Uncategorized

Having adequate and appropriate lighting in your warehouse is very important. It could be a retrofit or a complete service upgrade and repair process. However, fixing your lighting requirements should be at the top of your to-do list.

Why is good lighting critical in a warehouse setting

Good lighting is critical in a warehouse for several reasons. It improves safety conditions. Proper lighting can prevent accidents, such as trips, slips, and falls. It can also help workers to see potential hazards, such as obstacles or spills, and avoid them.

In addition to that, good lighting can improve worker productivity and accuracy by allowing them to see their work clearly and reducing eye strain. It can also reduce the risk of theft and vandalism by making it easier to detect suspicious activity.

Many workplace safety regulations require minimum levels of lighting in certain areas. So, good lighting is essential to maintaining a safe, efficient, and productive working environment in a warehouse. 

Determining warehouse lighting requirements

The lighting requirements for a warehouse depend on various factors, including the size and layout of the space, multiple types of work being performed, and the safety regulations in your area. Below are some general steps to help you determine your warehouse lighting requirements:

Assess the space: Consider the size and layout of your warehouse. Also, look at other areas that may require additional lighting, such as loading docks or storage areas.

Identify the tasks being performed: Think about the types of tasks that will be performed in the warehouse, such as packing, assembly, or inventory management. Different tasks may require different levels of lighting.

Determine the lighting levels: Use lighting standards recommended by lighting industry associations or regulations in your area to determine the appropriate lighting levels for each area of your warehouse.

Design the lighting layout: Once you have determined the lighting levels and technology, design the layout of the lighting fixtures to ensure adequate coverage and avoid glare.

Install and test the lighting: Have a licensed electrician install the lighting fixtures and test the lighting levels to ensure they meet the requirements.

Von Power suggests LED replacement and upgrades

Von Power recommends LED replacement and upgrades as it has several benefits for warehouse applications. These include the following:

Energy efficiency

LED lighting is highly energy-efficient and uses up to 80% less energy than traditional lighting, which can lead to significant cost savings regarding your energy bills.

Long lifespan

LED lights have a long lifespan. They can last up to 25 times longer than traditional lighting. This reduces the need for frequent bulb replacements and maintenance.

Improved visibility

LED lights provide brighter and more uniform illumination, improving visibility and thus reducing the risk of accidents and errors in the workplace.

Sustainability

LED lighting is environmentally friendly, as it does not contain hazardous materials and is fully recyclable.

Lighting automation

LED lights can be easily integrated with smart lighting automation. This includes motion and daylight sensors to increase energy efficiency further and reduce costs.

Are you ready to make these improvements in your warehouse, be it retrofit or full-service upgrade and repair? Contact Von Power today to get the perfect warehouse lighting set-up. They also offer lighting automation solutions.

Installing solar panels can help you save a staggering 90% on your monthly energy bill. Since the price of putting up solar panels has reduced over the years, it is something you ought to consider. Here are ten frequently asked questions about solar panel installations at residential or commercial properties.

What are the benefits of solar panel installs for residential properties?

Upgrading your property with a solar panel installation could negate your power bills. Apart from this, you will be using an environmentally friendly, reliable source of energy that is sustainable. Solar panels have a low maintenance cost and can also get you tax credits or rebates from the government. It increases property value and can even open up avenues to earn money if you can share the energy you generate with others.

What are the benefits of solar panel installs for commercial properties?

Every cent you save can be invested into the business as a commercial establishment. Solar panels lower your power expenditures and help safeguard your business against power outages and unexpected rises in electricity costs. It also increases the valuation of your commercial property.

How is a solar panel installation the best fit for my property?

Getting energy audits done by a professional company like V Power can help you understand if your property is fit for a solar power installation. You can start by checking your average energy consumption. Then measure the roof space you have available. Normally, a solar panel is 17.6 square feet in size and can produce approximately 15 watts of power per square foot. See if this works for you, and then you can proceed with the installation.

