If you are looking to purchase a standby generator for your home, there are several things you need to consider. You will need to consider if you want to purchase a diesel or gaseous fuel, and whether you need to comply with EPA regulations or NFPA 110 requirements. In addition, you will need to consider the size of the generator you need to purchase.
NFPA 110 requirements
If you are considering purchasing or installing a standby generator, it is important to familiarize yourself with NFPA 110. This national level code is intended to ensure reliable electrical power in the event that the main electrical grid fails.
NFPA 110 describes the criteria for installing, operating, and maintaining an emergency power system. It includes information about power sources, disconnecting devices, control panels, and other accessories. In addition, it lists several other NFPA standards.
NFPA 110 is a helpful guide for design engineers and contractors whose jobs involve designing and installing mission critical facilities. The NFPA website offers more information about the standard.
NFPA 110 is divided into eight chapters. Each of these is devoted to a different aspect of standby generators. Some of the topics covered include fuel storage, installation, and environmental conditions.
While NFPA 110 is generally applicable to diesel-powered generators, it does have provisions for natural gas-powered gensets. Natural gas can be less expensive than diesel and is supplied by reliable municipal infrastructure.
EPA regulations
A standby generator and a prime power generator are both reciprocating internal combustion engines (RICE). Both are used in various applications. They are both designed to provide onsite electric power to a facility.
The differences between the two kinds of generators can be confusing. There are several important factors to consider.
First, emergency standby generators are used in emergency situations only. They automatically supply energy upon loss of main power. Unlike continuous power generators, they do not have a load limit.
Emergency standby units can be used for hospitals, storm abatement, UPS maintenance, and other critical facilities. These units are exempt from the Tier 4 final engine standards. However, they must meet Tier 2 and Tier 3 engine standards.
In addition, emergency standby generator sets must have permanent labels to clearly identify them as emergency generators. This can make it easier to recognize them in the future.
The EPA is now regulating the emissions of diesel engines. This includes new and existing gensets, as well as compression-ignition engines. It is important to understand the regulations and how they will affect your operations.
Choosing between diesel and gaseous fuels
When choosing fuel for standby generators, engineers have two main options. Diesel and natural gas are both popular choices. They have their advantages and disadvantages.
Fuel efficiency is a big consideration. In general, diesel fuel has a higher energy density than gasoline. This is especially true in a large kilowatt-hour application.
Natural gas offers another advantage. It is inexpensive. Many homes use this type of fuel for heating and electricity. However, it may not be available in remote areas.
Propane is also a popular fuel choice. It is often used to power outdoor gas grills. But it can be dangerous if it becomes contaminated with water or breaks down.
The best way to determine the cost of fuel for a generator is to consider how long it will be needed. Some outages only last a few days, while others can take weeks. If you are required to operate a unit for a longer period of time, you will need to refuel frequently.
Sizing a generator
There are a variety of factors to consider when sizing a standby generator. These include the amount of power needed, the number of appliances that are in use, and the size of your building.
The sizing of a standby generator is critical in ensuring that you have reliable backup power. In the event of a power outage, you can count on your generator to restore power within seconds. However, it’s important to make sure that you choose a generator that is capable of providing adequate kVA and starting kW. If you’re planning to install a generator in your home, you should consult with a qualified electrical engineer to determine the size you’ll need.
Generally, the wattage requirements for each appliance can be determined by using an amp meter. This will allow you to measure the power required when each appliance begins to run.
You can also use a Generac calculator to assign the typical running power of each appliance. You will need to multiply the number of watts in the running load by three to determine the total wattage required.