Lessons learned

[ptonsparky]

We had the second and by far worse ice storm this week. I learned that:

1. A 2.4kw generator will keep you warm and two freezers cold.
2. An 8kw will do the above, pump water and all the lights you need.
3. An 11kw will run a heat pump, 1st stage of backup, do laundry, plus the above.
4. A 300kw unit in spite of the mfgs assurance will NOT start a cold 100hp hammer mill unless you pick up the control voltage from a different source, and then only under great protest.

 

[Davis9]

Sounds like a good time. It was 65 degrees here today.
Tom

 

[celtic]

We had the second and by far worse ice storm this week. I learned that:

1. A 2.4kw generator will keep .....two freezers cold.

...or you could just put those frozen items outside

 

[brian john]

We have been involved in numerous emergency rental situations and had the same issue with the control voltage several items to consider.

1. With rental units we always change the fuel filter after relocating the units due to the sludge and dirt being stirred up during transport, any fuel restrictions will affect the performance.

2. Small inexpensive UPS's work excellent for the control power issue, except if these are motor starters the UPS may not be able to handle the inrush currents.

3. If the control voltage issue is marginal (just below drop out threshold) adjust the voltage at the generator. There are trade offs with this as you may have less kva/kw available due to the voltage increase.

4. Determine what else is on line it may be possible to change start up order, place the larger equipment on line first, especially the motor loads.

5. Rent top quality generators from reputable firms that do regular maintenance and have generators you would not mind having your firms name on.

6. If possible always rent a larger generator than you calculate. The cost usually is marginal for the next size up unit, and customers always seem to say after the unit is on site ?Oh, can you get this up and running for me.?

7. We like to leave a technician on site with rental units, minimizes problems and if the unit fails for some reason, the tech is there to get it back on line ASAP.

8. ALWAYS, ALWAYS take fuel every chance you get, and avoid filling yourself (if possible) due to EPA issues (PLEASE DO NOT ask me why I know this, to the tune of a $10,000.00 fine).