A standby generator is installed in a home or business to serve as a back-up energy system in the event of a power outage in the main electrical grid. Standby generators are designed to switch on automatically in the event of an outage, to ensure that you experience minimal inconvenience. If you have a standby generator system, or you are planning to install one, then it is recommended that you learn the proper methods to test your standby generator. By testing your standby generator regularly, you are ensuring that it is functioning properly, and it will be able to serve you well in the event of a power outage. We advise you to test your standby generators several times a year, especially if you are expecting a period of severe weather.

To test your standby generator, follow these steps below:

– Turn your mainline breaker off. Turning the mainline breaker off will cut off the power incoming from the main grid. This will trigger the automatic transfer switch to turn on your standby generator.

– Listen for the automatic transfer switch to turn your standby generator on. After cutting the power from your mainline breaker, the standby generator should turn on in a few seconds. If there is a considerable delay in the time it takes your standby generator to kick on, then you should take note.

– Leave your generator on for 15 minutes. Give your standby generator enough time to properly cycle on. Use this time to inspect your home’s appliance and devices to ensure that the power has been restored properly.

– Turn your mainline breaker back on. In a process similar to when you turned your mainline breaker off, turning the breaker on should trigger your standby generator to power off, allowing the main power grid to begin powering your house again.

It is important that you run through this process a few times every year to ensure that you have enough time to get your standby generator serviced before an outage event if you notice any issues or complications. If weather reports indicate that an upcoming event is expected in your area, such as an earthquake, hurricane, or severe thunderstorm, then it is a good idea to run through this test in preparation for an outage. If all is well, then you have peace of mind. But if you do run into any problems, then you give yourself time to either get your generator serviced, or make other preparations to ensure the security of your home or business. 

As always, please feel free to consult our website if you have any further questions. If you notice any issues with your standby generator after running the test mentioned above, then you can certainly contact our team of industry professionals here at Northside Power. We are happy to answer your questions, or set up a site visit or consultation. Your safety and security is our top priority here, so we implore you to keep your standby generators properly tested and serviced.