Frequently Asked Questions
What size generator do I need?
Sizing a diesel generator
The most important step in buying a generator is correctly sizing your generator to serve your needs for both today and in the future. You need to ensure you can supply power to all your equipment and appliances when the power goes out, with optimal running cost.
It is extremely difficult to make use of power calculators to determine your requirements as appliances vary in the start-up and normal running load they use. The best method to determine your requirement is to have a qualified electrician conduct a load test at your premises.
- Do you require single- or three-phase?
- Do you need to run your entire business/home and all electrical appliances or are there only certain areas?
Location of the Generator
- For every 100 m above sea-level, the output of your generator will de-rate by 1%.
- Ensure that the installation location complies with health and safety regulation laws to deal with the Genset’s toxic fumes when in use.
- Do you need a silent generator set or will an open-unit suffices?
- Environmental conditions like high temperatures can reduce the generator’s output.
- Generators should never be installed in a garage.
- Where will the generator be installed? If installed in a plant room there must be adequate ventilation to allow the intake of cool air and to expel the hot air and exhaust gasses out of the room.
Running Conditions & Cost
- Your generator should run at an average of 70-80% load for the best consumption and longevity of your unit.
- You will need to identify the starting method if you have electric motors. They can use up to 7x running power at start-up.
- Running the generator at less than 40% can cause damage to the unit over time.
- Do not overload the unit as this will damage the genset.
Care and Maintenance
- Ensure your supplier offers backup and support should you need it.
- Ensure your supplier has parts available.
How does delivery work?
For customers that have large enough vehicles to collect their own generator, we can assist with loading the generator set at our grounds up to 200kVA. Generator sets larger than 200kVA need to be collected with a special rigging vehicle and crew. We can arrange a rigging service for customers that will not be able to collect the sets.
This will entail collecting the generator at our premises and delivering to the customer`s premises with a crane vehicle and crew. The generator can be moved by these specialized staff to the required position once at the premises, provided the terrain is wide and flat enough to accommodate the movement once offloaded.
How do I install a generator?
All installations need to be undertaken by a suitable qualified electrician, preferably experienced in working with large generator sets as this is a specialized field of operation. The generator must be large enough to comfortably run the power requirement.
The copper cable used must be thick enough to handle the amount of current without heating up as per the South African regulations. It is also important that the phase rotation is checked during the installation as this will influence the direction in which important equipment, such as compressors, turn.
Is installation included?
Installation is not included. Installations need to be performed by a qualified electrician with a Certificate of Compliance to be issued. We have a nationwide network of qualified installers and can refer you.
Can I Collect my generator with my own transport?
Yes, you can. When collecting please ensure you have a large open-side vehicle so we can load the generator for you. Please also ensure that you have straps to secure the generator.
Does the generator come with a full tank of fuel?
No, the generator is delivered without fuel. We’re not able to transport the generator with fuel in the tank. The generators are tested at our offices and may contain a small amount of fuel.
Does the generator come with oil and coolant?
Yes, the generator is filled with oil and coolant and tested before delivery/collection during the PDI process.
Do I need to anchor the generator to the floor?
No, the generator once placed on the plinth will not move. The only possible reason to anchor the unit is to prevent possible theft.
Do I need anti-vibration mountings or rubber mat?
No, the engine is mounted on anti-vibration mountings already so the generator will not move once placed on the plinth. You can place a rubber mat under the generator but it is not necessary.
Will my generator start automatically when the power fails?
If you have installed an Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS) and it is installed correctly, then yes, provided the generator and ATS are in automatic mode.
Do I need to do anything once the generator is installed and operational?
Yes, you should run the generator once a month to ensure everything is working. Keep maintenance logs, the fuel tank topped and the battery charged.
Does the generator include cabling and installation?
Installation and cabling are not included.
Does the generator battery stay charged?
All BPD Series (BPD12s and up) and Gas generators include a battery charger. This needs to be connected to keep the battery charged. Please ask your sales representative if you need a battery charger on your generator.
Does the generator come on wheels?
The only units on wheels are BP55000s, BP6500S, BP6500P, BP8000P, BP9500SP, BP11000S, BP12000S3. All other units are not on wheels.
Can I mount it on a trailer?
Yes, you can, ensure it is a suitable trailer for the weight. Aluminum canopy units cannot be mounted on a trailer. Off-road use is NOT recommended.
Can I fit an external / Automatic refueling system?
External tanks can be supplied for all units at an extra cost. Automatic refueling however is only available on units with base tanks from 60kVA upwards. Please as your sales consultant for further details.
Will the generator produce the maximum output?
All ratings are at sea level and a loss for altitude should be allowed for . A loss of +/- 1% for every 100km above sea-level in generally used.
Can I fit a different brand or model controller?
No, this is not offered by Elite Generator Solutions. Each model comes pre-assembled with a standard controller.
How long will it take for the generator to start-up when the power fails?
The generator will take 30 – 60 seconds to start, get up to speed and take load. If you have items that cannot turn off during this time, you should fit a UPS to them.
Can I put 100% load on the generator straight away?
No, you need to load the generator in stages. (Max 50% to start). If you put 100% load all at once, the generator will shut down.
Can I run the generator at 100% all the time?
No, it is not recommended. The generator should not run at more than 80% load for long periods of time.
Can I run the generator with very low load?
No, it is not recommended. The generator should not run at less than 50% load for long periods of time.
Can I install the generator inside, or in my garage?
Provided that the hot air is ducted out of the room and the exhaust is vented out of the room it is possible. It is not recommended.
Is the generator weatherproof?
Yes, the generator can be put outside. We do recommend that a small roof be put over it if possible, to protect it from the sun, hail and large volumes of rain. Do not place under trees without a roof as the dry leaves can pose a fire risk.
Is the generator rust-proof/resistant when close to the sea?
No, the canopy is constructed from mild steel. It can and will rust over time when close to the sea. Preventative measuires should be taken by the owner to limit this.
Do I need a plinth for the generator?
The generator should be placed on a plinth or sturdy paving. The generator must be level at all times when operating.
Do I need surge protection?
Yes, you must have surge protection on the incoming mains supply and the generator supply.
What access is required around the generator?
1 Meter of space around the generator is required for maintenance and airflow.