Commercial And Industrial Generators
Businesses often go the extra mile to stay on the beat and produce the desired outcomes. But the majority forgets to consider one of the most important factors that could topple off their work within seconds — power outages.
Generators can be big-time assets in blackouts. They prevent data and product losses, ensure a safe working environment and maximise uptime for all-scale businesses.
However, the trick to running a business successfully isn’t installing any generator. Rather, choosing the right one.
For non-residential use, commercial and industrial generators prove to be an excellent choice. The following article provides an in-depth insight into these two types, their differences, and how to choose the right generator for your business.
What Is An Industrial Generator?
An industrial generator is a sturdy power generator specifically used for industrial settings with harsh environmental conditions. For example, a chemical plant, construction sites, oil well sites, etc.
These generators are much more advanced than normal standbys given they’re exposed to continuous dust for a long period. Thus, they come with enhanced parts like air and fuel filters to prevent power loss.
What Is A Commercial Generator?
A commercial generator is a standby/portable generator that supplies backup power to non-residential areas like hospitals, data centres, small-scale manufacturing plants, business parks and so on.
Electrical outages in offices can disrupt core processes, meaning downtime, lost productivity and money burnt. On the other hand, a similar blackout in a hospital means no electrical supply for life support systems.
A commercial generator provides standby as well as continuous power for such sectors to meet their electricity requirements.
Difference Between Commercial Generators And Residential Generators
A commercial generator might be confused with a residential generator, given their purpose and mechanism are similar. However, there are a few significant differences that set these two poles apart:
1. Size
Residential generators are much smaller than commercial generators in size.
Yes, home generators are huge in front of portable ones, but that amounts to nothing if you consider a commercial generator.
While the former might seem like an AC unit, the latter sits isolated in a fixed place on a raised, concrete slab outside (or in basements) of the commercial area.
2. Strength & Usage
Being sturdier and more durable, commercial generators can supply a much higher power output for a longer time than residential generators.
So, while you can use essential appliances during an electrical emergency on a home generator, a commercial one can run an entire business park.
3. Cost
Commercial generators are more expensive than home generators, owing to their increased efficiency and power output. Plus, they are noiseless due to their use of materials that reduce and cancel vibrations.
Types Of Commercial Generators
Based on fuel type, commercial generators can be divided into the following five categories:
1. Diesel
Diesel is a common fuel type for many generators, and commercial ones are no exception. It’s safe to use, less flammable than its substitutes and hence does not pose storage or refuelling issues.
However, diesel commercial generators tend to produce noise and emissions compared to other types.
2. Gasoline
Commercial generators running on gasoline might be cheaper and readily available than diesel, natural gas or propane ones. But here’s the catch — gasoline is highly flammable and strictly needs a proper storage facility to prevent mishaps.
3. Natural Gas
If you don’t have time or assistance to refuel your commercial generator regularly, switch to natural gas. These generators come with absolutely zero storage hassle since they can be directly connected to the gas pipeline.
Plus, natural gas is environment-friendly, safe, and highly efficient. Not to forget it burns clean!
4. Propane
Propane is an eco-friendly fuel that burns clean and more importantly, without noise or emissions. In addition, it has a longer shelf life than other fuels.
But for these reasons, propane generators are priced expensive and demand expert hands on the deck for repairs and maintenance.
5. Dual Fuel
New in the market, dual fuel commercial generators provide you an option to choose between natural gas and diesel. Thus, you can use either depending upon which is available at the moment.
Types Of Industrial Generators
Based on fuel type and usage, industrial generators can be divided into the following five categories:
1. Diesel
Diesel industrial generators require low maintenance and have a much more stable life than other alternatives. But, since it’s an unclean and inefficient fuel, most large-scale factories avoid using it.
2. Natural Gas
Natural gas is an excellent alternative to diesel. However, earthquake-prone areas cannot afford to rely on this fuel — a single crack in the pipeline can prove to be disastrous.
3. Petroleum
Switching to petroleum has numerous pros — it’s affordable, in abundance in the market and has many uses. But storing it can be a tough nut to crack since petroleum is a highly inflammable fuel.
4. Portable
If you’re constructing a new industrial area and have not yet received an electrical supply from the grid, get a portable industrial generator. They look like trailers on wheels and can be transported from one place to another with ease.
5. Marine
As the name suggests, these generators are specifically built for supplying power to sites surrounded by saltwater. Thus, they are surprisingly durable and provide a safe experience.
6. Heavy Fuel Oil
Heavy Fuel Oil generators are witnessing a surge in demand, thanks to their low costs, noise, emission and fuel consumption. They are much more efficient than their counterparts.
