kW Explained

The kW rating is the foundation of generator sizing, and it determines how much usable power the unit can deliver during an outage. A generator that appears to meet a facility’s total connected load may fail once large motor loads start, because motors often require two to three times their normal power during startup. Power factor further affects usable capacity and becomes essential when facilities operate with inductive loads such as pumps, compressors, or HVAC systems. Environmental conditions also influence performance. High altitude in Colorado and Wyoming reduces available power due to thinner air, while high heat in Texas affects cooling efficiency. Accurate sizing requires planning for all these factors and choosing a generator with enough capacity to support growth, seasonal load changes, and inrush current.

Generator Ratings

Generator ratings define how a unit is expected to perform. kW ratings establish real power output, while kVA ratings reflect apparent power that includes both real and reactive components. Voltage ratings determine what type of electrical systems the generator can support, and frequency ratings ensure the generator is compatible with North American power standards. Environmental conditions influence ratings as well. Heat, humidity, and elevation reduce performance, which means facilities in Colorado and Wyoming must account for derating caused by altitude. Duty cycle ratings further distinguish standby, prime, and continuous applications, and these considerations help buyers avoid choosing a generator that does not match their operational needs. Breaker ratings and protective devices also guide how safely and effectively a generator can supply current to a load.

Standby vs Prime Rating

Standby generators are designed for emergency use and operate during utility outages or testing events. They deliver their full rated output but are not intended for continuous daily use. Prime rated generators are built to serve as a primary power source for facilities that lack stable utility service. These units operate for extended hours and must manage varying loads over long periods. Facilities in remote construction sites, mining operations, or rural industrial areas often rely on prime rated power. Understanding the difference between standby and prime ratings helps facilities avoid oversizing or undersizing equipment and ensures that the generator selected aligns with the expected runtime and load profile.

Diesel vs Natural Gas Generators

Diesel and natural gas generators each offer important advantages depending on the facility and regional environment. Diesel units deliver strong performance under heavy load and excel in situations that require fast response and high inrush capability. Natural gas units provide continuous fuel supply from utility lines and operate with lower emissions, but they rely on stable line pressure that can fluctuate during storms or periods of high demand. In regions such as Colorado and Wyoming, cold temperatures impact diesel fuel stability and natural gas line pressure. In Florida, humidity and storm activity influence fuel storage and infrastructure reliability. In Texas, high heat affects both fuel supply and cooling performance. Choosing the right fuel type requires an understanding of load behavior, environmental conditions, and long term operational goals.

What an Automatic Transfer Switch Is

The automatic transfer switch is responsible for detecting utility loss, commanding the generator to start, and transferring the facility’s electrical load from the utility to the generator. This process must happen quickly and safely, because even a small delay can affect critical operations. The ATS contains mechanical and electrical components that must function together, including power contacts, sensors, solenoids, control logic, and safety interlocks. Corrosion, worn contacts, improper settings, and weak control boards are common causes of ATS failure, especially in coastal or high humidity regions such as Florida. Regular testing ensures that the transfer sequence operates correctly and returns to utility power safely once grid voltage is restored.

Enclosure Types

The enclosure protects the generator from weather, noise concerns, airflow restrictions, and unauthorized access. Weatherproof enclosures provide durable outdoor protection and maintain airflow through engineered intake and exhaust paths. Sound attenuated enclosures reduce noise for schools, hospitals, commercial areas, and residential zones while still maintaining safe airflow. Open skid configurations support indoor installations where ventilation is provided by the building itself. Some enclosures include cold weather packages for northern regions, corrosion resistant coatings for coastal environments, or upgraded cooling features for high heat locations such as Texas. Enclosures play a direct role in generator performance, and choosing the right type ensures long term reliability.