Backup generator installation may seem like a challenge, but in reality, this process can be done simply and quickly if the job is outsourced to a professional company that has sufficient experience and ability to manage the installation properly.

For light industry and commercial sectors that cannot afford to go without power, backup generators are essential – particularly in South Africa where blackouts are par for the course. While even small businesses and households battle when there is no electricity, the repercussions that outages and power failures have on large scale manufacturing plants, factories and other industrial premises can be devastating.

How does the backup installation process work, and what should companies know about making sure the process is as stress-free as possible?

A permanently installed backup generator protects your home automatically. It runs on diesel fuel, and sits outside just like a central air conditioning unit. A backup generator delivers power directly to your electrical system, backing up your entire home or just the most essential items.

A home backup generator senses a power outage, turns on automatically, and delivers backup power to your home. It will run until utility power returns – whether that’s two hours or two weeks.

Everything You Need to Know About Backup Generator Installation

Backup generators protect a variety of premises when traditional electricity is not available. These generators typically run on natural gas, petrol or propane fuel, and are placed outside much like a large scale central air-conditioning unit. When the generator senses a disruption in power, it turns on automatically and runs until power is restored.

Some of the most important things to consider when it comes to installing a generator for your premises include the following:

• Choosing a provider

Generators should be sourced from licensed, reputable suppliers who adhere to strict standards in the supply, manufacture and installation of their products. While pricing is of course always important, do not only consider this factor when choosing a supplier. It is also good to have an idea of which products are best for your needs, which are rated highly in terms of brand names and quality, whether any warranties are offered, whether installation is included (or how much it will affect pricing if not included) and whether there are any customer reviews or feedback provided on their website or on search engines.

• Typical requirements

Then, you will need to determine whether there are any laws or regulations about installing a generator within your premises. Most suppliers will consider the location of the generator, the fuel source and the power services it will need. Other things that they will determine include the sizing, how the generator will be used, and the wattage that is needed. You will also need to ensure that the generator complies with local regulations – codes, industry standards, technical requirements such as carbon monoxide detectors and any zoning laws that may be in place. Once these things are checked and approved, and you have chosen your supplier, you will be ready for the installation.

• Installation process

After purchasing the generator and any required accessories that are needed, your supplier will prepare for the installation. The installer will work with a gas installation company to connect the generator to your chosen fuel source, keeping all regulations in mind to ensure that the generator is installed legally and properly. Once it has been installed, it will be tested to make sure that everything is working as it should be, and you will be given instructions on how it operates. Most reputable suppliers also offer a maintenance plan that covers all upkeep of the generator, which further simplifies the process.

Now that you have a better understanding of how backup generator installation is done, you can get started knowing that you have all the information you need to choose a supplier and begin the installation process.