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How to Choose
the Right
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Your Application

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How to Choose the Right Generator for Your Application 2/15

It’s Not
In this ebook, you will
learn how to:

Just a // Understand Common Backup

Power Terms

Generator
In order to select the right generator for your
needs, you’ll need to understand common
terms used in the backup power industry.

— It’s
Page 3

// Choose a Quality Generator

Peace The manufacturer and origin of your

generator has a big impact on its overall
performance and longevity. You’ll learn

of Mind
what to look for when searching for the
right generator.
Page 4

Now more than ever, power is synonymous

// Select Generator Accessories
with success in the business world. Since
98% of businesses report that just a Accessories are a great way to enhance
single hour of downtime can cost them your generator’s performance and efficiency.
upwards of $100,000, your investment in a Learn which backup power accessories are
generator is a smart decision for your team, worth the extra investment.
your customers and your bottom line. Page 12

A standby generator is a considerable

investment for your business, so you want
to do it right. This guide will walk you
// Choose a Trustworthy
through the most important aspects of Distributor
generator sizing, selection, customization The performance of your backup power
and installation — including tips on how system requires the purchase of quality
to ensure you’re getting a high quality products. Find out how you can spot a
generator that’s built to last. trustworthy generator distributor.
Page 13
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How to Choose the Right Generator for Your Application 3/15

Terms to Know
To understand how your generator works, you’ll need to have some knowledge of terms commonly used within
the backup power industry. Look out for these terms when selecting your generator:

AIR-COOLED SYSTEM POWER RATING

Air-cooled backup power systems use airflow to cool your Depending on the application, a generator’s power can be
generator’s engine and components. Air-cooled systems rated as one or more of the following. The importance of
are generally less expensive, but there’s a limit to how large each varies by your application.
an air-cooled system can be, which can limit their use for
industrial applications. • STANDBY POWER RATING
The electrical output for a standby or backup generator
ALTERNATOR used when utility power fails. Under non-emergency
An alternator turns mechanical energy into electrical power situations, this system usually operates less than 60
in the form of an alternating current. hours per year and operates no more than 200 hours
per year. Prime power unit has a 10% overload capability.
EMISSIONS RATING
Generators are rated by the U.S. Environmental Protection • PRIME POWER RATING
Agency (EPA) from Tier 1 to Tier 4 Final, with Tier 4 Final The rating for a generator used as a primary source of
meeting the highest emissions standards. There are very power, running up to 24 hours per day with a varying
specific regulations that dictate how generators may be electrical load. This rating is approximately 90% of the
used depending on the exact horsepower of the engine, the standby rating.
year of manufacture, the manufacturer’s EPA compliance
program, and the exact application. • CONTINUOUS POWER RATING
The rating for a generator used as a primary source
ENCLOSURE of power, running up to 24 hours per day with a fixed
An enclosure houses your generator set and is designed electrical load. This rating is approximately 70% of the
to prevent unauthorized use, protect the generator from prime rating.
weather and debris, and significantly reduce sound levels.
Different types of enclosures may do one or all of these PEAK / OFF-PEAK / PEAK SHAVING
things, depending on its design. You can use a generator to reduce your utility electrical
load during peak pricing periods (also called peak shaving).
GENSET This setup requires very complex coordination between the
Also known as a generator set, a genset is the combination generator configuration, the system installation, and the
of an engine, an alternator, a cooling system, and minimum utility company.
protection/control components. It has the primary purpose
of converting the chemical energy of fuel into electricity. RATED VOLTAGE
A rated voltage is the voltage at which your generator set
LIQUID-COOLED SYSTEM is meant to function, according to its specifications.
Like a car, the liquid-cooled system incorporates a radiator
with coolant to absorb heat from your generator’s engine. TRANSFER SWITCH
This system is common on all medium and large generators A type of circuit breaker panel, a transfer switch allows
and is much quieter than an air-cooled system. Diesel the connection of the load to two or more power sources.
generators of all sizes should be equipped with liquid- By installing a transfer switch, the user can safely switch
cooled systems for maximum reliability and performance. between the sources manually or automatically depending
on the installation and features of the transfer switch.
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How to Choose the Right Generator for Your Application 4/15

Types of Generators
Generators are manufactured in a range of sizes and formats for particular types of applications. Each generator
type has its own benefits and drawbacks, so it’s a good idea to work with a backup power expert if you aren’t
sure which type of generator is right for your business.

