Protect your Business Against Power Outages with a Standby Generator
Next year the UK faces a bleak power outlook. The head of the National Grid has warned that ‘Planned’ outages are to be expected between 4 pm and 7 pm on “those deepest, darkest evenings in January and February”. He went on to warn that the situation could be worse if wind speeds are low, reducing the effectiveness of wind turbines1.
While there is a list of businesses exempt from the outages, it’s very limited and only includes air traffic control centres, major hospital facilities with accident and emergency departments and military bases. All other businesses will be expected to have their own plans in place.
The ENA spokesperson advised that “it will not be business as usual”
What this means for businesses
The bottom line is that businesses will be even more reliant on their critical power infrastructure. Those who already have backup power provisions in place such as an uninterruptible power supply (UPS), diesel generator, or both will need to review their infrastructure to ensure it is still working in optimum condition showing no precursors to an imminent failure.
For those without it is recommended to contact a UPS/standby diesel generator specialist and arrange a site survey to determine the most suitable solution for your premises.
Common reasons for generator failure
Although modern diesel generators are generally extremely dependable and robust, as with any equipment containing consumables, issues can inevitably arise. During a time when businesses will rely on backup power provisions more than ever, it is important to look out for some of the most common issues.
- Clogged filtration system
Modern diesel generators contain a built-in air filtration system designed to ensure the carburettor receives the correct amount of oxygen to mix with the fuel. The series of pipes that form the filtration system is one of the most important elements of the internal combustion engine.
Regular inspections and cleaning of the air filtration are required to avoid clogs or damage.
- Broken block heater
A block heater is designed to keep the engine block at an optimum temperature to prevent the thickening of oil. It runs all day every day, even when the diesel generator is idle, and so will eventually wear out and fail.
Block heaters are an essential generator component and should be replaced when needed to avoid generator failure.
- Generator leaks
Generators can suffer from oil, fuel or coolant leaks. If a leak is found, the generator supplier should be notified so they can send out an engineer to patch or replace the necessary component.
- Empty or old fuel
Whether it’s due to a leak, generator gauge error or human error, an empty fuel tank is one of the most common reasons for generator failure. Without fuel, the generator simply won’t start.
- End of life battery
Maintaining the generator battery is key for keeping the battery ready to go in case of a prolonged power outage. As a generator can stand idle for prolonged periods, it’s not uncommon for the battery to drain. If this happens the generator will not start up when needed.
Regular maintenance and servicing can help prevent many of the issues that can cause generator failure. It’s also important to use the proper coolant and lubricant and to make sure that the electrical control system is functioning properly. Other factors that can contribute to generator failure include old age, poor design, and manufacturing defects, but these factors are often less controllable.
What is a diesel generator contingency plan?
A standby diesel generator contingency plan outlines the steps to be taken in the event of an unexpected situation or emergency such as that of a generator failure during a period of planned blackouts. It is developed in order to minimize the potential negative effects of the failure and to ensure that businesses are able to continue to operate as smoothly as possible.
With powerful industry partners, Power Control offers a comprehensive standby diesel generator contingency plan in which a site survey will have already been carried out and a replacement rental generator kept in stock and ready for deployment the second there is an issue reported. This means we can have the new equipment on-site within 4 hours.
In the meantime, the site’s UPS system will provide the critical power source.
Combining a UPS with a standby diesel generator provides a more robust and reliable backup power solution. The UPS provides power for a short time while the diesel generator provides a longer-term power source until the main power supply is restored. This can help prevent data loss and other problems that can occur when a power outage occurs.
Contact Power Control
The contingency plan service we offer is in partnership with Vital Power. Our long-standing relationship with Vital Power spans many years during which time we have supplied numerous diesel generator solutions. Their over 30 years of experience allow them to focus purely on their customers and provide unparalleled services like the power contingency plan.
1 https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/national-grid-blackouts-uk-winter-2022-b2232080.html