Will a solar panel install affect my property value?

Yes, a solar panel installation increases the property value.

How do solar panels function?

Solar panels are comprised of photovoltaic cells which absorb sunlight and convert it into energy. This energy helps create an electrical charge and is channelled internally to provide power to the main grid of the property.

My property is in a region where there is seasonal change. Will the seasons, climate, and weather (precipitation) affect how the solar panel function?

Solar panels are built to endure harsh climatic conditions. Heavy rain or hail may reduce its efficiency, but solar panels will continue to function.

Will the solar panel work in the event of a power outage or blackout?

Solar panels can continue to work in an outage or blackout if you have solar battery storage in place.

What is the lifespan of a solar panel system?

The average lifespan of solar panel systems is more than twenty-five years.

Will my roof need to be repaired or redone to install solar panels?

If your roof is functioning properly and is within warranty, there is no need for repairs. But if you are facing roof problems, it is best to get it redone before your solar panel installation.

Will solar panels ultimately save me money long-term?

Yes, solar panels come with a warranty of about 25 years and have a payback time of 8-16 years, depending on the size of the installation. Solar panels are a significant long-term investment as it leads to a more than 80% reduction in energy costs.

Want to investigate more about the advantages of solar panels? Call Von Power today for a consultation. Their team has managed numerous installations and will be able to answer all your questions.

Light poles require to illuminate the area effectively. So it is essential to determine the placement of light poles correctly. Service upgrades and repairs need to be done in case of poor lighting conditions. Here are a few things that need to be considered to achieve the desired results.

Determining Light Pole Distance

The distance between light poles depends on the height of the light pole. As a general rule, streetlights should have a space of 2.5 to 3 times the height of the light pole between them. For example, street lights of 6 meters in height should have a gap of 15 to 18 meters in-between.

If the area is densely populated, then you should have light poles that are closer together to offer enough illumination. Whereas for sparsely populated regions, the light poles can be placed farther apart.

Determining Light Pole Height

Determining the height of a light pole will depend on the purpose, the placement, the type of light, and the lighting method. Conventionally, the height of a light pole is below 15 meters. For bicycle paths and pavements, the light pole is 5 to 6 meters, whereas by-lanes, side roads, and narrow streets would need 8 to 10 meters of high poles. Commercial wide roads and industrial areas usually have light poles that are about 12 meters high. In the case of street lights, the pole’s height depends on the width of the road—the wider the road, the higher the pole. If you are using solar-powered lights, then the light pole should be taller than the surrounding trees.

The lighting method is another factor that can determine the height of a light pole. For example, if the lights are placed on the single side of the road, the ratio of pole height to road width should be 1:1. This means an 8 meters high pole for an 8-meter-wide road. In places where the light pole is installed on both sides of the road, the pole height to road width ratio changes to 0.5:1 (5-meter high pole for a 10-meter wide road). And when the lights are placed on both sides at staggered intervals, the ratio changes to 0.7:1 (7-meter tall pole for a 10-meter wide road).

Determining Light Pole Location

The arrangement of light poles can be determined based on the area. A single-side layout works well for narrow roads, but you would need two side opposite, or staggered, layouts for medium-sized roads. Central pole arrangements with lights on both ends are required for larger roads.

In order to ensure proper placement of the light pole, commercial constructions have to take care of the tilt angle, pole distance from the curb, light overhang, and boom length as well.

Other factors to consider while determining light pole height, distance, and location are state regulations, traffic conditions, the feasibility of getting underground electrical work done, lighting design, and beam angles. Inadequate road lighting can lead to eye fatigue for commuters, especially on long journeys. This could result in accidents. Therefore, it is essential to place light poles correctly to ensure road users have good visual conditions and safe movement.

The lighting your commercial establishment sports makes a difference to your business’s success. Think about it. Would you be attracted to the well-lit storefront with a parking lot that has enough lights to let you park safely and walk in without encountering any dark segments? Or would you step towards the dimly lit store that lies shrouded in shadows?

