The small generators

Portable generators (up to 15kW) most often use gasoline as fuel. The more powerful – mandatory diesel fuel.

Three-phase electricity

If you have access to three-phase power grid, but your consumers are single-phase, a good option is to use a three-phase diesel generator plus a switchboard to allocate power over the phases.

Generator engine

The “heart” of the generator is the engine. Ordinary care for the engine should be taken – similar procedure as per cars’ engines. We recommend regular change of consumables (filters, oil, etc.) every 250 hours of operation or 2 years.

Autonomy of the generator

Automatic diesel generators are completely autonomous. They start automatically when the main grid is off, and when it is restored, they go into “stand by” mode. However, they need a little attention – checking the fuel level, starting battery, plus regular maintenance (by certified engineer).

Loss of main grid

When the main power is off, the generator starts up, but the power is restored only after 30-40 seconds? This is normal because the generator needs time to normalize its operation in order to be able to produce quality current.

Winter endeavor

How do generators start in winter? Modern machines have water heaters that keep the coolant warm during the cold months and thus the engine ready to start.

Power quality

My generator turns, but yet there is power from main grid… what’s the problem? Good generators constantly monitor the quality of the current – its voltage. When the voltage goes down or up significantly (+/- 10%), the generator switches on automatically and replaces the mains supply, and keeps on monitoring it until the voltage returns to normal limits. Thus, the generator protects electrical consumers from damage. This +/-10% tolerance can be increased through software programming, but we do not recommend doing so unless you plan to replace your appliances.

Noise

Generators emit noise when working. Low frequency, unobtrusive, usually not disturbing even sleeping people. EU-made generators meet all noise standards for such equipment.

Suitable place for the generator

When choosing a place to install the generator, some technical requirements should be taken into account, but it is also important to ensure the comfort of the users: choose a place away from the main activities in the property, away from the sleeping rooms in house, in the opposite direction of the prevailing winds.

Security measure

Soundproof generators installed outdoors are not dangerous for children and pets. However, we advise you to limit access to them as much as possible (Тhuja plants are an excellent solution).

In-house installation

Generators can also be installed indoor, in technical premises. In such a case, some additional installations should be made – for air inflow and exhaust gases, as well as requirements for safety of use and against fire.

Exhaust smoke

When starting the generator, a cloud of black smoke comes out of the exhaust, which immediately decreases to almost invisible values. This is normal and related to the infrequent use of the device.

Generator power

When you define the power of the generator, the electrical consumers to be reserved should be about 75% of generator’s prime power. This way you save some reserve at startup, as well as the ability to install additional equipment. On the other end, if the load is below 40% of the generator prime power, the machine is not working well and technical problems may occur. Think carefully, and best of all – give us a call – we’re professionals in reserved power engineering and can calculate precisely, plus to provide expertise.

When mains grid is restored

The time between the loss of mains power and its restart by the generator is about 40 seconds. This is a normal and technically necessary time. If you need certain consumers to not stop working even for a second – we will offer you a UPS device for that equipment.

Calculation of the consumed power

The mathematical sum of the consumption, taken from the plates of your appliances does not always give the total power required. If you have electric pumps or other appliances with electric motors, the starting current is higher than the rated current. Sometimes – significantly. You need to assess it and ensure the power of the generator takes into account this fact.