Mobile
Any generator that can be moved from one location to
another is considered a mobile generator. Most often, mobile
generators are used as backup generators for facilities or
temporary sites, including:

Construction job sites • Special events • Food trucks

Paper shredders • Emergency vehicles

Benefits of a Mobile Generator:

• Can be used in difficult-to-reach locations
• Can be mounted on a trailer for greater mobility
• Great for temporary power needs

Drawbacks of a Mobile Generator:

• Enclosures not as capable of reducing noise
• Limitations in terms of application scope

Standby or Stationary
Standby generator units are primarily used for emergency
power when the utility power goes out. These units are used
in a wide range of applications including:

Healthcare facilities • Emergency services offices

Server farms • Government buildings • Office buildings
Permanent work sites

Benefits of a Stationary Generator:

• Wide range of sizes for a variety of industrial applications
• Can be customized with a wide range of accessories
• Can provide standby power for demanding applications
What’s a rental-grade generator? • Liquid-cooled for quieter operation
Rental-grade generators are highly adaptable generators • Can operate automatically with the use of a transfer switch
that feature a very wide range of features in comparison
to other types of industrial-grade generators. Unlike many Drawbacks of a Stationary Generator:
industrial generators, rental-grade generators must be
• Larger financial investment
able to adapt to many different types of environments and
applications without add-ons. Therefore, they often have • Not easily moved to a new location
multiple quick-connectors and multiple selectable voltage • Requires a more complex installation process
outputs, as well as a comprehensive list of convenience and
safety features to provide maximum flexibility and versatility
no matter the application or the skill set of the operator.
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How to Choose the Right Generator for Your Application 5/15

How to Determine
What Size Generator
You Need
Generators are highly complex and require appropriate sizing to work well. Generators
that aren’t sized correctly can damage the devices, appliances and systems they are
meant to power, and may even translate to costly repairs down the line.

A generator that A generator that

doesn’t provide provides too much
enough power: power:
• Generator shutdown • Unneeded investment
• Generator damage or • Unnecessary
overheating maintance costs
• Damage to your devices, • Unnecessary fuel
appliances or equipment consumption costs
• Unexpected loss of • Short and long term
backup power damage to the engine
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How to Choose the Right Generator for Your Application 6/15

Generally, you’ll need the help of a backup power expert to select the right size generator,
but you can get an estimate of your generator size by following these steps.

Step 1.
Itemize Your Power Requirements
The desired generator output will vary by the size and type of your facility. Different types of businesses may
require power for different systems, some of which might not be needed during a temporary loss of power.

Construction or Retail establishment: Office building: Restaurant or food Healthcare facility

work site: establishment: or clinic:
• Payment terminals • Lights
• Tools • Refrigeration • Lights
• Lights • Telecommunications
• Light towers or • HVAC systems • Breathing machines
• Security systems • Security and safety
balloon lighting
systems • Appliances • Life support systems
• Data servers
• Safety systems
• Security systems
• Computers

Storm / Emergency Use Job Site

To calculate your power Essentials Construction
requirements, you will Estimated Additional Estimated Additional
Running Starting Running Starting
need to itemize which Watts Watts Watts Watts
systems and equipment Lamp (60 watt bulb) 60 0 Quartz Halogen
300 0
you want to power Refrigerator/Freezer 600 2200
Work Light (300)
during a blackout. Sump Pump 1/3HP 800 1300
Circular Saw 1200 2400
This process helps Sump Pump 1/2HP 1050 2200
Disc Sander (9”) 1200 1200
you determine which Water Well Pump 1/3HP 1000 2100
Paint Sprayer 360 1080
systems and equipment Electric Water Heater 4000 0
Electric Drill (1/4”) 300 300
are critical to your Heating / Cooling
Cordless Hand
70 150
Drill Charger
business continuity plan. Space Heater 1800 0
Lawn Care
Humidifier 13 Gal 175 0
Electric Lawn
Use this information to Furnace Fan Blower Mower
1400 4320
800 2350
begin estimating your 1/2HP
Electric Pressure
1200 3600
total power needs. Furnace Fan Blower
700 1400 Washer
1/3HP
Remember: Some Electric Chainsaw 1200 2400
Window AC 10,000 BTU 1200 3600
systems and devices Electric String
600 1500
Window AC 12,000 BTU 3250 3950 Trimmer
might not be included
Central AC 10,000 BTU 1500 3000 Electric Weed
on this chart, so review Trimmer
500 500
Central AC 24,000 BTU 3800 4950
your power needs
Central AC 40,000 BTU 6000 6700
carefully.
Heat Pump 4700 4500
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How to Choose the Right Generator for Your Application 7/15