Any commercial construction gets an instant curb appeal with the right kind of lighting, and that’s why it is essential to ensure that your business’s lights are always in top-notch condition.

The importance of maintaining commercial property light poles

Your commercial light poles ensure that your property is well lit-up and safe for your customers and visitors. Especially for new customers, a poorly lit store is a definite turn-off because they have to invest extra effort in figuring out how to find their way around in the dark. For old customers, the bright lights offer a “Hey! Welcome back” vibe from a distance that draws them in before your competitor across the road can catch their attention.

Needless to say, good lighting also keeps your storefront or office safer by deterring vandalism and theft. It keeps accidents to a minimum and reduces your risk of facing a lawsuit from a furious customer who slipped and fell in your parking lot. Periodic service upgrades and repairs of your commercial lighting have a number of benefits to offer.

Now, is it necessary to do this periodically? Yes, your outdoor commercial lighting is exposed to elements, which can quickly wear down several components until, finally, the light stops working. For example, the bolts and nuts in the lighting pole can rust away, loosen or fall out, leaving your pole unsupported. Work done around the lighting can structurally damage its support and leave it on the verge of falling down. Cracks and fissures in the wall or ground supporting the light can widen in the future, forcing you to invest a big sum in reconstruction. The underground electrical may be affected by water logging during rains.

Plus, there is always the wear and tear caused by climactic conditions that could cause the lights to malfunction. Periodic inspections and maintenance help you keep your property well-lit at all times. It also averts large bills in the future by enabling problem-solving when the issue is still correctable with small-budget repairs.

How frequently should you inspect?

Put a system in place to carry out an inspection at regular intervals. It is advisable for you to carry out a visual inspection every two to three months to spot any damage, loose nuts, or wobbly poles. Annual maintenance and service of all light poles and fittings by a professional is a significant investment to avert a slew of problems later on too.

Some of the inspections that the professional will be doing include checking the base/ support of the fixture, corrosion checks, tightening/ replacing bolts, screws, and other types of fastenings, bulb replacements, testing underground electrical wiring for breaks and disconnections, and testing integrity of the light fixture itself and its components.

Repair or replace?

Based on the inspection, the professional may advise you to replace the lights if repairs are either futile or not worth the money. If the light cannot be repaired, this is an excellent time to think of LED replacements and upgrades. LEDs can save you a lot of money in the long term by keeping your power consumption low. Talk to the professional to know which options are best.

Addressing lighting problems quickly and ensuring your property is well-lit is good business sense. Make this a part of your routine property maintenance, and your customers will thank you. After all, you don’t want to leave them in the dark. You want to make it easy for them to walk right into your store or business establishment without a second thought.

Von Power weighs in on the benefits of adding an EV charging station at home and a few ways to prepare for the installation. (Source: The Spruce, How to Prepare Your Home and Garage for an Electrical Vehicle, By Lee Wallender, December 11, 2022, https://www.thespruce.com/installing-electric-car-charger-at-home-6504202 ).

Electric vehicles may well become the only mode of transportation in the future. It makes sense for you to prep your home for them, especially if you factor in how they are earth friendly and quiet. The first step in gearing up for an EV-friendly future is to incorporate an EV charging station.

Lee Wallender from The Spruce points out how many EV users express a clear preference for home charging points because of the unreliable availability of the same at public spots. Von Power has some points to add about the advantages of including an EV charging station for residential properties. “Faster and cheaper are just two of the major benefits of investing in your very own home EV charging station installation,” they point out. “While there are rapid chargers on many commercial properties outside, the cost and availability are definitely a deterrent. That’s when you consider that you can have your own home charging station doing the same task. An at-home station is both reliable and always ready.”

