In our on-going series to answer questions about generators, this article will focus on the difference between standby generators and backup generators, as well as their use and effectiveness in Arizona. Both standby generators and backup generators can be useful in a power outage and the specific needs of your home or business should be considered.
Standby Generators
A standby generator is designed to automatically provide electricity during a power outage. It is permanently installed at the home or place of business. The system – in standby mode – constantly monitors utility power 24/7/365. The automatic transfer switch (ATS) will detect a power failure and will send a signal that automatically disconnects from utility feed wires, connects generator feed wires, and starts the generator engine. The home or business will receive power from the generator smoothly and with minimal interruption similar to operating from utility power. When utility power is restored, the ATS will switch back to utility feed wires and return itself to standby mode.
Backup Generators
A backup generator, also known as portable generator, does not offer automatic outage detection. When utility power fails, the business owner or homeowner must start the generator‘s engine manually. Power is then available to selected appliances by setting up extension cords directly from the backup generator to the needed appliance.
Other Considerations
Most standby generators will exercise themselves at regular intervals that can be set by the homeowner or business owner. During a short run, perhaps 12 minutes, the standby generator will lubricate its engine, charge its batteries, and run a diagnostic check. Some models may even alert the owner immediately to any potential problems. A backup generator will require the owner to run periodic maintenance and diagnostics to ensure that is remains in perfect working order and ready for use at any moment. Owners of standby generators, which are permanently installed and automatically engaged, are less affected by weather conditions when the device is needed. Owners of backup generators will need to store, retrieve and fire up the generator manually, often times during severe weather conditions that might prove problematic.
For either standby generators or backup generators it is advisable to run them using natural gas or propane gas as a fuel source. In Phoenix, Arizona, and the surrounding area, natural gas and propane gas, including all of the necessary gas line piping and propane storage tanks, are readily available. If your home or business cannot afford to be without power, then a generator and gas fuel supply can alleviate your concerns and safeguard your loved ones.
Tags: Arizona, ATS, automatic transfer switch, backup generator, backup generators, fuel source, generator, Natural Gas, Phoenix, portable generators, power outage, Propane Gas, propane storage tanks, standby generator, standby generators
