Install a Generator for Emergency Power
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What You Can Do
Protecting your business from disasters caused by natural hazards can involve a
variety of actions, from inspecting and maintaining your buildings to
installing protective devices. Most of these actions, especially those that
affect the structure of your buildings or their utility systems, should be
carried out by qualified maintenance staff or professional contractors licensed
to work in your state, county, or city. One example of disaster protection is
installing a generator to provide electricity during power outages.
Install a Generator for Emergency Power
Power outages are commonplace during disasters, and they may last for several
days. As a result, even businesses that are not severely damaged can suffer
losses because of the interruption of normal operations or the loss of
perishable stock. You can reduce these losses and speed the recovery process by
installing an emergency generator. First, determine which systems and equipment
are essential to the continued operation of your business. They may include one
or more of the following:
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Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems
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Industrial equipment and major appliances, such as refrigerators and freezers
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Lights (interior and exterior), computers, and other office equipment
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Pumps, including sump pumps, sprinkler system pumps, and well water pumps
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Alarm systems
Once you have identified the essential systems and equipment, determine how
much power they require. Then check with a generator sales representative
regarding the appropriate size and type of generator. The sales representative
can also help you select other components of the emergency power system,
including the main transfer switch and the electrical panel.
Tips
Keep these points in mind when you select and install a generator:
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Protect your generator and its fuel tank from flooding and high winds. In flood
hazard areas, mount the generator and tank securely on concrete platforms,
above the expected flood level. Install the generator and tank inside or next
to a building or protective structure to shield them from wind and windborne
debris. Electrical and fuel supply lines must also be protected. And remember
that your generator must be accessible for maintenance and that exhaust gases
must be routed to the outside if the generator is installed in an enclosed
area.
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Some systems and equipment may have to operate continuously (refrigerators for
example), while others may be needed only during normal business hours (such as
office equipment).
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You will need more power to restart systems and equipment when the power fails
than to continue operating them after startup. The generator you choose must be
able to meet both of these needs. (You can minimize the power requirements for
startup by starting individual systems and equipment in sequence rather than
all at once.)
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Before you buy a generator, ask your utility company if it has regulations that
govern the use of emergency power equipment. Also, the installation of the
generator and all wiring, switches, and other electrical components must meet
the requirements of your local electrical code.
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Be sure to maintain an adequate supply of fuel. Your sales representative
should be able to tell you the generator's rate of fuel consumption at various
power output levels.
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Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for routine maintenance of your
generator.
Estimated Cost
The cost of a generator will depend on the types and amount of equipment and
systems that need to be powered, the requirements of local codes and utility
companies, the type of generator you choose and its specifications (amperage,
voltage).
Other Sources of Information
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Emergency Management Guide for Business & Industry, FEMA, 1996
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Engineering Principles and Practices for Retrofitting Flood-Prone Residential
Structures, FEMA 259, 2001
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National Center for
Appropriate Technology