HAVING AN AUXILIARY POWER GENERATION PLAN IS OFTEN THE KEY TO BUSINESS PROTECTION AND RECOVERY.
On December 6, 2022, TSR released the first early prediction for the 2023 Atlantic season, predicting a slightly below average year with 13 named storms, 6 hurricanes, and 3 major hurricanes.[3] Their updated prediction on April 6, 2023, called for a similar number of hurricanes and major hurricanes, but reduced the number of named storms by one.[4] The following day, the University of Arizona (UA) posted their forecast for a very busy season featuring 19 named storms, 9 hurricanes, 5 major hurricanes, and an ACE index of 163 units.[5] On April 13, CSU researchers released their prediction of 13 named storms, 6 hurricanes, 2 major hurricanes, and an ACE index of 100 units.[10] Also on April 13, TWC posted their forecast for 2023, calling for 15 named storms, 7 hurricanes, and 3 major hurricanes.[7] While most organizations expressed growing confidence in the development of an El Niño, which typically suppresses Atlantic hurricane activity, TWC, UA and CSU noted that well above average ocean temperatures in the Atlantic basin could yield greater activity, particularly if a weaker El Niño event materializes.[6]
Hurricane season begins June 1 and runs through November 30. Forecasters at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Climate Prediction Center said there is a 62% chance El Niño will take over between May and July, and an 80% to 90% probability it will form by fall. Officials recommend that the best time to make hurricane contingency plans to protect businesses and their customers is now, before the next hurricane is forecast to make landfall.
PREPARE FOR A POWER OUTAGE BEFORE IT HAPPENS
Commercial generators can really be checked at any time depending on maintenance requirements, but a regular schedule should be adhered to for best results. For example, checking fluid levels such as coolant, oils, and fuels, can be done regularly as well as a visual scan for external unit damage. Weekly care can consist of checking the battery for adequate charge and signs of leakage.
Monthly maintenance may involve visual inspections, testing the coolant, and checking belt tension. Semi-annual to annual maintenance involves cleaning your commercial generator inside and out to make sure everything from filters and fans to crankcases and control panels are sparkling clean and ready when you need them. Consider Zabatt’s Onelink remote monitoring system to automate a great deal of the maintenance reminder and reporting process! Read more about Zabatt’s OneLink monitoring system here.
It’s very important that you don’t attempt any form of commercial generator maintenance (other than a visual examination) without the proper equipment, skills, and experience to stay safe. This is why it’s always recommended to call in the pros. It’s also recommended to run a comprehensive generator performance check known as a load bank test once a year, especially for diesel generators.
Whether it’s a single generator to power a household, or multiple gensets to keep the lights on at a business during and after the storm, Zabatt Power Systems offers a wide variety of power generation equipment, turnkey solutions, and customized maintenance plans to fit all your generator needs.
FUEL POLISHING AND ITS IMPACT ON GENERATOR PERFORMANCE
As a result of today’s high pressures and tight tolerances in fuel injection systems and electronic unit injectors, poor fuel quality is one of the leading causes of generator engine failures. Water and other contaminants in the tank can damage these critical components. Fuel polishing is the process of removing water, contaminants, and sludge that have built up in the generator’s tank over time. Having it performed periodically will help keep the fuel in optimal condition at all times. Zabatt offers this service, as well as fuel analysis, as options for your regular maintenance plan.
ELECTRICAL TESTING
Regular electrical system testing helps ensure that your backup power solution will be ready to work for you when you need it, and is an important part of hurricane preparation. The experts at Zabatt Power Systems are certified and able to perform all the necessary inspections and testing needed to keep your automatic transfer switches, generators, and full range of electrical systems working safely and reliably, ensuring that they’re ready to go when weather disasters strike.
No business wants to lose money due to unforeseen power outages. Unfortunately, losing money is exactly what happens when commercial buildings lose power and don’t have the backup plan needed to instantaneously restore services. Blackouts in commercial buildings can not only mean a loss in revenue, but can also cause IT challenges, safety issues, security risks, and a reduction in customer trust for all types of businesses. These inconveniences and losses can be avoided with a properly installed and maintained generator that keeps the entire facility, or just your critical loads, operating smoothly throughout the entire year.
Contact Zabatt Power Systems today at 1-800-366-1323 for assistance in developing an emergency preparedness plan that ensures you’re prepared to weather the storm.