Standby generators are often seen as a reliable backup power solution for businesses, ensuring operations continue smoothly in the event of a power outage. However, despite their very purpose of avoiding risk and providing power reliability, standby generators can pose an active risk to business continuity. Paul Brickman from Crestchic Loadbanks explores why standby generators might not be the foolproof solution businesses often think they are – and what to do about it.
The role of generators in business continuity
The primary function of a generator is to keep a business running when the main power supply is interrupted. Power outages – whether due to severe weather, equipment failures, or grid issues – can halt operations, causing delays, unrealised revenue, and a loss of productivity. A generator provides an immediate backup, providing electricity to critical equipment and systems, and ensuring that essential operations continue without interruption.
By protecting against power disruptions, generators help to safeguard operations, revenue, data, and customer relationships. They can also help to protect sensitive equipment from the damage caused by sudden power fluctuations and – in the case of hospitals and healthcare – even protect power supplies to critical life-support equipment.
Where’s the risk?
Like all machinery, a generator’s performance is subject to several variables that could compromise its ability to function when you need it most. When properly installed and regularly maintained, generators will function safely and effectively, protecting your business from the risks of power failure.
However – and here’s the risk – many businesses skip maintenance schedules or rely on inexperienced professionals to maintain their generators. Inadequately maintained systems can fail.
In the event of a power cut, generator failure spells disaster.
How to mitigate the risk of generator failure
A load bank can be used to simulate the real-world demands on a generator without connecting it to an actual load. This testing helps ensure that the generator runs efficiently under varying loads, and that controls, fuel, exhaust and cooling systems, and alternator insulation resistance are tested. This maintenance ensures any issues can be uncovered in a safe, controlled manner without the cost of major failure or unplanned downtime.
Generators that run on standby, or without being used for extended periods, can face a range of issues, including carbon buildup, and poor engine performance. By using a load bank for periodic testing, businesses ensure that the generator is put under a full load that helps prevent these issues. This type of testing will burn off excess carbon that can accumulate when a generator runs at low or no load, ensure fuel is circulating and not deteriorating in the tank, and keep the engine’s internal components working efficiently.
A load bank can help identify potential issues with the generator before they lead to power failures during a crisis. By testing the generator under simulated conditions, businesses can understand how the generator reacts and identify mechanical failures or wear before disaster strikes.
Protect your business, load test your genset
While standby generators offer an essential solution for ensuring business continuity during power outages, the importance of maintenance should not be underestimated. Businesses must invest in professional installation and regular maintenance of their systems – failing to do so presents a huge risk to business continuity.
Find out how the Crestchic team can support your business resilience and protect against power failures. Contact us here: Crestchic Sales
