Get Smart: what is load testing?
Listen below for a deep dive discussion on load testing and load banks.
Get Help: load bank testing services from onPoint
OnPoint Generators’ experienced technical support and service team is ready to meet all your load testing needs. Our comprehensive generator load bank testing ensures that your standby generator is fully capable of supporting your load when it matters most—during an emergency.
Overview
A generator load test from OnPoint Generators confirms that your standby generator will perform reliably when an emergency arises. Annual load testing is essential to ensure that your generator can handle the required load, and it’s often a mandatory requirement by insurance companies. At OnPoint Generators, we provide tailored load testing services to match your specific requirements.
When you choose OnPoint Generators for load testing, our service team will arrive at your site equipped with a portable load bank, allowing for safe and controlled testing of your generator at a time convenient for you. We test the generator across various load levels while carefully monitoring and analyzing data throughout the process. This data is meticulously recorded, reviewed, and analyzed, with a detailed report provided to you afterward. If any issues arise, we also offer comprehensive generator maintenance, repair, and replacement services.
The Importance of Generator Load Bank Testing
Standby generators often remain idle for extended periods, only activating during power outages. Diesel standby generators, especially those that are rarely used or lightly loaded, can accumulate fuel deposits in the engine, leading to reduced output capacity when they are needed most.
Load bank testing ensures your standby generator operates correctly and delivers its full kilowatt (kW) output rating when required. Routine exercises may not utilize the generator’s full capacity, making load bank testing crucial to validate performance. Additionally, load bank testing is a regulatory requirement for certain backup power systems, as outlined by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and the National Electric Code (NEC).
OnPoint Generators’ Load Bank Testing Process
Gauge Check: Before beginning the load test, an OnPoint service representative will perform a thorough check of all generator gauges. We’ll ensure your generator has sufficient fuel to complete the test.
Generator Start-Up: Our technician will start your generator and allow it to run for a brief period. During this time, we’ll listen for any unusual sounds or signs of malfunction. Once confirmed that the generator is operating smoothly, we’ll proceed with the load testing.
Load Connection: Our service representative will connect the load bank device, gradually adding load while ensuring that the cables are of high quality. We start with a significant load, then incrementally add smaller loads, carefully maintaining a balance to avoid exceeding 50% of the generator’s total load capacity on any single phase.
Gauge Monitoring: As the load bank test progresses, we’ll closely monitor and record the readings from your generator’s gauges to assess performance.
Performance Monitoring: Throughout the test, our team will meticulously observe the generator, checking for overheating, monitoring the exhaust system, and listening for any abnormal sounds. If any issues are detected, we will shut down the generator and perform additional evaluations. The duration of the load test depends on the type and size of your generator.
Why Choose OnPoint Generators?
At OnPoint Generators, we understand that your standby generator is a critical component of your emergency power plan. Our load bank testing service ensures that your generator is prepared to meet the demands of any power outage, providing you with peace of mind and compliance with regulatory standards.