Another crucial point made by Lee Wallender is that your EV may require uninterrupted charging for a long duration. EV charging station for residential properties makes it simple for vehicle owners to leave their EVs to charge overnight so they’re ready to go in the morning. Von Power adds a significant point here: “Your home EV charging station allows you to keep track of your vehicle’s power consumption and, thus, its performance. Also, remember that if you have the option to claim tax benefits, then this data can actually save you tax dollars. If you can schedule your charging during off-peak hours, you may also save big bucks on the electricity bill, despite charging at home.”

The Spruce article also explains a critical point to note before beginning your EV charging station installation at home. Home EV chargers draw power from the home’s electricity, but the charging actually happens within the EV’s built-in charger. Von Power has some valuable inputs to add here. “Take into note your EV’s range, your driving speed on average, and your daily commute distance when you plan for the EV charging station installation,” they say.

However, they also highlight the importance of matching your car and home’s electrical capacity with the charger you would like to get. “Making sure it all matches is the first step before you invest in the home EV charging station. Therefore, be sure that any electrical upgrades or repairs are completed beforehand, or else you could end up with an incompatible component,” they caution. “Calling in the professionals and getting their input can save you a lot of anxiety, time, and money. It ensures that your home EV charging post is ready in the minimum time and compatible with the rest of the home.”

Von Power also has input on garage space considerations, another point made by Lee Wallender in The Spruce. “Once you have established that the home has enough electrical capacity to maintain a charger, making space for the installation process is next. Often a garage is a home for miscellaneous household items. As the article mentions, dedicate a specific area where the car will be parked. You may want to consider insulating your garage as this can help to extend the car battery.”

Von Power are well-known professionals when it comes to EV home charger installations. Contact Von Power today for more information.

Are you combating high energy bills? When was the last time you had an energy audit? What is an energy audit, you say? Well, read on to have all your questions answered! 

Frequently asked questions on energy audits 

What is an energy audit?

An energy audit is a process in which professional electricians and audit specialists visit your property to conduct an assessment of your energy consumption.   

Is an energy audit necessary?

Yes, an energy audit is necessary as it helps you reduce your electricity consumption and lower your energy bills. At the same time, energy audits also help you improve the efficiency of your electrical appliances. 

What do property owners need to prepare before an energy audit is conducted? 

As property owners, you need to have your utility bills for the past 2-3 years. Make a list of problems you are facing, and arrange or inform the professionals to carry the necessary equipment like ladders. 

What can a property owner expect after an energy audit?

After an energy audit, the property owner may need to do some electrical maintenance and panel upgrades. Many energy specialists also suggest LED replacement and upgrades, insulation, ductwork, sealing air-leak points, replacement or maintenance of heating and cooling systems, and updates in appliances. 

How long is an energy audit?

A regular energy audit would last about half an hour to an hour. 

What will the follow-up report confirm?

The follow-up report after an energy audit should have the details of the implementation of the action plans suggested by the auditors. 

Can homeowners or property owners perform their energy audit?

Property owners can do interim energy audits to ensure all electrical appliances and panels are functioning correctly. However, it is advisable to get a thorough energy audit done by professionals every 4-5 years.  

Frequently asked questions on retrofits 

What is retrofitting?

Retrofitting is the process of upgrading something that was previously constructed or manufactured. 

Which kind of upgrades should a property owner consider?

Property owners should consider a few upgrades to optimize their energy usage: solar panel installation, lighting automation, electrical panel upgrades, LED replacements, smart appliances, and energy-efficient windows. 

How to identify that my home or commercial building needs retrofitting?

A professional energy audit can identify if the residential or commercial property needs retrofitting. 

What are the purpose and benefits of retrofitting a home or commercial building?

Retrofitting improves the energy performance of a property. It is an environmentally friendly, efficient, and economically viable solution to save the cost of utility bills. Retrofitting also increases the life of an existing building. 

What are the three types of retrofits? 

There are three types of retrofits:

Minor – This retrofit type involves one solution, or a few small upgrades focusing on one problem, which would lead to energy savings of about 15%

Major – This involves retrofit solutions to multiple problems all over the property, which would lead to energy savings of up to 40% 

Deep – Deep retrofitting involves a complete renewal of the building’s electrical fittings. This could lead to more than 40% of energy savings.  

