What Goes Into a Generator Load Bank Service?
There are a lot of reasons to schedule a generator load bank service and many steps go into the process. Running a generator load bank test will help improve efficiency and operational reliability. It will protect your business against unscheduled downtime and reduce the potential for damage to your system. At Gen-Tech, our power generation specialists perform load bank testing that you can depend on and the following are some of the steps that go into the process. For most diesel generators, it’s suggested to perform a no load run test for 20 minutes weekly. For diesel generators, it is recommended to perform a load bank test annually. For critical/life safety (NEC 700) generators and those that are Legally Required (NEC 701), these tests should be performed in accordance with regulations governing your industry.
Generator Load Bank Service – Trust Our Trained Team
Our highly trained and EGSA certified technicians follow strict operating procedures when conducting a load bank test. We will start and operate the generator until the water temperature stabilizes. Once stabilized, we will transfer the manual or automatic transfer switches to the emergency position. At this point, we step load the generator until the technicians reach the desired load. We’ll then remove the load and transfer all transfer switches to their normal/utility position. At the end of the test, we allow the generator system to return to the cooldown temperature established by the manufacturer.
Before the load bank test, our technicians will also check all fluid levels, including fuel, oil, and coolant. We also conduct a visual, and if desired, a thermal inspection of the system. This helps identify problems that can’t be seen with the naked eye. It’s added protection that can help ensure the reliable operation of your system.
This process provides an accurate assessment of the status of the generator. It is highly effective at identifying deficiencies and faults within the system. It can point to problems with the engine, defective components within the cooling system, and it helps ensure that the piston rings are properly seated. As an added bonus, generator load bank testing also helps remove unburned fuel deposits within the combustion chamber and along the valves.
Reasons to Schedule a Generator Load Bank Test
The most important reason is to ensure that the system will operate and perform as required when you need it. Load bank testing verifies that the system won’t overheat, won’t shut down, and won’t suffer damage under the anticipated load. It’s proactive protection that you can rely on. It helps protect you against wet stacking, fuel problems, electrical faults, and other problems that can leave your operations idling while you await repairs.
We invite you to contact Gen-Tech Power Generation Specialists at (800) 625-8324 to schedule a generator load bank service. It’s our pleasure to help you protect your systems so that you can focus on the work you need to do for your customers.