However, they require preheating for proper functioning and thus can be a cumbersome call in some cases.
Things To Consider When Choosing A Generator
Wondering which is the right generator for your business? Below are some crucial factors you must not ignore when choosing a generator.
1. Power Output
First, decide whether you need a generator solely for providing backup (standby) or for remote operations as well (dedicated). Next, see what all equipment will be supported by the generator, i.e., the total power output your site requires.
Not to forget the phase requirements of your machinery that will run on the generator.
2. Engine Size
The size of the generator depends upon its power capacity level. The higher the capacity of the generator, the larger the size.
3. Fuel Type
Diesel is by far the winner of the fuel race when it comes to generators. Efficient and least flammable, most businesses prefer purchasing diesel commercial and industrial generators.
4. Portability
Yes, portable commercial and industrial generators are also a thing.
Medium and large-scale businesses often have a demand for generators that remain fixed in a specific location undisturbed. However, considering their prices, small-scale businesses are recommended to go for portable alternatives.
Plus, if you’re looking for a secondary standby generator besides your main one, a small portable genset is a good bet.
5. Price
The maths is simple. Better the efficiency and capacity of the generator, the more expensive it will be.
Manufacturer and brand reputation also go a long way in deciding the cost of the genset. In addition, you’ll also have to consider other costs — fuel, installation, storage, repair and maintenance, etc.
6. Accessories Included
Maybe you’ll require an enclosure to protect the generator if placed outside. Or your factory location demands a cold weather package to ensure the stable performance of the generator in harsh weather conditions.
It’s better to choose a generator that comes with necessary accessories than buy them separately (because that might cost you a fortune).
7. Warranty Period
A generator along with its installation and fuel costs is going to fall on the expensive side of the scale. Especially if you are a medium or large-scale business.
Therefore, focusing on the warranty period becomes inevitable. With a solid 3-5 years of warranty, you can cover a great many expenses (defects, repair, etc.) that otherwise would have burned a hole in your pocket.
How To Find A Reliable Commercial And Industrial Generator Company?
If you’re in dire need of a trustworthy commercial and industrial generator company, here’s where to start:
1. Research The Company
Always begin by knowing about the top brands and companies providing such products out there.
Find out what certifications they have so that you don’t end up making an unsafe purchase. See if their products fit your requirements and are available in your region.
Remember, the more well-reputed the company is, the better.
2. Contact Other Customers
Testimonials offer an honest insight into the company’s products and services, especially how they treat their customers.
A generator is an equipment that is going to require regular maintenance. Thus, you cannot overlook the significance of this step.
3. Visit Their Facility
An in-person tour of the company office in your city will help you further in taking the right decision. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of the company, its facilities, different packages, terms and conditions, etc
4. Ask Questions
Having complete clarification before finalising any purchase is crucial.
So, do not shy away from asking about the product, different alternatives (if any), why should you prefer it over other options, and so on.
5. Get A Warranty
Avoid purchasing generators that come without a warranty period. These are highly likely to have manufacturing defects, and faults and suffer damages within months of buying.
Better to pay extra bucks and get a warranty card.
6. Check Prices Online
After you’ve conducted your in-person research, get online and see if dealers are providing the same product with all the promised features at a reasonable rate.
But don’t rush the decision. It might be a scam. So, stay alert and drop the idea if things smell fishy.
7. Compare Options And Prices
Last, repeat the same steps for other brands to get a comprehensive idea of all the options. Compare prices, features and additional services offered by these companies before closing the deal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Perfect House Private Limited provides a wide range of commercial and industrial generators, to meet your specific requirements. We’re ISO 9001 and 14001 certified and all our products are compliant with safety regulations.
First, see what power output you require from the generator to meet your electricity requirements.
Next, pay attention to the size and portability of the genset. The higher power capacity of a generator means more sturdy and large-sized sets.
Don’t forget to compare your options and prices before finalising the purchase. You don’t want to miss on good warranty deals and additional accessories included in some packages.
The biggest concern with commercial and industrial generators is the massive space they take up. But that’s often respected given the high power output these generators are capable of producing
An industrial generator is stronger and more durable than a commercial one. The former is ideal for high power demands and can easily withstand extreme conditions.
Regular maintenance and using the right fuel is the key to expanding the life of your generator. Avoid overloading, storing fuel in the tank when not in use, or adding too much fuel.
Thus, it’s better to purchase from a brand that provides on-site maintenance at reasonable costs and consult them
Post a comment