It is recommended to get an energy audit done for your commercial or residential properties once every four years. Or you can do it with every service upgrade and repair you get done. This process will help keep your energy usage effective. 

Lighting for commercial spaces has played an important role for as long as industries have existed. Industrial lighting may have started as fluorescent and incandescent-style. But, businesses are carrying out projects like LED replacement and upgrades to make way for more energy-efficient lighting. Suppose a company plans to change its current lighting system. In that case, it is essential to understand the options available and what they entail.

Factors to consider when choosing commercial lighting

Thanks to the revolution in the lighting industry, industries have a wide variety of commercial options to choose from. Depending on the nature of a business, workers and managers may face unique issues that need to be addressed with suitable lighting options. Understanding the factors involved in making an informed decision can prove helpful.

Energy efficiency

Energy efficiency is a significant reason to adapt LED lighting solutions and commission retrofit projects for small and large facilities. Compared to traditional lights, the energy consumption of LED lights is much lesser. This can provide significant benefits in the long run.

Safety

LED lights have a high Color Rending Index (CRI), which means that they can replicate natural colour and light. Because of this, the quality of light provided by LED fixtures makes for less strain on the eyes, improves visibility, and helps prevent workplace accidents. This is especially important for work environments like kitchens, assembly plants, and laboratories.

Scalability

The versatility of LED lighting means that it can be scaled up or scaled down as required. Whether the project is for a large sports arena or a small research lab, lighting and design needs can be met with precision.

Code compliant

All commercial spaces are required to comply with a set of regulations about lighting. Non-compliance can prove to be costly for building managers and workers. LED options may prove to be the solution to this problem.

Cost and savings

Cost considerations come at the start of almost any project undertaken by companies. It is true that the initial installation costs for LED retrofits, especially for more extensive facilities, can be on the higher side. But, they provide immense financial advantages in the long term. Lesser power consumption naturally means low expenses. Service upgrade and repair requirements are lower, helping reduce operational costs.

Durability

Ensuring that the chosen commercial lighting fixtures are manufactured from quality materials can help prevent replacement or maintenance costs. Rather than going for sub-par installations, initial extra expenditure on quality LED solutions will be advantageous thanks to the durability and robustness it will provide.

Aesthetics

For establishments like restaurants, retail stores, or boutique hotels, aesthetics can play a significant role in selecting lighting components. While the application of LED lighting stretches far and wide, not every industry may focus on the aesthetic aspect. However, it still helps to consider the ambiance a specific type of lighting creates and whether it matches what is necessary.

Level of light output

The lumen output of a light fixture is an essential factor that makes a lot of difference. The amount and type of lighting required for a theatre will be different from the requirements of a parking lot or a garage. Canopy lights, High Bay lights, Corn Lamps, and Tube Ready fixtures are a few different types of LED lights with different lumen outputs.

Consider all the various factors involved in selecting an appropriate lighting solution for your commercial space. Look at the differences between traditional and LED lighting. This will assist you weigh the pros and cons, helping you make an informed decision.

Since the day Ben Franklin flew his kite into a storm, humans as a species have been obsessed with harnessing the power of electricity. Today, practically everything in our life – phones, computers, appliances, factories, etc. – runs on electricity. Renowned climate change expert Rick Smith believes that we should ‘electrify everything,’ and the folks at Von Power can’t help but agree. (Source: Maclean’s, How to fight the climate crisis with electricity, Rick Smith, May 10, 2022, https://www.macleans.ca/society/environment/how-to-fight-the-climate-crisis-with-electricity/

The spread of electrical machines

Von Power explains, “As the acceptability of fossil fuels and their emissions declines, people need an alternative source of energy. This can be used to run cars, power homes, and protect the future.”

