What To Look for in a Commercial Generator

5/6/2022 (Permalink)

What to Look for When Purchasing a Commercial Generator

If you're a business owner in Oronogo, MO, in the market for a new commercial generator, you may wonder what to look for and how to know if you've chosen the best one for your particular situation. There are several factors you need to consider to make your decision, but it also helps to have a basic understanding of the machine itself.

Most commercial generators run on natural gas or diesel.
The generator is made up of an engine, radiator, and alternator.
The engine creates mechanical power that is then forced through a circuit, cooled and converted to an alternating current.
Depending on the frequency of use, a commercial generator can last up to 20 years.

What's the Right Size for You?

Commercial generators come in single-phase or three-phase models, and you'll need to know which type to buy according to what you want to power in the event of an outage. Most small businesses can get away with only a single-phase generator if they only need to power basic electronics, lights, and HVAC. If your business uses machinery or large equipment, you will most likely need a three-phase.

How Will You Power It? 

Natural gas and diesel are the most common fuel sources, but propane and bi-fuel are also options. Natural gas is the obvious choice if your business is already connected to a gas line, but if you're in a remote location, diesel is the recommended option.

How Much Can You Afford?

While a small commercial generator can cost as little as $10,000, larger ones can be quite a bit more expensive. Assess how much you can do without in the event of a storm or natural disaster. What financial risks and implications will an interruption of service have on your business? It's also important to consider any maintenance or repair costs you may incur over the years, especially if you run into any generator problems.

Arming yourself with knowledge and asking the right questions will help you make the best possible decision on the right generator for your business. For advice on how to prepare for power outages and protect your business from damage and loss from storms, contact your local storm damage specialist.