How to Buy the Best Type of Generator for Your Small Business

Installing a generator as a backup power source for a small business can keep operations going and serve as a kind of insurance policy against closing the doors for days or weeks during extended power outages. The key for getting the best results for your small business is to select the style, determine the power output capacity and assess several other factors to make certain that the generator you purchase meets the demands of your business. Here are some of the considerations that can determine whether a portable or standby generator will be the best choice.

A portable generator may be the best choice if:

• The number of employees is low and power usage is relatively small – Some small businesses, such as retail stores that aren’t selling perishables, may be able to operate with limited lighting, a single computer terminal, and power for the phone system and credit card lines.
• Refrigeration needs are minimal – Refrigerators are big energy users, but if a business isn’t selling refrigerated goods, the only one needing power may be the one used to store employees’ lunches.
• A sudden shutdown won’t affect stored data on computers – Businesses that employ computers to track sales and inventory may not be affected by a sudden loss of power.

A small number of appliances and devices require power. Portable generators have a limited number of outlets. If you can power essential office equipment using only the available outlets, a portable generator may suffice.

A standby generator will provide better results if:

• You have a larger workforce and/or heavier energy demands – A business that needs to support a high number of employees and/or uses heavy equipment as part of its operations may need the increased power output of a standby generator.
• Your business sells perishables and/or refrigerated goods – Powering refrigeration can allow for continued operations and prevent spoilage during an extended blackout. In this type of situation, a standby generator can pay for itself during one long outage by saving refrigerated goods from going bad.
• A sudden interruption of power may cause the loss of important data – Computer intensive businesses, such as data processors, may require the automatic changeover to backup power provided by a standby generator to avoid the risk of losing data.
• Your business’ essential operations, such as network infrastructure, are hardwired rather than plug in – Hardwired equipment needs to be powered through the business’ circuitry. Standby generators installed with power switches are the best choice under these circumstances.

The installation of a generator to provide backup power can keep a small business operational during electrical outages. Following these steps can ensure your alternate power solution is the best choice for your business.