This is a conclusion Rick Smith has arrived at separately. He has seen the change in his neighbourhood from 2019, when there was a lone EV owner, to now, when the country is rapidly installing stations for EV chargers, residential and commercial alike.

The cost of energy

A future that looks vastly different from the present can be scary. To think of a world where almost everything runs electrically is hard to imagine. Especially when so many people rely on traditional forms of energy production as employment. Rick Smith posits that this is a blessing in disguise, pointing to the electrification of Europe’s economy as an example. Von Power doubles down on the idea. “Countries like Norway, which are known to be leaders in sustainable energy use, have the highest use of EVs. They have lighting automation in homes and a steady employment flow in the service upgrade and repairs industry.”

Essentially, they take traditional methods of energy production and substitute them with newer, cleaner methods. Job openings in the power sector are expected to see a rise as more and more sections of the world implement electrical upgrades in their daily lives.

The pollution problem

As President of the Canadian Climate Institute, Smith brings attention to a significant alarming fact. The amount of pollution and greenhouse gases being released into the atmosphere every year must go down fast. After all, it affects not only the global temperature but also the air quality, both of which are hazardous to human life.

“The cost of electrical panel upgrades in residential and commercial buildings is not as high as it used to be. EVs are also becoming cheaper and more efficient by the day.” Von Power explains, adding, “When the energy efficient and sustainable solutions also become cost-effective, it becomes the superior option.”

Climate change presents a very real issue, and so it comes down to one simple question people have to ask themselves, “Why shouldn’t you electrify everything?”

Humans evolve, and with us, our technology evolves too. This gives hope to Rick Smith, not just for our species but for the planet as well. As a solemn message, Von Power urges people, “Even in little ways, everyone can contribute to reducing emissions. This can be done by upgrading lifestyle, whether it is through an energy audit, lighting automation, panel upgrades, or buying an EV.”

Change is inevitable, one way or another, but it’s up to us what direction we decide to head in.

A fire alarm system is present in almost any building you enter, be it a home or a place of business. Detection of fires is a very crucial need for any structure’s safety measures. Let us learn about the types of fire alarm systems and understand how the installation works.

The different types of fire alarm systems

Early detection of fires helps prevent dangerous incidents involving people, property, machinery, and more. Let us understand, in brief, the different kinds of systems that are installed to keep buildings and their inhabitants safe. 

Basic Home System

There are two common types of basic home fire alarm systems — photoelectric and ionization. The photoelectric alarm relies on a beam of light, whereas ionization alarm systems detect smoke.

Conventional Fire Alarm System

This is an older version of fire detection, where each device or detector is connected through physical cabling to the main control panel. Detection happens through a ‘zoning’ concept where the space is divided into different zones with multiple detectors, making this an ideal choice for smaller properties.

Addressable Fire Alarm System

As the name suggests, this system recognizes a particular device located anywhere in the building. The detectors are interconnected with each other as well as to the main panel, and a unique address is assigned to each of them. Fluctuations in the given parameters of the device prompt it to send a signal to the control panel, which can read exactly which sensor it has come from.

Intelligent and Wireless Fire Alarm Systems

Intelligent systems are those whose detectors incorporate computers of their own that can evaluate the environment and send out appropriate task signals to the main control panel. Due to their ‘self-aware’ nature, they can more accurately detect fires and prevent false alarms. These are often more complex than the others mentioned.

Along with Intelligent Systems, there are also Wireless Systems, which are relatively new fire alarm systems. Wireless fire alarm mechanisms make use of multi-frequency links between detectors and the controllers, allowing for greater functionality.

Types of detection devices

Depending on the application, detectors come in various types. Each has its advantages and disadvantages, and understanding which would help better determine the right one for your purpose.

Carbon Monoxide (CO) Detector

CO detector works on the principle of carbon-monoxide detection, which is a by-product of most fires due to combustion.

Heat Detector

This device works by detecting temperature changes, either on a fixed temperature basis or depending on the rate of temperature change.