Step 2.
Measure Power Consumption
After identifying which items you will need to power during an outage, the next step is to measure your total
power consumption during peak usage. There are a number of methods to do this, including:

Real-Time Measurement Full Load Capacity by

Use a clamp-on ammeter on each leg Billing History
of the electrical service and add the Utilize your utility company’s billing
measurements together to provide the system to find your maximum
total amps used by the facility. power usage.
Divide the total amps by three for three- Review your utility bill for the peak
phase current, and by two for single- demand each month.
phase current. Multiply the result by the
Find the highest peak demand over
supply voltage, and again by 1,000 for
the previous year and then add 25%
kilowatts required.
for reserve capacity.
Add the power in kilowatts used
by each emergency safety system
according to articles 700, 701, 702 and
708 of the NEC to the kilowatts required Square Footage Measurement
to obtain full load kilowatts (kW).
This is a popular method for measurement in
retail spaces, restaurants or grocery stores.
Use the following formulas to calculate your
electrical load:
Full Load Capacity with
Extensive Motor Use Retail application:
50 kW + 10 watts per square foot
Multiply the starting current for the
largest motor that turns on and off Other commercial application:
by the voltage for the number of 50 kW + 5 watts per square foot
watts required.
For all other motor and non-motor
loads, multiply the current by the
voltage for watts.
Calculate total watts used by the
largest motor and all remaining motor Tip
and non-motor loads and multiply by
Be sure to include mandated
1000 for kilowatts.
emergency safety systems. Add
Add 25% for reserve/surge capacity a 25% reserve capacity to your
and size the generator accordingly. calculated consumption.
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How to Choose the Right Generator for Your Application 8/15

Step 3.
Determine Starting and Running Wattage
Some electrical equipment such as compressors and motors require
an initial surge of power to get started. Following startup, demand
corresponds with rated power output and the electrical load.

For standby generator use, calculate the load on a staggered start

for multiple units to spread out the load. Use the highest Locked
Rotor (LR) rating from among all the items you want to run.

Select the items that will run at the same time, and add
the rated wattage together for the total running watts.

Select the item with the highest number of starting watts.

Add the two numbers together for total watts needed.

If you can’t determine the running watts of an item, use the

formula of watts = volts x amperes to calculate from volts
and amps ratings on the equipment labels.

Step 4.
Examine Generator Performance Charts
for Load Requirements
Once you have determined the power requirements for
your commercial generator, use information from generator
manufacturers to identify a unit that fits your specific
needs. Generators are usually rated in kilowatts and come
in a wide range of capacities. If your needs fall between
common ratings, choose the next highest capacity.

Remember Step 5.
You’ll need to have any generator sizing Consult With an Expert
results verified by an electrical contractor
or another type of certified electrician for Before you invest in a commercial generator, seek the
safety, accuracy and compliance. If you assistance of a backup power expert. Tell the expert
aren’t sure how to get in contact with about your facility and the type and number of items
an electrician, the company sizing your you’d like to power. A site visit may be necessary to
generator should be able to help. design a system that fits your needs.
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How to Choose the Right Generator for Your Application 9/15

Other
Considerations:
Generator
Noise, Lifespan
and Emissions
Your generator selection should include more than power requirements and fuel types. Factors like noise, lifespan,
reliability and emissions are also vital aspects of choosing the right kind of generator and enclosure.

Noise
Depending on how much you plan to use your generator, sound can be a
factor to consider for your investment. However, with the right enclosures and
systems, a generator can be as quiet as a central air conditioning unit.

Lifespan
Certain types of generators last longer than others, whereas some require
more frequent maintenance to continue operating well. Generally, generators
with diesel engines last longer and are more reliable than natural gas or
propane generators.

