If you own a commercial building, you'll probably want some sort of backup power supply. You might even be required to have emergency power in some types of buildings. These keep emergency signs and equipment operational. However, you may want a generator that can run most of your building's lights and equipment that's needed to continue conducting your business when the power is out. Here's some more information about commercial generators and their installation.
Start By Choosing The Generator And Power Source
A contractor can help you choose the right type of generator by calculating the amount of power you want to use and then matching the size of the generator to your needs. You can power only the things required by fire codes, your whole building, or anything in between.
It's also necessary to choose your power source. If your building is in the city where natural gas is available, that's probably what you should choose. Natural gas is hooked up and always available so it is easy to switch on during a power failure. Plus, you never have to worry about running out of natural gas like you would diesel or propane from a tank.
Decide On The Placement Of The Generator
One of the first steps in a commercial natural gas generator installation is to choose where the generator will sit. Once that's known, you can have a natural gas line connected to the location. You'll want the gas hookup in place and ready to use once the generator is installed.
When you're sure about the placement of the generator, the contractor can pour the concrete slab. It's best to rest the generator on a slab rather than the soil or gravel since the unit vibrates and it might shift slightly if it isn't on level and solid concrete. A commercial generator needs to stay flat, so it's important it rests on the proper base.
Some things to consider about the placement of the generator is to choose a place where the generator has some protection from vandals and weather. You'll also need the generator to be easily accessible for maintenance and repairs, yet out of the way of customers and employees.
Install The Generator Transfer Switch
There are two ways to install a natural gas commercial generator. One is to hook it up so an employee has to turn the generator on with a manual transfer switch when the power goes out. This isn't nearly as convenient as having an automatic transfer switch installed. It's handy since the switch automatically turns the generator on when the electricity goes out. It also turns the generator off when the power comes back on.
A manual transfer switch might be safer though since you won't have to worry about the gas switching on before it's safe. The contractor can help you choose the right method of installation based on the type of building you have and what type of work goes on inside. For more information on a commercial natural gas generator installation, contact a professional near you.
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