Fast (and Not So Fun!) Ways To Destroy Your Backup Power System!

Maybe you are looking for a fast way to reduce your workload. Aside from quitting, your best bet is to ensure that your business doesn’t have the power it needs when the next power outage rolls across the grid. So when you’re looking for some fast (albeit, not so fun) ways to ensure your backup power system fails, the following are things you can do to make that happen.

1. Connect the backup power system right to the service panel.

Who needs a transfer switch when you can connect the generator right to the service panel? This is a fast way to start a fire, fry the circuits in your computers and appliances, and potentially start a fire.

Never connect a backup power system directly to your service panel. The National Electric Code requires it. It is also illegal and can seriously injure or kill utility workers if power flows back up the line.

2. Ignore regular maintenance.

When was the last time your backup power system underwent a maintenance inspection? A year ago? Two years? Who knows, and who cares? It hasn’t been used since then, so it must be in working order.

Ignoring regular maintenance is an easily avoidable mistake. The longer you go without maintenance, the more likely coolant levels will drop, the fuel system will clog, gaskets will leak, and batteries will lose their charge. Moreover, suppose your backup power system fails, and you can’t prove that you maintained the unit in accordance with manufacturer requirements. In that case, you will likely find any warranty coverage null and void.

3. Cheap out on fuel.

So, you saved a few bucks buying low-grade diesel fuel from your uncle’s neighbor. It might be watery and chocked with fillers, but hey, it’s fuel, and it’s just going to sit there weighing on your bottom line.

Buying poor-quality fuel is a recipe for disaster. Not only will it diminish generator performance, but it can also cause significant damage to your backup power system. When it comes to fuel, always invest the time to purchase high-quality fuel from reputable suppliers. Further, don’t neglect tank maintenance, fuel polishing, and fuel filtering. The longer your fuel sits in the tank, the more likely you’ll need to add stabilizers and other treatments.

4. Keep it out of sight and out of mind.

Space is precious inside, so go ahead and expose your generator to the elements. It’s metal and won’t be damaged by wind, rain, ice, and changing weather. It’s also heavy, which means no one is going to walk off with it.

Or, you could protect it within a secure enclosure. This is the most effective way to make sure that the weather doesn’t damage your generator or that it doesn’t get stolen.

The Gen-Tech Power Generation Specialists team is happy to help you get the most out of your backup power systems. We encourage you to contact us and speak with our team about the best practices we recommend for our clients.

Posted Under: backup power