refuel the generator when hot. The gasoline or diesel spilled on hot engine parts could ignite.
• Store the generator fuel in an approved safety can. Ensure you use the fuel type recommended in the instructions or label on the generator.

Conclusion

These tips will ensure that your generator is well-prepared to handle hurricanes or bad weather. The tips are simple and easy to use. Hence, when followed through, it will come in handy when you need it. Whether you have a standby generator or a portable generator, these tips will serve you equally.

If you are considering buying a generator, we recommend Kohler generators. Kohler generators have been around for a while, and their quality is unmatched. Get in touch with Power Systems West, an authorized Kohler distributor, to get started on your generator inquiry process. Power System West has offered backup power solutions across seven Western States since 1955. With this experience combined with Kohler power generators, you are sure you will be getting a good deal. Talk to us today about all things Kohler generators, from installation to maintenance!

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Date: December 6th, 2022

Keep Generators Outdoors

One of the golden rules of generator usage is to never run it inside your house or any structure connected to it, such as a garage or basement. The reason is that generators produce a toxic gas, carbon monoxide, which can cause deaths in as little as five minutes of exposure. For this reason, generators are strictly run outdoors in well-ventilated areas to reduce the risk of poisoning.

Purchase Generator with Inbuilt CO Safety Features

Although the threat of carbon monoxide poisoning is significantly reduced by running generators outdoors, it pays to have the CO levels detected. Quality and more advanced generators come with an inbuilt carbon monoxide detector that monitors the CO levels and switches the equipment off when the levels exceed the danger threshold.

If you own an old generator model, installing a CO detector is recommended to keep its levels monitored when the generator is running. Also, ensure the generator exhaust does not face windows, doors, or air conditioning units.

Choose the Right Wattage

Knowing your wattage requirements is critical when running a backup generator. If you are unsure of your wattage requirement, you risk overloading your generator, which can cause damage or fire. It can shut down in response if attached to a circuit breaker, but this is not guaranteed.

To reduce the risk of overloading your generator, purchasing one that matches your wattage requirement is recommended. Identify all the appliances that must remain running in the event of a power outage, from major appliances like refrigerators to minor ones like smartphones. Add up the wattage requirement of each device to get a rough estimation of how much power you will need in the case of a blackout. Then choose a generator based on your total wattage requirements.

Install Transfer Switch

A transfer switch connects your generator to your circuit panel powering your hardwired appliances. The idea behind the transfer switch is to avoid safety risks associated with using extension cords. It also displays wattage usage hence preventing the occurrence of overloads.

Use Heavy Duty Extension Cords

If you are yet to install a transfer switch, use heavy-duty extension cords designed for outdoor use. To prevent electrical hazards related to using extensions, ensure your extension is rated in watts or amps that match the total wattage required by your appliances. Also, ensure the cords and the plugs are in good condition (free from cuts) to prevent shock in case moisture or water reaches the device.

Never Backfeed Your Home

Backfeeding is powering your house wiring by plugging the generator into a wall outlet. It is considered the most dangerous practice that poses an electrocution risk to users, utility workers, and neighbors served by the same transformer.

In addition, it may bypass some household circuit breakers, damaging electronic appliances or causing an electrical fire. Therefore, avoid buying or using any extension cords made to backfeed your home. They can cause irreparable damages or numerous deaths.

Cool The Engine Before Refueling

One of the most unsafe practices is refueling a hot or running generator. It can lead to an instant explosion or fire. Instead of risking lives, turn off your generator and allow it to cool down for 15 to 30 minutes. Although it can suspend operation while cooling, this precaution is crucial regardless of the generator type or size.

Keep Fire Extinguishers Accessible

Although you might have considered all possible generator safety measures, it is advisable to keep a fire extinguisher close by in the event of an electrical fire breakout.

Use Protective Covers During On Weather

Running an inverter or portable generator in wet conditions like rain or snow can be hazardous. This is because wet conditions increase electrocution risk or explosions in freezing weather. While you can forego the generator during risky weather conditions, you can purchase a specially designed tent-like canopy from a leading store to cover the device. These protective covers protect the generator from weather impact, preventing electrocution and damage to the device.

Stock Up on Extra Fuel

Since no one can bet on how long an emergency blackout will last, it is prudent to stock up on extra fuel that can run for at least 48 hours. However, some local laws restrict the storage of certain amounts of fuel in residential areas. To be on the safer side of the law, consult with the local fire department for guidance. You might also consider a fuel stabilizer when storing the fuel for longer.

Conduct Regular Inspections

Performing periodic maintenance inspections is an incredible way of ensuring your generator functions efficiently when needed. Although different generators have different maintenance requirements, they all require regular checks on fuel and coolant, oil and filter, and an inspection on corroded nuts and possible leaks.

In addition, diesel generators become prone to breakdown if not run regularly. In this case, ensure to run your generator for at least 30 minutes even when it is not needed. Call for professional repairs if you notice a problem before it becomes a major issue.

Ensure Your Generator is Stored Properly

Besides standby generators designed to stay outdoors, most portable generators are stored indoors. While homes have different storage setups, the most suitable places to keep a generator are the garage or a shade. You can also use a generator cover to protect it from moisture and dust accumulation when it is not in use.

Conclusion

Generators have found a place in homes and commercial establishments for the ability to keep lights and operation on in the event of an emergency blackout. However, they can be equally dangerous if not correctly used or handled carelessly.

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