Reliability
The reliability of your generator is crucial to its performance as a backup
power solution. Without reliable access to continuous power, your business
continuity will suffer. Everything from manufacturer to fuel type will impact
the reliability of a generator.
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How to Choose the Right Generator for Your Application 10/15

Generator Fuel Sources: The Benefits of Diesel

One of the most crucial considerations when selecting a generator is fuel source. While generators can run
on propane or gasoline as well as diesel fuel, diesel generators have a number of benefits that make them a
premium choice for commercial and industrial applications. This includes:

Easier Maintenance Longer Lifespan More Efficient Performance

Diesel generators don’t have spark Diesel generators tend to last longer Diesel generators are generally
plugs or carburetors, and therefore than other types of generators. When more efficient with fuel than other
require less frequent maintenance well-maintained, diesel generators types of generators, meaning they
than other types of generators. can last three times longer than their can run for longer without the
propane or natural gas counterparts. need to refuel.

Controlling for Noise and Weather:

Generator Enclosures
The easiest and most effective way to control for operational noise and damage is by
selecting the right generator enclosure. Common types of enclosures include:

Open Skid
An open skid generator is mounted on a skid for portability
by a forklift. The open skid may facilitate placement in rough
terrain or a tight fit where the generator can’t be placed in
any other way. An open skid generator can be installed as a
packaged genset, rather than assembling components on site.
Keep in mind that a skid-mounted generator may also need
vibration isolation systems for quiet operation.

Open skid are often used for generators used in:

Construction sites • Work sites • Man camps
Buildings with dedicated generator rooms
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How to Choose the Right Generator for Your Application 11/15

Weather Enclosure Wind- and Impact-Rated

This type of enclosure solely protects from the basic Enclosures
elements (light dust, rain, and sunlight), but does Some generator enclosures have certain
not include most of the sound attenuating materials, weather-protective variations, referred to as
components, and design features required to wind- or impact-rated enclosures.
significantly reduce sound levels.
These types of enclosures are often custom
and require a much bigger investment,
Weather enclosures are often used for generators in:
sometimes five to 20 times the cost of a
• Areas prone to extreme weather or high winds standard enclosure. If you aren’t sure if you
• Locations prone to extreme cold or heat need a weather-protective enclosure, ask a
• Areas where a large amount of debris is produced backup power expert.
• Applications where operational noise isn’t an issue
Wind-rated enclosures can withstand
winds higher than other types of enclosures
— sometimes as high as 150 mph. These
are especially useful in areas where severe
weather is common.

Impact-rated enclosures are specifically

designed to withstand the impact of debris
or other materials, and are best suited for
heavy duty applications that might need
enhanced protection against the elements.

Silent Enclosure
Generators can be virtually silent, or at least operate
in a decibel range low enough to hold a normal Generator
conversation next to one. To achieve this level of
quietness requires a sound attenuation enclosure, Emissions
which uses sound absorption layers to block sound
from moving from the machinery to the enclosure wall. The EPA classes diesel generators in Tiers 1 to
Tier 4 Final , which each rating attached to a
These types of enclosures work because of two certain maximum for emissions. Certain areas
features: Noise silencers or mufflers control noise require generators to have a certain rating in
coming from engine combustion, fans and blowers; order to be used. A generator’s horsepower
and foam wrapping on pipes and conduits can stop will determine its emissions classification,
vibrations that cause significant noise which may impact where it can be used, how
often and for how long.
Silent enclosures are often used for generators in:
For up-to-date information about generator
Office buildings • Residential areas
emission regulations, visit the EPA site.
Shopping areas or retail centers
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How to Choose the Right Generator for Your Application 12/15

Generator Features
Worth the Investment
Your investment doesn’t stop with your generator. Certain accessories and add-ons can significantly improve
your generator’s operations and longevity, and may even enhance the safety of your backup power system.

Safety Switches
Your commercial generator should have a transfer switch that
automatically senses a power outage and transfers power from
your utility system to your generator. With an automatic transfer
switch, the unit will start to power your system after 10 to 12
seconds, so critical systems will be able to resume operating when
you are not around. Generators with automatic transfer switches
are safer for your personnel as well as utility workers.

