Power outages can be a major problem for businesses of all types. Even if the national grid is reliable, it is not always reliable enough to keep up with the demands of business. Natural calamities, animal interference, and overload can all compromise the ability of the power grid to supply power. Blackouts can affect a wide variety of businesses, including food storage, consulting and IT services, sports arenas, and data centers.
Commercial standby generators
A commercial standby generator can help businesses stay running during power outages. Without power, businesses cannot sell products that require refrigeration, medical devices cannot function, and employees cannot keep the office air-conditioned. Additionally, if the power goes out, businesses cannot provide care to their customers or perform surgeries. Even worse, without backup power, businesses may face health hazards or lose vital data.
Commercial standby generators can be diesel, natural gas, or propane-fueled. Natural gas is available in most communities, and offers a virtually limitless supply of fuel. On the other hand, propane requires no refueling and can be stored in large tanks on-site. These generators can run anything from gas pumps to computers to HVAC units. Some even have security systems.
Types
There are many types of backup generators available for businesses. They can be purchased as a standby or a backup unit, and either can keep businesses running in case of a power outage. Both types have advantages and disadvantages. You need to determine the needs of your business before choosing a backup generator.
Backup generators are often needed when utility power is unavailable. They are also useful in optimizing the efficiency of home electrical systems. This growing market is also creating new opportunities for electrical contractors. Many backup generators must be hard-wired into a network environment. This makes it easier to find clients in this field.
One popular type of backup generator is the single-fossil fuel engine generator. This unit is capable of powering a variety of building elements and life-safety systems. This unit is often coupled with an inverter and battery bank.
Costs
One of the costs associated with operating a backup generator business is fuel. Natural gas is a cheap source of energy and is the fuel of choice for residential standby generators. A 7-kilowatt generator consumes 118 cubic feet of gas per hour, and it costs $0.82 per hour to operate. A 15-kilowatt generator uses 245 cubic feet per hour.
Another cost involved is downtime. Businesses that rely on power often lose inventory due to prolonged outages. If there are food products in stock, a power outage could mean the loss of thousands of dollars. In addition, physical stores may not be able to sell products if they are not kept at the right temperature. Having a backup generator can prevent unplanned downtime, and keep the business operating.
Maintenance
If you own a backup generator business, you need to make sure that you do the necessary maintenance for the equipment. A malfunctioning generator can cause injuries to employees and customers, and it can cost your company a lot of money. Regular maintenance will also ensure that the equipment continues to function effectively for the longest time possible.
Regular maintenance will also help you detect small issues and avoid problems during power outages. Early intervention can reduce the need for costly repairs. It can also reduce the cost of purchasing replacement parts or a new generator. There are many types of planned maintenance services available, including monthly, quarterly, and semi-annual maintenance.
Applications
A backup generator business is a good investment for any business that depends on a reliable power supply. Schools and college campuses have large numbers of students and staff and need a continuous power supply to maintain safety and security. A school that is without electricity could send its students home to a dark house, and a college campus would be without air conditioning, lights, or electronic access systems.
Depending on the type of business you run, your backup generator may be used for a wide range of purposes. Some industries, such as health care, require backup power because of industry standards and regulations. Other businesses may find that using a backup generator is a good idea, such as those that would benefit from fewer interruptions in their daily operations.