Emergency vs Non Emergency Generator

[mbrooke]

What are the technical, build and code differences between emergency and non emergency generators? What makes the two different? Is one kind interchangeable with the other?

 

[ron]

I couldn't tell you specifically for Kohler, but at a high level, I would imagine that Emergency Generators have a UL 2200 listing and the the non-emergency does not.

 

[don_resqcapt19]

Probably one of the things that come into play is the differing emission rules for emergency and non-emergency generators, especially when talking about diesel fueled ones.

 

[Todd0x1]

Another thing is the time it takes to start and come online.

 

[winnie]

I bet an 'emergency' rating could have two somewhat contradictory meanings:

1) This unit has to be extremely reliable, able to function in bad conditions. Be able to power up quickly and run that hospital during the hurricane sort of things.

2) This unit is only rated to run for a limited amount of time as backup for utility grid power which is generally available.

-Jon

 

[hillbilly1]

Another thing is the time it takes to start and come online.

I have a Genercrap sitting in the warehouse that they claim can be used as an emergency generator, takes almost 20 seconds before it starts and transfers. Maximum is 10 seconds for life safety. All it’s good for, is an optional standby system.

 

[steve66]

safety's, warnings, and shutdowns are probably another difference. The emergency generator will have everything specified in NFPA 110.
Also, to meet the 10 sec maximum startup time, it will have some type of heater if installed anywhere it gets cold.

 

[mbrooke]

I have a Genercrap sitting in the warehouse that they claim can be used as an emergency generator, takes almost 20 seconds before it starts and transfers. Maximum is 10 seconds for life safety. All it’s good for, is an optional standby system.

Sounds like something in settings? It should start immediately.

 

[hillbilly1]

Sounds like something in settings? It should start immediately.

Unlike everybody else’s controller, Generacs has a delay upon contact closure. They said they could change the programming for a couple of thousand. Customer was in a hurry to open (one week) so they paid for a second generator to replace that one (Kohler).

 

[mbrooke]

Unlike everybody else’s controller, Generacs has a delay upon contact closure. They said they could change the programming for a couple of thousand. Customer was in a hurry to open (one week) so they paid for a second generator to replace that one (Kohler).

Customer is lucky, they got spared.