Remote Monitoring
With remote monitoring, you’ll be able to see the control panel on
a computer or mobile device and monitor the performance of the
generator any time, anywhere. You can see if it’s generating the
amount of power you need, and you may be able to troubleshoot
issues as they arise. You can also receive alarms if the fuel is
running low, the engine is running hot, or if there are power
fluctuations outside of normal ranges.

Lighted Displays
With a lighted display, you can see your generator’s control panel
when there are no lights available, which could be useful for
starting and troubleshooting. You can check on the generator’s
health while it’s running, without a flashlight or other light source.
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How to Choose the Right Generator for Your Application 13/15

How to
Find the
Right
Generator Selecting the best commercial-grade
generator for your power needs is not
always a straightforward process. More

Supplier often than not, your backup power

requirements may require the help of an
expert that understands how to assess
generator performance and quality.

Before seeking out the help of a

generator expert, make sure you know
what you’re looking for in your backup
power partner. Not all distributors are
created equal, so ask yourself these
questions to determine if a distributor
is trustworthy:
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How to Choose the Right Generator for Your Application 14/15

Can they guarantee that your Do they have a proven track record
generator is made with 100% of happy customers?
genuine components? There are a number of organizations that help
Generators and generator parts that come from customers differentiate between quality companies
sources other than the original manufacturer and those whose business practices are subpar. One
may not meet quality standards outlined for your of these organizations is the Better Business Bureau
application. Even if you purchase a generator (BBB), which rates companies based on a variety of
made with engines manufactured by recognized important factors. Look for distributors who have at
brands like John Deere or Kohler, you still risk least an A rating from the Better Business Bureau.
poor performance if the other main components
of that generator have cheap aftermarket or
counterfeit parts.
Are they an official distributor of well-
known generators or generator parts?
Look for a supplier that can verify the authenticity
of their products the following ways: Many well-established distributors will create formal
partnerships with generator manufacturers, and
• Parts are individually serialized and tracked will often work as either an official distributor or an
back to the original manufacturer exclusive distributor for these brands. This further
enhances the quality of their products and may
• Parts and products are purchased directly from
even translate to better prices for customers. If a
the manufacturer (not a middleman)
distributor is an official or exclusive distributor of one
• Manufacturers will certify the authenticity of or more trusted brands, they can certainly be trusted
their products with your power needs.

• Generators and generator parts come with at

least a one-year international warranty

Beware of Cheap
Are their employees and
Aftermarket Parts
customer service representatives
Counterfeit and cheap aftermarket parts are
knowledgeable?
a common underlying factor when it comes
Understanding generators and backup power to poor generator performance. From the
requires a much higher level of specialized outside, a fake part may be indistinguishable
knowledge than most people possess. While some from a real one, but inside they don’t have
distributors may hire employees who are strictly the same performance characteristics. Fake
salespeople, trustworthy distributors recognize bolts can break and counterfeit electrical
the importance of having a knowledgeable staff. equipment can be overloaded, leading to
failure of your entire backup power system.
Look for distributors whose employees are
certified by the Electrical Generating Systems To avoid purchasing a generator made
Association. Those who pursue this certification with counterfeit or cheap aftermarket
must adhere to robust guidelines and pass a test parts, work with a verified dealer for the
to verify their expertise. brand of equipment you use, and purchase
only brand-name replacement parts and
accessories. The consequences of saving
a few dollars could be catastrophic if your
generator fails when you need it most.
 Why Work / / // ////////
with General
Power?
At General Power, we have over 40 years of combined industry
experience and a track record of quality customer service and
superior product selection. We work with brands which have
over 100 years of combined industry experience.

As an exclusive distributor for many major generator brands,

we offer one of the largest selections of generators and 100%
genuine generator parts at competitive prices. Unlike many
in the industry, many of our products are ready for same-day
shipping from one of our global distribution centers. A+
rating by the Better Business Bureau

Our experts can help you select, size and 40+ years
customize your generator. combined industry experience
operating in both North American
and South American locations
Contact us or call us at 1-833-428-0674 to
begin building the perfect backup power
system for your business. Single Source
CONTACT US
Solution:
As a certified OEM and official
distributor, General Power is a single
point of responsibility for the generator
set and its components

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