Commercial enterprises, multi-unit housing complexes, and other big users of electricity can’t afford to have the power go out. One of the best ways to ensure that this doesn’t happen is to install one or more commercial generators to provide backup power. These systems are made to produce the high amount of kilowatts needed to keep everything running until the main power supply returns.

Permanent Commercial Generators Typically do Not Require Manual Intervention

Commercial versions often run on natural gas, so there is no need to run outside with a can of gasoline to get them going. This allows for a much faster turn-on time and is also safer for workers.

Commercial generators also don’t require anyone to manually turn them on. They are wired into the building’s electrical system, and a switch will automatically switch that system over to using generator power. Another switch turns the generator on. In many cases, the people inside the building will only notice a second or two of electrical downtime.

What if There is no Natural Gas Supply?

Generator companies haven’t forgotten that some locations don’t have access to a natural gas line. For them, the companies produce equipment that runs on diesel or LP instead. The availability of a particular type of fuel will often determine which type of generator will be used. If more than one type is readily available at the place of installation, the most economical option can be chosen.

Since not all companies make equipment for all types of fuels, it’s important to be sure of the specifications of a generator before buying it. Good installers will cover this before selling one, but it’s a good idea to keep it in mind just the same.

What Triggers a Generator to Activate?

A common trigger is a drop in power to below 85 percent of the expected amount. The duration of the drop prior to triggering can be as short as a second or two or as long as a few minutes depending on the criteria that have been set. This allows users the flexibility to adjust the gap time according to their expected needs.

Industrial-Capacity Generators Can Produce Thousands of Kilowatts

While it is possible to choose systems that will only keep the basics of a building operational, many options exist that can keep everything running. A full-powered generator will have no trouble providing the juice for every stove in an apartment building or every piece of equipment in a factory. Systems capable of producing 100kW or more are on the market and ready to be installed.

Commercial Systems Can Produce Three-Phase Power

Three-phase power is a form that is often used by factories to energize heavy machinery. Such machinery won’t run on the single-phase type used by homes, typical offices, and other such places. Therefore, a company that needs three-phase power will need a commercial generator to provide it.

Of course, not all commercial generators produce three-phase electricity. There are plenty of single-phase options, and plenty of commercial and industrial locations that require this format. Most big generator companies produce both types of equipment so that their customers can easily get whichever one they need.

There Are Several Big Brands of Generators

Which brands are the most prominent depends on the area, so it can be a surprise to learn just how many there are. Instead of just one or two, there are actually at least five big names to choose from: GE, Generac, Cummins Power Generation, Winco, and Kohler. All of these companies have certain types of generation equipment that they are best at, and a multi-company distributor can recommend the perfect choice for your location and needs.

To learn more about the commercial generators we offer in North Dakota, just contact us. We’ll be happy to help you keep the power on.