Manual Call Point

The apparatus most often seen by people in all buildings is ‘In Case Of Fire, Break Glass.’ This prompts personnel to alert the central systems using a manual trigger for the alarm.

Multi Sensors Detector

These detectors use a combination of sensors, such as carbon monoxide, heat, light, or smoke, to detect fire.

Smoke Detector

This detector is activated by smoke and light. The triggers are ionization, light obscuring, and light scattering.

Determining which fire alarm system you need

Fire detection mechanisms cannot be approached with a ‘one-size-fits-all’ mindset, as it depends on factors like the size of the space, cabling capabilities, and unique industry requirements. Regular upgrades are mandatory. Industry standards suggest commercial buildings update their fire alarm systems once in 10 years and residential properties every 15 years. Professionals adept at providing fire alarm installation services, like those at Von Power, should be called in for help.

Existing fire alarm systems can also be thoroughly inspected for any improvements and fire safety code compliance. Safety system and device providers often have the expertise to determine the needs of virtually any space.

Contractors must understand the various types of fire alarm systems available today. This article has attempted to highlight the details in brief. Engaging with professionals like Von Power will help you navigate this safety need. Contact Von Power today!

A severe winter is not the time for you to tough it out in freezing cold when the power goes out. A generator can help you power up critical appliances and heating so you can manage without too much trouble. However, buying a generator or maintaining one in good repair is often fraught with complexity for first-time users. Here are some FAQs that should help:

What are the various types of generators?

Natural gas

The green option to power your home in the event of outages is natural gas generators which are growing popular. However, they may not be ideal for a large business or for power outages that last several hours.

Propane

A relatively cleaner option, this is affordable too. The downside is the fuel availability, which may not be as consistent as you would prefer.

Diesel 

A cost-effective and low-maintenance option, the diesel generator is also a resilient, long-lasting appliance that can handle significant loads. Be it your home or office, the diesel generator, with its fuel-efficient performance, is a great choice.

Bio-diesel 

A variant of the diesel generator, this combines biological fuels to make it a greener option to use this generator. The cons are that these are less power efficient than the diesel version and may be short-lasting.

Gasoline 

Another affordable option to purchase, this one does handle your power requirements well; however, in the event of a gasoline price peak, you could end up with substantial running costs.

What is the power factor vs. service factor?

The service factor indicates the load the generator can bear. The power factor gives you the ratio between real power and apparent power. (Note: Real power = actual power output from the generator used by the appliances. Apparent power = real power plus reactive power that’s drawn by a device like a transformer.)

How often should one test their generator?

Test it once every month by letting it run for about half an hour at 50% of the maximum load—call in professionals for thorough maintenance annually.

What is a standby generator?

The standby generator typically runs on propane or natural gas. These are heavy-duty and can power your entire home with ease. Businesses often use these to keep their premises powered on through outages. This generator switches on automatically when the power goes out, so you have a seamless power flow.

Why do I need an electrician to install a generator?

Your generator is linked to your home/ office electrical system. Faulty generator installation can result in tripping the circuit breakers and damaging the appliances connected to them. The electrician ensures that your unit can handle all your needs and give the required power output. Suppose any of the connections between the generator and your home’s electric system are installed incorrectly. In that case, the generator just won’t work. There are safety regulations to adhere to as well, which is why you need a qualified professional to do the generator installation.

What is the life expectancy of a backup generator?

At least 20 years or 12000 hours of power output is what you should expect.

Do I need a generator pad before installation?

Some locations have guidelines requiring concrete generator pads, in which case you should have the professionals address this since they understand the requirements well. For example, heavier generators may need a four-inch concrete pad. You can look for a generator with a composite pad so it can be installed on the soil.

Generator installation is a must if lengthy power outages are common in your area, especially during the worst of winter. Call in the experts to get the task done quickly with safety guidelines and performance getting due priority. The professional can help even earlier in figuring out what kind of generator you need and what capacity will work best for your needs. Need more information? Contact Von Power today.