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We’ve made a lot of progress in making sure that we have access to dependable power. Power failures can still happen due to several reasons, such as severe weather, equipment failure, damage from construction work, high energy demand, and accidents. Many buildings and homes rely on on-demand generators to power their appliances during blackouts. Generators also provide electricity access to places with no supply because they are outside the grid’s radius. However, many still wonder “How does a generator work?”. Read on to know the answer to this question.
How Does a Generator Work?
Also called on-demand, whole-house, standby, or backup generator, a generator uses mechanical energy which is then converted to electrical energy. This electricity is transmitted and circulated in your home or other structure. Generators can also power aircraft, trains, ships, and cars. Many areas utilize generators as an alternative power source as well.
The generator works through the electromagnetic induction principle. A copper conductor coil in the generator rotates between a horseshoe-shaped magnet. This coil and its metal core are known as an armature. It is connected to a mechanical energy source, typically a motor. The armature rotates to generate the energy needed to power the generator. The generator’s engine utilizes fuel, which can be natural gas, natural energy, petrol, or diesel, to operate.
The coil’s rotation interferes with the magnetic field within the two magnetic poles in the horseshoe-shaped magnet. As a result, the electrons in the conductor are agitated, which induces the flow of an electric current.
The alternator, also called the generating unit, creates the alternating current (AC), which is the same one the power grid provides. It is a stable and dependable type of power. It can power sensitive appliances like computers, air conditioning systems, and even surgical equipment without fluctuating.
Generator engines also come in different sizes. Liquid-cooled generators have, by far, the largest engines of all the available types. These generators have a pump that distributes coolant throughout the unit, with a fan blowing air to lower the coolant’s temperature. Liquid-cooled generators are ideal for hot and humid places so that the unit doesn’t overheat.
How Much Power Can a Backup Generator Produce?
The generator’s power capacity depends on its engine size. A generator with a larger engine produces more energy to power your rooms and buildings. The unit’s output is typically in W (Watts) or kW (kiloWatts). The calculation for watts is Volts x Amps. For instance, a 10kW generator that delivers 240 Volts has 41.67 or 42 amps of estimated output. This can sufficiently power a 1200 W refrigerator, a 1000 W microwave oven, a 1000 W sump pump, a 500 W furnace fan, and around ten lighting circuits that total 1000 W. There is also enough energy to power small appliances like a radio, a desktop computer, and a laptop, depending on the input they need.
Advantages of Using an On-Demand Generator
The primary advantage of a standby generator is that you get access to an alternate power source during emergencies. Power outages can and will happen, making generators more crucial, especially in areas with unreliable electricity sources. Generators are also critical for businesses and services that rely on electricity to operate, such as factories, hospitals, pharmacies, and clinics.
Standby generators are necessary for care personnel and medical staff during natural disasters and other emergencies. Generators provide more than lighting as they also power appliances and equipment needed to conduct surgical procedures, rescues, and other essential services.
Another advantage generators offer is preventing waste and damages. Generators have a feature that automatically switches them on when the power goes out. This way, appliances, and equipment keep running, and operations remain smooth and uninterrupted. It also helps ensure that products like food and medicine are produced continuously since there is power that keeps appliances on. Access to electricity from a generator also helps prevent the growth of microorganisms and damage from spoilage. If you work from home, it is essential to have continued computer access to avoid any lost time from work. It also helps make sure you are comfortable in your home since your heating and cooling system can continue to operate without a hitch.
Features Of A Whole-House Generator
Some of the features a whole-house generator offers are:
- Power: Generators come in various power output capacities that enable them to power anything from a small office or home to larger factories or buildings. Different power capacities allow end-users to match their needs to the model they select.
- Fuel: A generator can use LPG, petrol, diesel, natural gas, and other energy sources as fuel. This allows generators to cater to a wide range of customers so that their power needs are supplied.
- Noise: Older generator models are known to produce loud noises. Fortunately, many models are now equipped with noise-reducing technology so they can be installed near buildings or structures like hospitals, schools, offices, and zoos.
Conclusion
Generators are lifesavers, aside from giving your home comfort and convenience. They also offer stability and flexibility, so you can depend on them when the power grid goes down. Generators are highly safe to use and easy to operate because of their enhanced design and additional features. Most reliable brands are long-lasting as well, so they can provide you with power for many years to come. Consider these factors before buying a generator. This way, you are sure that the type and capacity fit your power needs. If you are unsure, consult a professional regarding your needs so they can help you make an informed decision on which is the best generator for your needs.
Call Tevis Energy For Standby Generator Requirements
Tevis Energy provides excellent whole-house generator services in central Maryland and southern Pennsylvania. Our team is composed of professionally certified technicians for all your superior standby generator service needs, such as backup generator installations, tune-ups, and repairs. Each of our friendly techs offers correct whole-house generator services promptly at all times.
Rest assured that we have competitive on-demand generator service prices. You can expect friendly personnel, reliable services, and transparent rates when you work with us. All our work is backed with a guarantee because your satisfaction is important. Schedule a service appointment with Tevis Energy today for a free, in-home estimate.
You can click here to contact us now or call us at (410) 876-6800 to find out more!